Triathloners taking on the ocean at Second Beach!

Earlier in the year, Eric set a goal to participate in his first sprint triathlon - perfect for lululemon Goal Week! After the brisk swim at Second Beach, Eric and Natasha hopped on their bikes to tackle two loops of the perimeter of Stanley Park, totalling 20km.

Eric on the second leg of the triathlon.

Natasha on her bike!

After the ride, time for a 5km run through Lost Lagoon onto the North Seawall. With the rain still pouring down, both Eric and Natasha were looking strong.

Go Nat go!

Goal achieved! Congratulations to Eric, Natasha, and everyone else who braved the rain to participate or cheer on the triathloners!

Eric and Natasha, post-triathlon!

Susan relaxing on the patio.

why lululemon?

When I came across the job posting for the role of Compensation Manager at lululemon I just couldn’t pass up the opportunity to apply; a chance to work in an entrepreneurial organization, with values similar to my own built on leading an athletic lifestyle, personal growth, and balance. Through the interview process, I was amazed by the investment that lululemon makes in its people offering what I believe are amazing career and personal development training/opportunities. Everyone here is truly committed to helping me achieve my goals! Oh, and did I also mention the added bonus of being able to wear luon to work every day? I find I am much more creative and focused when I am dressed in luon!

Susan prepping for a bike ride...

how does your role elevate lululemon?

As the Compensation Manager, my role is a pivotal part of lululemon’s people resources strategy. In particular, I work with our functions/businesses to create compensation programs that help lululemon attract and retain the top employee talent necessary to execute our business strategy. My role touches everything “pay related” from compensation philosophy development to incentive plan design for both our stores and our Store Support Centre – a chance to have a real impact on the organization.

coolest thing about working with the people resources team?

Working with the people resources team is truly a gift. It is an opportunity to work and sweat with other amazing people who have the collective goal of helping one another achieve their own career and personal goals. Everyone is a team player committed to helping the business grow.

Susan sweating with her bike team!

what is something unique or surprising about you?

I think most people would be surprised to know that I have taken flying trapeze lessons! My sister introduced me to the world of circus arts, and I really enjoyed the thrill of flying on the trapeze (and secretly pretending that I was part of Cirque de Soleil!). I was amazed by the amount of strength, balance and coordination the trapeze takes – one of the best workouts around. I would highly recommend that everyone try flying on a trapeze at least once in their life.

a goal you’ve achieved that you’re proud of?

Susan completing the run portion of an ironman.

I’m proud of finishing three ironman distances triathlons (which involves a 2.8km swim, a 180km bike and a 42km run). About five years ago, I remember thinking that it would be impossible for me to complete a race of this distance, but with a lot of dedication and the support of friends and family, I have been able to complete three ironman races. The process of training for and completing these races has helped me find a new level of strength and belief in myself and has introduced me to an amazing set of like-minded people -- many of whom are now good friends!

what is the best place you've travelled to?

I travelled to Australia and New Zealand when I was a teenager and recall the beauty of the area. I would love to have the opportunity to travel there again whether for pleasure or for work. My better half, Stephen, spent a year in Melbourne for work and we have often talked about visiting their together and furthering some of the friendships he made. Oh, and an added bonus, Australia has a ton of amazing triathlons which we would love to complete (Geelong half Ironman, Ironman Western Australia, and just a short trip away – Ironman New Zealand).

Susan and Stephen cross country skiing!

Interested in playing a vital role in lululemon athletica’s people strategy? From sea to sky Vancouver, B.C. is attracting athletes and entrepreneurs from all over the globe. If you're passionate about numbers and data analysis; and want to utilize your compensation analyst background to assist in designing variable pay programs check out your future possibilities.

endorphin tested, sweat approved

Hollis is currently training for the La Jolla Half Marathon, and her very first Rock'n'Roll Marathon in June! Hollis is averaging at least 20 miles a week in her runs producing a lot of endorphins and sweat. As her mileage continues to build in the months to come, the last thing she needs is a tank that will get heavier as her body temperature rises and so does her perspiration.

