EKAITZ SAIES

This morning, I visited Elmbridge Canoe Club, where Ivan Lawler, Roland Lawler, and Scott Hynds greeted me warmly. My friend Tim Brabants came from this club, as did many other international paddlers I have met over the years. But when I looked at the wall displaying their results, I was stunned. Despite being a relatively…

I’ve always been passionate about learning ways to help others improve their performance. My dad was the founder of my club, and even though I earned the highest coaching qualification in Spain, my real apprenticeship came from observing him and coaching within my club. I feel incredibly lucky to have learnt from some of the…

My son and I often listen to a podcast channel called Noiser, known for its immersive and cinematic storytelling. Their engaging narration, combined with expert interviews, brings history to life in a vivid and compelling way. One of our favorite episodes explores the incredible story of Ernest Shackleton. Last week, I found myself reflecting on…

In high-performance sports, we rely heavily on data to evaluate performance. We measure speed, efficiency, and countless other metrics. But one of the most critical factors for success cannot be quantified: team chemistry. You can’t measure it, but you can sense it. Some athletes just click. In a crew boat, their movements are seamless, communication is effortless,…

Stress is often cast as the villain in our lives—something to be minimized, avoided, or conquered. Yet, in reality, stress is a critical ingredient for growth and adaptation. Whether we’re athletes pushing our bodies, parents navigating endless responsibilities, or leaders steering the ship in turbulent times, stress drives improvement. But here’s the catch: stress alone…