Crushing Iron Triathlon Podcast

Most of us have moments within a race where things aren't going as planned. The question is, how do you handle it? Will you throw in the towel or try to figure it out? What does that even look like. We make hundreds of decisions within a race and today we're looking at how to make the best ones you can in the moment. We look at why not wearing a watch in the swim can give you a better mindset. We talk A, B, C goals and how to adjust on the fly. We talk about the courage to finish on a moderate note vs. a high or low. Finding wins no matter how you feel. Racing with gratitude all day. And exciting news about our very popular run camp. Topics: Perfect personal needs bag goody? Ken Hammond, RD - Musselman When your race goes sideways When pros lose money racing Does your race turn into a workout? A, B, C Goals The benefit of not wearing a watch in the swim Recalibrating yourself to playing it smart Gratitude race mindset When the finish line is the goal Is this your A Race? What is your win for today? Are you truly doing your best? End on a moderate note vs. high or low This is a long term journey, not just one race What are your wins for today Moving on from excuses Exciting news about our run camp Mike Tarrolly - [email protected] Robbie Bruce - [email protected]

So many people want to put limits on our potential, but are we really going to just settle for someone else's opinion? Today, we talk about the unexplored potential inside of you and belief systems that will help you tap into it. Anything Is Possible might be overused as a phrase, but it's definitely not over attempted. Let's take a look inside at ways you're wasting your energy and potential. Let's look at how to be engaged in the process and not let a random race goal take up too much space in your brain. Do the work when resistance is highest. Do yourself the favor of turning all of this into a long term goal. Topics: International races Losing your phone Distractions Flying across the world to dominate like Blummenfelt and Knibb Where is Jan Frodeno? What your your possibilities? Having belief that you can get it done Are we going to settle for what others say? If you really want to get better . . . How protective are you of your personal journey? How many energy loss situations do you get in each day? Finding net positive energy Being INTO your workouts Really defining your WHY Food and energy. Are you eating too much? Embracing the mundane 10 mins is way better than zero Mike Tarrolly - [email protected] Robbie Bruce - [email protected]

We're not here to sell you the top hacks for getting on the podium. Today, we advocate for the long game. Often times the quicker you gain, the quicker it can go away. Building and keeping and making life/triathlon feel easier and more enjoyable. How do we find joy in the "boring" stuff we feel like wastes our time? Slow gains are hard to notice, but they last longer. We know it's not exciting, but that is one of our biggest challenges. Putting the excitement into the overall process. Being okay with 80% meh. You can't always outwork your way to the top. Topics: Is your bracket in tact? Oceanside 70.3 - Texas 70.3 The quicker you gain, the quicker it can go away Selling quick fixes Do you have a weak or strong cake? New stimulus always works . . . for a while Building lasting change Putting all focus on one race day Write a book but don't release it Swimming slow to master form Owning fundamentals and technique You can't always outwork your way to the top Overworking and brain burnout How can we make something feel easier? "I gotta find a new route." Slow gains are hard to notice Keep things easy and stackable Going to bed feeling like a million and waking up feeling like a dollar The repetitions are the answer Forcing a routine Excitement is overrated Simplifying your diet 80 meh How to find joy in boring Mike Tarrolly - [email protected] Robbie Bruce - [email protected]

Expensive wetsuits, Disc wheels and carbon shoes only matter if they matter. Today, we look at true free speed within better posture and form. When you boil it down, a faster race comes down to holding solid form and all three events affect the other. We'll look at simple ways to improve your form and get free speed over time by simply holding it better. We talk about drills to incorporate in your runs, how to be more comfortable and stronger in aero, and we look at having solid hydrodynamics in the water. Commit to the long game and truly get better at what you do, all while saving energy. Topics: Posture and form and meditation and mind flow Run form and how to build it Heel, mid foot, front foot? Injuries and why they happen in running Working run drills into your runs Laptop and phone posture Why yoga was created Do some long runs on trails Variable foot strikes Strong feet and ankles matter Why posture is so important in cycling Building a strong core Being confident and stable in aero Arm fitness How bad bike form damages your run The right bike fit RPE on efficient cycling legs Are you working complimentary muscles? Faster simply means covering longer distance in less time Lake Johnson Swimming position and alignment Laser pointer through the head What drops the body The domino effect of posture Learning to float Hydrodynamics Holding posture means a solid core Free speed in the water Relaxing as you swim How to incorporate band work Using a disc wheel or carbon shoes only for racing Mike Tarrolly - [email protected] Robbie Bruce - [email protected]

Today we talk about how to think about riding the trainer so you can be more prepared for the reality of the course. We talk about hills, wind, aero, cadence, and much more. We take a look at the last hour of your race and how you can work on being stronger as you come into T2. Do we all complicate specific workouts when the reality is we just have to be stronger both physically and mentally to deal with the demands of certain courses. We look at flat and windy along with the continually changing demands of a hilly course. Put a little more reality into your trainer rides. Topics: Ramp rides Cadence and power Body shots and how to make them less impactful Your ability to close out a climb Simulating headwinds and tailwinds Training your body to handle long rides Preparing for the real demands of the bike Moving your ceiling Staying within yourself Making yourself more uncomfortable on a trainer Fighting through the wrong gear Putting your mind on the course while on the trainer Mike Tarrolly - [email protected] Robbie Bruce - [email protected]

C26 had a good crew in Dallas for Little Elm 70.3, including Coach Robbie, and today he details his experience on the course. We get into whether the cancelled swim was warranted, the gnarly wind on the bike course, and the three loop run. We look at strategy for when the swim is cancelled. How to ride a course that's tailwind vs. headwind, and why sometimes you just have to let it rip on the run. Robbie goes over the entire race venue and experience and even has some interesting perspectives on the post-race food for the first time 70.3 :) Topics: Snowmaggedon Windmaggedon Cold water in Dallas What's the venue like? Conditions on course How was the post-race food? The wind When you lose your secret racing weapon Swim cancelled. Do you change up nutrition? 1st time athletes and 1st time course support Time trial start Headwind vs. tailwind strategy No MPH on data screen 25 miles of head wind Run course 3 loops Loops are good for pacing Great spectator race The Duel in Dallas Caught up in the moment? Going for broke and breaking Sometimes you just gotta let it rip Mike Tarrolly - [email protected] Robbie Bruce - [email protected]

