The TriDoc Podcast, triathlon and health in one place

In this episode:At the commencement speech for Dartmouth College's graduates in June of this year, Roger Federer spoke eloquently on the power of positive thinking and how it enabled him to win close to 80% of his matches over the course of his career despite having lost almost half of the points that he played in those matches. Can athletes in other sports learn from his example and is there evidence to support this notion that being positive can affect outcomes? We discuss in the Medical Mailbag. Also, a conversation with Michelle Bond, a kinesiologist and researcher on the importance of understanding the fascia and how as athletes we can leverage that understanding to improve our performance and recovery.Segments:[08:36]- Medical Mailbag:[38:00]- Interview: Michele Bond LinksRoger Federer's commencement speechMichele's Facebook page @michele__bond on Instagram Michele's Website Michele on YouTube

In this episode:Everyone knows that sodium is an important component of sport nutrition but what form should it come in? For a long time sodium chloride was preferred but more recently sodium citrate is much more popular. Is there a reason for this change and is there evidence that one is better than the other? The Medical Mailbag discusses the evidence. Plus, Irish professional triathlete Fiona Moriarty comes from a running background but has distinguished herself as a cyclist. Hear how she made the transition to multisport and how she is making it all come together with a full-time job.Segments:[07:20]- Medical Mailbag: Which salt is best?[33:10]- Interview: Fiona Moriarty LinksEpisode 10: Exercise induced hyponatremia@fionamoriartytri on Instagram Fiona's Website Fiona on YouTube

In this episode:A widely read and much discussed media article out of Germany quoted researchers who surveyed athletes at the 2024 Challenge Roth on the use of performance enhancing drugs among age group triathletes. The results were somewhat disheartening. Around 10% admitted to using agents that would enhance performance and almost none had any qualms about it. What are these agents? What are the risks of using them? Should we care? The entire episode will be dedicated to try to answer these questions with the help of guests Jim Vance and Matt sharpe.

In this episode:Skeletal muscles are made up of fast twitch and slow twitch fibers each of which has differing properties. The amount of each fiber in muscle varies from person to person and while it is possible to determine this makeup, it is not so easy. The architecture of muscle in each individual is important in determining how a person can perform in different types of sports and also, how each will respond to training. Should people try to determine what their muscle typology is and adapt their training to it? We discuss in the Medical Mailbag. Kennon Heard is an emergency physician and endurance athlete who collapsed in cardiac arrest after a family fun run in May. He discusses his experience and how he is moving forward as well as how the rest of us should think about this experience in context of our own endurance pursuits as we age.Segments:[10:30]- Medical Mailbag: Muscle typology and training[35:14]- Interview: Kennon HeardLinksLearn CPR

In this episode:It is a fact of life that as we age endurance performance inevitably declines. But do both genders decline at the same rate or, does one gender decline more slowly than the other? Hear what the research says on the Medical Mailbag. Plus, Chris Bagg is the head coach at Campfire Endurance and the writer of an article on whether or not we as triathletes should be focusing on hunting mice or antelope. Don't know what this means? You will and you will have a much better understanding of where to focus your energy and expenditures for training after listening to our conversation.Segments:[10:59]- Medical Mailbag: Aging decline and gender variability[33:15]- Interview: Chris Bagg LinksMMB video on YouTubeIronmanhacks video with ChrisChris' articleChris's Facebook page @campfire_endurance on Instagram Chris's Website @Chrisbagg on X Chris on YouTube

In this episode:How does cardiorespiratory fitness affect the lifetime risk of developing breast cancer in women? In the Medical Mailbag we look at new research that suggests daily exercise can have a profound effect on decreasing the likelihood of developing this disease. Plus, an interview with age group triathlete, author and coach Doug Morris on how multisport brings him joy and how he shares that with whomever he can.Segments:[09:27]- Medical Mailbag: Fitness and risk of breast cancer[35:00]- Interview: Doug Morris LinksTriing on Amazon

In this episode:How much do biomechanics influence running economy and is this something that coaches and athletes should work on improving? New research sheds some light and reveals some surprising answers to this questions. Mark Cullen is a successful age group triathlete a coach and one half of the co-hosting duo of the Endurance Icons podcast. He talks to me about all of this and along with the balancing act of being both the husband and the coach of a professional triathlete.Segments:[7:17]- Medical Mailbag: Biomechanics and running economy[36:14]- Interview: Mark Cullen Links@Markcullen_coach on Instagram Endurance Icons on Apple PodcastsUse the Garmin metronome function: Video

