Triathlete Annie Brooks was diagnosed with epilepsy 10 years ago. Now, she\u2019s just launched a multisport clothing brand. Below, she opens up on her experiences and talks about how triathlon has become a big part of her life.<\/strong><\/p>\n

The best way to describe my epilepsy is like a short circuit in the brain that disconnects every so often. Having an invisible disability is tough because I often \u2018look\u2019 fine, but it can be an absolute nightmare as I can\u2019t communicate during a seizure. I can get a migraine after and feel very low, but I try my hardest to not let it impact my life and stay positive.<\/p>\n

I wasn\u2019t diagnosed as epileptic until I was 26 and found it extremely difficult to deal with. I got some great professional support, so in 2014 I decided to give back to an epilepsy charity with my first race at Blenheim Palace. My husband, Nick, was the main inspiration for choosing a triathlon, as he\u2019s a triathlete and coach himself. After that race I was hooked.<\/p>\n

How to take part in your first triathlon\u00a0<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n
How fit do you have to be for a triathlon?<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n
5 training tips for beginner triathletes<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n
Free 3-month beginner Olympic-distance training plan<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>
<\/p><\/div> <\/section>
One of my big triggers for epilepsy is lack of sleep<\/strong><\/a> and stress<\/a><\/strong>, so rest and recovery<\/a><\/strong> is a major priority. I never train outside alone, as I know from experience when I shouldn\u2019t open-water swim or be out on a road bike. I just adapt my training. For example, I can work on my cycle fitness with my Echelon bike or add in a Pilates session for a bit of core work.<\/p>\n
Thankfully, I haven\u2019t experienced a seizure during a triathlon, but I have during a half marathon. I couldn\u2019t move. All I remember was a long path in front of me, and I just sat on the floor right in the middle of Greenwich Park! I\u2019m very proud to say I managed to centre myself and make it to the finish line! It\u2019s an inspiration point for me now, that no matter how tough, I know I can push on.<\/p>\n
I love the mental and physical challenge<\/a><\/strong> of triathlon. That personal challenge is my main love. It\u2019s also a passion I can share both with my training partner husband and the epilepsy community, by showing them that life doesn\u2019t have to stop after diagnosis.<\/p>\n
$\""Annie\"$ <\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture><\/div>