The TriDoc Podcast, triathlon and health in one place

In this episode:BOA is a new novel way of getting your salt supplements via transmucosal delivery and the product promises a LOT. How much of what they are selling is based on science and how much is just the usual hype? I take a look and give you an overview of what you can expect. Joe Wilson is a successful age grouper and YouTuber he is also well know on the socials as an affable, fun loving guy who was recently featured in a Slowtwitch profile for his exploits as a supreme cheerleader at IM races. He joins me today to turn the tables by interviewing me. Many listeners have requested more information about my story and how I have found success at racing at an older age. Joe does a great job exploring my past and unlocking some of the keys to my successes.Segments:[05:15]- BOA[19:25]- Joe Wilson Interviews the TriDoc

In this episode:The AIRWAAV is an oral appliance that repositions the tongue and is supposed to improve respiratory mechanics and possibly athletic performance. As always, the product's website is full of big claims but what does the science say? Jordan Bryden is the current World Champion of the Ultraman a three day event that encompasses a 10k open water swim, a 260 plus mile bike over two days and a 50 plus mile run on the third day. But he is much more than that! He is a professional triathlete with wins at the 70.3 distance and significant accomplishments in Ironman and is an exceptional photographer. He joins me to talk about all of it.Segments:[06:30]- AIRWAAV[17:19]- Jordan BrydenLinksJordan's Facebook page @jordanbryden on Instagram Jordan's Website @jordanbryden on X

In this episode:Gastrointestinal (GI) distress is an exceedingly common complaint among endurance athletes but despite years of research the actual reason for why this occurs remains mostly speculative. Recent research looked at whether or not what an athlete eats and how much of it can play a role in the development of GI issues during a race and the authors set out to determine if the underlying cause of the problem is inflammation and injury. I review their findings and give some specific recommendations with a special guest. Also, a conversation with the amazing Juliet Hochman. This former Olympic rower has lived her best life doing things that most of us can only dream of and on top of that has won world championships in several disciplines of multisport. I try to find out what makes her tick and get some practical advice that we can all use in our entertaining and informative conversation.Segments:[05:48]- Gi distress[25:53]- Juliet HochmanLinksJuliet's Facebook page @juliethochman on Instagram Juliet's Website

In this episode:Hydration status is an important factor for performance especially in warmer environments. Recently though, research has emerged suggesting that as you become dehydrated it not only becomes harder to perform at the same level but the perception of effort is also affected. I look at the science and evaluate how much the effect is, when it becomes an issue and what can be done to prevent it. Plus, a conversation with Irish physiotherapist and competitive runner Eoin Everard on how to understand running injuries so that we can better strategize how to avoid them.Segments:[8:33]- Hydration and perception of effort[20:33]- Eoin Everard LinksEoin's Facebook page Eoin's Website

In this episode:Alkaline water has been promoted for all manner of health benefits but is there any rationale for why this would work and any science to support the claims that it does? I look at what this basic solution is, what it is supposed to be able to do and whether or not there is any supporting evidence. Plus an interview with ageless DeDe Griesbauer. DeDe has been a professional triathlete for more than two decades and despite turning her attention to the ultra distance continues to break records and have success. Find out what makes her tick and why she thinks that she has had such incredible staying power.Segments:[07:59]- Alkaline water[19:15]- Dede Griesbauer LinksDede's Facebook page @dedegriesbauer on Instagram Dede's Website

In this episode:Overuse injuries are very common amongst professional triathletes and high performing age groupers alike. The conventional wisdom has always been that these are due to overloading training combined with insufficient recovery. New research now also suggests an important role for psychological and psychosocial stressors as well. I review the published evidence. Also, a discussion with the CEO of the Professional Triathlete's Organization (PTO) Sam Renouf. Sam educates me on the reasoning for the PTO and how it is aiming to improve our sport for professionals and age groupers alike and why we should celebrate their success and collaboration with WTC and Clash.Segments:[06:36]- Overuse injuries and the association with psychological stressors[17:45]- Sam RenoufLinksSam Renouf Sam's Website

In this episode:Covid numbers have dropped and we may be in to a new phase of the pandemic but for millions of people symptoms persist in the form of long Covid. Worse, there may be as yet unknown long term consequences for young people as they age. Researchers at the University of Massachusetts recently published a paper that summarizes what is known about long covid in athletes and why some of it may portend for bad outcomes in the decades to come. I review their findings. Also, my conversation with Joe Friel with tips for how to get the most out of Training Peaks and his insights on the Triathlete's Training Bible.Segments:[08:28]- Long Covid and athletes[21:02]- Joe FrielLinksJoe Friel:Twitter: @jfrielYou Tube channelWebsite

