Mark's triathlon career
IronMate Mark Kleanthous began his triathlon journey in June 1983, competing in the first open-water swim triathlon held in Reading. Every athlete on the start line was a novice, many coming from single-sport backgrounds in swimming, cycling, or running. Mark faced his fear of open water and endured a cold, non-wetsuit swim before steadily working his way through the field during the 40-mile bike and half-marathon, finishing an impressive 8th overall.
That race sparked a lifelong pursuit of improvement. Since then, Mark has completed more than 540 triathlons, including 44 iron-distance events. His endurance achievements include a double continuous iron-distance triathlon in 23:51 and a triple iron-distance 360km event in 45:58:29. He has raced in over 17 countries worldwide.
A two-time finisher of the Ironman® World Championship, Mark has represented Great Britain in endurance events — first as an elite member of British Triathlon and now as a competitive age-group triathlete and duathlete.
Do you have an unusual sporting ambition?
If you’re unsure where to start, or you’re aiming to take on something truly out of the ordinary, Mark provides the clarity and expertise you need. He has guided athletes in preparing for challenges that had never been attempted before, combining decades of experience with innovative, strategic thinking. By looking beyond conventional methods and tailoring creative solutions to each individual, Mark designs smart, practical pathways that give you the confidence — and the preparation — to succeed.
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Swimming 1-2-1
Open-water swim coaching and swimming pool coaching, including technique development and how to swim faster in a wetsuit.
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Cycling 1-2-1
Cycle with confidence, cycle skills, efficient climbing, braking, cornering, best use of bike gears, and eating and drinking strategies.
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Running 1-2-1
Run with Mark to improve your running efficiency. Injury prevention advice. Mark will observe and run with you, then help you improve your running.
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Transition 1-2-1
Rack your bikes and lay out the most efficient, time-saving transition to save effort, reduce nerves, and save you time.
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Nutrition advice
Based on your requirements for training, recovery, and competition timeline, nutrition (self-sufficient or race-day nutrition).
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Mentoring
Mark can help you overcome your fears, discussing tapering, race week, transition, and seeding yourself for a trouble-free swim, smooth transition, race-day tactics for optimal performance, and goal setting.
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Training plans 1-2-1
Individual training plans for beginners who want to go faster next time, aspiring age-group podium athletes, or those wishing to qualify for the World Championships or Kona.
Success stories!
IronMATE Mark's winning clients over the years
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