Triathlon can be for today, this year, or this life depending on how you approach it. Today we take a look at not forcing fitness, training smart, and being ready for both an early race or late season race. We also look at the concept of being a better overall athlete in the long term. We talk about the importance of developing your economy and efficiency, why you shouldn't analyze every workout, and how to play the long game in racing and life. We give you the keys to getting burned out, how to make triathlon "easier," and not having regret every season. Wherever you go, there you are, so don't be in a hurry to get somewhere you don't want to be. Topics: Ironman New Zealand and Metric System Cockpit problems Dallas 70.3 Where should you be right now? Early Race Late Race Efficiency and Economy Rules Change your life Not having regret Find your way and commit to it Measuring your economy and efficiency Becoming a better overall athlete Oops I did it again Make this all "easier" We never hear, "Can I have more Z1-Z2 work?" You don't have to analyze every workout Just rev the engine a little How to see the least amount of improvement Always searching for a win The key to being burned out Being in a hurry to get somewhere you don't want to go Play the long game Wherever you go, there you are Robbie does Dallas Mike Tarrolly - [email protected] Robbie Bruce - [email protected]

Today we look at simplifying the often complex chain of energy and how it relates to what you eat and your mental stress. We look at ways to recognize and dissipate stress in a productive way. We look at why that first mile or so of the run can feel terrible but the end feels amazing. It can also go the other way. Why? We talk about heart rate variation during training and some of the signs you should be looking for during your workouts. We talk about how training is a bunch of microcosms for your race and how certain days can prepare you for the unknown. We talk about controlling cortisol spikes, the 48 hour rule, and compounding stress. We look at the classic sign of overtraining, how your diet and actions can affect you for several days, and how to tangle with delayed muscle soreness and fatigue. Come join us at one of our awesome Camps: Nashville, TN, May 13-17 - https://runsignup.com/Race/TN/Nashville/2026Camp Madison, Wisconsin, July 30-Aug 2 - https://c26triathlon.com/camps/triathlon-camp-wisconsin-2026/ Topics: Food hangovers Ironman pre-dinner events Going hard when you shouldn't Running or riding after you eat Aerobic decoupling When heart rate is steady Coffee and food correlation to training High heart rate at the beginning of your run? How to approach the first mile or two Warm ups and dissipating stress When the heart rate is staying low Understanding RPE and Data together Classic sign of overtraining Honest ranking of how you feel When the variation is weak through strong Hitting threshold watts The 48 hour rule Delayed muscle soreness and fatigue Compounding stress Cortisol Spikes Our stress jars overlap Mike Tarrolly - [email protected] Robbie Bruce - [email protected]

Struggling to dial in your nutrition? We have you covered . . . well, sort of. Nutrition and hydration vary greatly between athletes and we'll give you a LOT to think about as you train and prepare for your race. We'll look at high carb, low carb, and maybe more importantly, the right carbs. We'll talk sugar and sodium. We get into the concept of "over-fueling" and why it may be more common than you think. We get into your "work rate" and why it might be the most important variable. We look at sweat rates, when caffeine is a terrible idea, and why the swim is much more important than most people give it credit for. We talk about daily nutrition and why that sets the most important tone for everything you do in training. Come join us at one of our awesome Camps: Nashville, May 13-17 - https://runsignup.com/Race/TN/Nashville/2026Camp Madison, Wisconsin, July 30-Aug 2 - https://c26triathlon.com/camps/triathlon-camp-wisconsin-2026/ Topics: Do you take in too much nutrition? Popping gels as a habit High Carb - Low Carb - The Right Carb Why you have to experiment Carbs/Sugar is a polarizing topic Use carbs as a booster not always the fuel How high is your "work rate?" Dehydration impact What is my hourly calorie and carbohydrate goal for the bike and run? Overfilling on the bike? Gut training?? Is it nutrition or not training properly? How much sodium or electrolyte intake is necessary per hour, and how should I carry it? Sweat rates vary greatly Doing your own sweat test What are common race-day nutrition mistakes, and how do I avoid them? Why caffeine when you're tired is a bad idea Don't be afraid of deviating from your plan by listening to the body Why the swim is SOO important How do I effectively practice my race-day nutrition during long training sessions? Why you get behind the 8-ball and can't get out from it How long can you fend off that feeling of being in the negative? More chicken, less sauce Mike Tarrolly - [email protected] Robbie Bruce - [email protected]

Today we look into your race day logistics. Things to think about beforehand so they are not taking up space in your brain on race day. We get into realistic race goals and how to give yourself the best chance for a good race. We talk about how to deal with brick legs off the bike. Is it something you can train more for or is it something you have to get used to. We dive into transition preparation and time saving techniques, some which are guaranteed to save you several minutes if you're not already doing them. And we look at having to go to the bathroom during the race. I know, but it is definitely another area that can cost you a ton of time. We also discuss the recent Barkley Marathons and here's a link to the mini-documentary we referenced.. Barkley Marathons mini-doc. - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eXi4xHj4SfU&t=19s Come join us at one of our awesome Camps: Nashville, May 13-17 - https://runsignup.com/Race/TN/Nashville/2026Camp Madison, Wisconsin, July 30-Aug 2 - https://c26triathlon.com/camps/triathlon-camp-wisconsin-2026/ Topics: What is a realistic goal time for a first-time Ironman, and how should I pace each leg Shoot for a wide window… it's like a long putt… trying to make it when you don't need to is risky business….. Fake Fresh What should I put in my bike and run "Personal Needs" bags? How can I manage the "jelly legs" sensation when I start the marathon? What is the best strategy for minimizing time in the transition areas (T1 and T2)? What's the protocol for using the restroom (or peeing) during the race? Mike Tarrolly - [email protected] Robbie Bruce - [email protected]

