Crushing Iron Triathlon Podcast

Today we look at the concept of owning where you're at in training and smart ways to move the needle without blowing a gasket. We also talk about how to recognize the difference between fatigue and being shelled. Are you going to hard? To far. Not hard enough? Not far enough? What are the benchmarks to use to recognize the truth about your capabilities. Most of us probably underachieve, so it may be a good time to look at what you're doing and ask if you're giving it what you need to reach the goals you want to hit. Topics: Microsoft Teams St. George Gulf Coast Chatt 70.3 Much more focused Podcast Listening Ban? Bells and whistles Taking breaks from watch Own where you're at Lingering on visions of past selves Future tripping Bring too hard to be that old athlete or future athlete Stacking days together Rushing yourself into shape Low intensity Inconsistency Unexplainable under performing Touching the hot stove too much Making bad decisions What percentage of athletes actually run the entire Ironman marathon?   Mike Tarrolly - mike@c26triathlon.com Robbie Bruce - robbie@c26triathlon.com

Mike goes for a rare bike fit and we dive deep into the nuances of a comfort, position, aero power, and training strategy. We look at saddle height and position. Aero bars. Drop, reach, contact points. We also talk cleats, hip room and running niggles that may be caused by the bike. We look at the gains you can make in aero, talk about why comfort is king, and the keeys to speed. We also talk about some of the simplest and best ways to train.  Topics:  Saddle height and position Aero bars and where yours should be Contact points for bike fits Cleat position Sore necks The power advantages of being aero Arm fatigue and how it creates a perceptive fatigue on the run Finding solid aero is a process Volume vs. Intensity in training Keys to speed Brands and different features Bike fit bikes Comfort is king Pedaling to pedal Pedaling with pressure Pedaling with purpose Mike Tarrolly - mike@c26triathlon.com Robbie Bruce - robbie@c26triathlon.com

The Ironman World Championships are back to a one day event for men and women. What does this mean for the sport? What does it mean to you? That's our discussion for today.   Mike Tarrolly - mike@c26triathlon.com Robbie Bruce - robbie@c26triathlon.com

On the ground report from Ironman Texas with a lot of lessons for anyone training for Ironman. Doing Ironman Wisconsin? Check out our Camp: https://c26triathlon.com/camps/triathlon-camp-wisconsin/ Topics: Some incredibly fast pro times Taylor Knibb, Katt Matthews, Kristian Blummenfelt, Cam Wurf Bike course Tough swim Wind and heat factors Bike position Tire pressure Front pack swim exit Why the swim is key to your race More aero or more power Working with someone on the bike Heat acclimation Sun exposure Wetsuit or not? Overheating Swim cap training Every race has its challenges Let your lungs come around The ultimate race day factors Having Plan A through Plan C Heat prep is harder than you think In Race decisions When all the stars align   Mike Tarrolly - mike@c26triathlon.com Robbie Bruce - robbie@c26triathlon.com  

Do you chase the process or the excitement of race as the cure? Today we look going inside yourself as the solution. Topics: Lawn talk Door to door sales Early season power Don't make a race feel too hard Ironman growth stats Obstacles and barriers to entry Worried about how you look Judging others and yourself Body builder cuts No mirror experiment Don't try Criticism How do you stay in the pocket Money doesn't mean happiness Drinking takes you out of your body for escape Marketing is bad? Simplicity - what goes in what goes out Mentally, spiritually, nutritionally Excitement usually comes from the outside   Mike Tarrolly - mike@c26triathlon.com Robbie Bruce - robbie@c26triathlon.com

Pre-Race nerves. How do we get ahead of them in training? Today, we look into many things we've learned as athletes and coaches to prepare for the race ahead of time. We talk about tough condition training, fueling, and getting locked into a headspace that you'll need to perform. There shouldn't be a lot surprises on race day, and if there is how do you stay calm and go through them. We talk heat training, cold training, wind training, and going into a race physically AND mentally fresh. Time to kick some a**.  Topics: Texas Panic? Closing in on Race Day - mentality Dealing with wind Bad conditions Going into a race MENTALLY fresh Do you have to prove the distance in training? Cold water exposure before a race? Heat prep. How much? Understanding what heat and cold feels like How to navigate being uncomfoortable  Hydration with heat prep Sit and endure. Racing with a mantra IMWI rainy morning The sum of your last 5 self talks Bookmark good workouts in your mind Physically and mentally fresh Strike the match but don't let it burn down When fatigue doesn't let you dig deep enough What would you do if you were dropped in the middle of the ocean? What is your REAL potential? Mike Tarrolly - mike@c26triathlon.com Robbie Bruce - robbie@c26triathlon.com  

Today we look at the good, the bad, and the ugly of personality traits :) Well, not really. The goal here was to look for common ground and how qualities on both sides can help the other. There's a lot of labeling in this world, so we look at ways of bringing good together from a training and personality habit side. What can we learn from being a little flexible on the f*9karound? Topics: Type A, Type B, Type C Life on a continuum Too hyped? Too chill? Flexible on the f7karound Too far one way or the other? Is Robbie Type A or B? Are you cheating yourself out of growing? Yellow in Training Peaks for the win Combining qualities Keeping the mind busy Avoiding the rabbit hole Wide or narrow guide rails? Don't labor in Guilt Mike Tarrolly - mike@c26triathlon.com Robbie Bruce - robbie@c26triathlon.com

Race conditions can be unforgiving and downright brutal (see Texas 70.3). Today, we look at how training can help us prepare for the unexpected on race day. Topics: Texas 70.3 Rough Race Conditions Early season on the trainer to outdoors for races The decision to create more stress on purpose A look at “outside stress” Preparing for unfamiliar situations Forcing yourself into the elements Training fatigued vs. fresh The work doesn't have to be pretty Timing for your FTP tests Race morning mentality Overhyped for your race? Adapting on the fly Controlling the controllable Preparing for race variables Having your A, B, and C plan Now what am I gonna do? Learning from bad workouts Remember good and bad to recall during your race   Mike Tarrolly - mike@c26triathlon.com Robbie Bruce - robbie@c26triathlon.com

