5th Annual Ho’olaule’a

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Improve Balance & Reaction Time: Indo Board Training Gear & Suzie on the New “Gigante” 24″ Disc

Maui Wave Action!

Waves are a force of nature like no other. Susan does a superb job to illustrate this and more. A great read!

My Cause: Mental Illness Awareness

Train With Me While You Experience Lumeria Maui

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Weather on Maui Is Shaping Up For OluKai 5th Annual Ho'olaule'a SUP & OC1 Race

With only five days until the OluKai 5th Annual Ho’olaule’a SUP & OC1 race approaching this weekend, the weather forecast is soon to be taking shape! The trades are predicted to return as competitors will be competing for a purse of $15,000. We’ve had an unusual spell of  Kona breezes that look like they’ll be on their way out!

Here’s a peek at the forecast for May 11th & May 12th:

552013windguru

Register now or day of event. For more information click here.

 

SUP Pro Talk Workshop Benefits Paddlers While Supporting Mental Illness Campaign

Suzie Cooney gets the crowd going at Lumeria Maui

Maui, HI
November 27, 2012

Stand up paddlers of all skill levels gathered on the serene grounds of Lumeria Maui on November 3rd for the SUP Pro Talk Workshop with Suzie Cooney. The educational (and fun!) land-based event touched on many important topics for paddlers, including the health benefits of SUP, water safety and ocean preparedness, SUP fitness techniques and training demos, and equipment reviews.

Clay Everline, M.D., co-author of the Surf Survival Health Hand Book, was on hand with a valuable lecture on First Aid, and pro paddler, Jeremy Riggs, heated the afternoon up with his tips on downwind paddling. Suzie Cooney, as charming as ever, kept the crowd entertained and engaged with her informative and “hands on” teaching style.

The big winner of the day was the organization Bring Change 2 Mind, as 90% of the event’s proceeds went to supporting the group’s fight to erase the stigma and discrimination of mental illness. The organization, founded by actress Glenn Close, provides educational material and a meeting place for a broad coalition of organizations that provide service, screening, information, support and treatment of mental illness.

Suzie shares:

“We were thrilled to sell out three months in advance. That really confirmed to me that people are eager to learn and support the sport. I’m a big advocate of those dealing with mental illness, so I wanted to spread the word about the organization I support, Bring Change 2 Mind.org.

Clay Everline, M.D. was very informative and entertaining, as was Jeremy Riggs, our local downwind pro who shared some of his helpful tips. The participants had great questions, which was helpful for the entire audience!

The event supporters and sponsors including, Naish, Kaenon Polarized Eyewear, Indo Board Balance Trainer, Pocket Fuel Naturals, Scosche Health & Fitness and CamelBak Hydration Packs, were all very generous in providing some great raffle prizes. People were stoked to win products that compliment their SUP lifestyle.” -Suzie Cooney, CPT, owner of Suzie Trains Maui, LLC

Bring Change 2 Mind.orgFor more information about Bring Change 2 Mind, visit: bringchange2mind.org

For more Stand Up Paddling Fitness Techniques, Success Stories, Workouts and Upcoming Events, visit: standuppaddlingfitness.com

 

My Own Personal Fitness Challenge:100 Squats Everyday for October 2012

Suzie Cooney, CPT

UPDATE: Nov 2, 2012:   Thank you everyone for helping me reach my goal of 3100 squats with 20lbs. I am continuing on with new found strength and am wondering why I took so long to do this. See, even trainers need a little help now and than. My legs are super strong AND my butt and legs got more toned!

 I am writing this blog entry today, October 9th, 2012 with 900 squats completed in my own training log. Today was proof, with a high surf advisory here on the N. shore of Maui, my legs held me up and helped me stick 2 head high waves at Kanaha. It was closing out all the way across and at first, I simply could not get out, then finally a small lull.  I felt confident and strong. YES!

Why in the world you may ask am I challenging myself to perform 100 squats a day with 10lb (20 total) dumbbells? Did you know that this is my LEAST favorite exercise to do?  I absolutely with my heart and soul detest doing squats. You’d never bet that would you?