In this episode:During allergy season many use antihistamine medications as a means of controlling their symptoms. Emerging evidence suggests that there may be a cost to this practice in the form of decreased endurance performance. On the Medical Mailbag we look at the evidence. Jonathan Su is a long time physical therapist who has written a book that he promises can be a 6-minute solution to knee pain. We discuss his book and the methods that he describes within it.Segments:[12:22]- Medical Mailbag: Antihistamines[36:57]- Interview: Jonathan Su LinksJonathan's Website 6-Minute Knee Pain Cure on Amazon

In this episode:Ginseng is a root purported to have myriad beneficial properties making its use widespread in Chinese medicine and across the far east. Recently, a listener asked if this traditional remedy might also have benefits for athletes? On the Medical Mailbag, we dig in to the evidence for and against. Dr. Jim Taylor is a PhD in psychology and has worked with many professional and high level age group triathletes. He believes that training the mind is as important as training the body and he thinks that there are ways to leverage psychology to extract mental marginal gains that add up to improvements in performance. He tells me all about it in our conversation.Segments:[12:42]- Medical Mailbag: Can Ginseng make you faster?[34:51]- Interview: Dr. Jim Taylor LinksDr. Jim's Facebook page @drjimtaylor on Instagram @drjimtaylor on X Dr. Jim's Website Dr. Jim on YouTube

In this episode:Strength training is advocated for by coaches all the time in order to mitigate injury and improve endurance performance but finding scientific evidence to support these claims has been difficult. A new study gives some insight on the performance aspect and we look at it in the Medical Mailbag. Triathletes can take their selfish pursuit to extremes and put their relationships at risk. Couples' therapist Dr. Kayla Crane speaks with me to help us understand how to get ahead of those kinds of problems and make sure that your pursuit of happiness in multisport does not run afoul of your partner's pursuit of happiness on the home front.Segments:[13:35]- Medical Mailbag: Strength to improve running performance?[40:33]- Interview: Kayla CraneLinksKayla's Facebook page @southdenvertherapy on Instagram Kayla's Website

In this episode:I first looked at pneumatic compression boots back in episode 3 in 2019. Has there been any research published since then to suggest that my original recommendation has changed? We look at new research in this episode's Medical Mailbag. Plus, an interview with busy entrepreneur, mom and podcaster Doien Morin Van Dam. Her ability to keep many balls in the air and be a success in running makes for a great story and one that we can all learn from.Segments:[08:21]- Medical Mailbag: Pneumatic Compression Boots[28:34]- Interview: Dorien Morin-van Dam LinksDorien's Facebook page @moreinmedia on Instagram @moreinmedia on X Dorien's Website Dorien on YouTube

In this episode:Gatorade Endurance is being replaced by Mortal Hydration on IM and 70.3 courses in North America this year. What does that mean for athletes who rely on products provided at aid stations for fueling and hydration? We look at this question in the Medical Mailbag along with special guest Alex Larson. Plus, a conversation with Tyler Pedersen. From college football player to overweight near alcoholic, Tyler found himself in multi-sport. Hear how he has used triathlon to rediscover his purpose.Segments:[09:37]- Medical Mailbag: Mortal Hydration[38:15]- Interview: E. Tyler Pedersen Links@alexlarsonnutrition on Instagram Alex 's Website @e.tylerpedersen on Instagram E. Tyler 's Facebook page

In this episode:Turmeric lends a bright color and savory flavor to curries and other foods. For many centuries it has also been used as a natural remedy for most everything that ails you. Recently this spice has been advocated as a miracle anti-inflammatory cure by makers of supplements who sell versions of this root in powders and capsules. But what does the science say and is there a use for this possible wonder food for athletes? We take a look on the Medical Mailbag. Plus, an interview with newly minted rookie professional triathlete Jessica Cullen. Fresh off of her debut in Oceanside she shares her experience on being in such a big race to start her career and how she manages to fit in the training, a bust career and hosting a podcast all while staying exceptionally joyful.Segments:[06:15]- Medical Mailbag: Turmeric as anti-inflammatory?[27:05]- Interview: Jessica Cullen LinksEndurance Icons podcastJessica on IG

