Super Nova of the Month: Alex Hurd

Congratulations to Alex Hurd, our June SuperNova!

Alex has impressed us with his commitment to his health journey. He also recently completed his 4th ½ ironman. Way to go, Alex! We asked Alex some questions about his health journey below. Read on to learn his story!

1)What motivated you to start your fitness journey with Nova Health Club? 

I was looking for professional support to help me strengthen my upper body and core strength. The coaches at Nova have been instrumental in building up my body by introducing a varied routine of core exercises and stretches to complement my running and cycling routine. 

2)You recently completed your 4th 1/2 Ironman, how was this one compared to earlier ones you have done?

I enjoyed the race day because I was able to complete it without experiencing any pain or stomach cramps, unlike my last race last year. My body was a bit tired halfway through the run after burning through nearly 6,000 calories so I will have to improve on my race day nutrition for my next race. 

3)Can you share some key strategies or habits that helped you achieve this goal? Any specific workouts, diets, or routines that made a significant difference?

Signing up for the race is a key enabler as it sets a clear milestone which forces me to maintain my exercise routine throughout the year so I can be in a position to compete in and complete the distance. Sticking to my exercise routine in turn gives me the balance I need in order to improve my performance as a dad, husband and leader of teams at work. 

4)Through exercise, what areas of your health have you noticed positive changes in other than fitness such as in your mental well-being, energy levels, or overall confidence?

It’s all about the core! Focusing on my core is like strengthening the very foundations of my body (and spirit), and I see immediate improvements to my posture, my breathing, my sleep, all of which in turn increases my energy levels, performance and confidence. 

5)What words of advice could you give someone who has never done such an event as an Ironman but has always wondered if they could or should?

Remember that it is as much of a mental challenge as it is a physical challenge! But crossing that finish line is absolutely priceless!