In this inspiring episode of the Tough Girl Podcast, we meet Naomi Rumble, a passionate triathlete, dedicated swimming coach, and advocate for breaking down barriers in sport. By day, Naomi works as a senior market researcher in London, but outside of her 9-to-5, she’s fully immersed in the world of swimming, cycling, and running. While sport has always been a part of Naomi’s life—from childhood swimming lessons and taekwondo to dabbling in netball, boxing, and archery—her relationship with consistent training truly solidified during the COVID-19 pandemic. What started as a challenge to cycle from London to Brighton evolved into a love for endurance sports and, eventually, the bold decision to pursue triathlons. Naomi shares her journey of overcoming self-doubt, learning to embrace running despite initial resistance, and finding strength through community and connection. As the first sponsored triathlete for Fund Her Tri UK, she’s not only pushing her own boundaries but also paving the way for others to step into the world of triathlons with confidence. From cold-water swims and marathon struggles to managing self-talk and celebrating small wins, Naomi’s story is a testament to perseverance, courage, and the power of showing up for yourself. Tune in as Naomi opens up about her experiences, shares invaluable lessons learned along the way, and offers advice to anyone looking to start their own sporting journey. This episode is packed with inspiration, honesty, and actionable takeaways—you won’t want to miss it! *** Catch the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, dropping every Tuesday at 7 am UK time! Don’t forget to subscribe so you won’t miss the inspiring journeys and incredible stories of tough women. Want to play a part in uplifting female representation in the media? Support the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon! Your generosity helps shine a spotlight on female role models in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Join us in making a positive impact by visiting www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast. Thank you for your amazing support! *** Show notes Who is NaomiWorking in market research as a 9-5 jobSupporting running and cycling clubsTeaching swimming twice a weekGrowing up in London as a city girlBeing in sports from a young ageStarting swimming at age 4 Doing taekwondo until 10 years oldTrying to figure out what she likes; netball, basketball, shot-put, discus, boxing, archery, scouts.Never being fully consistent with sports all the way through Being willing to try new things and wanting to have new challengesRole models and the women who have inspired herLeaving university and starting work and how sport drifted offNot liking runningHow things changed during covidCycling from London to BrightonGetting involved in sport in a more regular way How her view expanded on what’s possibleHaving the confidence and self belief to sign up to new challengesBeing inspired to sing up for a Triathlon Women of Colour Cycling CollectiveMeeting Bianca Fernandez-Clark @biancatriathlonFund Her Tri UK Becoming the first sponsored triathlete for Fund Her Trip UKWorking towards a full distance triathlon How training took a toll on her body Needing to rest more and eat more protein The discipline needed to do the training The importance of discipline and dedication Cold water swimming/open water swimmingNot liking the coldWhat happens when things fall apart and everything goes wrongNeeding to stop in the water and just breatheConcerns and fears before taking up triathlon Not being a runner and not liking running Not calling herself a runner and finding running difficultNot being a fast runnerStruggling with the breathing and overheatingJeffing (run/walk/run)Running the London marathon and what the experience was likeHow new opportunities can change your thinking Wanting to do an ironman Persevering though the tough moments Changing her tacticsWhat her self talk looks likeManaging negative thoughtsThe power of reflecting backBeing her own worst criticLearning to celebrate the small wins Goals for 2025Team Outlaw Fitting in exercise and training Turning training into social eventsHow to connect with Naomi Final words of adviceFind your group and your community Don’t be afraid to ask for helpFigure out what works best for you. Social Media Instagram @nay.aminah