Well guess what, I need to be motivated and challenged too. As a trainer I tell my clients that if you make a commitment and goal to yourself, then tell someone publicly; your trainer, spouse, friend or whatever, you will more likely make that goal.  Write it down, post it, let the world know.  You don’t want to let them down do you?

Have you heard of the 21day rule? If you do something for 21 days in a row it becomes habit. I will admit I think things are not only taking shape but it’s shaping my thought and my brain.

So, the main reason for me sharing this on Facebook the month of October 2012, is that I need your help.  You see, after busting my legs in April of 2009 (Maui Weekly Story) that 3 month wheelchair stint did a number on me. I mean, my legs turned to mush in two weeks.  My lower half atrophied in ways I’ve never ever experienced and even with all the training they are not quite the same legs they used to be and yes, I do run like a girl!-

That freak accident changed my life in so many amazing ways and here I am professing and confessing to you my weakest link!  Three years later I’m still trying. My left ankle is bigger than the left but you won’t notice at first, my strength is ( to me ) about 75% and I really want to be extra strong for surfing, stand up paddling, and long distance crossings.

I still have to wear a compression stalking on the left leg once in a while and it still swells up once in a while.  It feels great and maybe I’ll start a new trend!

Now I am accountable to you. I don’t want to let you down and simply by posting this blog, I have assigned accountability.  That is one of the many reasons people hire me is to hold them accountable and help them reach their goals. I get it. But did you know that even trainers come to me to get motivated, get a jump start and ask me to hold them accountable?  It is true.

I know that some of you are doing it with me and I really appreciate that. It helps more than you can know.  I will occasionally jump in here or on FB to keep you updated and please feel free to do the same.

I want to thank straight away Tracy Lynn Penny and son from Sunset Beach,  Hawaii , sales person for freesurfmagazine. Way to go Tracy! Also to Jennifer Gladwin, Jacqueline Tan-Barclay, Amie Engerbreston, Jenny Ryan, Suzi Tucker, Joel Edwards, Brian Coppedge, John Smalley, Carlita T., Marty Melum, Salma Ansari,  Elder SUP, Brianna Castillo, Mary Lynn Hershey, Nick De Meyer, Kimberly Sutton, Casey Gotcher, Blen Hinton, Jeffrey Zerkle, and many more.

Precautions/Important Notes:

Continue reading My Own Personal Fitness Challenge:100 Squats Everyday for October 2012

Nevada SUP Paddler Scott Boyles checking in with a Big Win and Big Stoke

One of the many rewards of helping people with their stand up paddling stroke/fitness/technique is getting emails, photos and updates of their stoke and even better, wins in their local events. Makes a coach proud!

I had the chance to catch up with Scott Boyles at this year’s Battle of the Paddle at Dana Point where I could see from the fire in his eyes, discipline and strength in his body that this was only the beginning for him.

Scott Boyle and Suzie Cooney at the BOP at Dana Point, CA 2012

Suzie & Scott2012 BOP Dana Point, CA.

Scott came to Maui with his wife Cheryl last year and took a lesson with me to improve his stroke. He was incredibly technical which I enjoyed all the more. He got it and he got it fast. As a student, he was a quick study and understood the finer nuances that take most people a little more time to grasp. With his anatomical knowledge and practice, I knew he’d have big breakthroughs too.

As he was already in excellent shape, it didn’t take him long to find his true core power ( about 5 minutes! ).  He was able to understand how to use and transfer that power directly to the board and water. Impressive.

Scott writes:
“I had paddled[only twice in my life. My wife Cheryl and I went to Maui, called Suzie Cooney. She invited us on a community downwinder from Paia Bay to Kanaha. Could barely stay on the board! Then I took a personal paddle lesson from her, and she demonstrated the great ability to coach technique, but more importantly communicate in an effective way. She was also so laid back as was the community she introduced us to, it really made it a awesome experience.

Went home, bought a board and set the goal to complete the 22 miler across Tahoe race (supported by a lovely wife who knows I need a "focus" on a physical activity).  [I] achieved that in 2011. Did a number of other races, many sponsored by South Lake Tahoe Stand Up Paddle. Trained more, paddled lots, coached more by Tracy Day, bought another board a Flatwater Paddle, a fricking rocket. Then won the 18-55 age group in the 12′ 6″ class in the 2012, 22 miler. By the way, all at age 50!

