Preparing for My First Triathlon

Posted on (not posted yet) by Mina Vera

Signing up for my first triathlon felt bold—maybe even a little wild. When I registered for the CapTex Tri here in Austin, I didn’t do it because I felt fully prepared. I did it because something in me wanted a new challenge. I wanted a goal that stretched me beyond my comfort zone. And if I’m being honest, the nerves showed up immediately—especially when I thought about the swim.

Running feels familiar. I used to run 5ks for fun. Yoga is home. Strength and movement are part of my daily life. But swimming? That’s where the uncertainty lives. What makes this even more ironic is that I do swim—but not in the traditional sense. I swim as a mermaid, wearing a monofin with my legs bound together. In that world, I feel fluid, strong, and confident. The water feels playful and expressive.

Conventional swimming, though—freestyle, breathing patterns, open water—that’s a completely different story.

The idea of swimming without the monofin, coordinating arms and breath, and eventually taking this skill into open water feels far more intimidating than swimming with my legs literally tied together. It’s humbling to admit that something so fundamental challenges me, but that honesty is part of why I signed up in the first place. This triathlon isn’t about proving I’m already good at everything. It’s about learning.

I haven’t begun formal training yet, and that’s where a lot of the nerves sit—in the anticipation. The questions swirl: Will I feel panicked in the water? Will I struggle with breathing? Will I be the slowest one out there? But instead of letting those questions stop me, I’m choosing curiosity over fear. I’m choosing to see this as an opportunity to grow, not a test I need to pass.

Preparing mentally has become the first phase of my training. I’m reminding myself that every athlete starts somewhere, and that discomfort is often the doorway to confidence. I know how to break big goals into smaller steps. I know how to listen to my body. And I know that patience—something yoga has taught me over and over—will be key.

What excites me most about the CapTex Tri is that it’s happening right here in Austin, a city that has shaped so much of my fitness and wellness journey. Standing on that start line won’t be about perfection or podiums. It will be about courage. About showing up willing to learn. About trusting that I can figure things out one stroke, one mile, one breath at a time.

The nerves are real—but so is the excitement. And right now, that feels like the perfect place to begin.

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Yoga ATX empowers individuals and communities through intentional movement, mindful connection, and inclusive wellness experiences. We believe in meeting people where they are, honoring every body, and creating spaces where strength, joy, and transformation can thrive.

Yoga ATX, 500 Chris Kelley Blvd, Hutto, Texas 78634 ~ (737) 328-0648 ~ yogaatx.org ~ 2/1/2026