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!