Suzie is definitely a high ranking ambassador of SUP awesomeness, along with many others.”

So when I saw Scott again, as a trainer, of course, I noticed his ripped abs and asked if he’d share his training secret. He makes it look so easy!

Scott Boyle performs the plank on an SUP
Scott Boyle defying gravity in plank pose on his SUP

“For my abs: I do crunches once every couple months or so, up to 5 reps maybe 3 sets max. They are hard on the back and really unnecessary! (I learned a lot about true core strength following my second lower back surgery.) Ab strength is totally built on exercises that are based on core and balance as the primary foundation.”

Scott also came in 3rd in age group and 8th overall in the famous Tahoe Nalu long distance race.

Continue reading Nevada SUP Paddler Scott Boyles checking in with a Big Win and Big Stoke

Video Meet Suzie Cooney of Suzie Trains Maui

Subscribe to me on YouTubeThanks for checking out my video! Whether you want to charge big waves or shed weight, strengthen your core or get inspired, I’m here to help YOU!

I specialize in water sports performance training on Maui;- (SUP)stand up paddle stronger, surf stronger, windsurf stronger, paddle or kite stronger. Pros and non-pros are welcome! Or if you’re not a water athlete, I can help you too. New mom’s wanting to get a jump start, reentering fitness or coming off an injury, I’m in your corner.

My training will challenge and motivate you. Improve your core and balance, land and ocean endurance and learn all my jewels to keep you balanced and avoid injury. Training is functional training. On the beach, in the studio and on the water, I want to see what you’ve got!

If you are visiting Maui be sure to contact me well in advance to assure my availability. Contact me e: suzie@suzietrainsmaui.com   Also be sure to visit: http://www.suzietrainsmaui.com/suzie-cooney-certified-personal-trainer/

As used in video: Indo Board Training Gear. To order yours to be a stronger surfer, paddler or strengthen your knees, hips and ankles click photo here:

Aloha Suzie Cooney, CPT Owner of Suzie Trains Maui, LLC

Also, to join my confidential mailing list and receive lots of great tips and more, go here:

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A Simple Training Tip For SUP to Maximize Leg Strength and Endurance with the Indo Board Training Gear

A Simple Training Tip For SUP to Maximize Leg Strength and Endurance with the Indo Board Training Gear

By Suzie Cooney, CPT Owner of Suzie Trains Maui

More and more people are stand up paddling and I get flooded with emails on how to strengthen the legs to help reduce fatigue, increase performance for distance, wave paddling and simply cruising. There is not one answer but I have a tip that can help all the above at some level.

From beginners to professional paddlers, everyone can benefit to learn how to maximize your leg strength and endurance to you can enjoy paddling longer, possibly reduce injury or to push your limits and improve your performance.

I’ve been a Team Rider for Indo Board for years now and love how the sport and gear have evolved together to allow for smooth paddling and more water time. I’ve had numerous major injuries over the years, and seriously, my Indo Board gear has brought me back faster and stronger than ever.

When folks are making transitions from flat water to wave paddling, it’s all footwork and water reading. It’s pretty awesome when you can train your body to connect to your brain’s intention and have it all right there.  Connect your body to the waves, bump or trough if downwind paddling.

This simple tip I offer will wake up all the fine muscles around the feet, ankle, knees and hips independently of your other leg. I like this exercise ( see blow ) because although all the muscles of your body work together, by breaking it down and loading up each joint; we can then maximize each point to perform with it’s own strength and consistency, then ultimately allowing for every joint to excel in unison.

Additionally, the strength you gain will then allow for quicker reaction times to changing conditions, increase muscle endurance and hopefully minimize injury or overuse syndromes and other compensations. ( I am not a physician but have worked in sports orthopedics. Always consult with your personal specialist with regards to any injuries or if embarking on a new fitness routine.)

Gear: Indo Board Balance Board ( pictured here: Indo Board Kicktail ) and Indo Board IndoFLO Gigante Cushion   In addition, to add to challenge add a 10-20lb Kettle Bell or dumb bell. Any of the Indo Board models will work well.

