Stories & Strategies from the Back of the Pack

Thin Air, Big Gains: Altitude Training for Triathletes: Are you planning to race at altitude this season? Interested in a high-elevation training camp? Join TriDot Coaches Jeff Raines and Jason Verbracken as they dive into the topic of elevation and its impact on training and racing. The coaches discuss the physiological effects of training at higher elevations and how your body adapts to these conditions. They also examine the recovery time needed for your body to adjust after being at altitude and its influence on training. Additionally, the coaches explore the practice of elevation camps and the potential benefits for athletes preparing for races. The topic of proper fueling and hydration at high altitudes is also addressed, along with tips for athletes looking to race at elevated locations. This information-packed episode is a must-listen for athletes of all levels. Looking to improve your freestyle swim? At TriDot Pool School you'll be taught step-by-step how to turn your muscle by The TriDot Triathlon Podcast

64 min listen

Bone Health for Triathletes: As an athlete, it is crucial to understand the impact that your triathlon training can have on your bones. In this episode, we are joined by two special guests: Dr. Gillian Wooldridge, a sports medicine physician, and Dr. Krista Austin, an exercise physiologist and nutritionist. Dr. Wooldridge kicks off the conversation with an overview of bone health and common injury concerns that triathletes may be prone to. She also explains the concept of bone density and the various methods available to assess it. Then, Dr. Austin dives into the role of nutrition in maintaining strong bones. She highlights the essential nutrients that athletes should be getting enough of, and the consequences of not meeting these targets. The discussion then turns to hormone levels and their influence on bone health, with Dr. Wooldridge shedding light on any potential differences between males and females. Finally, the guests share important red flags that athletes should watch out fo by The TriDot Triathlon Podcast

62 min listen

What Triathletes Can Learn from Cyclists: What can triathletes learn from professional cycling? Find out here! In this episode, we dive into the pro peloton with pro-tour cyclist Florian Vermeersch, from Team Lotto-Dstny, and TriDot Coach Chris Navin. We discuss the training methods used on pro teams and how they differ from training programs for triathlons. Florian shares his experience with team group rides and the importance of teamwork in cycling. Then, Coach Chris Navin explains some valuable lessons that triathletes can learn from the training habits of cyclists. From optimizing training plans to fueling strategies, and setting up your bike for a fast split, Florian and Chris uncover the secrets behind the success of top cyclists, and how it can benefit triathletes. Whether you're a seasoned triathlete or just getting started, this episode is packed with insights and advice from the world of professional cycling that can take your triathlon training and performance to the next le by The TriDot Triathlon Podcast

64 min listen

The Hot Topic: Heat Adaptation for Triathletes: Looking to race better in hot conditions? In this episode, coaches Kurt Madden and Caleb Chapman share expert insights on how to properly prepare for a hot race. They answer common questions such as: How does being unprepared for a hot race impact your performance on race day? How can you improve your tolerance to the heat? Kurt and Caleb also discuss the importance of having a proper heat training protocol, and how they are using new technology to help their athletes adapt to different temperatures. Then the coaches delve into other key factors such as hydration strategies, cooling measures, and skin protection. Don't miss the valuable tips provided about simulating training in the heat, especially for those who do not live in a hot environment. This episode is packed with valuable information and tips for racing in hot climates, so be sure to tune in! A big thanks to UCAN for being a long-time partner of the podcast! At TriDot, we are by The TriDot Triathlon Podcast

61 min listen

Competing for a Cause: Fundraising Through Triathlon: Did you know you can race AND raise money for a charitable cause? Today we dive into this topic with Audra Tassone-Indeck and Tammy Dotson. Audra is the Executive Director for the IRONMAN Foundation and Tammy is a TriDot Ambassador who frequently supports good causes through racing. Together, our guests will share their expertise and personal experience to help you learn how to fundraise through triathlon. They will also discuss the impact that racing for a cause can have on both the individual and the community, and the various ways you can get involved. Tune in to learn more about how you can make a difference through your next race and join the movement of racing for a greater purpose. Looking to improve your freestyle swim? At TriDot Pool School you'll be taught step-by-step how to turn your muscle memory into full-stroke swimming that’s smooth and fast. Ready to jump in? There are Pool Schools currently available in the USA, a by The TriDot Triathlon Podcast

