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The Athlete Inside: The Transforming Power of Hope, Tenacity, and Faith
Four years ago, Sue Reynolds was morbidly obese at 335 pounds. After being on yo-yo diets almost all her life, she tried one more time without much hope for positive results. But this time was different. She was fed up with not being able to do things because of her size. She was tired of not being able to tie her own shoes, fit in restaurant booths, or walk more than a few feet. She was ready.
The Athlete Inside follows Reynolds's journey as she lost 200 pounds and found an athlete hiding inside her body. From her first walk to the neighbor's mailbox to finishing sixth at the World Triathlon Championship, Reynolds discovered the joy of conquering fear and pride to find that the best version of herself had been there all along.
A world-class triathlete and a grandmother, Reynolds is proof that you can transform your life at any age. Her story is one of hope, tenacity, and faith, as she committed to doing whatever it took to be among the best triathletes in the world. It's a story about a unique intergenerational relationship between Reynolds and the young coach who earned her trust and helped her develop fitness and confidence. It's a story about the power of kindness and the spiritual growth Reynolds experienced as she realized the compassion that surrounded her was the face of God. Ultimately, it's the story of how each of us can discover amazing gifts and talents within ourselves.
200 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 28, 2020
40 people are currently reading
126 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
June 30, 2020
I really enjoyed reading this story of Sue's journey into triathlon. The book doesn't delve far into her spirituality, but as she seems a very private person, it was likely a lot for her to share as much as she did. I've been lucky to get to know Sue through my husband; she truly is selfless and such a servant towards others. It was interesting to hear Sue's perspective of events, thoughts, fears, and interactions with others throughout her journey. Inspiring!
May 30, 2020
Pretty inspiring story about a woman's transformation and then dedication to the sport of triathlon. Wishing the faith component was more integrated into the story, but my thoughts on that are informed by a lifetime as an athlete and a Christian, trying to find synthesis between the two identities.
February 7, 2022
This woman is amazing. 355 lbs to world class triathlete in 5 yrs. It’s pretty hard to believe.
March 24, 2022
I really wanted to like this book, even relate to this book for hope. Besides some fundamental basics, I just could not. And I would not recommend it. The main reason is that Sue has used her racing as a bandage for her emotional disfunction. She made it clear that her coach could not address her eating behavior, as it might ignite her hiding food and binging, just as she learned to do from her overly controlling mother. Yet, she could only alter her eating with strict control, such as following a strict eating plan and turning in her consumed food to a gym leader; preparing for extremely challenging sporting events consuming only 1000 calories per day. I am not a gambler, but as soon as all the distractions (races, training, dreams of competing) are over, she will still be left with her demons, and the consequences.
As far as content, it became thick with details of triathlons. It was also painful to read of her constant and continuing insecurities even when she had made great accomplishments. This supported my thoughts that all of this racing and training is just a covering for a festering mental and emotional problems.
The title also indicated faith. More than half way through the book, I wondered when she would mention God, Jesus, the Holy Spirit, anything. Then, in one chapter she covers her spiritual perspective. Sadly, it is based upon seeing this racing as a gift just for her, which is never why God gives His true gifts. They are always meant to bless others. And having, what she eludes to being, angelic encounters. No dependence on God, no healing of the soul, just icing on her cake.
I simply found this book to be sad. A very elaborate study in human behavior a broken person once again does not deal with the true issues. I have no doubt that when her knees finally give out and the obsession of training and racing can not be fulfilled, she will revert back to who she is, unchanged.
Please do not interpret this as critical, as this story truly broke my heart. I am simply explaining why I, with a MS in Nutrition, and a fellow struggler with weight issues, could never recommend this book.
As far as content, it became thick with details of triathlons. It was also painful to read of her constant and continuing insecurities even when she had made great accomplishments. This supported my thoughts that all of this racing and training is just a covering for a festering mental and emotional problems.
The title also indicated faith. More than half way through the book, I wondered when she would mention God, Jesus, the Holy Spirit, anything. Then, in one chapter she covers her spiritual perspective. Sadly, it is based upon seeing this racing as a gift just for her, which is never why God gives His true gifts. They are always meant to bless others. And having, what she eludes to being, angelic encounters. No dependence on God, no healing of the soul, just icing on her cake.
I simply found this book to be sad. A very elaborate study in human behavior a broken person once again does not deal with the true issues. I have no doubt that when her knees finally give out and the obsession of training and racing can not be fulfilled, she will revert back to who she is, unchanged.
Please do not interpret this as critical, as this story truly broke my heart. I am simply explaining why I, with a MS in Nutrition, and a fellow struggler with weight issues, could never recommend this book.
April 29, 2020
The Athlete Inside by Sue Reynolds is an inspiring and compelling story about an obese woman’s journey to health, fitness and spiritual growth. Sue grips you with many aha moments during her compelling and well-written story, starting with her unique (and positive) “Why” moment to lose weight and get healthy. Sue’s amazing and candidly shared journey will encourage you whether you are looking to find a pathway to health and fitness, learn more about triathlon, or find a new source of inspiration as an elite.