The argument for a weekend of RPE. Topics: Taking it outside to the streets 25 yards vs. 50 meters Watt Ranges Intensity vs. Aerobic Different ways to fill stress buckets Understanding ranges Specific watts Things we can't know as a coach The spirit of the workout ERG mode How to use feel with analytics When your Zone 3 is different day to day Elements matter Duration and effort rule What's the intent? Don't be rigid Negative split mentality for the win   Mike Tarrolly - mike@c26triathlon.com Robbie Bruce - robbie@c26triathlon.com

Triathlon is all about pacing and this goes for workouts, races, and your entire season. Today we look at how the phases of a year can affect you mentally, emotionally, physically and even spiritually. Are you expecting too much from yourself too soon? Do you overthink every little metric? Are you working on getting better in the right ways? TSS scores…. What do they really show? Are your goals really healthy? Are you changing for the sake of changing and the dopamine hits? Topics: Hey Coach, I'm losing fitness Allergy season Texas 70.3 Oceanside 70.3 PTO Singapore Blumenfelt and Eden comebacks Putting too much weight on early season races Sam Long Age groupers vs pros and prioritizing years Abrupt changes More isn't always better Changing for the sake of changing Expecting results too quickly Is your goal really healthy? The stress of perfect execution Don't overthink Overprescribing to the minute detail TSS - what does it really show? The best musicians/athletes don't overthink Holding watts while carrying emotional stress The quest of getting athletes to flow Don't be majestic   Mike Tarrolly - mike@c26triathlon.com Robbie Bruce - robbie@c26triathlon.com

Today we sort of cut through the clutter of complicated training and use examples of things we've learned to be most effective for your triathlon journey. We talk about our early races and what we learned from them and share core principles that have never changed. We look at trends in triathlon and why old philosophies always seem to come back around in new packages. We look at science vs. experience and talk about why it's important to think about training so you don't have to think about it when you race. We talk about coaching patience, creating your own ranges, and discuss why you may need LESS structure. Racing is pacing and we'll share why “repeat workouts” are great and how you can avoid blowing up. Topics: Our first race jitters Our first tri bikes and what we learned Important aspects of getting a new bike “I didn't want to do this . . . but” Aero bars evolution Hard work vs. smart work Technology improvements Triathlon is like fashion What's old is new Pre-built workouts vs. RPE Trans-humanism New is exciting, but exciting has to be real Science vs. Experience Coaching patience Creating your own range Training by RPE Thinking is learning and learning makes it natural Know how to pace How to not blow up Why repeat workouts are great Do you need LESS structure Understanding your effort Mike Tarrolly - mike@c26triathlon.com Robbie Bruce - robbie@c26triathlon.com

Are you good at recognizing the levels of fatigue? Today we look at different ways to stack your week to take advantage of the type of athlete you are. More or less days off? Bigger but fewer days? What hits your sweet spot and is it really true? We look at training stress score, training with fatigue, and why a lot of this just depends. Is it mental or physical fatigue? What it means when certain workouts just “feel” harder. Is that a true indicator? Seizing the day, making sure you have enough “oil” in the system, and finding your “in between.” Do you get swim, bike, run, repeat fatigue in general? How to recognize whole body systematic fatigue. Win today and preserve tomorrow. Topics: No real upsets in March Mike getting rid of cable? North American Triathlon kick off coming Pumped up or Pep Talks? Down weeks Training Stress Score Adapting to Training Stress Training with fatigue Rest Days It depends …. Split Runs It “felt” harder Your desire to go to the well Hamer down or confidence where you are? Being in control Seize the day Is there enough “oil” in the system? If you feel good, you're tuned up Swim, Bike, Run, Repeat fatigue When athletes don't have an in between The swim fatigue as an indicator Whole body systematic fatigue Win today, preserve tomorrow Are you digging too deep? Creating habits Train as the person you are right now   Mike Tarrolly - mike@c26triathlon.com Robbie Bruce - robbie@c26triathlon.com

Today, we look at how you can be faster by being more efficient. We breakdown using your arms as levers and look at how and where to enter the water. We talk about the power of using paddles in the RIGHT way. We get into why you have limited mobility, why you have a stiff neck and why your shoulder hurts. We'll give you the swimming like “a house” analogy and tell you what kind of house you should be. We also talk about the misconception of swimming wide and how to understand what that means for your best and most efficient/powerful stroke. We talk about turnover vs. being more measured and methodical. And we explain why training for a fast 100 is a totally different sport than swimming Ironman. Topics: Using your arms as levers in the correct way Shoulder pain Stiff necks Limited mobility Open armpits Swimming like a house Sweeping under the body vs. wide Don't be too wide Path of least resistance Walking up an escalator The S-Curve North and South vs. East and West Tall and skinny How to engage lats Running strides vs. swimming strokes Too narrow, too wide, just right Understanding paddles and how to use them right The point of skulling Finding the right stroke for you Stroke appropriate for your distance Understanding different speeds in the water Are you committing to being the same speed? High turnover vs. measured and methodical The best, most powerful, and longest stroke Faster by being more efficient Try something that makes you feel weird   Mike Tarrolly - mike@c26triathlon.com Robbie Bruce - robbie@c26triathlon.com

