I completed my first Ironman 70.3 triathlon in September 2022 with three goals: finish, have fun and stay injury free. Check, check, mostly check. I did finish the race, I did have fun, and I managed to stay mostly injury free aside from a fall that resulted in a concussion 3 weeks prior to race day.

I credit much of my yoga practice to my mental training that allowed me to stay mentally strong and focused, even when it felt nearly impossible. Now as I gear up for my second 70.3 triathlon, it has been helpful to reflect on just how beneficial my yoga practice has been to my training and race day. An Ironman 70.3 consists of 1.2 mile swim, 56 mile bike, 13.1 mile run, and for me about 5 months of training. Throughout those 5 months, the mental challenge is often harder than the physical, concussion or no concussion. It is noted that the mind will give up far beyond when the body is ready.

I believe all runners, cyclists, triathletes and humans can benefit from incorporating yoga into their weekly routines. The physical and mental components of yoga can help you build muscle, prevent injuries and other health complications, and boost your focus—to name a few.

Yoga combines physical practice, breathing techniques, and meditation, however improved fitness was not originally a primary goal—mental focus was. When the training gets hard and uncomfortable, the mind wants to escape to what is familiar and easy. Yoga has proven to help with mental focus, which in return has helped me to shift my mindset when doubt and discomfort creeps in.

Personally, I enjoy incorporating Power Yoga, Sculpt and Restore into my weekly training.

Power yoga has allowed me to adapt to heat and receive the many benefits of a heated room, in addition to building strength, flexibility and mobility. Yoga can also help reduce inflammation, aches, pains, strengthen lungs, and cultivate inner awareness.

Sculpt, FIT and Barre are my preferred methods of weekly strength training to develop more power and reduce imbalances. On days when the heat is not favorable, I gravitate towards FIT.

Restore is an incredible way to counter all the intense training by allowing the body and mind to slow down. Restore can help regulate cortisol, the nervous system and stretch the deep connective tissues within the body. All of which aids in helping stay mentally healthy and injury free.

If you are considering training for an endurance event or just enjoying being more active outside in the summer, I say go for it! But consider where and how your practice can add benefit to your activity and help you successfully accomplish your goals.