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Slow Fat Trialthete
The idea of participating in a triathlon may sound out of the realm of possibility for those without a typical jock-athlete's honed build, intense focus, and competitive mindset. But now Slow Fat Triathlete opens the door to those who may not come quite so equipped. After years of obesity, poor health, and self-doubt, Jayne Williams took part in her first triathlon in 2002 to prove something to herself and became hooked on the rush of the race. Today she is a self-proclaimed "slow fat triathlete," unafraid to overcome humiliation, laugh at her foibles, have fun, and accomplish impressive goals. Slow Fat Triathlete is a book for those who may be overweight, out of shape, undisciplined, or otherwise unprepared to enter a triathlon but are curious to try. Through personal stories, practical ideas and suggestions, and uproarious anecdotes, this book inspires, encourages, and proves that with a little training, almost everybody can have a great time and reap huge rewards from pursuing their tri dreams -- and that everyone can become a participant and an athlete.
193 pages, Paperback
First published April 7, 2004
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
August 12, 2008
fuck yeah dude. this totally got me through my triathlon. she's all like, "yeah, you're going to do dumb stuff like fall and be sweaty and muddy and gross and you're going to look like an asshole. and people are going to take one look at you and think you can't do shit because you're a fatty. but you know what? fuck them and do it anyways." really realistic and awesome and inspiring. a little light on the technical stuff, though, but there's a million other books out there for that shit.
May 31, 2024
There was a time, more years ago than I'd like to admit, that I wanted to train for a triathlon. I found this book so inspiring! Jayne Williams gives those who fear looking foolish reason to look past the fear. I trained like I was going to take part in an Iron Man. Swimming, cycling, running. I never did take part in a triathlon though. It wasn't fear of looking like a fool. It was because of a fear of swimming in open water! But I sure did have fun training! :)
June 2, 2009
Unapologetically NOT written by an expert, Jayne Williams simply tells her story of being almost 300 pounds with a variety of injuries and health issues to competing in triathlons. It's packed with humor and aimed for those who want to try something that they may never excel in, but who think the journey is worthwhile. Excerpt from page 2: "Hang with me for a couple of pages while I convince you just how unlikely it was that I would ever even start training for a triathlon, let alone work my way up to mediocre results."
On her "start-up kit" list, she justifies the need for getting a wetsuit with four reasons. #3 and #4 are as follows: #3"You feel like a superhero in a wetsuit . . . The superstretchy material compresses your bulgier bits and makes you feel strong. . . (#4)However, it is equally true that you look like a total dork. . .you take yourself less seriously that way."
A slim book, I'm half-way through on the first day. The information is highly memorable because of her personable story-telling style. I can't wait to finish it, and have already asked Honey if we can do a 5K together for my birthday in June. Boy, was he thrilled, but he humored me anyway and signed up for one in Newport.
On her "start-up kit" list, she justifies the need for getting a wetsuit with four reasons. #3 and #4 are as follows: #3"You feel like a superhero in a wetsuit . . . The superstretchy material compresses your bulgier bits and makes you feel strong. . . (#4)However, it is equally true that you look like a total dork. . .you take yourself less seriously that way."
A slim book, I'm half-way through on the first day. The information is highly memorable because of her personable story-telling style. I can't wait to finish it, and have already asked Honey if we can do a 5K together for my birthday in June. Boy, was he thrilled, but he humored me anyway and signed up for one in Newport.
July 31, 2008
I've been waiting for a book like this for a long time. I run, I bike, I swim, and yet I'm still the weight that I am and this book tells me to forget that and train anyway.
Don't let her account of her many ailments throw you off at first - she is leading to a very good point about working around these things and knowing your limits and surpassing what you thought you could do.
It's a feel good book that doesn't get all sappy.
Don't let her account of her many ailments throw you off at first - she is leading to a very good point about working around these things and knowing your limits and surpassing what you thought you could do.
It's a feel good book that doesn't get all sappy.
September 2, 2013
A friend recommended this book after I complained about another book I read that claimed to be targeted at moms who run, but was actually targeted to athletes who happen to have children but mostly just love running and everything about being athletic. That might seem like the same thing, but really it can be very different.
Anyway, like the author, I am a slow fat 'athlete'. I am just working on running though, not swimming and cycling, and I have no desire to do a triathlon. And I say 'athlete' mainly because I have a complex about that, and always have (even when I was thin). I have a damn hard time every calling myself an 'athlete'.