Today is a little rant about swimming. We look at a few easy ways for you to improve your stroke, body position, and economy in the water. It it really as simple as being a better breather? What about head position? Are you in survival mode while in the water or calmly going about your business. Today is about efficient swimming without hesitation. Relaxed momentum and getting the most out of your stroke. Topics: Rap Chat Icy plunges Swim temps Head position How to breathe right Exhaling Do you only have one pace? Tens or relaxed Putting your face in the water Bad body position Lower back pain on the bike? Relaxing Easing survival instincts Swimming downhill Stiff swimming Relaxing in the water Stroke hesitation Inefficiency Momentum Think like you're a swimmer   Mike Tarrolly - mike@c26triathlon.com Robbie Bruce - robbie@c26triathlon.com

Today we start with why 70.3's are gaining popularity and roll that into training with more intensity. We look at how to explore higher zones and how to work that into your overall training. We talk about why it's important to remind yourself what it feels like and why you have to train it to truly know it. We get into why it can be more stressful to train alone and why it's important to swim, bike, and run with people faster than you. We talk about racing as a compass and look at how to test the boundaries and flirt with slightly unnerving workouts. Topics: 70.3's gaining popularity Underestimating your race 70.3's as training for your full There's a lot of different ways to stimulate Using racing as a compass Training to discomfort Testing boundaries Legs can't keep up If you don't train it you don't know it The importance of understanding ALL the zones In all disciplines Pyramidal training Polarized Remind yourself what it feels like Understanding All Out The top of the range The mental fatigue of hard sessions Training with faster people Applying race numbers to training? Outside vs. inside effort Group riding Higher stress when by yourself? Find slightly unnerving     Mike Tarrolly - mike@c26triathlon.com Robbie Bruce - robbie@c26triathlon.com

Today we look at ways to work on little things that matter instead of always grinding yourself to the core. Better economy and efficiency go a LONG ways in this sport, so how do you get better inside a typical training session. We look at different ways you can work the swim, bike, and run to keep your HR in a solid place, but create more stimulus. We look at how to becomg a more well rounded athlete and create balance in your body. We talk about growth inside the zone. We get into what soreness and fatigue tell us about our body. We talk a lot about hills and why they are king. Being in a zone and dog walking hacks.  Topics: Holes in the ice Creating stimulus in "easy" workouts Hill running/walking Cycling hills Aero position limitations Faster or slower with a pull buoy? What does this tell you? Strong side/weak side Growth in the same zone Well rounded triathletes I hate high cadence work (why?) Improving efficiency and economy vs. speed and duration Working hard but on technique Hills are hacks In race recovery Just keep spinning Make it easier Slow down and do the work Being in the zone that makes it feel easier New to endurance sports Applying work to deficiencies Stimulus for gearing, cornering and smaller details Mike Tarrolly - mike@c26triathlon.com Robbie Bruce - robbie@c26triathlon.com

Today we run down a list of ideas generated from our athlete comments in Training Peaks. We look at 10 ways to simplify training by a shift in perspective about how you approach your day. We get into time wasting, weight loss, building speed and the frame to hold it, sleep, bad moods and bad days, balance, flexibility, strength, core, and how to push yourself.  Topics: 1. Think of scrolling on your phone as empty calories. 2. Working out in bad conditions can be some of the best race training you can do. 3. Sometimes weight loss is the best motivation and weapon for better training. 4. Mobility and flexibility can be more important than fitness when you're too tight. 5. Extra volume can be counter productive following a bad stretch of sleep. 6.  If you want to be faster, you have to work at it. 7. Getting "faster" is overrated if you don't have the foundation to handle it. 8. Being able to balance the good and bad days equally in your mind is a great skill. 9. Your core can probably be much stronger. 10. Ride hills hard.   Mike Tarrolly - mike@c26triathlon.com Robbie Bruce - robbie@c26triathlon.com

How do you tap that “positive group motivation” when you're by yourself? Today we look into how training can be more motivating, positive, and effective when you might not be feeling it. We explore the positive group mindset and how that can translate into simple decision making that lets you get more out of your training. We look at endorphin dumps along with the idea of doing sh*t vs. saying sh*t. We also talk wellness retreats, staying focused, cold plunges and meditation. Topics: Lessons from the retreat Channeling outside energy internally Everyone's an influencer How we build our own motivation Endorphin dumps Inspirational posting on social media Distractions that set the tone Being able to focus Doing sh*t vs. saying sh*t Where does your motivation come from?   Mike Tarrolly - mike@c26triathlon.com Robbie Bruce - robbie@c26triathlon.com

It's the time of year when we all need a little pep talk to keep showing up. Just when things seem like they're getting too tough is usually when you're about to make a breakthrough, so stick with it. In this case that breakthrough might be Spring and a revitalized energy. Stay in the ballpark. We get into the monotony of endurance training, being game for anything this time of year, and being patient through your training blocks. We look at how many athletes get too specific too early in their training cycle. We talk about developing a wide range as a triathlete. We look at creating a “find a way” mentality. And the power of conquering workouts that aren't going well. Wilt or grow and laugh in the face of absurdity. Topics: Dog Days of Winter Himalayan Salt Rooms Perfect training conditions Deep Winter Problems Endurance Monotony 1/2 marathon world record Flexibility with minutes earned Running stress is the highest Being game for anything The grind IS the thing Getting in steps with variety Walking is underrated Think of volume you can get for the total week Being patient through your blocks Being too specific too early Training non race specific Creating range in your training Developing your “find a way” mentality How to adapt and be resilient Conquering a workout that's not going well Overanalyzing metrics Food logging Wilt or grow Laugh in the face of absurdity   Mike Tarrolly - mike@c26triathlon.com Robbie Bruce - robbie@c26triathlon.com