Sometimes it's best to go back to the basics and re-think what you might already know. Or answer the questions that a lot of people think about but are afraid to ask. Today, we drove the podcast by asking AI what are the most frequent questions asked about Ironman Training. We get into proper volume, plan structure, longest runs and rides, taper, Zone 2, burnout and overtraining, and how to avoid injuries. Success in Ironman rarely happens without a great understanding of this basic principles. Open your mind and come into it fresh. Come join us at one of our awesome Camps: Nashville, May 13-17 - https://runsignup.com/Race/TN/Nashville/2026Camp Madison, Wisconsin, July 30-Aug 2 - https://c26triathlon.com/camps/triathlon-camp-wisconsin-2026/ Topics: AI dating and restaurants How many hours per week is a realistic training volume for a full Ironman? Your peak period should be what you earned 6 hour easy rides are actually intense for most people What does a properly structured 6-month or 9-month Ironman training plan look like? How long should my longest run and longest ride be before the race? What is the optimal Ironman taper, and how many weeks should it last? How important is heart rate Zone 2 training for building long-course endurance? How do I avoid injury from the high volume of training? How should I balance the three disciplines to prevent burnout or overtraining? How good is your ability to shed fatigue? Life stress affects your taper The taper responsibility is mostly on athletes The taper is an Art The "D" word High volume should be volume you "can handle" Stacking volume in manageable ways Is stretching creating injuries? Burnout is mental Fatigue is physical End today's workout looking forward to tomorrow. Mike Tarrolly - [email protected] Robbie Bruce - [email protected]

Do you find the Olympics motivating? Today was look at some of the stories and the roads they took to get there. We also talk about why Mike hasn't been watching the Olympics. We get into building streaks and how to rebound once the streak is over. What about the purpose behind creating a streak? How can you get rid of distraction and find a sweet groove of consistency? We talk about frequency vs. volume. We get into what the most successful triathletes do on a daily basis. The art of taking body shots and upper cuts. Also, how do you detach from people, places, and things that are getting in the way of your ultimate mission. Join us at one of our awesome camps in Nashville or Madison, WI: https://c26triathlon.com/camps/ Topics: Back from our hiatus When a streak ends The key to streaks is getting back on after you stumble 100 Days of Running What's the purpose behind your streak? C26triathlon.com - Come Join Us in Nashville or Madison for an awesome camp Who's gonna show up at your race? Olympic stories Patience Be your own Olympian Staying on your path Dealing with distraction Getting a little better each day Frequency over volume? Keep the compass pointing North Be firm in your direction Creating long term success What really creates wins? Body shots and upper cuts Stop watching the news Creating detachment Is what you're doing taking you to the place you want to go? Mike Tarrolly - [email protected] Robbie Bruce - [email protected]

Today, we take a look at what why it's so important to be responsive and adaptable on a bike and show you how to build those skills. We dive into the importance of having a cadence range and the ability to respond on a dime. We talk about what it means to ride your bike vs. letting your bike ride you. We look at trainer vs. outdoor riding and why you're probably not getting as much out of trainer rides as you should. We talk about distractions and how it may be affecting your ability to improve on the bike. Why Netflix could be holding you back. And, finally we talk about multi-tasking and how it is ultimately taking away from your ultimate goals. Topics: Friday Night Loser's Club The ability to change cadence Creating range of ability in cycling Outside vs. The Trainer Being Responsive on course Ability to increase cadence on a dime Ride your bike, don't let your bike ride you Distractions on the trainer Conditions matter Zoning out during rides Being Committed to getting better Are you really focused? What are you looking at while on the bike? Neuro-muscular fatigue Watching the news Becoming dependent on distractions Why do we glorify multi-tasking? Reduce distraction gradually Addicted to stimulation Mike Tarrolly - [email protected] Robbie Bruce - [email protected]

Back into the water today with an explosive episode focusing on early vertical forearm and the catch. We get into things like the proper entry, whether or not you should glide, and how to get maximum efficiency from your stroke. We go over tons of typical mistakes by triathletes, including diving too deep with your hand. We look at a few great drills and how they can help you develop better form and be more economical, which is the key to great triathlon swimming. We talk about technique sets vs. swimming long just to build yards. We get into efficiency, anxiety, and how to build confidence in the water. Sometimes it's just hard because you think you're bored. Start slow. Be patient. Build. Topics: Snow shoveling tips Swim as compared to a bike fit Body position and breathing Early Vertical Forearm - what does it mean The catch phase - propulsion Bad return on investment Why hand control is underrated Should you "glide?" What about entry Should fingers be spread open? Diving too deep with the hand Understanding early vertical forearm "leverage" Hip driven freestyle Shoulder over elbow over wrist Paddle and visual cues Tarzan drill and swimming with balls Long sets with rocks Skulling 24 x 100 or 2400 straight? Efficiency is speed Stop obsessing about yardage every time Maximum efficiency Economical athletes get the most return Shorter technique driven swims Getting faster with better form Fear and anxiety vs. confidence Take time to be more efficient Sometimes it's just hard because you think you're bored. Mike Tarrolly - [email protected] Robbie Bruce - [email protected]

Today, we go deep on swimming but keep it relatively simple so you can work on things that matter and lock them in. We talk about some of the most important fundamentals regarding swimming: breathing, body position, and body control. There will be big wins in your swimming if you can master the basic principles of swimming. We also get into how you should be breaking up your week regarding form, intensity, and endurance. We'll look at getting a bigger return for your energy investment, why the hips are critical, why you're probably too tense in the water, and the soon to be famous Light Switch Test. Topics: Does op 20 swimming list hold up? Swimming and focus on the details Obsession over aero and watts but not swimming 90 Day Challenge Picking up swimming later in life Correct form + muscular endurance End of Ironman running form Uncomfortable doing hard swims? Efficient form for return of energy investment Day One - Pick one day for technique (AR) Day two - Focus on top speed and turnover Day Three - Longer swim for muscular endurance How to breathe Why to breathe every stroke Breath 2-4 Bilateral breathing?? Build a strong side Body position Head is number one Forehead down Body Control Head raises - body sinks A body drill with paddles Outside cues to get a better feel for the water Video from the front cue Splayed out? Hips way too open Hip control Steering wheels in swimming The Light Switch Test Mike Tarrolly - [email protected] Robbie Bruce - [email protected]