What Sue discovered in her journey resonated for me as an athlete and a triathlete. One of her favorite quotes, “No excuses. Whatever it takes. Find a way,” reminded me of one of my mantras, “No excuses. Just results.” Although Sue's use of this quote as a mantra in her story seems softer and more compassionate, make no mistake Sue discovers in her journey that she is out to compete and achieve some big goals. She sheds a bright spotlight on the systems, processes, and team of people (including her amazing coach) that she engaged to help her succeed. Sue’s spirit and tenacity drove her to discover the athlete hidden inside, and she explains how she overcame her obstacles. She shares the importance of encouragement from strangers and loved ones alike as well as her rediscovery of her spiritual faith. She explains the childlike joy triathletes find in training and provides a step-by-step guide to competing in the various levels of triathlon from beginner to elite levels.
Reading The Athlete Inside you will feel as if you are right with Sue during her races; I even found my eyes welling up with tears as I read about her crossing the finish line at her first race, the beginning of what would turn into an incredible journey of self discovery and achievement. I highly recommend reading The Athlete Inside to anyone looking for inspiration, motivation, and insight into one woman’s incredible journey from an obese grandmother to a compassionate yet fierce competitor for Team USA at the ITU World Championships.
What Sue discovered in her journey resonated for me as an athlete and a triathlete. One of her favorite quotes, “No excuses. Whatever it takes. Find a way,” reminded me of one of my mantras, “No excuses. Just results.” Although Sue's use of this quote as a mantra in her story seems softer and more compassionate, make no mistake Sue discovers in her journey that she is out to compete and achieve some big goals. She sheds a bright spotlight on the systems, processes, and team of people (including her amazing coach) that she engaged to help her succeed. Sue’s spirit and tenacity drove her to discover the athlete hidden inside, and she explains how she overcame her obstacles. She shares the importance of encouragement from strangers and loved ones alike as well as her rediscovery of her spiritual faith. She explains the childlike joy triathletes find in training and provides a step-by-step guide to competing in the various levels of triathlon from beginner to elite levels.
Reading The Athlete Inside you will feel as if you are right with Sue during her races; I even found my eyes welling up with tears as I read about her crossing the finish line at her first race, the beginning of what would turn into an incredible journey of self discovery and achievement. I highly recommend reading The Athlete Inside to anyone looking for inspiration, motivation, and insight into one woman’s incredible journey from an obese grandmother to a compassionate yet fierce competitor for Team USA at the ITU World Championships.
May 28, 2020
Sue Reynolds' story of transformation is impressive, but the book is a disappointment. I was hoping it would be deeper than an account of her growing obsession with becoming a triathlete. I was looking for the faith angle promised on the cover, but faith is just mentioned as an afterthought from time to time. The book is more about the power of positive thinking than about a faith journey. Some readers may find enough satisfying material in the book's accounts of various competitions. I found it shallow, despite Ms. Reynolds' remarkable accomplishments.
October 26, 2020
Sue Reynolds journey is the incredible story that is marked by pounds not by miles. Sue lost 200 lbs. to go from 335 to 135. In the course of this weight loss, she found an athlete that lived inside of her. At age 60, she began to train, run, and take on the triathlon: swim, bike, & run.
The story was tremendously motivating & the author was so human about her ups & downs. Some of her comments were so close to my own feelings when I first began to run & then eventually doing 5k’s & a few half marathons. I’m thankful for this book & the motivation it gives to attempt to start again.
The story was tremendously motivating & the author was so human about her ups & downs. Some of her comments were so close to my own feelings when I first began to run & then eventually doing 5k’s & a few half marathons. I’m thankful for this book & the motivation it gives to attempt to start again.
March 26, 2022
I'm a triathlete, so I have an above-average interest in the athletic aspects of this book. Sue Reynolds accomplished some really impressive things, but she really only talks about them in a very superficial way, which left me with a rather flat feeling about this book. I don't feel like I knew about her real motivations and struggles. And there are behaviors that she describes as very positive and healthy that really, really seemed like disordered behavior to me, which made it difficult to read.
May 18, 2020
Sue’s story will inspire anyone, whether they want to lose weight or are interested in triathlons or if they don’t belong to either of those two categories. She writes with an honest voice, enabling readers to find their own hidden talents inside of them while she finds hers. I highly recommend this book for anyone who feels like they’re in a place of lethargy! Sue will motivate you to try new things and push through.
June 2, 2020
This is truly a wonderful book. So inspirational. It is also not your typical book about athletes. This woman shares her journey to health from not only the physical aspect but the emotional one as well. Intertwined with short stories of the support she received from family, friends, coach and strangers during her fight to become healthy and finally to triumph as a true athlete. You will not be disappointed!!