If you watch the Bobby Knight 30 for 30 it brings up a lot of questions and today we explore some of them and what it must have been like playing for Coach Knight. What drives a coach to be that intense? It inspired a discussion today about practicing harder than the game. We look at ways to turn your solo training into something that will have a direct impact on your physical and mental game on race day. How do we move the needle, make tough elements less impactful, dig deeper when it needs to be done on race day? This sport shouldn't always be hard, but it should be sometimes. On more rep. The narrative you choose is your reality. Topics: The continuum of how much you really want something Tough coaching When and how to train harder Does it feel too easy? Racing outside of your training Following success stories Moving the needle more frequently Choosing harder challenges Being able to do deep into the well Split second decisions When it's firing on all cylinders Country Cub in T2 Mental reserves to go deeper lOne more rep When you don't quit The narrative you choose is your reality   Mike Tarrolly - mike@c26triathlon.com Robbie Bruce - robbie@c26triathlon.com

Today, we look at some of the things we learned from doing hard things at Run Camp. The body always seems to be more capable than we understand, and even on less fuel than we think. We look at stress and the effect on our body and mind and performance. We talk about carb loading and get into dopamine loading. Is carb renting for real? Does good fitness overcome fueling? How does long term diet and stress affect your performance? We talk about endurance sports junkie habits and how the body's thermostat may affect health. Topics: Our bodies seem much more capable than we think Stress is stress is stress Real vacations Long term low level stress The right ways to experiment with your fuel Finding yourself and what works best How much fuel do we really need for training and racing? Carb loading? Going all in on a strategy The “habit” of popping gels Low sugar/more mindful Dopamine loading Is high performance worth your health? How much sugar should we add? Carb Renting Does good fitness overcome fueling? Long term diet effects It's all in the mind Pickle Juice for the Brain Endurance sports junkie habits The body's thermostat and health   Mike Tarrolly - mike@c26triathlon.com Robbie Bruce - robbie@c26triathlon.com

There's always a point of diminishing marginal returns, but how do we know what's not enough and how much is too much? What kind of athlete and person are you creating on a daily basis? Volume is relative and there is more power in not rushing the steps. Are you swimming upstream or going with the flow. It's always best to make consistent and manageable deposits vs. over-extending. The outcome isn't the only goal. What are you doing now to enjoy the process and make sure that random point in the future will be a success? Topics: How long can you have maximum health? How good can you possibly feel? Volume is relative Recognizing how you feel Regular deposits vs. too much at once What is your ability to recover? Being in tune with your body Knowing when to bury yourself What you need after intense workouts When we're not eating well Committed to doing hard stuff all the time Are you feeling strong and ready to trust it? What are you creating with yourself? Is what you're doing helping your health? Doing whatever it takes Thinking long term health in the sport How durable, efficient and economical can you be? “Feels like I'm losing fitness” Nature is the best teacher Hills, downhills, and flats Sunshine and fresh air as fuel Going downstream Take what the course gives you What is being in touch with nature? Don't rush the steps It's all about the process When the outcome is your only goal Be invested in what you're doing right now   Mike Tarrolly - mike@c26triathlon.com Robbie Bruce - robbie@c26triathlon.com

Today, we go to therapy to give each other a kick in the ass. It's easy to fall into a rut and today we look at examples that we've done and seen as coaches that can get us moving the right direction. We look at things like mood, injuries, illness, and how we shift our mindset to get things moving the right direction. We all about the challenges of recovery and how to embrace them. We look aligning the mind and body when they are fighting each other. We talk about excuses and getting rid of impending doom cycles. We can't all be the best, but we can be the best of ourselves. We have chosen to do this sport. The season is coming. It's time to remember that this process is something we truly want and need to actively pursue. Topics: Sickness Sunshine It's time to roll Be a little harder on yourself Be good to yourself The middle way The level of excuses . . . We're always creating habits Cheering on soft behavior Misery loves company Do you really not want to do it? Why are you addicted or obsessed? Growing or dying Jump stars When your mind and body aren't in the same place Getting out of a rut Injuries and excuses Putting yourself in the recovery process Being in a sick rut Think your way out of it “Not Trying” on purpose Sickness and injuries Limit your being sorry for yourself vacations Impending doom cycles Healthy addictions Terrified . . . The less you do the less you want Sift on the continuum We can't all be Goggins or Kobe or Michael, but . . . Life is hard, but don't make it impossible   Mike Tarrolly - mike@c26triathlon.com Robbie Bruce - robbie@c26triathlon.com

Is it important to do your long run the day after your long rides? What are the best smart trainers for your budget and success. Should you refrain from sex before a big race? We get into all that and more, along with a pretty good tangent discussion about how to work on really understanding and executing your pace and effort. We look at technology and why it's for some and not others. We also look at what the greatest skill an endurance athlete can master. Topics: Used bikes and bike fits Smart trainers Should you do your long run after your long ride? Sex before a race Why tech is annoying to us What's the point of tech without the work? The greatest skill an endurance athlete can have Intuitive understanding of how you feel and what you have left Creating less opportunity for excuses Why people have bad races Adapting workouts to your mentality lactate meters for age groupers  Mike Tarrolly - mike@c26triathlon.com Robbie Bruce - robbie@c26triathlon.com

The way we talk with ourselves matters. Today, we look how triathletes can get caught in a trap of doubt and negative talk for the wrong reasons. We look at healthy and productive perspectives, especially at this time of the year when training can be more difficult. We look at ways you can learn and build and have a great perspective on peaking at the right times. We're capable of much more than we think and just because it doesn't seem that way some days, we can't let that narrative take over. Don't always believe how you feel. Topics: Athlete uncertainty Health and productive perspectives Find what you love We're more capable than we think Owning the inner narrative Whey you just feel off What's the best decision for me today? Countdown calendars Mounting anxiety Don't believe how you feel What if red was green in Training Peaks? Don't be afraid to fail Be 6-8 weeks out from doing anything College basketball season analogy   Mike Tarrolly - mike@c26triathlon.com Robbie Bruce - robbie@c26triathlon.com