She also cross trains by spinning twice a week, and is thankful the I Just Wanna Run Tank accommodates both. Hollis has found that spinning is an amazing way to build her stamina and endurance for long distance running. She likes spinning in this tank because it is high enough that when she gets low she feels she has coverage. It is also so lightweight that she never has the urge to rip her tank off in the middle of class. If she does get really hot, she can use the drawcord to cinch the tank up and let her skin completely breathe.

it's in the details

There are lots of little details that make this tank amazing to sweat in. My personal favourite detail of this tank is that is woven with ultra lightweight and breathable Silverescent™ fibres that have anti-stink and anti-static properties. When Hollis is running 12 miles or more, her tank will not cling to her side, and she can feel comfortable heading to lunch or coffee afterwards as her sweat will dry really quickly and she won't need to take a bath in perfume.

Why We Made This:

• Barely there tech top for those who just wanna run!
• Lightweight & breathable Silverescent™ has anti-stink and anti-static properties
• Loose comfortable fit, great for layering
• Cinchable drawcord for customizable fit
• Secret stash pocket for cards or keys
• Flat seamed for chafe resistance & comfort

At the end of the day, if you have to run 5, 10, 20 miles, you want your body to be comfortable, dry, and you want to feel good about yourself in what you're wearing. The I Just Wanna Run Tank delivers in all of those departments, and I can easily see why it's one of Hollis' favourite pieces to sweat in this Spring.

Hollis is 5'5" a size 4 and is wearing the I Just Wanna Run Tank in Lavender and the Run:Zoom Crops in coal/lavender/ horizontal stripe/lime.

Where are you sweating this Spring?

Exhibit A: My brother Dustin, 27 years old, nicest guy on the planet (literally).

• Stats: 6'3", between a size L and XL
• Recently dropped 60 pounds from eating healthier, running and swimming regularly.
• Current goal: Looking to tone up, and considering a summer stroll with a lady hooked on his (growing) biceps.

choose your gear and pay attention to details

A lot of guys don't realize how important their gear is to their training. You want gear that is seamless, moisture wicking, and basically won't get in the way of your workout. Being the good sister that I am, I traded Dustin his ratty gym clothes for the Run: Cross Country Tech and the Wave Shorts and here's why:

Dustin likes to run in board shorts because they are comfortable, and he can go for a swim after he sweats. (i.e. he does not need to take a shower in his eyes). Fair enough. Enter the Wave Shorts.

• Made from quick wicking stretch surf fabric = more range of movement, shorts will dry quick enough to run home without irritation
• No sew technology = no chafing
• Secure side zippers with drainage = no water weight, just a house key, so swim fast!

Dustin prefers running on cool mornings, but hates the process of over heating once his body is moving. Solution: Dustin swapped his baggy cotton t-shirt for the Run: Cross Country Tech.

• Made from luxtreme fabric = quick wicking, helps regulate body temperature
• Flat seams = no chaffng
• Thumbholes = Keeps your sleeves in place, and keeps your hands warmer on chilly days.

choose your tunes and stretch

Now that you have your gear, take care of your body with a stretch. It will help your muscles reach peak performance, and it will also help with injury prevention. (Just a tip brother, girls will want to be active this summer, and not wheel you around if it can be avoided, so take care of yourself).

Get some beats that kick your butt. Dustin prefers a mix of Guns N Roses, and Jay-Z ("99 Problems" is his personal favourite for running). Just make it loud, so you’re not tempted to slow down. Three months until shirtless BBQs and beach combing, so tuck your iPod into the side pocket and get moving.

choose your workout

With a loaded iPod and summer dreams in your side pocket, hit the pavement and make the beach your gym today.

Park benches are not for interval bursts and not breaks. Adding some push-ups into your run adds a burst of energy, and hits all major muscle groups. (Great plank-like form Dust).

After you make it to the beach (running 2.5 miles with random push-ups), it’s time for a nice dip.

Kick off your shoes, stretch out your run, and brave the thought of taking your shirt off for the first time this season in public…

Move over Hasselhoff, Dustin's on your beat now.

The Wave Shorts will probably dry before you can put on your shoes. So there’s no excuse not to shake out your hair, put your shirt back on and run another 2.5 miles home.

Way to go dude, you're one step closer to your summer goal.

