My name is Joe Hand, and I am a passionate triathlon coach with four years of experience and multiple certifications, including World Triathlon Level Two, Athletics Ireland Level One, and TrainingPeaks Level Two. I have completed every triathlon distance, most recently achieving an 11:37 finish in the notoriously challenging Ironman Wales, with a personal best marathon of 2:53. My mission is to help athletes unlock their true potential through structured, personalized training, enhancing both physical performance and mental resilience.
Hi, my name is Lara Drewes. I have been competing in Triathlon for 3 years now and haven’t looked back since. I have raced in multiple distances but the 70.3 distance is my favourite, qualifying for the Challenge Champs after coming 3rd in my Age Group at Challenge Wales. Being both a sports psychologist and a triathlon coach I understand just how important both the physical and mental aspects are. I aim to provide the best possible individualised training programme that will build your fitness and confidence helping you achieve those goals and enjoy the process!
Hi, I’m Daniel James, and triathlon has been my passion for the past four years. What started as a personal challenge quickly turned into a lifestyle, as I’ve competed in numerous races, pushing my limits and discovering the joy of endurance sports. This year, I’ve taken the leap to pursue triathlon full-time. Beyond my own journey, I’m thrilled to share my experience and knowledge with others. Helping people achieve their goals, whether it’s crossing their first finish line or setting a new personal best, brings me immense joy and fulfillment. I’m excited to start this new chapter, combining my love for the sport with the opportunity to inspire and support others on their own triathlon adventures.
Meet some of the trusted trainers and nutritionists on our team at Explosive Endurance!
Training from Joe Hand at Explosive Endurance has been an absolute game-changer for my ultramarathon journey. When I first tackled an ultra in December 2023, I could never have imagined how far I’d come in such a short time. Under Joe’s guidance, I was able to attempt the Mozart 100 and complete the Bath Two Tunnels with confidence and a clear strategy, which significantly improved my performance. With Joe’s customised training plan and expert insights, I was able to reduce my 50km time from 6:14 to 4:51 which is a testament to the level of dedication and expertise he brings to his coaching.
- Matthew Dodds
I started with Joe a couple of months ago and almost straight away noticed a huge improvement. Before starting with Joe, I had no experience whatsoever in triathlon. The level of detail Joe puts into each individual workouts made a huge difference in my performance and the enjoyment of my training. The training plan, weekly check ins and weekly group calls have been such a big part of my progression
- Graham Mahon
Starting coaching with Joe this year has been a complete game changer for me. The improvement I’ve seen in my performance is massive, with multiple age group wins and overall top 10 positions reflecting this, including at European championships level. With Joe’s help I’ve had my most successful season yet and the structure and support that his training has provided is second to none. I’m so excited to continue progressing and hopefully see more results next year - Sophie Truesdale
I signed up to my first Ironman 70.3 race back in May, with no idea of how I was going to make it to the start line. With only 9 weeks until race day and little to no swimming/cycling experience, I messaged several people asking them to coach me. Joe was the only one who was willing to take on the challenge of making me a triathlete with only 2 months to go. Since completing Bolton 70.3, Joe has helped me to achieve structure (not only within my training), but my life too! Making sure my happiness and health is at the forefront of everything I’m doing. I feel Joe goes above and beyond his role as a coach, really honing in on the finer details, to ensure I am operating as the best version of myself
- Anna Smithies
When I started working with Joe, I couldn’t swim, and my only goal was to complete an Ironman in 9-10 months. I had no clear direction on how to get there. Joe not only gave me the guidance I needed but also pushed me to my limits while always being supportive. What made sticking to the plan possible was how adaptable he was—tailoring the training plan to fit my busy schedule, making it manageable yet effective. His coaching style helped me achieve things I never thought possible like winning my age group In the Irish National Middle Distance Championships in 2024. If you're looking for a coach who will challenge you, believe in you, and guide you every step of the way, I highly recommend Joe - Rebecca Morris
I came to Joe a few months ago after getting injured during a marathon training block. I hadn’t swam in years, didn’t own a bike and couldn’t run because of the injury. Joe believed in me from the start and rather than viewing these as obstacles, he made a tailored plan to suit my needs. Over the past few months he has provided me with constant guidance and encouragement, and I am now one week away from my first Ironman 70.3 feeling fitter than ever. If you're looking for a coach who truly cares and will never stop pushing you in order to achieve your full potential, Joe is the person to go to!
- Mary O'Hare
Before starting with Joe, I had lost a lot of my motivation and interest in committing to my training due to a very busy workload. Since signing up, I finally got my mojo back while working around my job. This gave me a massive lift as Joe's ideology is a full wrap approach to both training and my social/work life balance
- Clive Ivory
Joe is not just a triathlon coach, he is a true inspiration and motivator. From day one, he believed in me more than I believed in myself. Thanks to his guidance and support the past 12 months, I have accomplished more then I ever thought possible
-Francesca Fornari