Chasing Joy, Not Podiums

Jos, a 57-year-old from the Netherlands, didn’t grow up chasing triathlon dreams or cycling through the countryside. In fact, he started like many others: playing soccer and running because he was good at it. But one unexpected moment changed everything: seeing a woman crawl across the finish line of a triathlon on TV. That image planted a seed that would shape his approach to endurance sports for decades to come. These days, Jos isn’t focused on race times or podiums. Instead, he’s found joy in movement itself: whether it’s an early morning swim, a quiet solo run, or a bike ride that ends with chocolate.

How did you find your way into endurance sports?

I started as a soccer player. Running was always my strength, even back then. But the real turning point came when I saw a woman crawling across the finish line of a triathlon on TV. It struck something in me. That image just stuck, and it got me curious about endurance sports in a way I never let go of.

Do you remember one of your earliest long rides?

Oh yes. On Ascension Day, which is a day people in the Netherlands often get up early, I took off on a cheap bike and rode 150 kilometers to visit my grandparents. I was a teenager, and it wasn’t glamorous, but the feeling of accomplishment has stayed with me ever since. It left a deep impression on me.

How has your relationship with sport evolved over the years?

It used to be more about performance. There was a time when cycling and swimming had to take a backseat because running fit better with a busy schedule. But now, life at home is quieter, and I can return to the mix of all three. What’s changed most is the mindset: I’m not chasing personal bests anymore. I want to enjoy being outside, the rhythm of movement, and the moments in between.

What’s your current routine like?

Right now, in the spring and summer, I typically run three times a week, swim twice (usually for about an hour each), and ride twice: one of those rides is just the 20-kilometer round trip to the pool. In the winter, I pause the swimming and ease back into it once the outdoor pools reopen in May.

Do you prefer solo workouts or group efforts?

Swimming is always solo. You can’t really chat when you’re swimming! But for running and cycling, I’ve grown to enjoy the occasional group workout. It does take a bit more effort to plan, but the company is nice and keeps things fresh.

You mentioned enjoying nature. Has that influenced your training choices?

Definitely. I love running in the cold. But if it’s wet or chilly, I skip cycling. Swimming? Only outdoors for me. And while I ride on the road now, I’ve been thinking about trying gravel. I like speed, but I also like to be off the beaten path.

Was it always easy to balance sport and life?

Not really. At university, I trained so much my academics suffered. These days, I’ve found a better balance. When work gets stressful, I actually need that time to move…it clears my head.

What’s a recent moment you’re proud of?

I don’t run personal bests anymore, so my pride now comes from how something felt. There are two that stand out. First, a 10K in 42 minutes: it wasn’t the time that made it memorable, but how I worked with two other runners from different clubs. We took turns pacing and even shared drinks. The second was my first ultra trail run. I had guidance from experienced ultra runners, and the whole day felt special. That one really gave me a proud feeling.

Any advice for someone just getting into endurance sports?

For swimming, definitely join a club to learn good technique. For the rest: don’t focus too much on pace. Just enjoy it. Celebrate the small wins. If you’re struggling with motivation, find a buddy. And treat yourself now and then: a new piece of gear, spotting a deer on your run, or ending a ride with pie or chocolate. Those little joys matter.

Conclusion

Jos’s story reminds us that movement doesn’t have to be about proving anything. Whether it’s a 10K with friends, a solo swim under the sun, or just showing up consistently each week, the value is in the experience. As Jos puts it, the joy is in the journey.