In this episode:Medium chain triglycerides (MCT) are advertised as a kind of booster fuel that can provide rapidly available and abundant energy during long training sessions or races. A fair amount of science has been done looking at whether or not this is true and on the Medical Mailbag we bring you the answers. Erin Rosen and Michaela Robertson are nurses, friends, runners and running coaches who together founded Strides for Strength a group that helps athletes break through plateaus on the run and beyond-- from everyday runs to chasing finish lines to hosting to retreats to never ending conversations about running on their podcast-- they are there for it all and on this episode they tell me all about it.Segments:[09:21]- Medical Mailbag: MCT[32:08]- Interview: Erin Rosen & Michaela RobertsonLinks@sfsrunners on Instagram Michaela's Website Stephanie vanBebber Coaching

In this episode:Does a nightcap interfere with sleep and recovery? We know that alcohol can be deleterious to training but what are its impacts on sleep? Plus, Nick Klingensmith found redemption for hard living through endurance sport and now tells anyone who will listen that they can do the same.Segments:[09:23]- Medical Mailbag: Alcohol and sleep[t29:39]- Interview: Nick Klingensmith LinksNick's Facebook page @stridemotivation on Instagram @stridemotivatio on X Nick's Website Nick on YouTube

In this episode:Extract of the bark of the maritime pine tree is thought to provide a host of potential benefits to health measures including some that extend to endurance sport. A new product aims to bring this substance to triathletes and is being backed by none other than the Norwegian duo of Iden and Blumenfeldt through their Santara Tech initiative. But does Plasmaide deliver on any of the lofty promises made on its very slick website? We take a look at the science on the Medical Mailbag. Then, a conversation with coach Marilyn Chychota who comes to triathlon from a background of equestrian show jumping. A circuitous route to be sure but one that has led her to have a fascinating outlook on life and made her successful in all of the ventures that she has pursued.Segments:[07:23]- Medical Mailbag: Plasmaide[30:21]- Interview: Marilyn ChychotaLinksConquer the Course IM CDA 70.3 WebinarMarilyn's Website Marilyn's Facebook page Marilyn on YouTube

In this episode:When is it ok to train through illness and how should you adapt your training when recovering from a malady? We look at several common ailments and discuss if it is safe to train through, whether you should rest up instead and how you should return to training afterwards. Cristina M Ramirez is a three time Ironman and best selling author. We talk about how she teaches growth mindset to kids using running as a tool and about her co-founding of a foundation that pairs up able bodied and paraathletes for competing in endurance events among her many other remarkable exploits.Segments:[06:58]- Medical Mailbag: When is it safe to train through illness?[38:22]- Interview: Cristina Ramirez LinksCristina's Facebook page @empoweredbydiscomfort on Instagram Cristina's Website IM 70.3 Coeur d'Alene Webinar sign up link

In this episode:Cycling carbohydrates so that you train with low glycogen levels was once thought to be a viable strategy for getting real benefits in endurance performance. This strategy has come in to question with more recent scientific research. On this episode's medical mailbag we take a look and see what the latest data suggests about this concept. Plus, neuroscientist Dr. Daya Grant stops by to talk about the flow and clutch states; what they are and how you can get there in order to make the most of your training and racing.Segments:[14:47]- Medical Mailbag: Carbohydrate Periodization[38:18]- Interview: Daya Grant [email protected] on Instagram Daya's Website

In this episode:Magnesium is the latest supplement to be advertised as a panacea for all that ails triathletes. Can it really do everything that the makers of Pillar, a powdered drink form of the element, promise? On this episode's medical mailbag, we take a look at the science. Plus, an interview with age grouper Mark Evans. The former submariner survived a terrible collision with an intoxicated driver during the 70.3 World Championships in Utah in 2022. Hear about how he managed to stay positive and come back to training and racing with his incredible mindset.Segments:[11:02]- Medical Mailbag: Magnesium[37:14]- Interview: Mark Evans LinksMark's Facebook page @frumpycob on Instagram