Today, we start by looking at the way Indiana built a program that seemingly came out of nowhere to win the National Title. It wasn't an accident and you can build yourself in the same way. And that process starts now. We'll look at micro gains and goals and how they stack up over time. We look at long term consistency vs. short term bursts and why the former is always better. We talk about just "knowing" when you're getting better vs. depending on numbers. We look at aiming low and getting things done vs. always wanting to see improvement. Improvement happens and small habits lead to big routines. Lower expectations and get to the work. Topics: Inverted world - Indiana is the National Football Champion One play at a time A disciplined process Who makes the fewest mistakes? The next thing is the most important thing Have a short memory Being grounded The process starts now, one day at a time Imagine yourself as a program 6 months vs. 6 weeks Snowball rolling down a hill Struggles with long rides? Weave in longer rides now Find something to work on and commit to What is your focus right now?? Small habits lead to big routines Gains by accident Micro goals It just felt better this week Lowering expectations When you just know without the numbers Lay off the throttle Yo-yo back and forth Aim low Most frequently skipped workouts Next cast - Swimming Mike Tarrolly - [email protected] Robbie Bruce - [email protected]

Let's just stop for a minute and think about the endless choices we have and how they can overwhelm us. Ever get that feeling like you need to get in shape before you go to the gym? We talk about the rabbit hole of hacks and how it can lead to action paralysis. We talk about how to structure your mind for the right "why." We look at why getting one percent better each day is a great strategy, but why it's so tough to stick with. Training should be about much more than a time goal, it should be driven by what is truly meaningful to you and it's well worth sitting in silence and really figuring out. Topics: Getting fit before going to the gym Can you ever be fit enough? Intellectual experts vs. practitioners What's the hack? Action paralysis Endless podcasts, influencers, newsletters Drink from a garden hose vs. a fire hose We always want more When we feel like it's not enough Trying too hard The weight of the world The integrity of a workout Do we need more? We all need a bit of a buffer Being swept up in the moment One percent better each day but not seeing it Weight loss and patience Inability to set realistic goals What is meaningful to you? You have to have more than a time goal Swinging for the fence all the time Building habits that turn into routine Pick out the right lot and build slowly [email protected] [email protected]

Today we get into understanding fatigue and what it means. Is it in your head or your body? Lungs or legs? It all matters and it's important for you to be able to recognize and adjust so that you can get the most out of your sessions or simply get off the couch. We look at different signs in swimming, cycling, and running that show fatigue and sort of look at the "seriousness" of each and how to roll right through it. Topics: Triathlete Tattoos Gross pics sent to coaches Reading books or faking it? Post-holiday fatigue Longer Zone 2 rides and runs Why do you feel better deeper into the workout? Swimming to test fatigue safely Too much focus on "times" Stress is stress Adapting to the sessions What is weighing you down? Run Camp as a science "lab" Don't let the numbers affect your day Red Zone of fatigue Feeling "off" Why to be a fan of HR Bike approaches to working through fatigue High power/Low HR means system is firing Does it feel like a fight? Is it your legs or lungs? Stacking days and getting the right stimulus Can't put a finger on it Rebalancing "the off" feeling How do you feel meeting the intent of the session Restaurant picking strategy for your family [email protected] [email protected]

Stuck in the same gear? Not happy with your race speed? It might mean you need more work on being responsive. How do you build another gear? Glad you asked. Today, we get into why triathletes often feel stuck at the same speed and how to break the cycle. We look at swimming, biking, and running and give some thought on how to create more of a range, especially when you need it. Going fast can feel good and fun, but sometimes our Zone 4 effort equals our Zone 2 speed in a race. Today, we look at solid and proven ways to break out of being a one-speed wonder, but note, it's not always easy. Topics: Last week on C26 Coming at you consistently We're the podcast version of an age-grouper that outlasts everyone to qualify for Kona New Orleans 70.3 memories Swim rant? One speed wonders Turnover vs. Stroke length in swimming Natural cadence vs. being uncomfortable Hill sprints Something needs to be a priority Increasing FTP vs. Losing weight Swimming more or strength work? Trying to change everything at once Focus on one thing Swim form Hard 25's and 50's What about your base? Not thinking in the water Building another gear Being Responsive One speed Without ranges we tend to not be present RPE - Bodymind Fitness vs. Form We can't skip steps Focus on moving correctly When Zone 4 effort equals Zone 2 speed Mike Tarrolly - [email protected] Robbie Bruce - [email protected]

Is it possible that we're carrying too much in our cup? Today we talk about approaching the year with a solid, focused, and consistent plan. It's so easy to want to add more, but there's real power in stripping things down, creating simplicity and getting rid of things that don't serve our purpose. We look at building routines and patterns that will help take care of our long term goals. We look at listening to and understanding our body by effort. We talk distractions, racing free, and carrying less mental baggage. The truth is, we're not usually tired because of workouts, but the extra weight we carry in our lives. Simplify and be consistent. Topics: New intro? Decompressed Dogs and slippers Create belief and trust in yourself Movement is momentum Jan 1st new habit fails Don't expect perfection What's your fallback? Mental energy distractions Can't swim without a watch Too much interference Disconnecting in workouts Understanding your body's effort Creating less noise Re-evaluating your "why" Not trying to impress or prove things to others Run heavy You're adding too much weight Race free, run free, be light You're not tired from training Getting sick? Why? Do you really need to do more? Empty your cup Mike Tarrolly - [email protected] Robbie Bruce - [email protected]

