Training for tri: Meet Léonie Periault, our new athlete.

For those discovering you for the first time, who is Léonie today, as an athlete and a person?

I’m a young thirty-something, fully aware of the privilege I have in being able to live my passion, triathlon. It’s a total commitment, but also an incredible opportunity.


You live and train on the Côte d’Azur. What does this area mean to you on a daily basis?

I live in Saint-Raphaël, an absolutely idyllic place for training. Being surrounded by the rhyolite rocks of the Estérel Massif is a real gift. The weather is mild all year round and the infrastructure is perfect: a 50-metre Olympic pool, the CREPS [regional elite sport institute], and an exceptional playground for both cycling and running.

Cycling is a key discipline in your triathlon training. Why is it so important for you?

Cycling is an integral part of triathlon, I practise it every day. I ride around six times a week, between 1.5 and 4 hours per session, including two high-intensity workouts.


On the road, what aspects do you focus on most?

All of them are important. I need endurance because my races last between one and two hours. Power is essential too, as our events are very intense, with lots of accelerations. Consistency is crucial to build a solid foundation, and mental strength is fully part of performance.

What does riding on the Côte d’Azur give you compared to other places?

A huge variety of routes and warm weather, which allows me to ride outdoors year-round.


You train in Café du Cycliste kit. What does it give you in practice?

Comfort, above all – it’s essential for long training sessions. And style too: I’m a woman who likes to keep a touch of femininity and aesthetics during training.

How do you find your balance between the three disciplines of triathlon?

I practice each discipline about six times per week, and add in two strength sessions.


Does cycling give you anything specific?

Yes: it’s a non-impact sport, allowing me to accumulate long hours of training without stressing my joints.

Is there one discipline you focus on more at certain times of year?

No, I practice all three disciplines throughout the year.


As a female elite athlete, what challenges have you faced?

The reactions of some men when I pass them on the bike… It can be a little blow to their ego sometimes. Honestly, I kind of enjoy that!

Do you feel recognition of women is evolving in endurance sports?

Yes, and I’m lucky to be in a sport that has always promoted parity between men and women.


What makes you most proud in your journey, beyond results?

Being fulfilled and surrounded by wonderful people.

What tips can you offer a woman who wants to improve on the bike without aiming for competition?

Cycling is above all about escape, travel and sharing good times with friends.

How do you manage physical and mental fatigue?

I make time for purely enjoyable moments outside of triathlon, especially with my dog.

One detail that makes a difference over time?

Being able to detach from performance, focus on the process and savour all the good moments that triathlon brings me.

Right now, what are you focusing on most to keep progressing?

I’m lucky to continue progressing thanks to my coach. I pay special attention to technique, but also to lifestyle factors and everything surrounding training: care, recovery and stretching.

What are your main sporting goals for 2026?

To perform at the highest level on the world circuit and aim for a podium finish.