What are your goals for summer?

the journey

A year ago I raced in my first Short Course Triathlon National Championships and qualified for the Triathlon World Championships in Australia this past September. I immediately made the decision to go. I had a big goal coming up this race season: I was going to win the World Championships!

I was excited to go to Australia and represent Canada. On the flight I met many amazing athletes who shared their stories, and I realized that I am part of an amazing community.

On the day of the race, I was definitely nervous, but as I went through my mental checklist of everything I needed to do I began to calm down. I finished my warm-up and ran over to official start. It was a fantastic site to see: 75 young girls from all over the world stretching and shaking their muscles in anticipation of the start. Given the go-ahead, we stood in silence before the gun went off!

the race

Swim: This was by far the most brutal open water swim I have ever done! As we swam in a tight pack, I was kicked and hit too many times to remember, but I’m sure did my fair share of combat too! Towards the middle of the swim, the pack began to thin but there was still no way of passing each other. I reached the beach a little agitated but continued on autopilot as I ran for my bike.

Bike: The bike was two 20km loops along the shoreline. I hammered to the best of my abilities, but was still passed by a lot of other athletes. I thankfully did some passing of my own.

Run: The course was flat with two loops totalling 10km. I was expecting to immediately pass a ton of runners, but I didn't. I guess that's what happens when you're at the world championships! As I ran along in my own little pity party I reminded myself that this was not the person I wanted to be, not in life and not in a triathlon. With this in mind I just went for it. It was amazing what choosing a positive thought did for me. I started picking people off one by one, two by two, and group after group. I wasn't sure if I was going to make it, but I sprinted, bursting across the finish line.

I was disappointed when I finished. But as I walked through the finish area I noticed where I was - I was in the finish shoot of the world championships, and though I only finished “middle of the pack” in my race, it was “middle of the pack” of the best in the world.

the lessons

Back home, I took a much-needed vacation and realized that I still want the same things out of triathlon and life: I want to live life to the fullest, be a world class triathlete, never doubt my own abilities, and appreciate the journey, having a blast along the way.

My advice to anyone who has big goals: learn from and appreciate the setbacks. Never doubt your ability to achieve greatness. Enjoy the process of becoming whoever it is you want to be.

Want to get your big goals set up and on their way? Visit our goaltender website!

Thinking about trying a Triathlon? Don't know where to start? Pop into your local lululemon and ask the team!

Hooray, I finished my first triathlon this past weekend! No crashes, leg cramps or tears – success! The ocean was calm, the course was beautiful and there were 5 other lululemon teammates racing. In fact, it was really fun – at least once I was finished.

Thoughts That Go Through Your Head

You have a lot of time to think over the course of a race. Here were the thoughts going through my head:
• I can't believe I'm doing this – amazing, we rock!
• I'm never doing this again, once is enough, people will understand
• Wow, I just passed a 26-year-old, I rock!
• What do you mean we have to do another loop on the bike?
• Mmm, love the color of my new tank top and look, no chafing
• Crap, how are those old guys running by me? They left 2 heats after me
• I need a mani/pedi
• Finish line, thank goodness!
• Whoa, that was cool, maybe I should do another one?

Highs and Lows

The high point of my race was finding out I got 3rd in my age group in the swim. All those master swim sessions paid off. The low was loop two of the run. I felt dizzy because I don't have the skills to drink water and bike at the same time. My friend and stud Tri Babe, Rachel Ross made me feel lots better by saying "if you aren't hurting by mile 2 of the run at a sprint triathlon, you aren't trying." Thanks Rach!

Try a Tri

Thinking about a triathlon? Do it, sign up! Grab some friends and get it done. It's an amazing feeling to cross a finish line. People will help you. You can have a swim buddy. You can be part of a relay. You are done by 10am and can eat all the pancakes you want! Don't know where to start? Go into your local lululemon and ask the team. If they aren’t doing one already, chances are you'll inspire them to do it with you!