Even though I’m a “regular” surfer and paddler surfer, funny thing is I skateboard and snowboard “goofy”.  So fortunately I will benefit from training with left foot and right foot forward. My point is, even though you may be one or the other, train both legs.

Inflate the Gigante Flo Cushion with less air for more difficulty or more air to slow it down. Place the Indo Board Rocker or Indo Board Kicktail on top with nubby side up for maximum traction of board to cushion.  I also suggest that you kick off your shoes because any rubber will act as a false barrier between you and the real thing.

  1. Step onto board slowly in a surfer’s stance with kettle bell or dumbbell in the hand of the opposite side of the foot your approach with.  So if goofy or right foot, step up and hold weight in left hand.
  2. To maximize results, hold weight “above” the joints we intend to stress, so up to shoulder. My joint targets: ankles, knees and hips.
  3. I suggest “time” your set. For example, beginner would hold for 5-10 seconds, and advance to 30-60 seconds in each direction or with each foot.
  4. Lower body into squat position, gaze forward, breathe and hold. Burn to fatigue. Shaking is okay and expected.

You will begin to feel your ankle, knee and hip burn and or shake! This is good! Hold on to this position as best you can and time yourself now. See how low you can go. Relax your feet and don’t look down.

Rise up slowly, step off the back of board onto ground rest then switch it up over to the opposite leg. Repeat.

If you have the opportunity to try both boards, the Ying and Yang ( links here ) and then the Kicktail, wow what a difference. The Kicktail, which is my favorite, is very challenging and offers a lot more ankle and foot action.  This requires the small, tiny stabilizers to fire and fatigue, which is the result you want.

Again, the point I’m also attempting to illustrate is that by holding a weight over and above the joint or muscle group that you’d like to strengthen and train, you will maximize the benefit and outcome.  The fact that we also get to add the variable of an unstable platform gives us the ultimate opportunity for your training. If the weight is below or at joint level it will produce a different result.

This kind of training is efficient and I promise you that you will definitely notice a difference the minute you get on the water. People who train with me are blown away of how much easier it is to literally step onto the wave, or last longer in channel crossing, or for any distance paddling.

This particular exercise can also transfer well to surfing, kiting and windsurfing.

I hope you enjoyed this tip. Here is a link to other articles I’ve written for SUP Fitness.

If ever on Maui, I’m available for private specialized training and can show you all my training tips to maximize your results and SUP water performance. I also offer private and semi-private professional SUP lessons.

Don’t forget to order your Indo Board Equipment here.  Here is a photo of my training quiver from Indo Board. Having good balance, strength and leg endurance is key for more time on the water. Other articles  you may enjoy allows you to learn more SUP training applications.

Indo Board Training Equipment for Stand Up Paddle Training For Every Condition and Every Season  and

More on the Core: Increasing your Padding Power

Photos for Indo Board by Tracy Kraft Leboe

Rip it up, blade forward, dig in and charge ahead!

Aloha and see you on the water.

Suzie Cooney, CPT  Owner of Suzie Trains Maui


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Maui, Hawaii:Fourth Annual OluKai Ho'olaule'a Highlights, Photos and Race Results

Fourth Annual OluKai Ho’olaule’a May 12th & 13th, 2012

An amazing turnout of over 500 ocean enthusiasts and competitors from around the globe converged on the beautiful island of Maui this weekend May 12th & 13th, 2012 to celebrate OluKai Premium Footwear’s highly revered fourth annual downwind SUP and OC1 race, called the Ho’olau’le’a which translates as “celebration.”   The community and visitors came together in the spirit of “ohana” to share, give, and celebrate the ocean.

This highly anticipated event brought beginners, novice and elite ocean athletes together to experience the famed 8 mile stretch of open ocean paddling known as the Maliko downwind run. This stretch of water is fast and offers a unique perspective of racing and spectacular views of Maui’s North shore.

(Full Results link & fabulous photos below)

Part of the proceeds raised benefit the OluKai ‘Ohana Giveback Program; beneficiaries include Maui Cultural Lands and Hawaii’s Junior Lifeguard Program. Click here to learn more about the OluKai Ohana Giveback Program.