It's hard to pull logs out once they're on fire. Today, we looking at some parts of triathlon from a different perspective and finding your Real why. We talk about why burnout is usually a choice and how you can avoid it and attack triathlon from a long term perspective instead of a short lived dream. What is your real why? This is a great time to experiment with that notion. We get into re-thinking your strengths and weaknesses. Why we don't often give our bodies enough credit. The dirty secret of Ironman. And ask if you might be eating and drinking too much in races. Topics: Sunny and Balmy Getting into the cold 'Laying in the snow Bed of nails 1st year excitement Sophomore slump The dirty secret of Ultras/IM Stop short  Short lived dreams Real Why Why the F8ck are you doing this? Core and nutrition Burned out is a choice Re-thinking strength and weaknesses  We don't give our bodies enough credit Sticking with something Too much water The best time to experminent  Hard to pull logs out of the fire Mike Tarrolly - mike@c26triathlon.com Robbie Bruce - robbie@c26triathlon.com    

Not many notes today as Mike talks with Robbie about the loss of his dog. Mattie lived a good life and left behind a lot of lessons for all of us. Mike Tarrolly - mike@c26triathlon.com Robbie Bruce - robbie@c26triathlon.com  

The saying goes, “new year, new me,” but should it be, “new year, real me?” Today, we look at goals from a perspective of picking ones that will actually align with who you are as a person and athlete. We talk about why being healthy is a great ideal, but it can also be vague without diving in a little deeper. We look at building a strong foundation as a person and how to spend time wisely in the right direction. Now is the time to eliminate the “fake goals” that have been creeping into your life, and truly uncover who you really are. Topics: Figuring out who you really are and what you want Standing in line Goals can be anything Do your goals make sense for you? Egos and past selves Being too excitable Always being ready to say yes Being healthy is very vague Pay attention to what feels good and why The best athletes think of triathlon as a lifestyle Building a strong foundation as a person Training in solitude Holiday parties I want MORE Spend 2 hours a week working on you Do you feel strong? Did you feel good? The goal is to be more grounded in who you are Fake goals. Fake Failures   Mike Tarrolly - mike@c26triathlon.com Robbie Bruce - robbie@c26triathlon.com

Happy New Year from C26! Today we start with . . . Information, disinformation, and disorientation. That's where we're at, and today we look at the power of simplicity with triathlon training. Sometimes our highest priorities get left in the dust because we're shellshocked by all the information. Most of the time you should go easy, some of the time you should go hard. Find what you love most and fall in line. Topics: Information, disinformation, and disorientation. Word of the year - simplify Phase of disorientation The highest priority can often be the last thing done Triathlon only focus . . . Jordan, Kobe, Seth In some ways it's never been harder If it doesn't feel easy we are doing it wrong The power of mixing it up Most of the time easy Sometimes hard People who are lost vs. people who know they are lost What do you DON'T want Finding what you love the most If it's not an immediate yes, it's a no   Mike Tarrolly - mike@c26triathlon.com Robbie Bruce - robbie@c26triathlon.com

Let's take a little look at your future. Are you training for the right why? Are you letting results drive the train or the process? Stimulate, don't obliterate. Today, we talk about why it's okay to just feel good and how you can compliment your state of wellness. We should be proving things to ourselves, not other people. What have you learned this year and how will you take that forward? Note: We'll be taking next week off so we wish you a Merry Christmas and thank you for being a part of our journey! Topics: A lot of people are checked out The power of new year What have you learned this year? How can you be better? Results vs. Process Holding patterns longer It's okay to feel good Stimulate don't obliterate A process that fits your life Compliment your state of wellness Don't force it You don't always have to prove something Decide who you are 2 + 2 formula Solving the wrong problems Mike Tarrolly - mike@c26triathlon.com Robbie Bruce - robbie@c26triathlon.com

Are you taking enough chances in training and racing, or do you like to play it safe? Today we talk about self-experimenting within the plan. Testing your limits a little bit to unlock the same routine. We also look at how to analyze a regret and use it as a positive. How do you know what's right? You have to explore a little on the journey. Topics: 70.3 Worlds Aiming for a 1:05 half in a 70.3 run? Find your long term compass Taking chances Z2 or HIIT Analyzing regrets Playing it too safe We all do better with a direction Giving athletes a chance to be themselves How do you discern what's right for you? Take what you got Explore and experimenting Don't let someone else control your destiny Unlocking the mind and your potential   Mike Tarrolly - mike@c26triathlon.com Robbie Bruce - robbie@c26triathlon.com

One of our responsibilities as a triathlete and a human is to figure out things that work best for us. Stress affects us all differently and one way to deal with it is to not take ourselves so seriously. Life is all about making deposits and withdrawals, where is your energy going? A big part of this sport is believing we belong and nourishing our own box. The minute we get too rigid with ourselves, we're losing the point. Every great swimmer, cyclist, or runner has their own form and approach. We have to carve our own way and define our own success. How do we get more comfortable in our own skin and the spandex we wear on top of it? Topics: Bi-weekly dose of December therapy Humanity forces humans into buckets 100 ways to skin a carrot Move your body Hanging stress is stress is stress We have the ultimate control This too shall pass It's easy to give advice December rules Deposits and withdrawals Flowing with the universe Rigid training Operating in the gray Be a swimmer, a cyclist and a runner What are you great at? Belief in yourself Looks like they're not even trying Being comfortable in your spandex Nourish your own box “I don't know” True conviction in who you are   Mike Tarrolly - mike@c26triathlon.com Robbie Bruce - robbie@c26triathlon.com