View run clothing:

• Run: Swiftly Racerback
• Run: Speed Short
• Challenge Crop

Recently the Biggest Loser teamed up with Tri California to complete an Olympic distance triathlon. Eileen Swanson, a lululemon ambassador and educator at our Walnut Creek store, and her husband had the amazing opportunity to work as the Biggest Loser's coaches for this race! Read about their experiences below:

Reid and I were honored to have the amazing opportunity to change the lives of 16 inspiring individuals (Biggest Loser finalists and winners from the past 7 seasons) by coaching them to be able to complete the San Francisco Triathlon on July 12th. We sent them each a training plan to get ready for this race in 6 weeks. Not much time, but we knew they could do it!

The day before the triathlon, Reid and I did a walk-through of the course with all the athletes. This was so much fun. I love answering question from first-time athletes. They were all so excited, it was refreshing. Each and every former BL contestant we met was super friendly, sweet, and eager to listen and learn.

After the walk-through we were off to a media lunch at Joe’s Grill in the city. It was a delicious lunch and great time to get to know each other better. I sat with Heba & Ed (finalists season 6), Coleen (season 5), Ali (winner season 5), Pete (at home winner season 4), Suzy (2nd place season 2) and Holly (finalist season 4). It was interesting and inspiring to hear how each individual ended up on the TV show and to hear how motivated they were to compete in a triathlon.

The triathlon morning came quicker than expected for all. Reid and I helped each athlete get set up in the transition area, worked on their bikes, helped put on wetsuits and gave some last minute advice. Whoa, there was some serious energy in the transition area. We all had an amazing time watching these newbies get ready for an experience of a lifetime!

The swim start was unreal. I was brought to tears watching all of these athletes giving each other high fives in the water, screaming with joy, and seeing the happiness written all over their faces.

The run was an incredible sight to watch. Heba, Ed, Matt, Pete, Bernie, Blaine, Coleen and Dane looked strong and were always so happy to be out there on the run course and loved the cheers from everyone. Nothing explains this better than some pics of those big smiles. The best part of this amazing weekend was watching each one of these amazing individuals cross the finish line with so much joy! Incredible! It was an absolutely surreal moment. We, as coaches, could not have asked for a better fairytale ending. Congratulations to all Biggest Losers! You truly are inspiring, amazing individuals. Anything really is possible. Keep it going…

A lot of athletes want to add swimming to their cross training, but have a difficult time developing a good workout for their level. If you've decided to get back in the pool for the first time in a while, remember one thing when designing your workout: Swim for distance, not for speed. What I mean is, if you're swimming for endurance it's best not to swim as fast as you can without stopping. This will leave you feeling out of breath, and you'll most likely get out of the pool completely exhausted very early in the workout.

Instead, you can practice swimming each lap at a consistent interval. For example, if you can comfortably swim 50 yards* in 1 minute, give yourself 15 seconds to recover after each 50 and swim 6 consecutive 50s on a 1:15 interval. With practice, you will get faster and be able to reduce your interval times. You can also play with the times and work up to 100 yards on a 2:15 interval, or 200 yards on a 4:15 interval.

If you don't know how fast you swim, you'll want to figure out the right interval for your workout. Give yourself 15 seconds to recover after each 50, and time yourself to see how long it takes you to swim 50 yards five or six times. You can simply take the average of that 50 time, add 15 or 20 seconds of recovery to it, and use that time for your interval.

Here is a sample beginner workout. Take it with you the next time you go to the pool:

Warm up: 4 x 50 (easy pace)
Main set: 4 x 50 on 1:15
2 x 100 on 2:20
4 x 50 on 1:15
Cooldown: 1 x 75, 1 x 50, 1 x 25

Total: 950 yards

*Note to Canadians: 1 yard = 0.9144 metres

Happy swimming!

Billie (above) is a blur of black/disco in our Fastlane Suit Too.

Above, Lori Moretti from Yatra Yoga takes our running gear for a spin. 

Conquer your head games

You've wanted to do a race and excuses are top of mind to rationalize your way out. I've heard: I'm not in shape, I am not competitive, and I don't have money.

Together, we're going conquer the head games, because this is the year you will race. I'm here to give you the inspiration, how-tos and tips to get ready for your first, fifteenth or five-hundredth race.

Find the race for you

Online magazines such as Active.com, Runner's World, Bicycling, and Triathlete are hubs for event listings and training tips.

Check the community board or website at your local lululemon store for training groups and buddies, tips, and run clubs.

