The Drive’s Roz talks all things fitness ahead of triathlon

With the Auto & General Cross Triathlon a matter of days away, our very own Rozanne McKenzie gave us some insight into how she stays fit and ready for any physical challenge thrown her way.

READ: Roz reflects on 2023 Auto & General Cross Triathlon as 2024 edition approaches

What do you do in a normal week when it comes to exercise?

I train six days a week. This includes CrossFit, pole dancing (when I get a chance to go to class), HIIT workouts, and Switch classes. I try to stretch a few times a week too, but I'm not very disciplined when it comes to that.

What are some of the foods you eat to complement your workout schedule?

I eat a lot of protein. It's so important for me to maintain and build muscle mass. For all the training I do, it's vital that I feel strong, so protein helps so much with that. I also feel fuller for longer and my sweet tooth doesn't call out so loudly. 

How do you manage your busy schedule to ensure you are able to exercise?

I take my kids to school every morning, so I try to get to the 5:15 CrossFit class a few times a week, before getting them ready for school with my husband. My days are long, but I try to make time for exercise every day. It's a meeting with myself that I take very seriously, so I don't miss training easily. I switch off from all the other things in my life. It's my me-time. I also use exercise as a natural anti-depressant. My mental health benefits so much from the endorphins.

READ: The Auto & General Cross Triathlon is back for 2024

What are some of the do's and don'ts when it comes to exercising that you stick to?

Don't try to do too much too soon. Listen to your body. That doesn't mean don't challenge yourself, just don't bite off more than you can chew. Exercise should be a celebration of what your body can do, not a punishment for what you ate. Find something you enjoy and you will want to keep doing it, even when things get tough. Try not to miss a Monday. It sets you up so well for the week ahead. If you can, get a trainer, especially working with weights as a beginner. Just a few sessions can really help with your form, which helps prevent injuries in the future. 

What does your workout playlist currently look like?

I listen to a lot of rock, rap, EDM, and upbeat pop. It's a very eclectic mix of stuff: Rage Against The Machine, David Guetta, Girls Aloud, Blur, and Eminem. I have a Training Tunes playlist with over 950 songs, so it's good to mix things up a bit. Music plays a big role in motivating me. I'm the person who will drive home and fetch my headphones if I've forgotten them!

What advice do you have for anyone wanting to take part in a triathlon?

Run your own race. Most people that are doing the event are doing for fun and to push themselves out of a comfort zone. One step, stroke, and pedal at a time. Just keep going.

READ: Hints and tips for the 2024 Auto & General Cross Triathlon

Everything you need to know about the A&G Cross Triathlon 2024

Joburg is gearing up for another exhilarating and exclusive X tri-event in the heart of Gauteng at Steyn City on 24 February 2024.

Following the huge success of the Auto & General Cross Triathlon in 2022 and 2023, 800 athletes are eagerly poised to confront the challenge as this year’s event - which is already sold out!

The full action kicks off with a 600-metre swim in the refreshing waters of the Steyn City lagoon, followed by a pulse-pounding 30-kilometre off-road cycle ride along the exhilarating trails within the estate. The event finishes off with a robust 7-kilometre run on secure pathways.

For those seeking shorter distances, the option for half distances allows younger participants to join in the fun.

Contestants could opt to enter individually or as a team, providing friends and colleagues with an enjoyable day out. 

What's more, our very own Rozanne McKenzie, who had a memorable debut in last year's triathlon amidst the beautiful and secure surroundings of Steyn City, is making a return this year.

SHOWS: The Drive with Rob & Roz

Stay tuned for updates on her incredible journey this year with the Auto & General Cross Triathlon 2024!

For more information on the event, CLICK HERE

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