Which, as it turns out, is exactly why I needed to read this book. Williams encourages her readers, who are probably not ultra thin lifelong runners/cyclists/swimmers, but somewhere on the spectrum of getting fit while also carrying (or recently losing) extra weight. I finished this book energized, and ready to redouble my efforts at training for gradually longer runs and am currently working toward completing a half marathon. Williams made me feel like I CAN do it, not like I have to justify why I would ever refer to myself as an 'athlete'.
As a book, it's a quick easy read and Williams offers a lot of practical advice for people looking into working on fitness, specifically triathlons (of course). She has a sarcastic humor that I enjoyed, and does a good job of addressing concerns for the slow fat athlete. She's also quite a bit faster than me, even at "slow", but that's OK because I know she'd be cheering me on, along with all my chubby peers. The books is well organized and one can easily find topics that address their concerns.
I'd recommend this book to anyone looking to begin a fitness program after a long time on the couch.
Anyway, like the author, I am a slow fat 'athlete'. I am just working on running though, not swimming and cycling, and I have no desire to do a triathlon. And I say 'athlete' mainly because I have a complex about that, and always have (even when I was thin). I have a damn hard time every calling myself an 'athlete'.
Which, as it turns out, is exactly why I needed to read this book. Williams encourages her readers, who are probably not ultra thin lifelong runners/cyclists/swimmers, but somewhere on the spectrum of getting fit while also carrying (or recently losing) extra weight. I finished this book energized, and ready to redouble my efforts at training for gradually longer runs and am currently working toward completing a half marathon. Williams made me feel like I CAN do it, not like I have to justify why I would ever refer to myself as an 'athlete'.
As a book, it's a quick easy read and Williams offers a lot of practical advice for people looking into working on fitness, specifically triathlons (of course). She has a sarcastic humor that I enjoyed, and does a good job of addressing concerns for the slow fat athlete. She's also quite a bit faster than me, even at "slow", but that's OK because I know she'd be cheering me on, along with all my chubby peers. The books is well organized and one can easily find topics that address their concerns.
I'd recommend this book to anyone looking to begin a fitness program after a long time on the couch.
January 3, 2010
I loved this book. Main idea: no need to look like a greyhound in order to enjoy sports. This book is very funny but also very effective. Made the training approachable and enjoyable. It was my main source for doing my first-ever triathlon and it worked really well. After the race I sent her a note and she wrote me back to say congrats. I'm a big fan!
June 9, 2015
Loved this book. She's a regular person, a lot like most of us...was kinda out of shape, overweight and decided she wanted to do a sprint (short) triathlon. The whole book is about not letting it intimidate you. And she keeps you laughing as she describes the event.
On the transition from swim to bike: "OK, now you've got your cycling gear on. Grab your bike off the rack and trot to the bike exit. you remember where the bike exit is, right? When the moment is right get on your bike and pedal smoothly away. D'oh! You left your bike in the hardest gear and you can't move your legs! Avoid this common yet spectator-amusing mistake!"
On the transition to the run after the bike ride: "Start thinking of yourself as a runner. Slow down and get off the bike...slip into your running shoes, grab your race number and hat and go....make sure you run in the right direction out of the bike rack...It's OK that your legs feel like new and improved flavor Jell-O...just keep shuffling forward and that feeling will go away eventually."
I thoroughly enjoyed my vicarious tri with her. I might even maybe sorta think about doing one sometime.
On the transition from swim to bike: "OK, now you've got your cycling gear on. Grab your bike off the rack and trot to the bike exit. you remember where the bike exit is, right? When the moment is right get on your bike and pedal smoothly away. D'oh! You left your bike in the hardest gear and you can't move your legs! Avoid this common yet spectator-amusing mistake!"
On the transition to the run after the bike ride: "Start thinking of yourself as a runner. Slow down and get off the bike...slip into your running shoes, grab your race number and hat and go....make sure you run in the right direction out of the bike rack...It's OK that your legs feel like new and improved flavor Jell-O...just keep shuffling forward and that feeling will go away eventually."
I thoroughly enjoyed my vicarious tri with her. I might even maybe sorta think about doing one sometime.
February 14, 2014
This is a book that will motivate you. Not as expansive as Triathlon for the Every Woman: You Can Be a Triathlete. Yes. You. but has some great moments. Even though it's a bit older the info is still good. Has some interesting race recaps that can be quite funny. I'm more of a slow triathlete (not so much on the fat) but it is good to read books from folks that consider a 10 minute mile to be an accomplishment. I enjoyed this one - and I read the DTB. That tells you something!
April 16, 2009
I hope to NOT actually be a slow, fat triathlete by August. But Jayne certainly shares my view of why I'm really doing this whole thing - to get out there and just have a good time. So this was an important read to get my head in the right mind set.