A special pre race event offered to those who weren’t quite ready for the 8 mile race, was the non-competitive Fun Paddle Division that was as popular as ever, held prior to the main SUP event. The three mile course from Paia Bay to Kanaha Beach Park gave a taste of the big course to those who aspire to one day advance to Maliko. I had the pleasure of preparing this group with a practice paddle a couple weeks before to get those a little anxious, relaxed and ready.  ( see photos and highlights here ). The Fun Paddle Division allows any age, all levels and anything humanly paddle powered.

The OluKai Team greeted and checked everyone in at the Paia Youth & Cultural Center where the paddle began. Music played in the courtyard, safety skis arrived, boards were everywhere and there some nervous jitters as well. After the safety meeting, I lead the group with a few warm-up exercises as 80 paddlers prepared for their downwind experience. We had participants that traveled from Delaware, Oregon and as far away as Australia just for this fun paddle.

Continue reading Maui, Hawaii:Fourth Annual OluKai Ho’olaule’a Highlights, Photos and Race Results

OluKai and Suzie Cooney 3 Mile Downwind Practice Paddle on Maui Makes An Exciting Splash

Maui, HI April 28th, 2012

Conditions could not have been more perfect yesterday to welcome more than 60 excited paddlers who ventured down Maui’s famous northern coastal waters for a 3 mile downwind practice paddle, all in preparation for the 4th Annual Ho’olaule’a Fun Paddle presented by OluKai Premium Footwear, taking place this year with the additional SUP & OC1 races on Maui, May 12th & 13th.

At 8:00 AM stand up paddlers and a few kayakers of all ages and abilities signed in at the Paia Youth & Cultural Center and were greeted by OluKai’s Hawaii Ambassador, Matthew Murasko,  and by me, Suzie Cooney. With the help of our amazing volunteers,  we prepared them for their epic downwind coast adventure. For some it was their first real downwind experience.


After our safety meeting it was time for me to warm up the crowd with a few pre paddle exercises to shake off the jitters. The course which began at Paia Bay was 3 miles to the lifeguard tower at Kanaha Beach Park. There was a small break that made the entry a little heart pounding but everyone made it out just fine. What a site!  ( Below, paddlers arriving, workout and pre launch )

With the trade winds starting to blow at around 18-20 mph, the wind swells started to build and gently offer our group some nice glides and rides. The smiles and grins were big, and for some the look of concentration, intense and laser focused.  Everyone was helping each other and encouraging one another as the pack spread out as it normally does.  Part of the learning is to navigate in water that is moving with a lot more action and swell. This meant bending one’s knees deeper, moving back a little further, and paddling at a faster pace with a lot more effort. To some’s surprise, some were connecting rides and glides like a pro. That was awesome to see.

The first paddler in was a fine gentleman named Bruce. Way to go Bruce!  The average time was about 45 minutes or less and for others it took about an hour and some a little longer. High fives and hugs and more big grins. I think these paddlers are ready. ( paddling and finish )

We’d like to thank our volunteers: Alane, Milton, Randy, Donnie, Paul, Tommy, Wes, and Jeff. Also a big Mahalo to Peter Swanzy, director of the Paia Youth & Cultural Center for hosting us.

A special thanks to Jimmie Hepp of Jimmie Hepp Photography for providing his time and talent to give us great memories. Reprints are available. Contact Jimmy direct: jimmie4art@gmail.com

Also a big shout out to Kelly Moore of Moore Water Time who offered her reliable and convenient downwind shuttle service to our paddlers. Be sure to call her to catch a ride and a glide.

It’s not too late to enter the main event. You can go to Neil Pryde in Kahului or register online. The Fun Paddle is $20 and includes the luau and awesome entertainment. And if you register before May 4th, ( the 8 mile Maliko race only ) you’ll receive a sweet pair of OluKai Premium Sandals, a value alone of $70. For the price of $50 for recreational, $100 elite, you get a cool race jersey, luau dinner, entertainment and you’ll be stepping in style.

