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  • Mike Garton, Head Coach
  • Jody Gatewood, Coach & Dietitian
  • Scott Gall, Coach
  • Tess Taintor, Coach
  • Jonathan Saxton, Coach
  • Tami Ritchie, Coach
  • Joe Robinson, Endurance Consultant
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• Contact Us

Mike Garton
Owner, Head Coach

About Mike

As a scientist, Mike brings technical depth and a passion for learning to the sport of triathlon. Deep technical knowledge, attention to detail, and strong customer service are his hallmarks.

Certifications

• USA Triathlon Level II Coach (first Level II in central Iowa)
• USA Cycling Expert level Coach
• American College of Sports Medicine Certified Personal Trainer
• FIST Certified Bike Fitter
• Reebok Cycling Instructor, CPR, First Aid, AED.

Group Training Leadership

• Head Triathlon Training Class Coach/Instructor, Ankeny YMCA
  • Since January 2006.
  • 72-85 two hour classes per year
  • Selling out at 50 people per class.
• Swim Coach, Swim Instructor, Spin Instructor, Running Group Leader.

Contributions to the Sport

• Founder and Race Director of the Ankeny Youth Triathlon
• Charter member and elected President, Triathlon Racers of Iowa (TRI)
• Asked by USA Triathlon National be a senior coach at the 2007 Hy-Vee Kids triathlon clinic.
• Lead numerous clinics/seminars each year in all technical areas of triathlon.
• Give several triathlon outreach lectures per year including Bike World Expo.

Athletics

• Former competitive swimmer.
• Several podium finishes in Heart of America Series and other triathlons.

Day-Time Occupartion

• Scientist at Iowa State University. 1992-Current
• Current research contracts from the Air Force, FAA, and NASA.

Coaching Philosophy

Personal coaching should be personal. Athletes are individuals with individual needs. The training should be adjusted with feedback based on how the athlete grows and how they recover. This requires a coach who cares and takes the time to get to know the athlete well.

With time, I uncover and work through all of an athlete’s limiters. Basic limiters, such as form or power, are obvious in the first fitness tests. Other limiters such as quality of rest, attitudes, confidence, nutrition, and life stresses are less obvious. A coach must be very observant and develop the rapport of a close friend to address these limiters.