July 4, 2020
Having a friend who's lifelong dream is to complete a triathlon, I felt it necessary to read the book and offer some form of encouragement. This book is everything and more. Jayne Williams gives an amazing account of the transition from out of shape office cubical worker to sprint level triathlete. All perspectives from carbo loading to the post race buffet are expressed in hysterical detail. Truely a must read, even if there's no desire to do a tri, Jayne brings out the joy of becoming a healthier, more physically fit individual and encourages you, the reader, to become a more physically active person
August 24, 2021
Overall—pretty good. Despite having been published in 2004, I think most of the triathlon training information and inspiration still holds true. Where this could really use an update is with regards to equipment, technology, nutrition, and resources (books, websites, etc.). The author is witty and humble—but not afraid to tout her accomplishments and discuss her training and racing struggles.
March 31, 2019
I loved this book! Super positive "you can do it" attitude with Witty sense of humor and lots of practical information for "regular people" who are getting into triathalon.
January 7, 2022
It was just what I needed as I come off the off-season and get ready to start training for this years’ races. Jayne is funny and informative.
May 12, 2024
Just as helpful/inspiring as the first time I read it ~13 years ago, but the resources are (obviously) out of date and the nutrition info is absolute trash.
Read
August 2, 2011A self-proclaimed “Slow, Fat Triathlete”, author Jayne Williams announces to the health and fitness world that a person does not need to fit a slim-trim mold to compete in athletic endeavors! From page one, Williams describes various types of road and off-road challenges that may appear daunting to someone not seasoned in the arena of self-inflicted torture! William’s realistic ability to view herself as not in perfect shape, in her forties, and willing to laugh at her “foibles” prevails. Repeatedly, she persuades the self-conscious person to ‘get over’ looking like a fool – that “self-consciousness is the enemy of fun. It’s the enemy of feeling comfortable. It’s the enemy of achievement” (19).
Slow, Fat Triathlete’s front cover proudly displays the message “Live your athletic dreams in the body you have now.” Throughout the pages, encouragement emerges on every page that ‘anyone can tri’. She urges people to move as ability allows. As well, Williams often directs readers who experience any sort of contraindicative health issue, like hypertension or diabetes, to speak with their doctor(s) before setting out to exercise, and to err on the side of caution to prevent injury and burnout. For someone who never before contemplated planned physical activity (i.e. exercise), she writes tips and sound advice as well.
Williams does not claim to possess the knowledge or skills of a coach but offers personal advice from her experiences and advice she gains along the way from both professional and recreational triathletes. Emphasized repeatedly, the adage, “start off slowly,” weaves a message throughout the text to remind the over-enthused not to start out too quickly or too intensely! In the event of injury, from the acute to the chronic, suggestions emerge in the latter portion of the book on how to rest and rehabilitate (or seek assistance). Ideas about training schedules, rest days, and necessary gear versus ‘fun-stuff’ line the pages between an actual report from William’s first triathlon and how to create a personalized program. She even includes a chapter dedicated “for people who love triathletes” to engage significant others and supporters!
Priced at $15.95, either a pre-contemplative couch potato or a veteran triathlete can purchase Slow, Fat Triathlete for encouragement, advice, ideas, or just plain humor! Williams writes with clever confidence and unmistakably personal accounts. As a veteran triathlete who competes against stereotypical norms, Jayne Williams encourages readers to go with what you enjoy. Get up, get out, and move! “Believe that your body, like any body, was made to be moved, and that any body in motion is a glorious thing” (20).
Slow, Fat Triathlete’s front cover proudly displays the message “Live your athletic dreams in the body you have now.” Throughout the pages, encouragement emerges on every page that ‘anyone can tri’. She urges people to move as ability allows. As well, Williams often directs readers who experience any sort of contraindicative health issue, like hypertension or diabetes, to speak with their doctor(s) before setting out to exercise, and to err on the side of caution to prevent injury and burnout. For someone who never before contemplated planned physical activity (i.e. exercise), she writes tips and sound advice as well.
Williams does not claim to possess the knowledge or skills of a coach but offers personal advice from her experiences and advice she gains along the way from both professional and recreational triathletes. Emphasized repeatedly, the adage, “start off slowly,” weaves a message throughout the text to remind the over-enthused not to start out too quickly or too intensely! In the event of injury, from the acute to the chronic, suggestions emerge in the latter portion of the book on how to rest and rehabilitate (or seek assistance). Ideas about training schedules, rest days, and necessary gear versus ‘fun-stuff’ line the pages between an actual report from William’s first triathlon and how to create a personalized program. She even includes a chapter dedicated “for people who love triathletes” to engage significant others and supporters!