In this episode:Often referred to as the fourth discipline in triathlon, nutrition remains a source of confusion for many athletes. I have discussed nutrition across many episodes with many guests but I felt like it was time to bring together a couple of experts and dedicate an entire episode to this weighty topic. Alex Larson and Celine Evans are both multisport athletes with nutrition coaching businesses and a wealth of knowledge and expertise to share on this matter. Through our conversation they will help us understand why it is so important to fuel properly when we train race and recover, how we can do so more thoughtfully and why a nutrition coach can be such a valuable addition to your team if you choose to go that route.LinksCeline Evans:Nutrition 360LifeSport

In this episode:Long Run Coffee claims to be coffee with a purpose-to help start your day and your run off right by adding a dose of electrolytes to everyone's favorite morning beverage. There are a host of other claims and we wanted to know if any of them are backed up by science so we take a look on this episode's Medical Mailbag. Dave Lowry is an age group triathlete from Perth, Australia who recently participated in the Busselton Ironman using a modified BMX bike. While this sounds a little out there, Dave explains why he did this and tells me how his day went and it makes for a great story to round out 2023.Segments:[10:13]- Medical Mailbag: Long Run Coffee[30:26]- Interview: Dave Lowry LinksDave's Facebook page @djlowry1976 on Instagram

In this episode:The holidays always pose significant challenges for endurance athletes and on the Medical Mailbag this episode Coach Juliet and I share our hacks for doing your best to stick to your plan for multisport success while still enjoying all of the best things that the holidays offer. Plus, an interview with strength and conditioning coach Jason Curtis. Jason has an incredibly active and successful business developing programs for athletes in all kinds of sport and we discuss the importance of strength training not only for preventing injury but also for getting faster in triathlon.Segments:[05:53]- Medical Mailbag: Holiday Hacks[27:35]- Interview: Jason CurtisLinks@strengthandconditioningcourse on Instagram Jason's Website

In this episode:NAD+ is an important co-factor in many biochemical processes in our cells including the metabolism of glucose. There is research that suggests that as we age we may develop a deficiency of it and that supplementation might help with performance. We review the science. Gustavo Cadena Schlam is an engineer and the inventor of the Omius headband cooling device. We discuss how it works and what led to its development.Segments:[08:27]- Medical Mailbag: NAD+[33:43]- Interview: Gustavo Cadena Schlam Links@omiustech on Instagram Gustavo's Website

In this episode:What injuries are most common while training for an Ironman and how can they be avoided? How often do athletes present to the medical tent at an IM event and what problems are they going with? On the Medical Mailbag we review recent research that explores a wealth of data to answer those questions. Plus, an interview with national cycling champion and self-described aero geek Heath Dotson on what kinds of trends make sense for age groupers to consider for their own set ups and what they should just skip.Segments:[time stamp]- Medical Mailbag: Ironman Medical Misadventures[time stamp]- Interview: Heath Dotson LinksTriathlon Magazine Canada article on Louise Atkinson Clark@Hdcoaching on Instagram @Heathdotson on X Heath's Website

In this episode:Ozempic and Wegovy, both trade names of the drug semaglutide have led a kind of weight loss revolution because of the success patients who use them have had in dropping and keeping off weight. The mechanism by which this drug works does have some consequences for any multisport athletes who use or are considering using it and so on the medical mailbag we look at this drug and what multisport athletes should know. Edward O'Malley is an engineer and age group triathlete who saw a need for a better bike shoe so he designed one himself and the result is the VeloVetta. With its unique closure lever and aerodynamic features the shoe has some real promise for making your transitions and bike splits faster. Meet the man behind the shoe and hear why he did what he did.Segments:[03:53]- Medical Mailbag:[32:52]- Interview: Edward O'Malley LinksEdward's Facebook page @velovetta on Instagram Edward's Website Edward on YouTube

In this episode:The Dream Recovery is a piece of tape that you apply over your mouth at night to promote nose breathing and promises to improve sleep quality, recovery and a host of other processes. Is there anything to these claims? We take a look. Plus, a conversation with writer, coach and developer of the nutrition app Saturday Morning, Dr. Alex Harrison.Segments:[08:38]- Medical Mailbag: Dream Recovery[33:23]- Interview: Dr. Alex HarrisonLinksDr. Alex's Website Dr. Alex's Facebook group Dr. Alex's Facebook page @Dr_Alex_Harrison on Instagram @Dr_AlexHarrison on X Dr. Alex on YouTube

