[ Triathlon Mindset & Performance ]
Was there a defining moment that led you to commit seriously to training, despite the demands of your professional life as a psychologist?
I’ve always been active, and usually when I love something, I commit to it 100%. I’m not very good at doing things halfway when I truly care about them. Before cycling and now triathlon, I spent many years doing crossfit-style training, and I was just as invested then in learning movements, getting stronger, and improving.
I see the same pattern now with triathlon. It’s not just about performance — I genuinely enjoy the process of getting better. Training is also an important balance with my work as a psychologist. My job requires a lot of presence and mental energy, and sport gives me a space where I can move, reset, and reconnect with myself.
From a psychological perspective, what do you see as the most significant impact of consistent training on a person’s mental well-being?
The people who manage to train consistently usually have a strong internal motivation — a passion for what they do, or simply a genuine love of the activity. That’soften what makes the difference between something that lasts and something that fades.
In terms of mental well-being, training can give people a powerful sense of empowerment. In a world where many things feel outside of our control, your own training is something you can truly take ownership of. You decide to show up, you put in the work, and over time you see the results.
It also gives structure, purpose, and a space where people can reconnect with themselves physically and mentally. For many, it becomes a grounding part of their life.
How do you navigate doubt or pressure before important races?
To be honest, I don’t feel a lot of pressure before races. For me, the key is knowing that I prepared well and trusted the work I’ve done in training. When I get to the start line, the job is mostly done.
I also try to see races as just another training day — a chance to enjoy the experience and see what my body can do that day.
Interestingly, when I was racing in cycling, I actually felt much more anxious before races. I was always worried about crashing in the peloton. That was actually part of why I decided to not race anymore in cycling. Triathlon feels very different for me because I’m on my own out there, and I really love that aspect of it.
Among many demanding sports, what led you to choose triathlon specifically?
I love moving in different ways. Like I said, before triathlon I did crossfit-style training, which included a lot of variety, and I realized that I really enjoy using my body in multiple ways.
Being a cyclist at a high-level was an amazing experience, but I also wanted to explore other ways of moving. With swimming, cycling, running, and strength training, I feel like my body is being used more completely.
Another thing I love about triathlon is that you never really get bored — there’s always something different to train. And since I came from cycling, it was nice that one of the disciplines already felt like home.
Also, triathlon being an individual sport is something I really appreciate — it’s just you, your training, and the day. No drafting, pure watts on the bike!
What does performance apparel mean to you as someone competing at a high level? Do you feel that what you wear can influence not only performance, but also your mindset before a race?
Performance apparel is definitely essential when you’re racing at a high level. Comfort, aerodynamics, and functionality all play a role when you’re spending hours training or competing.
But mindset is part of it too. Like people say: look good, feel good. Whether it’s placebo or marginal gains, I’ll take it! When you feel good in what you’re wearing, it adds a little bit of confidence before stepping on the start line. 
As a psychologist and high-level amateur athlete, how would you define “hidden performance” in your own life?
For me, hidden performance is about discovering the limits you didn’t know you had. It’s the quiet work that happens over time — the training sessions no one sees, the small improvements, the resilience you build along the way.
In many ways, it’s about continuing to discover yourself. Sport constantly shows you new layers of what you’re capable of, physically but also mentally.
I often say that for me, life is movement. As long as I’m moving forward, learning, and exploring what I’m capable of, I feel like I’m exactly where I need to be.
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