57 min listen

Eating for Energy: How to Get Enough Protein, Fruit, and Veggies: You know that eating a balanced diet is important for overall health and wellbeing. But, you also know this is not always an easy thing to do! As an endurance athlete, getting the right amount of macro and micronutrients is especially critical for your overall performance. Join us on this week's episode as we dive into the topic of eating enough protein, fruit, and vegetables. TriDot Coach Jasmine Moezzi, and Founder and Chief Nutrition Officer at Fuelin, Scott Tindal, explain why each nutrition area is essential for your training sessions – both in terms of energy availability prior to training and proper recovery afterward. They also discuss the potential risks of consuming too much protein or high-fiber foods around sessions and the warning signs of nutrient deficiency in your overall diet. Don't miss out on an informative episode and all of the helpful tricks for getting more protein, veggies, and fruits into your m by The TriDot Triathlon Podcast

60 min listen

The Art & Anatomy of the Modern Triathlon Race Kit: Have you ever wondered how those sleek and stylish triathlon kits are made? In this episode, host Andrew Harley sits down with Mark Goddard from Zoot and Soj Jibowu from Varlo to find out! Mark and Soj explain the intricate process of creating a triathlon kit from the initial design and material selection to the final product. They also discuss the key features that make a tri suit stand out, such as moisture-wicking fabric, compression technology, and aerodynamic design. From comfort and breathability to body mapping and chamois padding, you’ll learn about the important factors to consider when selecting the perfect triathlon kit for your specific race needs. Whether you're a seasoned triathlete or just starting out, this episode will leave you with a better understanding of triathlon kits and how to select the best one for your race day. Big thanks to Zoot for a special discount for TriDot Podcast Listeners. Use code TRIDOT for 30% by The TriDot Triathlon Podcast

62 min listen

Racing by the Rules: Insights from Triathlon Officials: A triathlon has specific regulations that must be followed, requiring designated individuals to oversee their implementation. These rules are in place to ensure both safety and fairness for you. The presence of officials is intended to create a positive experience for all participants. On this podcast, our guests, two USA Triathlon officials, will discuss the various roles and responsibilities of the officiating team. Then, host Andrew Harley asks them to share their stories and experiences from race day. What are the most common infractions athletes commit? What are some of the most strange occurrences the officials have witnessed? How does new technology, such as Race Ranger, influence the enforcement of the rules? Listen in for all this, and more. A big thanks to UCAN for being a long-time partner of the podcast! At TriDot, we are huge believers in using UCAN to fuel our training and racing. To experience UCAN’s LIVSTEADY prod by The TriDot Triathlon Podcast

60 min listen

$Racing by the Rules: Insights from Triathlon Officials: A triathlon has specific regulations that must be followed, requiring designated individuals to oversee their implementation. These rules are in place to ensure both safety and fairness for you. The presence of officials is intended to create a positive experience for all participants. On this podcast, our guests, two USA Triathlon officials, will discuss the various roles and responsibilities of the officiating team. Then, host Andrew Harley asks them to share their stories and experiences from race day. What are the most common infractions athletes commit? What are some of the most strange occurrences the officials have witnessed? How does new technology, such as Race Ranger, influence the enforcement of the rules? Listen in for all this, and more. A big thanks to UCAN for being a long-time partner of the podcast! At TriDot, we are huge believers in using UCAN to fuel our training and racing. To experience UCAN’s LIVSTEADY prod$

Transforming Triathletes: Coaches and Athletes Share their Journey with TriDot: Are you ready to transform your triathlon experience? Enhance your coaching business? Join host Andrew Harley as he sits down with guest athletes and coaches Raya Usher, Joserra Ramon Callen, and Jasmine Moezzi to discuss their experiences with TriDot. The coaches share their first memories of TriDot and explain the positive impacts of moving their coaching business and athletes to TriDot. The group also shares their thoughts on the importance of community and how it has contributed to their success - both as athletes and coaches. Tune in to hear all about the training transformations and business developments. Looking to improve your freestyle swim? At TriDot Pool School you'll be taught step-by-step how to turn your muscle memory into full-stroke swimming that’s smooth and fast. Ready to jump in? There are Pool Schools currently available in the USA, and around the world. Head to TriDot.com/pool-school t by The TriDot Triathlon Podcast