Priced at $15.95, either a pre-contemplative couch potato or a veteran triathlete can purchase Slow, Fat Triathlete for encouragement, advice, ideas, or just plain humor! Williams writes with clever confidence and unmistakably personal accounts. As a veteran triathlete who competes against stereotypical norms, Jayne Williams encourages readers to go with what you enjoy. Get up, get out, and move! “Believe that your body, like any body, was made to be moved, and that any body in motion is a glorious thing” (20).
August 6, 2010
I bought this book because, after seeing the title, I thought it was a book about athletic pursuits geared to those of us who are not made completely of muscle.
Like my rating, I thought it was ok. It wasn't horrible, and the organization of it flowed in a pattern that made sense to me. I felt like I learned a few things too, and it made me go from no desire to try a triathlon to perhaps doing one once the kids are older.
But the writing was not that great. The conversational tone was not the problem, it seemed meant to be that way; the problem was that the author was trying too hard. I could tell that she was including sassy little quips to provoke a laugh, and that always makes a book, show, movie, whatever distinctly un-funny. And there were a few places that I wondered about her word choice. In a book that's not aiming for awards or is a classic, I try not to judge diction and the like, but this book made me wrinkle my brow a couple of times and wonder, "did she have to write it like that?"
It took me a while to read because it got tedious. I'm done with this type of book for now.
Like my rating, I thought it was ok. It wasn't horrible, and the organization of it flowed in a pattern that made sense to me. I felt like I learned a few things too, and it made me go from no desire to try a triathlon to perhaps doing one once the kids are older.
But the writing was not that great. The conversational tone was not the problem, it seemed meant to be that way; the problem was that the author was trying too hard. I could tell that she was including sassy little quips to provoke a laugh, and that always makes a book, show, movie, whatever distinctly un-funny. And there were a few places that I wondered about her word choice. In a book that's not aiming for awards or is a classic, I try not to judge diction and the like, but this book made me wrinkle my brow a couple of times and wonder, "did she have to write it like that?"
It took me a while to read because it got tedious. I'm done with this type of book for now.
March 13, 2008
As an aspiring athlete who identifies strongly with the title (which I'll admit took me aback a bit at first) I found this book to be a great resource. It's full of encouragement, mystique-busting information (for instance describing the details of what transitions are and explaining much of the lingo) and really practical advice. It's also often extremely funny - I didn't expect to laugh out loud while reading about triathlon training! I've been thinking of doing a sprint triathlon for over a year since I started running, and reading this book helped me actually sign up for one this August and start my training (!). I really liked the author's sense of appreciating the fun of moving, of enjoying challenge and affirming the accomplishment inherent in choosing to be active, even if we might not win the race...
December 3, 2014
Williams describes herself as "nearly asteroid sized and shaped" when she decided to start running. Within two years she was competing in her first triathlon. She freely admits that yes, she is fat and yes, she is slow. But she also competes and has a great time. She pokes fun at herself as she sprays down with Pam to get into her wetsuit and mentions that her sprint and jog look virtually identical. There’s a 95% chance I won’t be doing a triathlon anytime this decade, but Williams’ book was a funny and inspiring read for anyone wanting to get off the couch and try something new. Yes, she says, you’ll look like a fool while you’re doing it, but at least you’re out there doing something fun. Great attitude, super funny inspiring book.
February 5, 2011
Dreaming about doing a triathlon next October. Quite funny as sit sick in my recliner in Dec. But hopefully I'll get some ideas for the upcoming months.
Finished this book the first week in February a week after getting back into the exercise swing. Now I'm doing PRE training following lots of Jayne's advice. This book was funny as well as informative and an excellent reminder that I'm doing this MOSTLY for fun and partly for fitness. I find it works well to "train" for something to keep my attention on staying fit. The triathlon I want to do is not until Oct, but I have my sights set and lots of supportive information & motivation from this book.
Finished this book the first week in February a week after getting back into the exercise swing. Now I'm doing PRE training following lots of Jayne's advice. This book was funny as well as informative and an excellent reminder that I'm doing this MOSTLY for fun and partly for fitness. I find it works well to "train" for something to keep my attention on staying fit. The triathlon I want to do is not until Oct, but I have my sights set and lots of supportive information & motivation from this book.