Modern life is loaded with inputs and sometimes we have to disconnect for our sanity. Today, we take a different perspective on the off-season. How can we get better without directly putting your energy into traditional triathlon activity? If you're already jacked up about your race next Fall, you are probably running a little too rigid. There's a time and place to sharpen the tip of the spear and starting now will likely lead to burnout. Give your mind and body some space to refuel with different angles that relate to your overall health and well-being. Relax and get back to your true center. Topics: Feels like a harsh winter Training in cold vs. heat Distance yourself from the grind Time to experiment Load management syndrome Disconnect and re-energize We need space Take time away to think freely Fend off burnout Experimenting in your own mind Too Much Input It's all about energy Favorite bands with only two good albums When it's forced Rigidity eats you up Overload and obsession Zen and the art of motorcycle maintenance Sharpening the tip of the spear Connecting non-connecting ideas to triathlon   Mike Tarrolly - mike@c26triathlon.com Robbie Bruce - robbie@c26triathlon.com

What are the little (but important) things that make us better athletes? Today, we look at how to work at training in a way that makes racing feel “easier.” We talk about going east and west to balance our perpetual north and south movements in triathlon. We get into the efficiency of movement and how to train in ways that make swim, bike, and run “click” in the mind. We talk about natural movement and how “thinking” can slow us down. It is often the little things that make you better than your opponent, and . . . can help make your training much more effective in the long run. Topics: Exertion levels in the cold Slow Month Season Vests and Ice Running North and South vs. East and West Efficient movement Tightening with age Yoga Dissipating energy Swimming with different strokes Where does your pedal stroke fatigue first? Creating weaknesses Using ALL of our muscles Neglecting strength, mobility, and stretching Wasting energy Making this sport EASIER Highlighting deficiencies “Thinking” we're in good shape Does it click? It sucks to suck at “this” Perfect practice makes perfect Thinking makes you slow The little things that make you better than your opponent Do it without thinking The 10% rule   Mike Tarrolly - mike@c26triathlon.com Robbie Bruce - robbie@c26triathlon.com

Now is a good time to be thankful you have decided to be active and are able to do the things we do. Swim, bike and run isn't easy, but it's a decision to invest in your health with your eye on feeling healthy and strong as long as you can. Today, we look at the challenges of triathlon from a wide lens and talk about the ability to see the big picture of your happiness and healthy journey in life. Staying positive isn't some gimmick, it has real consequences in the ability to keep moving the right direction and hopefully feeling younger as we get older. C26 Gear makes a great gift! Use promo code C26XMAS for 15% off at our store: https://c26triathlon.com/shop/ Topics: That start of your run feeling Do you start up, or downhill? You've earned your gifts If you're staying the same, you're improving? Feeling younger as you get older Decadeathons Peter Attia Are you increasing your chances to having a better quality of life? Don't ever say these words: Getting old sucks Living to 100 Having the confidence to feel good   Mike Tarrolly - mike@c26triathlon.com Robbie Bruce - robbie@c26triathlon.com

In a way, this could be titled “small win season” but the trick is figuring out where to best put your energy. We all have weaknesses but identifying them and investing time in the right place is the catch. Today, we look at different ways to make progress so you're not the same athlete next year as you were this season. Getting better doesn't always have to be hard. Put your energy in the right place. Topics: What is the Midwest? Fun way to break up the off season Athlete rebellion No man's land Create “identifying weeks” Investing time in the right place Performance anxiety Measuring where you are Exploratory training We should know our weaknesses The most crucial part of training Margin for error 10k a day in the pool Sometimes you're just gonna be stronger on one side High cadence vs. lower cadence and the middle ground “I hate Z2 work” Keep what's working ,ditch what's not Deficiencies Go hard on what you regret not going hard on every year Creating a great habit now Everything doesn't have to be hard Small win season   Mike Tarrolly - mike@c26triathlon.com Robbie Bruce - robbie@c26triathlon.com

Are you focused on getting a workout done, or getting better? Today's cast is largely about swimming, but the technique discussion applies to bike and run, too. It actually applies to everything in life if we're being honest. We get into creating the wrong form so you know what's right. We look at how most triathletes training patterns actually make racing harder. We look at ways to build economy and make things feel easier. We talk about having the confidence to work on the rudiments knowing that you'll be a better athlete in the spring. Slowing down to get better and training to heal. Topics: Rockford 70.3, the city and accommodations Cold Arizona swim Swimming - force back moves you forward Long strokes Crossover Get your butt in the pool Self-correcting Body position in water Knowing what's wrong Are you focused on getting it done or getting better? Chassis vs. horsepower Getting more economical Appropriate use Prepping the chassis Confidence to get better Thinking about it now so you don't have to later Growth opportunities Slow down to get better Training to heal   Mike Tarrolly - mike@c26triathlon.com Robbie Bruce - robbie@c26triathlon.com

Today we open it up to some of our own athletes to ask questions. We get into races that may not live up to the hype, Travel, stress, and exhaustion, sleep, fueling for health, a quality of life perspective, and lowering cortisol levels. We also talk snow shoes, cross country skiing, and when is the appropriate time for Christmas decorations.  Topics -  Gray blanket season What if your race doesn't live up to the hype? The hype train Grass is greener Christmas trees before Thanksgiving? Travel, stress, and mental exhaustion Are you trying to get in too much? Going easy to get energy Serious sleep Fueling for health A quality of life perspective Lowering cortisol Doing things right When to step away from long course What's your desired outcome? Mental and emotional bandwidth Show shoes and cross country skiing Turkey costumes and drag   Mike Tarrolly - mike@c26triathlon.com Robbie Bruce - robbie@c26triathlon.com