These next few weeks are tricky and today we look at how to get the most from them. Society has created an addictive nature in us and what's coming at you will be no easy task, but there are definitely ways to navigate the holidays and keep your training moving toward a great 2026. Take one and give the rest away! Moderation will be your best weapon both in training and at the snack table. Don't always assume that heavy breathing and sore legs means you're getting better. Keep things simple and sweet and be ready to train like you need to train in January. Dramatic swings have become the new normal, be willing to say no and stay the course. If not, don't beat yourself up by creating 180 degree swings. Happy Holidays! Thanks for listening… we love ya! --------- Get some C26 Gear for Christmas: https://c26triathlon.com/shop/ Looking for a great way to empower your training, explore your limits, and exist in the moment? Check out C26 Adventure Camps for 2026! http://watersharpensiron.com Want to build strength and conquer the water? Look into our swim camps at C26Hub.com Looking for triathlon coaching? Comb through our roster at https://c26triathlon.com/about/coaches/ Topics: Tight Jeans and Scales Addictive challenges en route Moderation to stay on point Treading water in life Don't try to get a head start Rebelling in the opposite direction "There's no love in that refrigerator" The deck is stacked against us Be 100% 80% of the time Society has created addictive natures in us New version of the trunk cookies Take one, give the rest away Everything is always more How's your aerobic system? Is this a short or long game? Being about longevity in triathlon Looking for adrenaline injections when you're down Efficiency and economy are so important Metabolic disasters Process oriented Don't always assume that heavy breathing and sore legs means you're getting better Steady isn't glamorous Consistency is king Dramatic swings are the new normal When feeling good becomes anxiety Seeing excitement in aerobic work Triathlete's Rock Bottom The real truth about robust fitness When feeling great becomes anxiety The best sign is that there is no sign The pain isn't always a reward Happy Holidays! We'll see you next year Mike Tarrolly - [email protected] Robbie Bruce - [email protected] Check us out at www.c26triathlon.com Looking to find your flow? Check out C26 Adventures! www.watersharpensiron.com

Robbie talks about a lot of stuff and Mike's not really sure what's going on. And vice versa, probably. ---------- Get some C26 Gear for Christmas: https://c26triathlon.com/shop/ Looking for a great way to empower your training, explore your limits, and exist in the moment? Check out C26 Adventure Camps for 2026! http://watersharpensiron.com Want to build strength and conquer the water? Look into our swim camps at C26Hub.com Looking for triathlon coaching? Comb through our roster at https://c26triathlon.com/about/coaches/ Topics: Ironman changes course nutrition Early season 70.3s The off season is getting shorter December Rules as life rules The quickening Money is pushing the calendar Periodization What part of the year do you have the most time? Color coding your season Building your race calendar so it makes sense Change for the sake of change? Being focused and Open Minded at once When things get stale Obsessing about Zones Micro Goals Simulating those race feelings Exploring the demands of what you want to do in a race Tri-Calc secrets Intrinsic motivation WANTING what is required to hit your goals It's easy to want race goals Mike Tarrolly - [email protected] Robbie Bruce - [email protected] Check us out at www.c26triathlon.com Looking to find your flow? Check out C26 Adventures! www.watersharpensiron.com

Are you making your days count? Is triathlon your fuel for life or is life your fuel for triathlon? It's easy to put too much pressure on ourselves with a precise target, but the truth is, going inward and staying the course will take care of most of it. We owe it to ourselves to get the most out of triathlon and life but only have so much bandwidth to always be in "chase mode." Today we look at ways to pull back the external and focus more on making real, internal improvements, which ultimately lead to long term satisfaction and real growth. We also have a little fun with Christmas music at the end of the cast. Thanks for listening! ——— Get some C26 Gear for Christmas: https://c26triathlon.com/shop/ Looking for a great way to empower your training, explore your limits, and exist in the moment? Check out C26 Adventure Camps for 2026! http://watersharpensiron.com Want to build strength and conquer the water? Look into our swim camps at C26Hub.com Looking for triathlon coaching? Comb through our roster at https://c26triathlon.com/about/coaches/ Topics: Internal exploration is at the root of everything Socks and Sweatshirts What made you pick the races you did?? Toughest time of the year Patience and execution Elephant in the room Precise targets Finding more satisfaction in the grind Beginner excitement that fades Staying level in your process How much bandwidth do you have for chasing? What staying the course looks like even in struggle A highlight clip society How to handle pressure Driven by fear Is triathlon the fuel for life or is life the fuel for triathlon? Empathy for yourself and others How we never burnout on this podcast Christmas music in training?? Don't get caught in the theater, live your own life Mike Tarrolly - [email protected] Robbie Bruce - [email protected] Check us out at www.c26triathlon.com Looking to find your flow? Check out C26 Adventures! www.watersharpensiron.com

Is there is a small mental shift we can make to turn training from a pain into something we look forward to on a deeper level? We think the answer is yes, and today we look at how to make that happen. It starts with believing what you're doing is a good thing for the body and mind. There's also a lot of power in patience. Knowing that today's little step will compound with many other things to get you where you want to go. It's not about the finish line, it's about exploring your true potential, no matter what that looks like. Right now is a great way to figure out how you really feel about this journey and rewire your mind in a way that makes you believe in yourself and the long game. ———— Get some C26 Gear for Christmas (use C26Xmas for 15% off): https://c26triathlon.com/shop/ Looking for a great way to empower your training, explore your limits, and exist in the moment? Check out C26 Adventure Camps for 2026! http://watersharpensiron.com Want to build strength and conquer the water? Look into our swim camps at C26Hub.com Looking for triathlon coaching? Comb through our roster at https://c26triathlon.com/about/coaches/ Topics: Believing that what you're doing is right When you feel like doing a grinder workout Training by laps Embracing patience and the mission Aligning with your body and mind Dealing with restrictions Silencing your food voice When training is truly mindful The power of taking ownership of yourself Rewiring how you think about training Letting go of pressure Clearing confusion in the mornings This is a life thing Make some time to figure out why you feel this way Is a 50k trail race before your A-Race a mistake? How long can older athletes expect to keep getting PRs? How to get older and faster Things to add more engagement to off-season training Train like an athlete-->Train like an endurance athlete-->Train like a triathlete. If it feels good . . . do it. Mike Tarrolly - [email protected] Robbie Bruce - [email protected] Check us out at www.c26triathlon.com Looking to find your flow? Check out C26 Adventures! www.watersharpensiron.com