In this episode:Tart cherry juice was all the rage at the Vuelta a Espana last month. Is there any evidence to support its use and if so, what are the benefits of using it? Coach Juliet Hochman and I look at this beverage in the Medical Mailbag. Plus, an interview with Coach Jen Rulon. A former multiple time Ironman athlete, Jen has slowed down and is living large in beautiful Costa Rica where she continues with her coaching business but has embraced a more laid back approach to her life and focuses on strength training and mindset. Hear her philosophy and what else she is doing in our conversation.Segments:[07:30]- Medical Mailbag: Tart Cherry Juice[35:52]- Interview: Jen Rulon LinksJen Rulon has been a triathlon/fitness coach for 22+ years and owns JenRulon.com. She received her Master's Degree in Kinesiology with an emphasis in Exercise Science. Her knowledge as an author and speaker includes Triathlete Magazine, Runners World, on the TED Stage and the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater Commencement Speaker, Men's Journal Online, "Self Motivation Strategies for Women," (Amazon), and the New York Times. Jen practiced what she preached-she's a 15× Ironman Triathlete who qualified and participated in the World Championship in Kona, Hawaii, on October 14, 2017. Jen is "retired" from the sport of triathlon as an athlete but still coaches athletes worldwide and lives a life of abundance, strength training, walks, and catching the sunsets in Costa Rica. Jen's Facebook group Jen's Facebook page @CoachJenRulon on Instagram @CoachJenRulon on X Jen's Website Jen on YouTube

In this episode:Record breaking temperatures across the northern hemisphere this past summer are more than likely a harbinger of what is to come as climate change becomes more and more a feature of our lives. How to manage training and racing in the heat will become vital to staying healthy and to finding success. In the medical mailbag coach Juliet Hochman and I discuss some novel ways to hack your physiology and cool yourself down when things get hot. Plus, a conversation with Ironman age group athlete Dylan Davison. Dylan has had to overcome more than most on his way to the start line of the 2024 Ironman Chattanooga including the loss of his stomach. He hopes to become the first athlete to complete a 140.5 after a total gastrectomy. Learn about his journey and how he perseveres.Segments:[07:43]- Medical Mailbag: Hacking the heat[40:46]- Interview: Dylan Davison LinksDylan's Facebook page @dylan_davison on X Dylan's Website

In this episode:Cooler temperatures brings colder water for open water swimming. With that comes the risk of hypothermia. What happens to the body when we get cold and how can we prevent the worst complications of lower core temperatures? Are there ways that we can adapt to the cold in order to better resist the dangers? I go over the science with Juliet Hochman in the medical mailbag. Then, an interview with professional triathlete Lesley Smith who has more than twenty 70.3 podium results to her name in her ten seasons as a pro.Segments:[07:19]- Medical mailbag: Accidental Hypothermia[31:18]- Lesley SmithLinksLesley's Facebook page @lesleyesmith on Instagram @LesleySmithTri on X

In this episode:Vitamin C has been advocated as a means to boost immunity and stave off colds as well as an anti-oxidant that can help prevent cell damage. Some athletes and coaches have felt that taking this vitamin can help with endurance performance as well. What does the research say? Plus, a conversation with the volunteer coordinator of the Boulder 70.3 race, Jen Szabo. Hear what it takes to get as many as a thousand people to come and help make this event happen and why getting volunteers is becoming more of a challenge.Segments:[09:57]- Medical mailbag: Vitamin C[time stamp]- Interview: Jen Szabo LinksJen's Facebook page @RockstarSzabo on X @rockstarszabo on Instagram

In this episode:So called super shoes have been all the rage since they were first released back in 2016. These running shoes with high tech foam and a carbon fiber footplate embedded in the sole have proven to be significantly faster across all distances and have been worn by elites and age groupers in track and field, running events and multisport. Recently, research has emerged that raises the specter that these shoes might be associated with an increased risk for injuries. In the medical mailbag, we discuss this research and what to do about it. Plus, a conversation with Michelle Lake. Michelle is an athlete, a coach and more recently, a coach's coach. We discuss her advice for coaches to make their hobby a full time job.Segments:[05:02]- Medical mailbag: Carbon fiber footplates and increased injury risk[31:44]- Michelle Lake LinksMichelle's Facebook page @CoachMichelleLake on Instagram Michelle's Website