What was the state of your mind, body and spirit at this time last year? We look at how triathletes can get trapped in a cycle and spend time working on things that don't move the needle. More “can” be better but we contend being more specific with your time can give you better results. We look at races as a driving force, the simple concept of repetition is the key, and look restraint vs. over reaching. How to get more out of your time and make sure you're not dealing with the same dilemmas this time next year. Topics: Yellow for the win More isn't always better but it can be Can we accept feeling good? Train for what fits in your life Decision making season Races on the calendar as drivers Learning every season Did I set myself up for failure? Stay on top of your maintenance Levels of consistency Distracted by ego Cell phone addicts . . . Repetition is the key How can I get better on the bike? The triathletes hierarchy of experience Chassis vs. the engine Frequency is king? Slow down to do more Don't just do more, be specific Restraint vs. overreaching Working smart Getting more out of your time Stacking 6 missed workouts on the weekend   Mike Tarrolly - mike@c26triathlon.com Robbie Bruce - robbie@c26triathlon.com

In honor of Mike's dad's favorite Ironman pre-race song, "Let's get it started . . . now." No more overthinking. No more premature optimization plans, just go and don't let information overload push something off to tomorrow, or next month. The digital comfort food is slowing down your progress. Get supportive people around you and let it rip in what might honestly be the most important time of the year. Figure things out on the fly. What works for you. What doesn't. Now more wallowing in the past or being afraid of the future. Let's get it started.  Topics: Podcasts taking over the media More choices and ideas than ever Listen to the people you want Powerful long-form discusssions  Did Mike actually give up reading? Inappropriate boundaries that hold us back Digital comfort food Immediat action Just get started  Power support What if we had interventions for the lazy? Reaction videos Letting go of control Being grounded in the moment Practice for being in the now Depression is in the past Anxiety is in the future Transcend and include It's better to figure out training when your training When your urge is to do nothing Mike Tarrolly - mike@c26triathlon.com Robbie Bruce - robbie@c26triathlon.com

Are you willing to let go and leave your comfort zone? Today, we start by talking about Cam Wurf's perspective on endurance sports and life and it takes us into an interesting discussion about “being game” to try new things. We're seeing more athlete “going for it” with their adventures and we love it. We get into staying grounded, but taking chances. We look at building confidence by seeing speed. We talk about why Zone 2 is the ultimate mystery but key to endurance sports. And why Mike is taking a break from reading. Topics:  Being grounded Ironman Florida Cam Wurf's perspective on life and endurance sports Cameron Hanes Giving up things that waste our time Finding fun within the challenge Are you game or too cautious? Building confidence by seeing speed Meditation, yoga as they relate to Z2 Getting rid of that brittle feeling Creating experiences The lure of C26 team events More 50 and 100ks on the books Use your body Creating resilience Tough life and experiences Get C26 Gear: https://c26triathlon.com/preorder/-c169759535 Mike Tarrolly - mike@c26triathlon.com Robbie Bruce - robbie@c26triathlon.com

We start talking about candy and ketones and it kinda goes on from there.    www.c26triathlon.com

What a race from Patrick Lange. Today, we look at how KONA unfolded and why, after all these years, it still comes down to the run . . . and maybe the swim? It's incredible to think that Lange may have strategically pulled back on the bike with a 4:06, but it definitely makes you want to look at the little things and how important they are in racing. Speed kills in shorter racing, but at the Ironman distance, mistakes can pile up. Making good decisions in your race (and training) often trumps technology, but it's all so tempting. Today, we get into many aspects of Ironman training and racing with a food for thought discussion.  Topics: Execution for the win The incredible Patrick Lange Ditlev's grit Blummenfelt's struggles The amazing Cam Wurf (and Matt Hanson) Rudy von Berg, Sam Laidlow The swim course record The most underrated triathlete All the new methods, but . . .  Mistakes take you out of the race Mental games Was a good chunk of the field over-raced? Pro triathlete's schedules  Do some of us do too much? The temptation of the tech short cut One hit wonders, golf clubs, the Boston Red Sox and more    Mike Tarrolly - mike@c26triathlon.com Robbie Bruce - robbie@c26triathlon.com

The Triathlete's Christmas is upon us… Who will stand on top of the podium at the Ironman World Championships? Despite being a little later in the year, it looks like it will be hot on the course. How will that play into the race? We go through some potential race strategies, talk about the favorites, and a few dark horse candidates for the podium. In the end we give our pics. Topics: 808 History Hawaii Weather The swim - can it now be lose it or win it? Will they hammer the swim? Bike power How aggressive will they be on the bike? Drop the fast runners? Who can come out in a swim pack ahead of their typical swim? Energy savings but faster in the water Mike and Robbie's podium predictions Mike Tarrolly - mike@c26triathlon.com Robbie Bruce - robbie@c26triathlon.com

There's not much worse than starting each year from scratch with rusty joints and bones, so today we look at some strategies to get the most out of your “off-season” training. Many may seem non-traditional, but the biggest key is to enjoy what you're doing and stay in the fitness ballpark. We get into flex months, the reality of too much intensity, spending time working on things that will matter the most next year and slowing down degradation of fitness. The long game is life, so be all in on your health. Topics:  T-100 KONA broadcast NASCAR Winter hybernation "What ya runnin from, boy?" Exciting and consistent Staying in the ballpark Most important thing: enjoying what you're doing 12 months of intensity . . . Falling in the triathlete's cycle Flex month after your biggest race The focus is the hardest part Mental and emotional tolls Maintaining ballpark fitness Actions speak louder than words Weekend rebellion Slowing down degradation of fitness Stopping regression Priming the engine Do something simple first Your body craves activity The long game is life All in on health and longevity   Mike Tarrolly - mike@c26triathlon.com Robbie Bruce - robbie@c26triathlon.com