Today the listener controls the show! We talk about building bike strength to be a better climber. We get into how to fall in love with the trainer and the treadmill this winter. We also look at strengths and weaknesses. How do you define them and decide where to put the most work. We get into swimming and how much you should be doing it. Some of the best drills and things to think about. Also, finding your swimming economy and body position. We also look at controlling your breath on the run and raising your bike threshold. ————— Get some C26 Gear for Christmas: https://c26triathlon.com/shop/ Looking for a great way to empower your training, explore your limits, and exist in the moment? Check out C26 Adventure Camps for 2026! http://watersharpensiron.com Want to build strength and conquer the water? Look into our swim camps at C26Hub.com Looking for triathlon coaching? Comb through our roster at https://c26triathlon.com/about/coaches/ Topics: Thanksgiving Recap and favorite foods Building climbing strength on the bike Big gear/torque workouts Faux Big Gear Ways to pass time on the trainer or treadmill Limited time - Do you work on strengths or weaknesses? Determining strength and weaknesses More time on the run or swim? Body position and feel for the water Hard time breathing on the run but legs feel fine? Relaxing your breath Swim drills Swim economy Raising your bike threshold Bike progressions Playing the long game Negative split mentality Do you lack time or energy? Mike Tarrolly - [email protected] Robbie Bruce - [email protected] Check us out at www.c26triathlon.com Looking to find your flow? Check out C26 Adventures! www.watersharpensiron.com

Happy Thanksgiving from C26 and all of our coaching staff! ***Check out the C26 Store and use Code: C26Xmas for 15% off your shopping! We can't ask for change and expect everything to be the same. The comfort of the old world with the excitement of the new one. Wanting both creates pain and suffering. Today, we look at listening to how you feel and finding what the true you inside really wants. We get into burnout and how to avoid it. We talk about greatness, loving yourself, and finding calm in the chaos. ----- Looking for a great way to empower your training, explore your limits, and exist in the moment? Check out C26 Adventure Camps for 2026! http://watersharpensiron.com Want to build strength and conquer the water? Look into our swim camps at C26Hub.com Looking for triathlon coaching? Comb through our roster at https://c26triathlon.com/about/coaches/ Topics: Rewards cards Early bird Ironman Deals Podcast Ads Mirroring what our athletes are going through. Burnout is a choice Burnout is usually external pressure overload Change - we can't ask for change and expect everything to be the same. Greatness takes obsession Loving yourself Finding calm in the chaos Variety is for the weak Listening to what we really want Unsolved life trauma Jaded and irrational from constantly living up to the standard Are you solving the wrong problem? Separating now from the forever Is it just "the old you" sulking? The journey of change is not easy Mike Tarrolly - [email protected] Robbie Bruce - [email protected] Check us out at www.c26triathlon.com Looking to find your flow? Check out C26 Adventures! www.watersharpensiron.com

Is your REAL goal to be fast, healthy, or just have a good time with training and racing? Today, we talk about why it's important to define your true aspirations in the sport so you can come to an internal agreement with yourself as the year rolls on. It's not uncommon for athletes to go through an identity crisis many times a year. We get into some of our personal struggles as we look at finding our sweet spot with training, racing, and life. We also look at clashing value systems and how that can make things tougher. ----------- Looking for a great way to empower your training, explore your limits, and exist in the moment? Check out C26 Adventure Camps for 2026! http://watersharpensiron.com Want to build strength and conquer the water? Look into our swim camps at C26Hub.com Looking for triathlon coaching? Comb through our roster at https://c26triathlon.com/about/coaches/ Topics: The Final IM Arizona New races coming? Will they build a really hard race? Looking at racing calendars What if you travel a lot? 70.3 three weeks before IM? Harder to deal with the unexpected than a busy schedule Be patient with your planning How much race intensity is goo for you over the season? What do you really want to accomplish? Athlete identity crisis Do you have the patience and desire to accomplish your goal? How much is worth it to you? Are your values clashing? Mike Tarrolly - [email protected] Robbie Bruce - [email protected] Check us out at www.c26triathlon.com Looking to find your flow? Check out C26 Adventures! www.watersharpensiron.com

Going HARD is easy to understand, but taking rest for recovery of your mind and body can sometimes create guilt. Why do we think like that? Today, we dive into the psychology of taking a day, or two, off when our body needs it. We also talk about getting trapped in upper Zone 2 and how that can often turn into Zone 3 which is wearing you down far more than you think. We look at junk miles and asked if they really are junk, or if they're something more than we think. We talk flexibility, pliability, and how range of motion can create more economy in your stroke, peddling, and stride. Explore the definition of "quality" and look at things from a different perspective. Be objective and understand the big picture. ------ Looking for a great way to empower your training, explore your limits, and exist in the moment? Check out C26 Adventure Camps for 2026! http://watersharpensiron.com Want to build strength and conquer the water? Look into our swim camps at C26Hub.com Looking for triathlon coaching? Comb through our roster at https://c26triathlon.com/about/coaches/ Topics: Thanksgiving ranked as a holiday Making up time in training . . . The Psychology of Days Off Gordo Byrn Perspective Rest is extremely important Over trained or under recovered? Why is it so hard to take a rest day? Is Zone 1 junk miles? Does Zone 2 turn into Zone 3 for you? Flexibility, pliability, limberness Walk/runs The continuum from yogi to bodybuilder Using HR - Controlling HR and time Don't ruin the rest of your week on one set Do "junk miles" help your pliability? Rest, recovery, quality Different buckets of QUALITY Howe economical is your body? Deteriorating quality as we go Monitor yourself objectively Courage to take a day off Being flexible in the training plan Going hard is easy to understand, loving yourself and respecting your body is tougher. Mike Tarrolly - [email protected] Robbie Bruce - [email protected] Check us out at www.c26triathlon.com Looking to find your flow? Check out C26 Adventures! www.watersharpensiron.com

Today we look at the Ironman 70.3 World Championship weekend. We break down each event, including the unbelievable comebacks for Lucy and Taylor, along with the wild 3 second separation finish in the men's. We talk coming back from a bad race and turning it back on again. Having a short memory and the ability to let it rip. Great discussion about what the pros are doing and how it applies to you! ----------- Looking for a great way to empower your training, explore your limits, and exist in the moment? Check out C26 Adventure Camps for 2026! Want to build strength and conquer the water? Look into our swim camps at C26Hub.com Looking for triathlon coaching? Comb through our roster at https://c26triathlon.com/about/coaches/ Topics: Water temps If you're doing anything, you're doing something Facing the elements Weather Zones 70.3 World Championship Tough course The women bounce back I made mistakes, now I have an opportunity Short memories Bad races or workouts don't define us What's going on with your life? The best change can be no change Get back on the horse Showing no fear Men's race Electric Finish YouTube clip of final mile head to head - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0B4uC3-tAgM Old school beach start Looking at watch on the run Pure competition wins Ironman has had a great year Mike Tarrolly - [email protected] Robbie Bruce - [email protected] Check us out at www.c26triathlon.com Looking to find your flow? Check out C26 Adventures! www.watersharpensiron.com