In this episode:Staying hydrated is an important contributor to success in endurance racing especially in warmer environments. A product that has been around in Oceania and is now available in the US has it's roots as an oral rehydration solution for children with cholera. It's makers claim that the same technology that works to improve outcomes in diarrheal illness make it a 'revolutionary hydration product' for athletes as well. Is this claim backed up by science? I take a look. Plus an interview with the man in the halo, professional triathlete Tim Don whose recovery from a dramatic injury is representative to many of what triathlon is about-overcoming tremendous adversity through hard work and dedication to achieve a goal. Through it all, Tim has retained the infectious smile and affable qualities that have made him one of the more popular athletes on the circuit. We discuss his history in the sport, his injury and recovery and where he goes next.Segments:[06:23]- PREPD[21:12]- Tim DonLinksTim's websiteTriDoc Podcast FB group

In this episode:There is a longstanding belief that living and maybe training at altitude confers benefits on performance especially when an athlete goes to compete at a lower level. The science on this matter is a little less certain. Yes, there are physiological adaptations that occur but do these actually translate in to better results? I review the evidence. Plus, an interview with Skye Moench:Skye is a professional triathlete who specializes in long-course triathlon. She is a multiple Ironman and 70.3 Champion. In 2021, Skye ended the year ranked 7th in the PTO World Rankings. Segments:[05:15]- Training at altitude[20:08]- Skye MoenchLinksSkye's Facebook page @skyemoench on Instagram @skyemoench on X Skye's Website Skye on YouTube

In this episode:The impact that good quality sleep has on exercise performance has been pretty well understood for some time now. What is becoming clearer is how exercise also has a role in improving the quality of sleep. In addition, there is a growing consensus that both sleep and exercise are beneficial to cognitive function and memory. I explore what is known about this and speak to some prominent researchers in the field. Plus, Heather Fuhr was one of a trio of dominant Canadian women in Ironman triathlon in the 90'2 and early 2000's. Fuhr won the 1997 World Championship in Kona and had numerous top ten finishes on the big island to go along with her many wins at Lake Placid, California, Japan and others. She joins me to discuss her storied career and what she has been doing to stay active in triathlon since her retirement.Segments:[06:59]- Exercise, sleep and memory[18:04]- Heather Fuhr

In this episode:Spirulina is the name given to the extract of two species of blue green algae. Easy to cultivate and harvest, the plant is a remarkable source of nutrients and was once touted by NASA as the 'food of the future' and has even been grown in space for that purpose. Spirulina has gained popularity as a supplement as well and not just for nutrition but also for its purported effects on exercise performance. What does the science say and is this at long last a supplement that I can get behind? Plus, an entertaining and informative interview with British professional triathlete Laura Siddall. Laura didn't take the usual route to the pro ranks and despite her success remains grounded and very much active in giving back to anyone and everyone that she can.Segments:[09:11]- Spirulina supplements[25:00]- Laura SiddallLinks

In this episode:Osteostrong is a program aimed at women that promises to build bone strength and prevent mineral loss in a way that is far more efficient than anything else out there and with results that seem far too good to be true. While not specifically targeted at athletes, the marketers of Osteostrong employ all of the same tired methods to induce customers to spend their money on something that is very much unproven. I explore these methods in order to once again demonstrate how marketers of devices can stretch credulity in order to separate you from your hard earned cash. While Osteostrong may not be triathlon specific, the lessons are definitely applicable. James Elvery is a former professional triathlete and the founder of Race Ranger a new technology that has the potential to revolutionize the bike leg of triathlon. He joins me to discuss this exciting new device.Segments:[07:00]- Osteostrong[18:21]- James ElveryLinksRace Ranger

In this episode:The Omicron variant of Covid-19 has swept across the globe infecting record numbers of people including those with vaccinations. A question for many of those who are also endurance athletes is 'when and how can I safely return to training?' I am joined by Dr. Spencer Tomberg to review some recent guidelines in order to try and answer this important and timely question. Plus, an interview with Brandy Ramirez. Mother, wife, triathlete, triathlon coach, cancer survivor and founder of SheStrong a community of like minded women seeking to heal through shared experience and community. Brandy is spending her 2022 doing new things including her first full Ironman in Alaska and putting on her first ever race. She joins me to tell the whole story.Segments:[6:12]- Returning to training post-Covid[34:10]- Brandy RamirezLinksDr. Tomberg's YouTube channel: linkLink to Return to sport guideline: HereSheStrong on FaceBookMonarch Triathlon