In this episode:More and more, researchers are coming to understand how significant a role our gut has in many wide ranging physiologic processes. One important reason for that may have to do with the gut microbiome. What is the gut microbiome and how does it impact our health? How does diet affect the microbiome and what is the relationship between the microbiome and endurance exercise performance? In this episode's medical mailbag, we look at recent research that suggests our microbiome may have an outsized role in how we perform when training and racing. Plus, a conversation with the incredibly fast and increasingly successful professional triathlete Tamara Jewett. Tamara's path to the top of the pro ranks in triathlon was not a straight line and she continues to impress with her actions both while racing and when not. Hear more about who this woman is and why she is so impressive.Segments:[04:17]- Medical Mailbag: The gut microbiome and athletic performance[32:35]- Tamara JewettLinks@tamarajewett on Instagram Tamara's Website One Tree Planted

In this episode:Cardiovascular health deteriorates for women rapidly after menopause but new research suggests that much of the impact of the loss of sex hormones can be mitigated by regular exercise. While training throughout life seems to be the most beneficial, starting around menopause can also be very helpful. On the medical mailbag we discuss the latest findings and have a special guest to help us get the most out of them. Plus, a conversation with the race director of possibly the most difficult short course triathlon in the world. Jochem Batstra oversees the Saba triathlon on the tiny Dutch Island in the Caribbean. Hear what this race is about and see if you might be brave enough to give it a try!Segments:[07:28]- Medical mailbag: cardiovascular health in perimenopausal women[31:46]- Jochem BatstraLinks@event66_jochem on Instagram Jochem's Website Jochem's Facebook page

In this episode:Is chocolate milk really all it's cracked up to be as the 'best drink for recovery'? And what is really meant by recovery in this context anyways?? Plus, a conversation with the founder and CEO of Humango, Eric Abecassis. Eric has developed an AI based platform to help athletes and coaches motivate and plan for the best training possible to achieve their goals.Segments:[08:41]- Medical mailbag-Chocolate milk for recovery[28:04]- Eric AbecassisLinksHumangoHumango on FBHumango on IG

In this episode:Men and women differ in many ways and recent research has suggested that one of these may be in how they need to hydrate during sporting activities. Menstruating women start out better hydrated than men and appear to lose less fluid than their male counterparts meaning that different genders may want to consider different hydration strategies. Coach Juliet Hochman and I discuss in the Medical Mailbag. Then, professionals Matthew Sharpe and Chris Leiferman join me to recount what went down in their epic race for the podium with Lionel Sanders at the Boulder 70.3 triathlon last weekend. Her the inside scoop from the men who finished in 3rd and 5th on the daySegments:[06:07]- Medical Mailbag: Gender differences in hydration needs[28:51]- Interview with Matthew Sharpe and Chris Leiferman

In this episode:Inflammation is poorly understood and yet a vital response to illness and injury. Unchecked it is also a cause of myriad chronic diseases. Recent research has also linked a heightened inflammatory state to aging suggesting a concept of inflammaging. So what is the inflammatory response and how concerned should we be with trying to control it? Plus, an interview with professional triathlete Jackson Landry. Off to a great start in 2023, Jackson shares his thoughts on the doping scandal that rocked our sport as well as fad diets and much more.Segments:[06:38]- Medical Mailbag: inflammation[36:52]- Interview: Jackson Laundry LinksJackson's Facebook page @jacksonlaundrytri on Instagram Jackson's Website Jackson on YouTube

In this episode:The recent doping scandal has rocked triathlon and made many question if the sport is as clean as they think. I review the science on what agents dopers use, whether or not they actually improve performance and the shocking numbers of age group athletes that admit to using some form of banned substance in order to get an edge. Plus, an interview with the founder and owner of Varlo the triathlon apparel brand that has taken multisport by storm. Soj Jibowu has infused the company with a work ethic and enthusiasm that only partially explains its success. We talk about the company's philosophy and how their mission is to make triathlon more inclusive for whoever wants to participate.Segments:[05:35]- Medical mailbag: Doping in sport[34:00]- Soj Jibowu of VarloLinksSoj Jibowu Varlo on IGVarlo website