Add athletes' blogs to your blog reader and check out their upcoming race schedule (see our blogroll on the right side of this page for a list of athletes' blogs).

If you’re still not sure what you want to do (a 5K vs. a half marathon or a sprint triathlon vs. an international/Olympic distance) go watch one! Not only will you be inspired, you have a chance to network, sign up for upcoming races and talk through your questions with professionals and athletes.

I cheered on local athletes and our ambassador Rachel Challis at the Oceanside Ironman 70.3 with fellow blogger Kirsten and our ambassador Beth Gerdes and realized that if I want, and start training, I can do this race next year!

There are a variety of opps to volunteer at races and race EXPOS as well, both will connect you to people also interested in the sport.

Create a goal

Perhaps your goal is a PR (personal record). Maybe it's to meet new friends in a new town. Just finishing an event is an incredible fete. Some other ideas:

• start small: a 2 mile walk is amazing. We aren't all Ironman triathletes, and that is okay
• align yourself with a charity and create a fundraising goal (Will your company sponsor you? Can you fundraise your way to the registration fee - plus some - through your contacts, friends and family?
• join a relay and make a mini time goal for your leg
• think big: as long as you train, rest, eat and condition your body and mind properly, you can be an Ironman!

Just sign up

No more excuses.

What race did you sign up for? I've started training for the Lighthouse Century Ride in San Luis Obispo County, California.

I'm off to try on the new lululemon bathing suits just delivered to the store!

When I started wearing lululemon clothes, I thought of them as mostly running and yoga apparel. Since beginning working here last year - low and behold - I have discovered some gems for cycling wear.

The run line is an ideal match for spinners and cyclers. The moisture-wicking, flat-seemed garments often include either Silverescent (anti-stink/anti-static) or quick dry and zip or back pockets.

I put our clothes to the test.

The Carlsbad store hosted a private yoga and shopping event with the San Diego Velo Bellas cycling group.

I rode with them before yoga and showed off the Run: Activa Vest and Flow Y Bra, explaining that I was testing the garments for cycling efficiency. While not wind resistant, the back zipper pocket fits my camera and cell phone, and the back pocket of the Spin Babe shorts fits chapstick and my lens cloth. I could have fit Gu, gum and my car key if I wanted to, but it fit in my bike's seat bag.

Jackie, my riding buddy, exclaimed that of course the vest worked - she didn't realize it wasn't a "real" cycling vest.

After the ride, we hosted yoga for the Bellas and invited them to a private shopping event in exchange for design feedback.

After a few months of testing our products in various saddles, here are the winners (please note, not all are currently available in stores):

- Spin Babe Short - have worn spinning and cycling. Lightly padded in the bum.
- Tri Babe Short - see above, plus more moisture wicking
- Run: Sprint Singlet - wore this in a triathlon
- Run: Activa Vest - wore this on a 2 hr ride
- Run: Power Crop - spin class
- Persist Jacket - to/fro bike rides and races
- Hot Yoga Bra - triathlon
- Flow Y Bra - spinning and cycling
- Brisk Run Arm Warmers - made for cold-weather running - and ideal as cycling sleeves.

That being said, lululemon is not best in the world at making cycling gear - yet. The more feedback you give us via our blog, Facebook, twitter, online, and at the store level, the more the designers will hear it and implement changes.

What else have you worn spinning or cycling and loved?

When I first started triathlon training, I liked to joke that I support my local growers by eating everything in sight! My farmer's market in Leucadia, California was thrilled, my Mom was proud of me for cooking and Seaside Market in Cardiff, CA was happily selling me coconut water by the case. I was expending all this energy training and I didn't know how to refuel to keep my body moving – so I just ate a lot and often.

It took a lot of trial and error to figure out the mechanics of eating, but I am starting to get it down. I found that when I got too hungry, I made bad choices and portion control went out the window. So now I break my meals into 5 to 6 a day. I time my biggest meal after my biggest workout (usually lunch after my noon master swim).

