MEET OOCREW ANGELA NAETH
Angela is a professional triathlete, gravel cyclist, and coach from Brewster, Massachusetts. Originally a Physical Therapist by trade, Angela’s early athletics journey was self-driven by her passion for sport. Swimming, biking and running were hobbies early in her career as a Physical Therapist, but an itch to compete at a higher level became too intense over time. “I left my career in Physical Therapy and took a chance on myself. I had no idea what was next -I just trained because I loved the sport. I'm very proud of that.” She had many coaches doubt her and tell her that she would never make it pro, but she didn’t let that stop her from setting her goal, creating a consistent routine and achieving a pro/elite designation in triathlon. As she faced obstacle in the journey, Angela learned then that she had to be her own advocate in a lot of areas of life, not just in sport.
THE OPPORTUNITY
As Angela’s pro career took off, she couldn’t help but notice the small number of female racers.
She felt that if she could create a community of female athletes that could connect and support each other through training - unlike what she had - the more inspired women would be to dive into triathlons and cycling at any level.
COMMUNITY BUILDING
In 2017, Angela launched IRaceLikeAGirl - a female endurance team that promotes community in swimming, biking, and running. It was such a success that Angela later launched GirlsGetGritty - which focuses more specifically on building community around the growing sport of gravel cycling. “This team has become a network. Without a support network, you can’t survive.”
Angela coaches team camps all over the United States where members can meet in person and train together for their race goals. "As a coach, it is so rewarding to be a part of people’s lives and to see that excitement in people’s faces when they accomplish something great. It has given me the opportunity to share my knowledge as an athlete and as a physical therapist.”
FINDING OOFOS RECOVERY FOOTWEAR
Angela was first introduced to OOFOS while staying at a friend's house for a nearby race. From the moment she slipped them on, she could tell OOFOS were different. With Angela’s extensive knowledge in orthopedic physiotherapy, she immediately identified what was happening to her body.
A full triathlon begins with a 2.4-mile swim followed by 112 miles on the bike; then ends with a full marathon at 26.2 miles for a total of 140.6 miles. OOfoam™ absorbs 37% more impact than traditional foam, decreases load rates of each step by up to 88%, and reduces stress on muscles and joints. OOFOS help decompress the body after high-intensity bouts of exercise or endurance events just by trading out performance shoes for footwear specifically designed for Active Recovery. “All of the little things add up, and if I can help people connect with these little things in training, I know they will perform that much better. I find that OOFOS is a part of this process of teaching others about active recovery.”
HER PASSION
Angela hopes to continue coaching athletes and teach them the confidence to attempt dreams that may seem unthinkable. “Sport can fulfill your life and I want women to feel they belong here!” Angela offers all kinds of coaching programs through her online communities that cater to each athlete’s needs, all while continuing to competitively race herself. Keep an eye out for Angela as OOFOS follows her races this season and supports her camps with our mission to Make yOO Feel Better.