In this episode:The ketogenic diet is not a great idea for endurance athletes but some of the theoretical benefits of ketones as fuel are enticing. Supplemental ketones have been used by professional cyclists for some time now, is there any evidence to suggest this is a viable strategy for triathletes? Plus, a conversation with the co-executive director of First Bourne, a new company that offers exciting new options with full service for triathlon camps to athletes and coaches.Segments:[08:29]- Medical mailbag: ketone supplements[27:40]- Jennifer O'Keefe [email protected] on Instagram

In this episode:The dangers of open water swimming are well documents but many also claim that open water swimming made them sick. Is this possible? If so then what can we do to decrease our risks and what should we be watching out for? Plus a conversation with the executive director of the USAT Foundation Thomas Lenneberg. He shares with me the Foundation's history, its mission and some of the good work that they have done over the past couple of years.Segments:[06:13]- Can swimming make you sick?[23:37]- Thomas Lenneberg of USATFLinksEpisode 18, discussion of SIPEThomas Lenneberg Thomas's Facebook page @USATFoundation on X Thomas's Website @usatfoundation on Instagram

In this episode:Stress has long been known to be an important risk factor for cardiovascular disease and is considered an important cause of morbidity and mortality. How psychological stress translates to physical disease has not been well understood though. New research suggests a mechanism for this connection and suggests how regular exercise may serve as a buffer of sorts, decreasing the impact of stress and improving long term outcomes. I review the evidence. Plus a conversation with the founder of nutrition app FuelIn, Scott Tindal. We chat about the importance of iron deficiency in athletes and whether or not supplementing with iron is a good idea.Segments:[10:20]- Stress and the heart and how exercise might help[22:58]- SCOTT TINDAL LinksSCOTT 's Facebook group SCOTT 's Facebook page @getfuelin on Instagram SCOTT 's Website SCOTT on YouTube

In this episode:Science is not static and as new papers come out it is worthwhile revisiting previous topics to see if any of my previous conclusions should be updated. On this episode I look at newer research on topics previously covered in several different episodes to see if I should revise what I concluded at that time. Specifically, cold water immersion, platelet rich plasma injections, bicarbonate supplementation and stretching. Plus, endocrinologist Dr. Izzy Smith joins me to talk about FEMMI a women's coaching and educational organization in Australia and New Zealand that helps women and the men that work with them better understand the female reproductive cycle and how it may impact individual training and racing.Segments:[08:55]- Science updates[29:28]- Izzy Smith Links@doctorizzyksmith on Instagram FEMMI

In this episode:Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a very common mood disorder in the northern hemisphere experienced during the fall and winter months by as many as 5% of the population who live there. What role does exercise and physical activity play in managing the symptoms and can exercise be helpful in preventing this problem? I review the evidence. Plus, an interview with multiple Ironman winner and 2014 IMWC runner-up Ben Hoffman. Ben has had a long and successful career that includes his win at last December's Patagoniaman Xtri in Chile. He joins me to chat about all of that as well as his plans for 2023.Segments:[08:25]- Seasonal Affective Disorder[20:35]- Ben HoffmanLinksBenjamin Hoffman @bhoffmanracing on Instagram

In this episode:Listeners have questions and I have answers! On this episode I answer listener questions about whether or not stretching is beneficial and on how to approach injuries with respect to recovery and rehabilitation. Plus, an interview with Canadian Olympian and now professional triathlete Matt Sharpe.Segments:[05:42]- Stretching/Injury Rehab[20:07]- Interview: Matt sharpeLinksLifeSport Tri CampMy video on TriCamps@mdsharpe1 on Instagram @mdshrp on X Matthew's Website

In this episode:Much has been said about how female reproductive hormones can play a role in women's ability to train and race and most of what has been said has come from one woman. The reality though is the evidence paints a very different picture than what too many women have been sold as what to expect. I look at the latest in a growing body of evidence to question the dogma that women should expect to perform differently based on when in their cycle they train. Plus, a year after he first appeared on this podcast to talk about the Race Ranger, James Elvery is back to give an update after his first real world test in a race situation. How did it go and what comes next for the anti-drafting solution?Segments:[09:05]- Medical question-Menstruation and performance[19:02]- Interview-James ElveryLinks Ironman competition rules 2023World Athletics approved shoe list