Here are some of my favorite pre/post workout foods:

• Avocado toast – Who needs butter? (So delicious and great for the heart, cholesterol, breast health)
• Tuna fish, cucumber, chopped heirloom tomatoes mixed with Annie's Lemon Chive dressing, cracked pepper and crumbled goat cheese (my protein revival meal!)
• Coconut water (Nature's Gatorade, coconut water naturally hydrates the body)
• Banana, almond butter w/ a sprinkle of flax seed (protein, Omega3s, a powerhouse breakfast or snack)
• Oatmeal with fresh berries and agave (heart healthy and filling)
• Frozen Yogurt – only if I get toppings!!!
• Beans, brown rice, tomatillo salsa, lime, crushed red pepper and shrimp in a wheat tortilla – dinner for 3 nights straight last week!
• Fish tacos and a frosty beer (it's all about the balance)

The two best pieces of advice that work for me:

• Hydrate at night. But of course! Score one for more energy, less leg cramping and better digestion.
• Up your protein intake. I don't eat meat so this was a tricky one. I do eat fish so I upped my intake (yippee, more fish tacos!) and added chopped hard-boiled egg to salads. The protein gave me energy and kept me fuller longer.

I'm always looking or new ideas, recipes, meal plans. Check out my friends' James and Beth's food blog (pictured below). They put the yummiest stuff on there!

left to right: Kirsten, Katya, James, Rachel (Tri Babe) and Beth (Tri Babe)

What are your favorite things to eat pre- and post-training? (p.s., thanks for the Clif Shot Blok Margarita suggestion, yum!!!)

Seven of the lululemon Carlsbad Forum crew (including Kirsten, who we consider part of our store) completed our first triathlon of the season – and did amazingly well!

Meredith, Cristina and Sherry came in second in the relay, Rachelle is 5 of 12 races (1 per month) through her fitness goal for 2009, Kirsten is a third of the way there (her goal is complete 3 tris this summer), Laura swam her first open water 1 mile race (in less than 30 min) and I got 10th in my age group, making my goal time. Our Ambassador Rachel Challis was the second overall female.

We all sported the new Run:Sprint Singlet in Frisbee Blue - easy to spot one another and easy to show off our newest run top to competitors and spectators. It felt like a bathing suit top - soft, moisture-wicking, and sucked me in, in the right ways.

It was rewarding to train hard and compete hard. I loved finishing in an early heat to cheer for the rest of the team, guests and people I'd never met.

We now have one race under our belts and goal times to beat. I, for one, will be working on my transition time! I'll definitely be working out with Rachel's group Training Transition throughout the next several months.

So, you've signed up for a race. You're stoked, you're gradually starting to train and realize that you need a few extra pieces of gear to properly - and safely - outfit yourself.

Here are some suggestions for you from a budget-minded perspective:

Find a friend

Friends who've been training for races, that is. I cannot stress enough the value of pals, family and teammates already in the know. So many are willing to share their knowledge and help newbies find their way.

Some may even let you borrow and product test their gear before you buy (due to following this step, my new name is "Can I Borrow Your Bike" Clapperton). People in the know - especially coaches, will send you information on the hook-ups to pre- and post- season gear sales.

Clothes

It'll be hard to steer you away from lululemon products for your run, cross-training and swimming. Yes! Select lululemon stores have women's sport bathing suits right now (check out the image of Georgia in our Fastlane Suit) We even have some amazing cycling-appropriate pieces: TriBabe Short and Activa Vest, anyone?

Shoes

Your local running-specific shoe store is your safest bet. Many have sales on once-worn shoes. The most important thing is that they'll evaluate your gait and stride, ensuring the ideal fit for your foot, which is worth the price.

Just remember to replace those suckers every 300-500 miles (3 months to a year, depending on your activity level). If you're still relying on your Nike Air Jordan high-tops, hate to break it to you, it's time for some new kicks.

Bikes

- Cycling shops - check out the low mileage rentals turned sale bikes and last season's close outs. Like the shoe shops, these guys will fit you properly.
- Local Tri Club postings
- Craigslist (but be careful - I almost accidentally bought a stolen one this weekend). Have a cycling enthusiast check out the post or come with you to the test ride. If the seller won't let you take it for a few days, or at least a legitimate test ride, don't trust 'em!
- Helmet is a must!