We can't go hard all the time. Movement is medicine and those movements should have different speeds. Today we get into Zone Zero or active recovery or supplemental movement. It doesn't matter what you call it, it's a key piece of the big picture puzzle. And often it doesn't even include motion directly related to triathlon. We'll go over simple ways to ensure longevity and even race better by giving your recovery the attention it deserves. ----------- Looking for a great way to empower your training, explore your limits, and exist in the moment? Check out C26 Adventure Camps for 2026! Want to build strength and conquer the water? Look into our swim camps at C26Hub.com Looking for triathlon coaching? Comb through our roster at https://c26triathlon.com/about/coaches/ Topics: The Original Iron Men 2,632 in a row The legendary ultra man Endurance junkies So. Much. Sitting. Walking for your health Supplemental movements Trying to fix the problem with the problem Just don't think about it Extra BP to get out of a slump F*ck around with no agenda It's all projection What's sustainable? Park your car further away When the mainstream thinks we're dumb The road less travelled takes conviction People may think you're crazy, but make them think you're crazier Do you skip recovery? Call it active recovery Do you move or sit on your ass? What's gonna help the work be better? Was that this morning or yesterday? Mike Tarrolly - [email protected] Robbie Bruce - [email protected] Check us out at www.c26triathlon.com Looking to find your flow? Check out C26 Adventures! www.watersharpensiron.com

Are you giving enough love to the process? Today, we look at what the process is and why it's really the way ti get better and get more out of life and triathlon. We point out that when you are "looking forward" to simple aerobic runs and rides you're probably in a good place. We can't rush our way through process to get to performance. It's all tied together and the process can become your healthy addiction and keep you away from burnout. Let's all make the goal to end 2025 like you want to begin 2026. ------------- Empower your training, explore your limits, and exist in the moment. Check out C26 Adventure Camps for 2026! Want to build strength and conquer the water? Look into our swim camps at C26Hub.com Looking for triathlon coaching? Comb through our roster of Coaches. C26 Gear available here. Topics: Halloween revisited (Triathlon talk starts around the 9 min mark) Feeling tension to be done before you even get started Why it's so important to love the process Process, Purpose, Performance. Wanting aerobic workouts to be done. Plunge patience Ending 2025 like you want to start 2026 There is no end game Tougher to get "better" when aging What you resist is what your soul craves Go toward what scares you Healthy addiction The more you want it, the less likely you are to get it Burn out Be involved in the process of GETTING BETTER When performance is your shining star Habits create a craving All or nothing can ruin everything Accumulating time in Zone Zero Mike Tarrolly - [email protected] Robbie Bruce - [email protected] Check us out at www.c26triathlon.com Looking to find your flow? Check out C26 Adventures! Check out our swim camps at www.C26Hub.com

Don't turn triathlon into a job you hate. Now is the time to embrace flexibility and work on being healthy, happy, and a more resilient athlete. Today we look at the toughest times of the year and how to use them to your advantage. We also get into how gratitude makes us faster. We talk about keeping an eye on how far you've come. We talk maintaining vs. losing and how your body will thank you on race day. We talk about why overly specific interval training is overrated. We look at burn out and how to make sure you can have a long and healthy life with triathlon as your guide. Topics: Embrace The Costume Day Ironman Florida 2nd Toughest Time of Year for Training Last hour of the road trip When we get sooo close to the season Max Flexibility Season It's keep moving time Starting a band Cramming for a test The triathlete's seasonal cycle Craving the run? It's Yellow Season Gratitude can make us faster Look back at how far you've come Don't let yourself fall so far behind Being an Athlete versus Chasing a Race Goal Not going too far in either direction Maintaining instead of losing Excuses in relation to the time of year Choose your adventure Making sure athletes do aerobic work Specific training overrated? Building a base . . . of consistency Why people get burned out Don't turn triathlon into a job you hate Mike Tarrolly - [email protected] Robbie Bruce - [email protected] Check us out at www.c26triathlon.com Looking to find your flow? Check out C26 Adventures!

Today we look at the three dominant metrics in triathlon: Heart Rate, Power, and RPE. Which one is right for you, and does that answer change with different variables? We look at things like time of the day, time of the year, and adjusting based on how you feel. We tackle questions like intensity vs. volume and look at different scenarios depending on if you're racing an Ironman or something shorter. We talk Vo2 max and look at whether or not you should even be thinking about it. And we also get into how a lot of triathletes screw up their races with nutrition. Topics: Wetsuit legal questions Dominant metrics When to use power vs HR vs RPE Does the time of day matter? Different stress from different pools Hot water, cold water, shallow water When are you strongest on the bike? Is HR higher in the morning? Warm ups Lower volume, higher intensity Swim hard, bike aerobic, run hard? Looking at numbers too often How we screw up our races with nutrition Smash test for a 15 hour race? Vo2 Max - small piece of the puzzle Keep it alive and primed Putting in the real volume Mike Tarrolly - [email protected] Robbie Bruce - [email protected]

Motivation is fleeting. How do we train and live in such a way that we're looking forward to what's next? Not down the road in 10 months, but what's next today and tomorrow? Today, we look at finding a good combination of freedom within the discipline. Do you buy in to your direction or are you struggling with understanding the real goals? Do you have conviction for what you're chasing? Topics: Favorite Holidays Four reels per week? What's the top thing to do right now? Put your shoes on and go We all need freedom Racing season is our school year Finding a freedom and discipline mix Athlete buy-in and conviction Workouts as prompts Mine and matching workouts Getting that dopamine rush Accepting the outcome Guiding and giving options Creating new options Enlightened monk is like winning the age group Less conviction to one thing Igniting a workout It's YOUR dream Long-term buy in to yourself Mike Tarrolly - [email protected] Robbie Bruce - [email protected]

