In a spectacular display of endurance and commitment, UBCO student Zach Bernier has not only broken the U20 world record for the Ironman triathlon in Arizona but has done so with a unique approach. Clocking in at an impressive 8 hours and 44 minutes for the challenging 140-mile swim, bike, run event, Bernier attributes part of his success to Isocapnic Respiratory Training, a crucial component of his training regimen under the guidance of professional coach Luke Way.
Zach Bernier’s journey to the Ironman world record has been marked by dedication to a comprehensive training program that includes Isocapnic Respiratory Training. This specialized respiratory training, offered by Isocapnic,
focuses on optimizing respiratory function to enhance overall athletic performance. Bernier’s commitment to this innovative training method has clearly paid dividends, contributing to his remarkable achievement in Arizona.
Coach Luke Way, renowned for his high-performance endurance program in Kelowna, emphasizes the importance of a holistic training approach. “Zach’s success is the result of a meticulous training regimen that includes Isocapnic Respiratory Training. This method has proven to be a valuable asset in improving respiratory efficiency, ultimately aiding his performance in the grueling Ironman triathlon,” noted Coach Way.
Isocapnic Respiratory Training involves specific techniques designed to balance carbon dioxide levels in the body, optimizing respiratory
function and improving endurance. As an integral part of Bernier’s training process, it has not only enhanced his lung capacity but has also contributed to his ability to sustain peak performance over the extended duration of the Ironman event.
Bernier’s achievement stands as a testament to the effectiveness of combining traditional endurance training with cutting-edge methods like Isocapnic Respiratory Training. As the news of his world record spreads, it highlights the potential benefits of incorporating innovative techniques into athletes’ training routines.
Isocapnic Respiratory Training has gained recognition for its positive impact on athletes across various disciplines. Zach Bernier’s success further underscores the importance of a comprehensive training approach that considers not only physical conditioning but also targeted methods to optimize key physiological functions.
In celebrating Zach Bernier’s historic accomplishment, the Kelowna community not only applauds an extraordinary athlete but also recognizes the collaborative efforts of Coach Luke Way and the innovative training methodologies, including Isocapnic Respiratory Training, that have played a pivotal role in achieving this remarkable feat on the global stage.
AUTHORSHIP AND TRANSPARENCY
About this article
Written by
Coach Luke Way is the founder and CEO of Isocapnic and has coached endurance athletes for 20 years. He specializes in elite triathlon, mountain biking, CrossFit, and physiology-led athlete assessment.
Scientifically reviewed by
Dr. Andrew Sellars is a Canadian physician, anesthesiologist, performance physiologist, entrepreneur, and coach with a Master's degree in Athletic Coaching. He co-founded VO2 Master and is Co-Founder, Chief Science Officer, and Physiology Advisor at Isocapnic Technologies Inc., where his work focuses on biomarker-guided training and respiratory performance.
Review completed: August 1, 2026
