How My Daughter's Challenge Helped Me in More Ways Than I Could Imagine

Life has a funny way of giving us wake-up calls, and it’s up to us how we respond. Earlier this year, after one of my son’s football games, I found myself giving them a pep talk about discipline and perseverance during our drive home. As I spoke, I caught a glimpse of my reflection in the car window. What I saw shocked me: a round face staring back, a stark reminder of my unhealthy state. I realized I wasn’t leading by example; I was merely talking the talk without walking the walk. How could I expect my kids to take my words to heart if I wasn’t embodying the values I preached?

The days of my intense Ironman triathlons and outdoor adventure racing felt like a distant memory. I was out of shape, fat and unhealthy, a far cry from the example I wanted to set for my children. The voice of Michael Jackson echoed in my mind: “I’ve got to make that change today! (Man in the mirror)” That moment of self-reflection ignited a journey of transformation, not just for my body but for my entire mindset. I realized that if I didn’t take action for myself, I had to do it for my kids and the lessons they were learning from me. It was time to stop talking and start acting.

1) Set a goal:?

My daughter was the first to help me take that crucial first step. She could sense I needed a goal and instantly suggested we do a triathlon together! Fifteen years ago, I crossed the Ironman finish line in Zurich with my one-year-old daughter. The idea of racing alongside her 15 years later sounded amazing! That was all I needed to take my first step: we registered for the Chiba Triathlon. I had just four short months to prepare and turn my life around.

2) Get a Coach

I was fortunate to find my coach, Hiro F. . Man, that guy didn’t take it easy on me (that’s for sure)! To be honest, there were times I hated his guts—especially during those 5:00 a.m. runs to beat the summer heat. But I knew he meant well, and I always did my best to follow his workout regimen and demanding diet requirements. It was my first experience with a coach, and having someone guide and push me like Hiro made a huge difference. Finding the right coach who can adapt to your lifestyle, balance workouts with nutrition, educate you, provide mental support and push you just the right amount (before your breaking point) is essential. Thank you, Atsuro Makino , for introducing me to Hiro and reigniting my passion for fitness.

Special thanks also to Paul Shippee for helping me find the right Wahoo bike trainer—it has become an amazing training partner.

3) Kaizen: Continuous Small Improvements

Progress takes time, and it was important for me to stay mentally strong and focus on getting a little better every day. This wasn’t a sprint; it was a long-distance race. Whether losing weight or achieving a fitness goal, small wins accumulate over time. I had to keep the faith and focus on doing the work. Some people show results faster than others, but hard work always pays off in the long run.

4) Surround Yourself with the Right People

Having a strong support system was key. I was lucky to have my wife and kids, who were patient and supportive, even when they had to deal with my occasional mood swings. They had to eat a lot more salads than usual and hide unhealthy snacks at first when my cravings for sugar and junk food were the strongest. As the weeks went by, it became easier, and I no longer felt the need for sugar because I didn’t want to undo my progress. A positive environment makes all the difference.

5) Prioritize on what’s important (your health)

We often feel like we don’t have enough time in the day, and it’s easy to prioritize work first. However, spending just 30 minutes to an hour each day exercising can have an incredible impact on your mental health, positivity, and productivity. You'll not only feel better, but you'll also be more enjoyable to be around for your friends and family, and you’ll be significantly more productive at work.

Fast forward four months: after countless hours spent in the pool, on the bike, and on runs, and consistent small efforts, the results finally came. In just four months, I went from being out of shape at 94 kg and unable to run more than 2 kilometers to losing 15 kilos, climbing the fifth-highest mountain in Japan (Yarigatake), and completing the Chiba Triathlon (my first triathlon in 15 years) with my daughter, who, at just 16 years old, was a constant source of inspiration!

This journey has been hard, but it’s been worth every moment. As I reflect on the last four months, I’m incredibly proud of what I’ve accomplished. I’m fitter, healthier, and mentally stronger than I’ve been in years. The lessons I’ve learned extend far beyond fitness—they’re about life, determination, and the power of the people we surround ourselves with.

So to anyone who feels lost or believes their goals are out of reach—start small, stay consistent, and don’t give up. Whether you’re climbing mountains, running races, or simply trying to be a better version of yourself, you can do it.

I’m excited to say I’m back, and I look forward to seeing many of you at a future race in Japan or around the world!

I’m now on the lookout for my next challenge, so if you have any ideas (Triathlon, Half Ironman, Ironman, bike races, or even Mountain Marathons), please leave a suggestion in the comment section!

Stay strong! Stay healthy!