April 26, 2013
My favorite training book so far. OK, I will admit it...I am not in the skinny minnie training program so this book offered some great advice for training not only for Tri's but could be applicable to any training regimen. This book packed quite the punch for its 170 pages and is loaded down with lots of important information from a journal of her trainings and races, as well as important must haves and not so important must haves as part of your racing routines and gear. This book was incredibly welcoming and easy to jump right into. I don't care what level of training one is in or not in or shape wise...this was just good stuff!
May 11, 2013
What a great book for anyone, and I mean anyone, considering a triathlon. I had already begun my training for my first triathlon when I accidentally found this book on Amazon while searching for my brand of exercise clothes. As I trained alone for my events last year, it was comforting to have someone's personal experience to lean on as I approached my first raceday. Now, even months past my events, I still recall tidbits of advice gleaned from Jayne's experience, which helped me get through my events with a whole lot less stress. I highly recommend this book for anyone considering adding a triathlon medal to their life list of goals achieved!
February 1, 2014
It was a quick and easy read with short chapters and lots of stories. I read it in an afternoon when it would NOT STOP SNOWING. This was perfect for where I was at with no triathlon experience. She gave lots of entry-level explanations and walk-throughs which were great for a person like me wanting to devour information on the subject, but this was more of a motivational, "You can do it!" book than a practical training book. The self-deprecating humor became tiring after awhile, but the constant Lance Armstrong references of his impressive athleticism and role model status were hilarious. OHHH how the mighty have fallen.
October 12, 2009
Inspirational in the sense that it tells the story of a slightly overweight, well-off woman who decided to start training and competing in triathlon. Nice in the sense that it keeps your expectations slight, encouraging you to train for shorter distance competitions instead of doing the full Ironman from the get go. Frustrating in that less time is devoted to the ins and outs of training than I would like and much more is devoted to shopping for gear than I like.
A good motivational book; a bad training guide.
A good motivational book; a bad training guide.
July 2, 2010
I wanted to love this. I'm slow (really slow), not exactly fat but certainly not endurance-athlete skinny, and training for my first triathlon. While Williams is very encouraging that anyone can do a tri, she's trying so hard to be funny that it got annoying quickly for me. I'd recommend Triathloning for Ordinary Mortals over this as an accessible beginners guide to triathlons.
July 1, 2012
This book contained a little more information than I needed. As someone just starting to run, it was suggested by a friend who thought I might find it motivational. If I had any desire to do a triathlon maybe it would be more motivational. My husband just finished his first triathlon a few days ago and is already re arranging our summer plans so he can do a couple more. The book was interesting and definitely gave me food for thought. It is a book I will hang onto in case I ever consider training for a triathlon.
March 25, 2008
What a great book. I too am slow, fat and want to be a triathlete. The author paints a picture of how it is to be involved in a sport where the majority are thin, fast and amazing creatures. I really liked the fact that although she is slow she still finished and was happy about finishing. She is also very greatful to the people who help out at the events. I have tried to incoporate that into the events that I have been involved in.
September 3, 2008
This was recommended by a friend at work. It's what I was hoping the The Nonrunner's Marathon Guide for Women would be—a motivational book for athletes like me. I was slightly discouraged that the author ran her first 5K faster than I've ever done one but felt better when I reminded myself that she's a lot younger than I am. I was very intrigued to learn that some triathlons have a separate division for women over 150 pounds; I might have a hope of competing in that class.
February 16, 2010
Jayne Williams is an unapologetic slow, fat, triathlete and she wants us to know that we can be, too. More motivational than how-to, Williams tears down triathlon myths (for example, I totally thought it was all Ironman stuff) and lets the truth hang out in all its glory by using her own experiences as an example. Her strategy works...I actually do think I could be a triathlete, someday...if I really wanted to, that is.
March 11, 2012
A fun nonfiction book detailing how one "normal" woman in her forties went from couch potato to triathlete. Lots of self-deprecating humor, how tos, and useful lists for anyone interested in learning about the sport, the book is also worth the read even for those of us who have no intention of going tri. My younger sister is a triathlete, and learning a lot about the sport helps me to talk to her about her hobby and feel like I'm keeping up with her lingo.
March 3, 2012
I loved this book! After reading this I realized I can be fat-fit! Its definitely not the ideal, but working out is good for any body. When I competed in my first sprint-length triathlon, my husband said, "I'm sure there will be slower and fatter triathletes there. The point is it doesn't matter!
I'm now reading Women Food God- to help with the eating side, so maybe someday I'll just be a slow triathlete- or even remove both titles altogether. :)
I'm now reading Women Food God- to help with the eating side, so maybe someday I'll just be a slow triathlete- or even remove both titles altogether. :)
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