61 min listen

Revisiting Aging Up: Getting Faster as You Get Older: Is there an age where you shift from trying to set all-time personal records to being the best you can be at your current age? Today's episode features two stand-out veteran athletes, triathlon legend Kurt Madden (68), and pro triathlete Dede Griesbauer (51), who share their wisdom and tangible tips for excelling in triathlon as your age advances. How does training, nutrition, and mindset change as you get older? Kurt and Dede are ready to answer this and much more as they share stories about getting older, wiser, and staying strong! Big thanks to Precision Fuel & Hydration for partnering with us on this episode! Head over to https://visit.pfandh.com/tridot and check out the Fuel Planner to get your free personalized fuel and hydration strategy. by The TriDot Triathlon Podcast

66 min listen

Slow Down to Speed Up: The Benefits of Zone Two Training: Love it or hate it, zone two is here to stay! But why? On today's episode, host Andrew Harley interviews coaches Matt Bach and Brady Hoover to first explain what constitutes zone two training and then share what physiological adaptations take place when training at this intensity. Matt and Brady elaborate on the role of zone two in your overall training program and how it works in harmony with your time spent in other training zones. After hearing about the benefits, listen in for advice about staying in the correct intensity zone and staying focused during aerobic sessions. Make the most of your next zone two session with better understanding and better execution. TriDot and RaceQuest has teamed up to offer TriDot Trips, the most epic racing and training tours imaginable! We’ve got five exclusive trips in 2024. Check them out at www.racequest.com and click on the TriDot tab (use password TriDot). by The TriDot Triathlon Podcast

60 min listen

In Sickness and In Health: Training While You're Sick: To train or not to train? How do you know what to do when you are feeling 'under the weather?' On today's episode, host Vanessa Ronksley interviews coach and medical doctor, Dr. Jeff Krebs, and TriDot Coach and respiratory therapist, Ryan Tibball. Jeff and Ryan break down what is happening in your body when you start to feel under the weather, and how you can recognize early signs of illness. But the best defense is a good offense, so they also discuss the steps you can take to prevent getting sick in the first place. From nutrition to sleep to stress management, Jeff and Ryan provide valuable insights on how to keep your body strong and your immune system resilient. As an athlete, you may push through training even when you're not feeling your best. But when is it time to consult a doctor? Dr. Krebs will offer his expert advice on when it's necessary to seek medical attention rather than trying to ride out the symptoms. And for th by The TriDot Triathlon Podcast

56 min listen

Alcohol and Athletic Performance: Exploring the Relationship and Risks: How does alcohol impact athletic performance? Today's episode answers that, and more! Host Andrew Harley invites Dr. Krista Austin, exercise physiologist and nutritionist, and Bill Scufelt, co-founder and CEO of Athletic Brewing Company, to the conversation about alcohol intake when it comes to triathlon training and racing. Krista and Bill address how various types of alcoholic drinks affect athletic performance, and how long these effects last. Whether you are looking to responsibly incorporate alcohol into your lifestyle, cut back on your overall consumption, or recover faster from a night out celebrating your latest PR, this episode has great information for you. Time is running out to participate in this year's triathlon research! The Preseason Project® is a triathlon research initiative that helps us quantify and enhance the performance gains that TriDot’s Optimized Training™ delivers over training alternati by The TriDot Triathlon Podcast

63 min listen

Triathletes at the Gym: Best Practices for Incorporating Cardio Equipment and Classes: As a triathlete, you understand the importance of cardiovascular training. But when you are at the gym - whether by personal preference, joining some friends, rehabbing an injury, or forced inside by Mother Nature - how can you make the most of these sessions? On this episode, Vanessa Ronksley interviews TriDot Coaches Jeff Raines and Matt Sommer about the best ways to utilize gym cardio equipment and classes. Jeff and Matt share their best practices for incorporating various pieces of cardio equipment into their training regimen, especially in relation to swim, bike, and run sessions. They also recommend certain machines for athletes who may have injuries. Then, Jeff and Matt discuss which group classes and programs are beneficial for triathlon training, and which ones should be avoided. So, if you have questions about conquering your next gym session to improve your triathlon performance - look no by The TriDot Triathlon Podcast

54 min listen