What a race! Today we go through our observations of the Kona Women's World Championship. We start with some intriguing swim strategies, get into decision making on the bike, and look at what might have gone wrong from the leaders in the run. It was a fascinating day and we get into the concept of going wire to wire. Mental pressure. Working together. How smart can you be. And why it clearly ain't over till it's over. Topics: 100 Milers Spoiler alert It ain't over til it's over Lucy Charles Barclay Taylor Knibb Kat Matthews Solveig Lovseth Kona swim Pro swim strategies Did they race like Age groupers to win? Keeping the core temp down is the goal Surges Racing by impulse How smart can you be? The Ass tap The meltdown He coaches both Julie Moss You have to do you when they don't do them Is parity good for the sport? Gambling? Mike Tarrolly - [email protected] Robbie Bruce - [email protected]

Today we come partly from the great north of Wisconsin. We get into Kona predictions, jeans and ribeyes, then dive into the question of: how do the best separate themselves from the rest. We bring it to an age group level and explore how we can be at our best then stay at our best. How do we outwork doubt? Topics: Jeans and ribeyes Cold Weather Lake Superior Kona Women Biggest Questions What's the difference between the best and rest Do you over correct? Game face in training Outworking your doubts How do you respond after your best race? Is it enough? You have to detrain We need room for growth [email protected] [email protected]

This is a great time to build the cake, or maybe even just put your shopping list together. Today, we look at the unlimited potential of aerobic capacity and why it's at the core of making you a better long course athlete. We talk about Mark Allen's quest to beat Dave Scott and how patience allowed him to set the IM run course record. We get into using this time to reduce your stress and level your cortisol to be a healthier person. We look at how your body adapts to training and how we actually get faster and stronger. Get faster in a more meaningful (and functional) way. The goal right now is to train in a way so that you feel good tomorrow . . . and the next day. Be patient and the speed will come. Topics: We all have options Sitting in no man's land FOMO on both sides of the aisle Build the aerobic reservoir High intensity can wait Is periodization dead? Roller coaster highs and lows are bad for the body Using TIME to reduce stress Aerobic work is maximum quality Keep showing up but "don't try" The poison is in the dose DNF rate going up? Stress Flexibility Fatigue resistance Don't eat into your ability to push threshold Running and swimming as intuitive strengths Your training plan as a menu Mark Allen - 7 months of no intensity for the win How your body adapts and gets stronger Consistency going out of your watt range Waking up the next day able to do it again Peaks and valleys are stressful Get faster in a meaningful way The goal is to feel good tomorrow Don't feel good just to dig another hole Mike Tarrolly - [email protected] Robbie Bruce - [email protected]

Post race highs. Post race lows. And everything in between. Today, we look at this journey as something that honestly builds health. Are your expectations bringing too much pressure and anxiety into your life? Are you falling into the traps over and over? Are you really training for health or to chase false hope? We like to think of this sport as a long range compass that should build strength, health, and sustainability. Exercise is supposed to give you energy, not take it away. Stay away from too high or too low. Find something that moves you each day and makes you look forward to tomorrow. Topics: Easy course? Fools errand? Ironman is always hard Post IM Chattanooga discussion You're never guaranteed a PR Built up passive tension behind racing When you want it so bad it becomes counter productive Expectations of greatness . . . or fear How hope can get into your psyche Age Group traps Learning lessons from pros Health and human performance Treating training differently Creating tension in January When we build the opposite of health A well intended training regime Are you doing this to be healthier? Sacrificing everything to gain nothing Can I accept what I do? Long runways for races Perpetual journey of sustainability Don't future trip High Races - Low Races - Moderate races Exercise is supposed to give you energy, not take it away Mike Tarrolly - [email protected] Robbie Bruce - [email protected]

Today we go through how to race Ironman Chattanooga, plus, give a few suggestions on how they could spice up the course. We used to live in Chattanooga and raced there a bunch of times. Today, we dive into race strategy and give thoughts on how to run one of the more difficult courses on the Ironman circuit. We talk about how to approach the swim both strategically and mentally. We look at the 3 loop bike course which could be the hilliest flat course out there. Then we get into the run and talk about why it's such a great course. The ups, the downs and the opportunity to change up your pace/effort. Finally we look at ways to make this race just a little more appealing by incorporating some of the best parts of an awesome city. Support the podcast by getting your hands on some awesome C26 Triathlon gear at our store! Topics: Swimming in fog Weight loss and scales Meteorologists are geologists Dehydration and bowel movements Chattanooga the city When you forget your timing chip Going in last in the swim Don't "expect" a fast swim, just be surprised How to swim the river Fast swims as transition cancellers The hilliest flattest bike course out there No turns Keeping it steady How to recognize false flats Run course segments/strategy Where to engage the run legs Running up Barton Why it's a great run course Sneaky hard part The finish line Our favorite restaurants Recommendations for a better finish line How to re-route the run General ideas for spicing up Ironman Chattanooga's course Mike Tarrolly - [email protected] Robbie Bruce - [email protected]

Today we dive into your awesome questions with what might be one of our longest podcasts to date. We tackle back pain and bad bike position. We get into the best lifting exercises for performance. We look at the power behind tackling non-traditional triathlons and other events. We look at how to be faster and stronger as you age. Vo2 max as seniors. How do you know when you need a break. Capitalizing on race fitness or flirting with burnout? And We put the spotlight on ourselves to find out what we preach but don't always follow. Topics: Back pain Bad bike position When to get new shoes for cycling and running Complex lifting for strength and speed Do the best triathletes lift heavy?? What advice to we give out but not always follow? Do we look at workouts we give and think, "man, I'm glad I'm not doing that." Non traditional triathlons Being a well rounded athlete Keep triathlon as your base focus but branch out Capitalizing on fitness gained from a race or flirting with burnout? 60+ athletes and speed, strength, and injury prevention How to tell when it's time to take a break from swim, or bike, or run What do you want to be doing in 10 years? When do I go from a online training plan to a coach? What coaches are good for Mike Tarrolly - [email protected] Robbie Bruce - [email protected]