In this episode:After Chelsea Sodaro won the Ironman World Championships there was a lot of talk about how extraordinary her accomplishment was given that she was a fairly new mother. While her accomplishment WAS indeed amazing should we be surprised that a woman could do that after having a baby? There is some scientific evidence on this question and I look at what it has to say on this matter. Plus, a conversation with the 70.3 World Championship silver medallist and third place finisher at Ironman Arizona, Ben Kanute.Segments:[09:10]- Medical question[19:08]- Ben KanuteLinks

In this episode:Garmin wearables measure all kinds of data whenever you wear them and then process that data through various algorithms to present users with composite metrics on training and health. For many, how these are derived and what they mean is very much a mystery while for others they can be a source of consternation especially when your watch tells you that a perfectly good workout was 'unproductive' to your training status! I look at these measures in order to explain how they are arrived at and whether or not you should pay them any heed. Plus, an interview with longtime professional triathlete Brent McMahon. The Canadian has been to the Olympics twice and seemingly raced everywhere around the world on the ITU, 70.3 and Ironman circuits. We discuss his long career and keys to his success.Segments:[06:07]- Garmin measures and metrics[30:50]- Brent McMahonLinksBrent McMahon @Tribrentmcmahon on X Brent's Website @Tribrentmcmahon on Instagram

In this episode:We know that exercise is good for our health and well being but can too much of a good thing be...not so good? Research has begun to show that in older individuals, the benefits of exercise may diminish after a threshold of volume and intensity is surpassed and a new paper has found that even among elite athletes in their twenties, too much training at too high an intensity might be the cause of cardiac events. I look at what is known about all of this. Scott Tindal has worked with professional athletes across many sports on different continents and now brings his skills to bear for triathletes as an advisory board member for nutrition for Ironman. He is also the CEO of FuelIn, an app for your phone that looks to help you sort out your nutrition and fit it to your training. Scott speaks to me about his philosophy for nutrition and training as well as about a plethora of other topics.Segments:[05:49]- Exercise and reverse J-curves[19:39]- SCOTT TINDAL LinksSCOTT 's Website SCOTT 's Facebook group @getfuelin on Instagram SCOTT on YouTube

In this episode:Side stitch can be the bane of runners everywhere but what causes it and how to prevent it remains very much a mystery. recent evidence suggests that a possible issue may actually be in your head, specifically related to stress levels. On this episode I review the science of what is known about this painful annoyance as well as this recent research on how anxiety and stress might lead to its occurrence. Mike Reilly has been calling the finish line for triathlon and most iconically Ironman for more than thirty years but that all came to an end with his retirement after the recent Ironman New Zealand. I had the great fortune to chat with him before he left for that event and you can hear him reminisce and talk about the future in this episode.Segments:[08:00]- Side stitch[18:56]- Mike ReillyLinksMike's Website Mike's Facebook page @ironmanvoice on Instagram @ironmanvoice on X Mike on YouTube IM foundation auction for Mike's towelTriDoc Podcast FB group

In this episode:Social media is the great unifier and the great disruptor of our times. It's effects on individuals and societies continue to be reckoned with but does social media use impact athletic performance? A growing body of evidence would seem to suggest so. I review what is known. Plus, a conversation with American professional triathlete Tim O'Donnell. Tim recovered from an unfathomable medical emergency in early 2021 to return to Kona this past October and finish in the top 15. We chat about his career, the last two years and what lies ahead.Segments:[07:55]- Social Media and athletic performance[16:36]- Tim O'DonnellLinksWaterfall Racing

In this episode:Is there an association between endurance sports and poor oral health? Do all of the sugary drinks and gels combine to put athletes at risk for cavities and gum disease? Dr. Ian Needleman is an oral surgery professor in London, England and an ultra runner and he joins me to discuss this topic in the medical segment. Plus, Jim Vance has a well deserved reputation as one of the best coaches at developing young talent and producing champions. His most famous charge of late is olympian and newly minted 70.3 World championship silver medalist Ben Kanute. Jim joins me to talk about the state of coaching, how the sport is evolving with stellar performances from so many at the longer distances and what we can look forward to in the future.Segments:[07:04]- Ian Needleman and a discussion of oral health[33:00]- Jim Vance Links@IanNeedleman on X Ian's Website @jimvance on X @coachjimvance on Instagram Jim's Website