Today, we tackle a thought provoking question. What's harder, an Ironman or a stand alone marathon? Within this question are a lot of interesting thoughts about becoming a stronger endurance athlete. We compare the body blow mentality of doing and Ironman vs. the more intense effort it takes to do a marathon. We ask if most people really “race” an Ironman or survive? We look at the pain and pounding of a marathon. Levels of soreness vs. overall fatigue. Are we talking about the training input it takes to do either? Are we talking about just getting it done or racing? Are they two completely different sports? Topics: Early morning running Intervals, hill repeats, and Z1-Z2 Are most people way overtrained? Chasing a pace How much more running do we do for a marathon? Are you racing or surviving? Optimal marathon vs. Ironman pace in the run When does your body reject the speed? People to pace off of Crowds When people are shocked by their marathon pace 1 mile sprint vs. a 5k Do you need to do a marathon while training for Ironman? Top marathoners vs. Top Ironman athletes Lot's of food for thought The answer doesn't really matter   Mike Tarrolly - mike@c26triathlon.com Robbie Bruce - robbie@c26triathlon.com

Listeners drive today's topics, including the highly debated topic of weight training. We also take a deep look at the swim and discuss whether it's worth working overtime to save a couple minutes. Also, how do you keep motivated and inspired when something like injury takes you away from triathlon. Should you bilateral breathe in the swim? The best ways to work strength training into your swim, bike, run training. Topics: Fall weather Is the extra work worth saving 2 to 3 minutes in a swim? Crashed bike, what now? How do you keep going? Using triathlon to figure out who you are I'm not a triathlete, I'm a person who challenges myself and does hard things Bilateral breathing worth the time? Finding your best swim stroke Adult onset swimming Q4 the time to focus on weight training? Replacement or compliment Core work? Mike Tarrolly - mike@c26triathlon.com Robbie Bruce - robbie@c26triathlon.com

Sometimes we talk with each other in a way to figure things out. Today, we dive into staying in the game, being in the moment, and living a life of experiences. We talk about letting outcomes ruin great journeys. We look at moving through things that give us fear. We get into shifting perspective on races that didn't quite go our way. We look at how being in person is so much different than an experience on a screen. It's so easy to fall into a comfort trap and it rarely gives us satisfaction. What will you regret if you don't try it? It's easy to think about a vacation or a big race all the time, but don't miss what's happening right now. Topics: Letting outcomes ruin great journeys Is this even real? How much we avoid Talking yourself out of something you want to do Being there is way different There are no wrong or right answers, there only is what is Choosing comfort Not learning for yourself Moving through what gives you fear Age group finish placement We have to shift our perspectives on accomplishments We're all flawed, quit putting so much pressure on yourself Sometimes we don't have the brain power What will you regret? Comfort crisis Looking forward to a vacation all year long Dopamine Nation   Mike Tarrolly - mike@c26triathlon.com Robbie Bruce - robbie@c26triathlon.com

We talk the best Z1 and Z2 ratios for the off season. We look at Training for unique races like the Triple T. We get into the best ways to attack ultra run training. We talk the loss of swim feel and the way to get back in the groove. Losing weight for performance or health? Time to upgrade your bike? Prepping for cold water swims. How to learn from under performing in your race. Plus a little MLB and Pete Rose. Topics: Z and Z2 training ratios for off season Finding a love of Z2 Is Z2 boring or just hard? Figure out your zones Tabata style workouts for long course racing Z2 Ramps Triple T - Train to be fatigue resistant Why is it so hard to pick up swimming after a break? Feel for the water, the pedals, and the ground How much should heavier athletes work on losing weight for racing? Hungry or thirsty? Not “trying” to lose weight Bike upgrade time?? 90k trail race training volume How to be ready for a cold water swim Dealing with under achieving in your race Blow ups as unreal expectations Mike Tarrolly - mike@c26triathlon.com Robbie Bruce - robbie@c26triathlon.com

Now is the time to look deep inside and figure out where you want to go, what makes you happy, and how to find love of the process. We look at the post season mindset and investigate how what we learned can be a catalyst going forward. What do we really need to work on? Strength, endurance, overall health, attitude, our why? We also talk about how just sticking around and staying in the ballpark can make you a completely different athlete next season. We are often too deep in the inertia to realize how far we've come and how this sport and training has made us stronger and healthier people. It's a time to reflect, appreciate, and keep moving forward. Topics: We failed in our Chart predictions “I swear I'm never doing this again.” Testament to the human spirit Ironman finishin lines The red carpet feeling Post Ironman mindset Going out into the wilderness that is an Ironman Post race roller coaster The best way to having a short build Starting a new season in the same way but expecting change Year round consistency Hidden weekend off Rejuvenating and refreshing When our training plans become outlines and menus with choice Don't try to prove something too soon Understand what makes you healthy and don't live in sickness Now is the time to figure your shit out No deadline problem solving Getting better looks like a lot of different things   Mike Tarrolly - mike@c26triathlon.com Robbie Bruce - robbie@c26triathlon.com

Success and getting better takes the ability to be willing to fail along the way. We can play it safe, but we're training for Ironman, not SoftMan. On the other hand, it's just a race and we pay to do this, so let's take some chances? Have a plan, then a back up plan, and a back up plan for the back up plan. Roll with what's in front of you. Quitting isn't an option. But “giving in” on the course is the real demon. What are you going to do when things aren't going your way? Figure out a solution, or give in? What should you be visualizing fifer a race? Easy and hard are not paces, they are efforts. Topics: The INSIDE scoop on Chattanooga weather for the weekend. It's just a race that we pay to do Prepare for the day to be HARD and CHALLENGING no matter the weather. Plan A, B, and C If something goes wrong, move on Giving up vs. Giving In Recliners on the race course What Mike things made him a worse athlete How your watch gets in your head SoftMan The best athletes know how to pivot Creating experience so you can navigate problems How to learn in training What to visualize before the race Controlling your environment? When you're missing the right signals The point was to win the Tour de France Don't be afraid to fail Easy and Hard are not paces, they're efforts Underperformance do to constant restraint   Mike Tarrolly - mike@c26triathlon.com Robbie Bruce - robbie@c26triathlon.com