 

Aloha, Suzie Cooney, CPT and owner of  Suzie Trains Maui – Naish SUP Team Rider
http://www.suzietrainsmaui.com
http://www.standuppaddlingfitness.com


Suzie Cooney Stand Up Paddle Fitness Experience at Lumeria Maui May 2012

Aloha ladies! We invite you to our exclusive luxury, stand up paddling health and fitness experience on the worldwide SUP island destination Maui, Hawaii.  Four (4) women will enjoy tropical warm waters, personalized SUP coaching and instruction, expert fitness training, organic meals prepared by Chef Ben Diamond, massage, yoga and premium products representing the SUP lifestyle, while staying on the beautiful N. shore at Maui’s new stunning and tranquil retreat center, Lumeria Maui.

Listen here to Suzie’s radio show about the experience.

PRESS RELEASE

  “Suzie Cooney combines imagination, inspiration and perspiration. She’s a one-of-a-kind waterwoman; a brilliant and patient teacher. Oh, and she is also a complete badass, which is the highest compliment I can possibly give.” —Susan Casey, bestselling author and editor in chief of O, The Oprah Magazine.

If you’d like to reserve your space, please contact us by submitting your information here. It it required each guest have some SUP experience and is comfortable in the ocean or large bodies of water. Once your registration is complete and approved, you will receive more detailed information.

SUP Experience Prerequisites and More Information : Click here.

To visit the website of Lumeria Maui go to: www.lumeriamaui.com 

Questions and inquires or to book: service@suzietrainsmaui.com

 

 

Open Ocean Endurance Radio Segment with Suzie Cooney of Suzie Trains Maui

In preparation for the 4th Annual OluKai Ho’olaule’a and anytime you venture into the ocean, open ocean endurance is not something to take for granted and it is a required physical and mental element that all water sport enthusiasts must have, especially when faced with huge walls of water moving and changing conditions. Besides navigating current changes, surface wind speeds, waves or deep troughs, often experienced and non-experienced folks can get into serious trouble or lose critical momentum needed to paddle over, in and through some of the roughest patches that can form underneath you, near you, in front of you or behind you.

This article is helpful if you’re a prone paddler, surfer, kayak paddler, canoe paddler or stand up paddler. Are you ready if your canoe hulis and you lose your paddle? How to you react if you fall of your down wind board on a big day on Maliko? How prepared are you? Do you carry a waterproof pouch with your cell phone or better yet, a GPS unit? Do you have a regular cardio routine that includes intense bouts of intervals? Do you cross-train? If you’re pausing to think about anything of these questions, then it’s time you take good inventory and learn all you can and implement now. ( See tips below ) Also contributing, is Stacie Thorlakson, MCKC Maui Canoe & Kayak Club board president.

Listen to Suzie's radio segment here!

Listen here for Suzie’s Radio Segment on Open Ocean Endurance:

The Physical Part:

1.Equipment Check: Check integrity of leash, tighten all fins, repair any major dings, tighten drain plugs, charge and take cell phone, fill Camelback, pack extra energy gel, waterproof whistle, wear sun protection, if a one man canoe, strap on an extra paddle.

2. Fuel: Charging the ocean requires food in your belly and hydration to reduce cramping. I like to suggest oatmeal or any complex carb at least an hour before departure. What’s great are two pieces of a nutty whole grain bread with a protein spread like almond butter or low salt peanut butter.  Coconut water is a favorite of mine that offers lots of potassium which allows you to hydrate more quickly.  I also squirt a full pack of an energy gel before a Maliko run. I avoid caffeine or super charged sugary drinks as these can actually dehydrate you and cause your energy to crash hard.

3. Body: Strength, stamina and cardio, and more intense cardio.  The biggest thing I notice when training my sport specific athletes or weekend water warriors is the lack of cardio and cross-training. It’s a common component that get’s overlooked but it’s so important. Strength and body stamina takes time to build but is necessary too. There are many formulas on the how to and it’s based on your sport, your goals and your current level of fitness so I can’t write one program to fit you all. You’ll have to come train with me for your specialized program. Continue reading Open Ocean Endurance Radio Segment with Suzie Cooney of Suzie Trains Maui