Welcome to the 30th episode of the Fiery Embers Show, where host Aum Gandhi sits down with Luis Andarcia, a seasoned triathlete and respected coach with over 30 years of experience. Originally from Venezuela and now based in the United States since 2004, Luis’s journey in triathlon is as inspiring as it is transformative. In this episode, Luis dives deep into his evolution as both an athlete and a coach, reflecting on his commitment to continuous improvement, his passion for each discipline, and the rewards he finds in helping athletes reach their full potential.
From Sprint to Ironman: Luis’s Athletic Journey
Luis’s athletic career began with sprint distances and gradually expanded to Olympic, middle-distance, and full Ironman events. He’s now preparing for his third Ironman in Arizona, a milestone that underscores his enduring dedication to the sport. This episode provides a glimpse into Luis’s perseverance, the training required to tackle long-distance races, and his transition into the U.S. triathlon community.
Luis speaks with gratitude about his roots in Venezuela, where he first learned to swim in the warm, clear waters before adapting to cold-water training in the San Francisco Bay. The contrast between these environments sharpened his skills and added layers to his experience as a triathlete. Now, as he continues to train and race, Luis’s commitment to pushing his limits is evident in every mile he covers.
A Coaching Philosophy Built on Coachability and Growth
Luis began his coaching journey in 2009, initially as a personal trainer. In 2019, he shifted his focus exclusively to triathlon coaching, where he has since developed a reputation for his clear, supportive guidance and dedication to each athlete’s growth. He emphasizes the importance of “coachability” – the willingness to learn, adapt, and stay open to new techniques. For Luis, coaching is not just about performance metrics but also about fostering personal growth and resilience in his athletes.
Luis encourages a mindset of continuous improvement, believing that there’s always room to grow, regardless of an athlete’s experience level. His athletes benefit from his holistic approach, which goes beyond physical training to include mental resilience and goal-setting strategies. As a result, many have achieved personal records and conquered challenges they once thought impossible.
A Love for Triathlon’s Diverse Disciplines
Luis’s passion for triathlon shines in his love for each of the sport’s three disciplines. He shares how his early swimming background in Venezuela laid a foundation of discipline and endurance. His fondness for cycling is evident in his willingness to tackle indoor rides of up to 90 miles, drawing inspiration from the Hawaiian Ironman. Meanwhile, running holds a special place in his heart for its connection to nature and sense of freedom, making it a powerful meditative practice for him.
For Luis, the balance of swimming, biking, and running offers both physical variety and mental resilience – a balance he instills in his athletes to help them stay engaged and avoid burnout. He encourages athletes to appreciate each discipline, reminding them that variety and adaptability are keys to long-term success in endurance sports.
Celebrating Culture and Community
In a light-hearted segment, Luis talks about his favorite Venezuelan dish, Arepas, a reminder of his cultural heritage and the community that has supported his journey. He also shares recent coaching success stories, celebrating the achievements of two athletes who completed personal goals under his guidance. These moments of triumph are what make coaching so rewarding for Luis, as he witnesses the tangible impact of his mentorship on others.
Stay Connected with Luis Andarcia.
Reach out to him at andarciaperformancecoaching.com or on Instagram at @landarcia to learn more about his coaching services and the supportive community he has built.
