With 33,000 Instagram followers to her name, Flow Athletic co-founder and director of yoga Kate Kendall is well known in wellness circles. So much so that tapped her to be a wellbeing coach for the brand.
With the Blackmores Sydney Running Festival coming up this Sunday, BEAUTYDIRECTORY tracked Kendall down for a five-minute chat on the partnership and what to expect from the festival.
How did the partnership with Blackmores come about?
I’ve worked with Blackmores for a few years now. The first project I worked on with Blackmores was a massive free public yoga event on the sand at Bondi Beach to celebrate the launch of the Be A Well Being campaign. It was amazing.
What does your role with Blackmores involve?
As the Blackmores yoga and wellbeing coach, I work closely with the extended Blackmores family on developing Blackmores’ yoga offering and programs. I am involved in their big events like the Blackmores Sydney Running Festival this weekend where I’ll lead wind down yoga sessions in the Recovery Village after the race.
Why is the brand a good fit for you?
Blackmores’ approach to health and wellness is the same as mine in that we both believe everyone, no matter of age, gender or ability, should enjoy a full and rich life – and doing so doesn’t need to be serious and a full-time job. My approach to yoga and life in general is down-to-earth and accessible; it’s about doing what is right for your own body and mind. It should be fun! Blackmores believes in holistic wellbeing and empowering Aussies to make good choices for their health, and that is a message I definitely support!
Are you looking forward to the festival on Sunday?
Yes, I’m really looking forward to the Blackmores Sydney Running Festival. It is always such an amazing vibe – the city is literally buzzing. I’m so lucky that I get to greet everyone on the finish line and celebrate their achievements – it’s the best part to me!
Do you work with a lot of runners in your yoga studio?
At my studio, Flow Athletic, we teach a holistic and balanced approach to exercise and encourage members to follow a 1:1:1 philosophy that consists of one strength, one cardio and one yoga session. Sometimes we combine them in the one session. All three elements are super important and help each other.
How does yoga help runners?
Yoga helps runners increase their mobility and focus, recover faster and improve their mindset and mental state – it trains you for grace under pressure. When you’re in a confronting and challenging posture, staying calm, connected to breath and in control of emotions is an essential tool for running a race.
What's your top tip for anyone taking part in the race?
Tell yourself that this is just a “flicker” of your day and that savasana or the finish line will taste that much sweeter if you keep running and stay strong. Also, warm up and cool down, this will help you keep running next time and recover quicker, and make sure you give yourself time to let your achievement soak in, it’s all part of the process!