July 10, 2020
So inspirational! Sue's kids grew up with my husband and my husband only knew Sue as a super friendly, very obese woman. The fact that she was able to dig deep inside and pull out a world class athlete is incredible. She has so much courage and grit and I loved reading her story of transformation, not just physically but spiritually and mentally too. She went on an incredible journey and I loved reading all about it!
July 29, 2020
Sue Reynolds is one of the most inspiring people you will ever meet. Her story touches all of us and should be must reading. She set out to overcome adversity one step at a time and succeeded in a huge way, all the while acknowledging those who helped her on her remarkable journey. Humility, faith, persistence, accomplishment. Read Sue’s book. Anything is indeed possible.
August 23, 2020
Motivation for anyone
I selected this book in Hope's of being inspired. I was! Sue's journey is filled with inspiration. And it all started with a walk to the end of her driveway. From that to Team USA! Never does she say it was easy. She put the work in and controlled her thoughts. It was just the book and motivation I needed. Congratulations Sue!
I selected this book in Hope's of being inspired. I was! Sue's journey is filled with inspiration. And it all started with a walk to the end of her driveway. From that to Team USA! Never does she say it was easy. She put the work in and controlled her thoughts. It was just the book and motivation I needed. Congratulations Sue!
January 2, 2022
I enjoyed reading Sue's story and learning about her training and triathlon success. She's an impressive athlete. Her drive and commitment are impressive and motivating. Although the book started with her weight loss, it focused more on her athletic training - as did her life. I would have found it more relatable to include more about her diet and nutrition throughout.
May 5, 2022
Two complaints: why the heck can't GR get the cover for the Kindle edition? Very annoying.
Also, the author, who is a teacher, used "Phew" when she meant "Whew!". Its a small nitpick but she's a teacher and should have known better.
On the upside, if you are looking for inspiration for a life change, this is a good book to begin your journey.
Also, the author, who is a teacher, used "Phew" when she meant "Whew!". Its a small nitpick but she's a teacher and should have known better.
On the upside, if you are looking for inspiration for a life change, this is a good book to begin your journey.
April 30, 2020
Read this book in record time - less than 12 hours
Inspirational - I couldn’t put it down! Thankful Sue Reynolds was willing to share her journey with the World. Just shows you anything is possible - just starts with believe and courage.
Inspirational - I couldn’t put it down! Thankful Sue Reynolds was willing to share her journey with the World. Just shows you anything is possible - just starts with believe and courage.
May 14, 2020
An inspirational story about real transformation
This book is about true transformation - Physical, emotional and spiritual. Recommended for anyone looking to be inspired and see how it is never to late to find hidden talents within ourselves.
This book is about true transformation - Physical, emotional and spiritual. Recommended for anyone looking to be inspired and see how it is never to late to find hidden talents within ourselves.
June 7, 2020
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It is one of the most inspirational books I've ever read. I will be reading it again. Sue has made such a tremendous transformation not only in weight loss, but in her overall life, it is hard not to get enthusiastic with her and want to do it too. Amazing!
January 25, 2021
Inspirational, positive, detailed and honest. I also appreciated the author sharing how her faith journey transformed along with her physical journey. Sue Reynolds is a wonderful representative of triathlon and God’s love and faithfulness!
September 13, 2021
I didn’t want it to end
I loved this book, it was just what I needed right now. Sue is truly inspirational. She’s also very humble and easy to relate to as she shares her story of weight loss and becoming an athlete. I was sad when I reached the end.
I loved this book, it was just what I needed right now. Sue is truly inspirational. She’s also very humble and easy to relate to as she shares her story of weight loss and becoming an athlete. I was sad when I reached the end.
June 13, 2022
I liked parts of this book. I was impressed with her weight loss and her drive to become an athlete. What I find hard to believe is that she was able to train at such a high level at only 1000 calories a day.
April 26, 2023
Everyone has their own unique story when it comes to multi sport. Sue's personal journey has been inspiring to follow. I look forward to seeing how it impacts the future of triathlon and others who may be a little timid to take the first step!
August 3, 2024
I listened to this book and really enjoyed it! Sue, in her 60s, lost over 130 pounds and became a triathlete. She persevered through doubt and adversity. She would say out loud, go away, fear, and go away, pride. What a wonderful example. I looked her up and she is still racing, now in her 70s.
May 31, 2020
Well done and so inspiring
May 20, 2021
A great book for inspire the imposible dream. It is not only for losing weight but to overcome my fears and mental limitations.
Live without boundaries and let your body express himself.
Live without boundaries and let your body express himself.
January 4, 2022
WOW! WOW! WOW! So inspiring! I’m adding her to my list of heroes and I’m going to start pushing myself to work a little harder towards setting and achieving my goals.
January 19, 2022
Sue does a great job of sharing her story. The tale is inspirational and uplifting.
December 12, 2022
This book motivated me to sign up for my first triathlon and start training! Loved it.
March 7, 2023
What a inspiring story. From 335 pounds to world class triathlete in 3 years. Amazing.
August 10, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews