Ironman Triathlete and Attorney – Endurance in Law and Life

About Zach Hunsinger

When people think of lawyers, they might picture someone sharply dressed, meticulously focused, and always thinking a few steps ahead. That description fits me well, but there’s more to my story than just being an attorney. I’m the owner of a small law firm with offices in both St. Louis and Chicago. I focus my practice on business law, estates, and divorce, but when I’m not in the office, I’m often racing toward the finish line of a triathlon.

I’m an Ironman triathlete, and in 2023, I qualified for the Ironman World Championships—a personal and athletic achievement I’m incredibly proud of. Endurance sports have become a big part of who I am, and I believe the discipline, resilience, and focus I’ve gained as an athlete have made me a stronger, more effective attorney.

The Journey to Becoming an Ironman

Becoming an Ironman triathlete isn’t something that happens overnight. It requires thousands of hours of training, a commitment to pushing your physical and mental limits, and the will to keep going, even when you think you can’t. After completing multiple Ironman races and winning several local competitions, I found myself constantly learning new lessons—ones that transcended racing and impacted every aspect of my life, including how I approach the practice of law.

Whether I’m in the middle of a 2.4-mile swim, a 112-mile bike ride, or a full marathon to cap off an Ironman, I’m constantly reminded of the importance of patience, grit, and preparation. Much like a tough case or a complicated legal situation, endurance racing is about strategizing, staying focused, and knowing that even the toughest moments will pass if you keep moving forward.

Zach in full gear coming around a bend in the road on his Ironman competition bike.How Triathlon Training Makes Me a Better Lawyer

You might wonder what triathlons and the practice of law have in common. On the surface, they seem worlds apart, but the mindset that comes with being an endurance athlete plays a huge role in how I approach my legal practice. Here’s how training and racing have shaped me as an attorney:

Discipline: Preparing for an Ironman requires a consistent and rigorous training schedule, often stretching across months. Similarly, being a successful lawyer demands discipline—whether it’s preparing cases, conducting research, or ensuring that my clients receive the attention and expertise they deserve.

Focus Under Pressure: In both triathlons and the courtroom, there are moments of intense pressure. Knowing how to stay calm, analyze the situation, and execute a plan is crucial in both arenas. I’ve learned how to stay focused and composed when the stakes are high, which is exactly what I do when advocating for my clients.

Endurance and Patience: Both law and endurance sports require patience. Complex legal matters often take time to resolve, and you need to keep a long-term perspective. Training for and completing an Ironman has taught me the value of perseverance—how to keep going, even when things get tough.

Goal-Oriented Mindset: Each race I compete in is an opportunity to set new goals and achieve them. In my law practice, I take a similar approach by working with my clients to establish clear objectives and then putting together a strategy to reach those goals efficiently.

Sharing My Passion: Podcasting About Triathlon

As my love for the sport grew, I wanted to connect with others who shared my passion. That’s why I started a podcast where I discuss all things triathlon—racing strategies, training tips, personal stories, and interviews with fellow athletes. It’s been a fantastic way to engage with the triathlon community while also sharing the lessons I’ve learned through my own experiences.

Podcasting has taught me a lot about communication and storytelling, two skills that are essential in the legal field. Being able to communicate effectively with my clients and explain complex legal matters in a way that’s relatable and easy to understand is key to providing the best service possible.

Zach in his lane at the Ironman.

Why Endurance Matters in Law

At the core of both my athletic and professional lives is a deep belief in resilience and determination. Whether I’m crossing a finish line or helping a client navigate the complexities of business law, estate planning, or divorce, I bring the same energy, focus, and commitment to success.

Being an Ironman triathlete and a lawyer might seem like two different worlds, but for me, they are deeply connected. The qualities that have allowed me to succeed as an athlete—discipline, focus, and endurance—are the same qualities I bring to the legal cases I handle every day. So, when you work with me, you’re not just hiring an attorney—you’re hiring someone who knows how to go the distance, no matter the challenge.

If you’re looking for a lawyer who approaches your case with the same passion and perseverance I bring to every race, let’s work together. I’ll be there every step of the way, helping you navigate your legal challenges and reach your goals, just like I would on the racecourse.

Scroll to Top
Hunsinger Law Group, LLC