Gear

- At a race expo, usually held one-two days prior to the event. Deals galore can be had here, just make sure to come with a list of what you NEED, and enjoy the new bar samples along the way!
- At a race - similar to the expo, on a smaller scale, and usually guaranteed to be sport-appropriate
- Xterra frequently has sales on wetsuits
- Again, go with your "real" tri friends to special pre- and post- season sales

Used = good

Don't be ashamed to start used with wetsuits and bikes. Don't buy new and pricey, especially if this is your first race and you aren't sure you love the sport yet (but you will!). Find the money:

- Sell your old beach cruiser
- Give up frozen yogurt for a month (ah- that is hard one)
- Pick up an extra shift/account/client with motivation to fill the wallet for your gear
- Take change from others' couch cushions

Next up - We're all busy; No one is too busy to train. How to fit in workouts in around work, family, and sleep!

I'm incredibly competitive so when our educator Rachelle came up with a staff fitness challenge for May - Tri/Yoga Bingo - I was so pumped that I started training for it that day (technically, I am also training for my first sprint triathlon of the season, but I digress).

The challenge consists of 25 bingo squares with workouts that correspond to triathlon training (swim/bike/run), our in-store fitness events and yoga. Whoever blacks out the card first wins a pair of shorts.

The intentions of this challenge are:
- support local triathletes /triathlons
- do one thing a day that scares us
- brand wearing the newest lululemon swim and run gear

The Carlsbad store is a competitive bunch. We're all pushing 2 - 3 workouts a day to stay ahead of one another. This is risky business and requires quite a bit of planning when you work two jobs, don't live in the city you work in AND need to have a few days off to compete in a triathlon.

Our store manager, Laura - who is in the lead ahead of Rachelle and me, by the way - is working through an Achilles strain. Sherry is busting through with a wrist injury. It's mayhem - and camaraderie. Three of the squares are "with a lulu," meaning we have to go together.

One of the components of the challenge that drums up the most visual intrigue is the layout of the Bingo cards themselves. We put up two pages on our Community Board to show the cards, and educate guests on what is going on in our fitness world.

I’m having a blast testing out the Fastlane Suit for lap swimming and my new bike. Plus, I can eat more froyo and feel good about it!

Fitness/health challenges are awesome no matter where you work, live or play. My friend Jamie is planning to issue a Bike To Work Day challenge to her company. Catherine, the La Jolla store manager, found lululemon through the San Diego showroom's 40 day yoga challenge last year.

And I am going to win a new pair of Run: Punya Shorts by winning our challenge!

How are you going to inspire the fitness bug in your co-workers?

As community project manager for lululemon, I bop around different stores and events hanging out with amazing people far and wide. In essence, I get paid to spend time with my lululemon friends, make new friends with athletes, yogis and people changing the world for better and staying in shape. It's pretty much the greatest job ever.

I thought it would be fun to share my three most favorite things I’m working on this month:

The Tri Babe Initiative

Pull together 8 strong, beautiful, smart pro and elite amateur female triathletes. These girls are training 6-7 days a weeks. They're incredible athletes and influencers in their communities. They lead run groups, teach spin classes, lap us regular peeps in master swims and inspire women all over the world to take a stab at participating in triathlons, duathlons and marathons. They put our run shorts, swimsuits and cross training products to the test! I'll be talking about them more as the triathlon season continues.

The Shop Nude Roadshow

Kerry Brown (my east coast lululemon partner-in-crime) and I will drive from NYC to San Diego to spread the word about shopping online at lululemon! Armed with our wit, charm and a killer hybrid SUV, we'll be blogging, tweeting and facebooking as we go! Route to be unveiled soon… Stay tuned!

On the Run Design Meeting

A design meeting for the serious runners and triathletes in North County San Diego. I am always pleasantly surprised at how many people across all kinds of athletic discipline are familiar with lululemon. People were actually calling to see how they could get invited to this design meeting. How cool is that? So we'll be collecting design feedback and info on what we're hitting out of the park, where we can improve and what we can create that is missing in the market today! (Run Romper, anyone?)

So that is the gist! Not a bad way to earn a living if I do say so myself. Got an idea of something fun we can do? I'm always open for a good brainstorm. Let me hear it!