[ A Medical Resident’s Triathlon Training & Mindset ]
As a physician with a demanding schedule, was there a defining moment that led you to begin exercising?
During med school, I was doing rotations across Quebec, often in a different city every month and without easy access to a gym or team sports. That is when I discovered running, mostly because it was most accessible option. No matter where I was, I could just put on my shoes and go outside. Over time, it became more than exercise. It was a way to clear my mind, manage stress, and feel grounded during a period where I often felt quite isolated. When I came back, running had naturally become part of my routine. Now, I bring my running shoes with me everywhere I go!
From a medical perspective, what do you see as the most significant impact of consistent exercise on a person’s life?
As a family medicine resident, I talk about physical activity with patients every day and it is hard to overstate its impact. Regular movement improves nearly every aspect of health including cardiovascular, metabolic, and mental health, and in some cases, it can significantly improve or even reverse chronic conditions.
What stands out most to me is the benefits on mental health. Exercise is one of the most powerful tools to improve mood, reduce anxiety, and help people regain function in their daily lives.
And it does not need to be intense. You do not need to train for a particular race. Walking, yoga, swimming, cycling, anything that gets you moving and feels good for you absolutely counts.
As a physician who also trains, what does it mean to you to actively care for your own body and health?
For me, it is about alignment, practicing what I recommend to my patients. Taking care of my body is not always easy with a busy schedule, but it is essential. It helps me stay energized, focused, and emotionally balanced, which ultimately makes me a better caregiver. It also gives me space to reconnect with myself outside of medicine. In a profession where you are constantly giving to others, exercise becomes a moment where you give something back to yourself.
What role does exercise play in your mental and emotional well-being?
Exercise is one of my main anchors. It helps me process stress and reset after long days. It gives me a space to feel good in my body and reconnect with myself. It also reminds me that progress does not have to be perfect or linear. Simply showing up, even when it is hard, builds resilience, not just physically but mentally.
What does good athletic apparel or equipment mean to you?
Good gear means reliability. When I train, I want to focus on how I feel, not on adjusting my clothes or being uncomfortable. Especially in triathlon, where you’re switching disciplines, your gear needs to work with you, not against you. Comfort is important to me, but I also love wearing pieces that make me feel good and that I find beautiful. It just makes the whole experience more enjoyable.
Do you feel that what you wear for sport can influence performance or confidence?
Absolutely. When you feel comfortable and confident in what you are wearing, it changes how you show up. You move differently, you push a little more, and you just enjoy it more
Stop seeing exercise as a punishment. Physical activity should be part of your routine, like brushing your teeth. It is a privilege to be able to move your body. And on the days when you come home exhausted and feel like collapsing on the couch, try not to sit down right away. Just start moving, even for 10 minutes. You will always feel better afterward, more energized and clearer. And once you start, it becomes easier to keep going.
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