In this episode:The New Year is a time for resolutions and one that is frequently made involves losing weight in order to be healthier. But as obesity rates continue to rise unabated researchers have started to question the wisdom of making weight loss the goal and instead are starting to promote being active and fit instead. I take a look at the science in this area and report on how being active is a healthier and more sustainable way to reach your goals. In addition, I have an entertaining conversation with triathlon legend Bob Babbitt. Bob has been around triathlon as long as the sport has been around and he has the stories to prove it. Listen in as he talks about Hawaii before it was what it is today, the growth of the sport and the Challenged Athlete Foundation among just some of the things he has anecdotes to share.Segments:[5:30]- Activity vs. weight loss[18:46]- Bob BabbittLinksCAF: linkBreakfast with Bob podcast

In this episode:When transitioning from high volume and intensity endurance training to lower volume and supplementing with strength training, what are the changes that take place in the body? Why do so many coaches promote this kind of philosophy and is there a sound rationale for its use? This was the basis of a question submitted by a listener and I take a look at both the science and the coaching perspective in order to give an answer. Plus, a conversation with Mental Endurance Coach and podcaster Vanessa Faye Foerster. Vanessa was a solid triathlete but realized that in order to get to the next level she first had to get out of her own way. She describes how she did that and how she helps others do the same in order to reach their potential.Segments:[7:40]- Off season training physiology[19:15]- Vanessa FoersterLinksVanessa's website to find her podcast and other connections: hereVanessa's IG: vanessafayefoerster

In this episode:We all know that our genes are the blueprint for who we are but has genetic testing reached the point that we can find out who we are meant to be? Several companies now offer DNA tests that purport to inform users of their athletic potential and specific abilities. Is this based on science or is this just another example of putting the cart way ahead of the horse? I investigate. Plus, the amazing Mike Wien; age group World Champion for the 70.3 triathlon, and winner of the Boston Marathon and NYC marathons all in rapid succession. Meet this amazing and affable man in my interview with him.Segments:[4:55]- The DNA Company[21:00]- Mike WienLinksMike's website: www.specificedge.com

In this episode:Inside Tracker has been on a major advertising blitz of late making a huge push for new customers in an effort to get more athletes to spend hundreds of dollars on their blood testing services. I reviewed Inside Tracker a long time ago but given the surge in advertising and the promise of improved health and even performance to those who might be seduced in to signing up, I thought that it was time to revisit my original overview. Is a service like this helpful or in any way useful to improving health or athletic performance? I replay my original segment from Episode 4 and update it with some new insights. Also, a conversation with Canadian exercise physiologist and researcher Kate Wickham. Kate has in her early career already established herself as a quality researcher looking to reduce the gender gap in her field. We discuss some of her work as well as some of the limitations of exercise science research in general.Segments:[8:44]- Inside Tracker revisited[25:50]- Kate Wickham

In this episode:Iron deficiency is a common concern amongst athletes but is it a commonly occurring problem in this group? I review iron metabolism, dietary sources and the evidence on how frequently iron deficiency is found in the athlete population. I also look at what is known about iron deficiency and athletic performance as well as whether or not there is any benefit to iron supplementation. Plus, an interview with former Olympic cross country skier Kris Freeman. Kris had tremendous success in a sport that is generally dominated by Europeans and he did it while being diagnosed and learning to manage type 1 diabetes. After his skiing career, Kris has turned to triathlon where he continues to have great success and is at the forefront of understanding his disease and how to manage it.Segments:[6:11]- Iron deficiency in athletes[26:35]- Interview with Kris FreemanLinksMark Allen YouTube videoKris on FaceBook

In this episode:Through 78 episodes the TriDoc podcast has been a resource for athletes trying to make sense of the advertising and marketing that accompanies products aimed at them promising to improve performance. On this episode, joined by the podcast intern Maddy Pesch, I review the ways that such marketing is often deceiving and how consumers can be better attuned to the kinds of common ways that what is promised so very often deviates from reality.Plus, a conversation with the highly entertaining Alex Larson. A nutritionist for endurance athletes who understands that eating is not only something to be enjoyed but a way to fuel high performance training and racing.Segments:[5:22]- Decoding the science in marketing[39:10]- Alex LarsonLinksAlex's websiteInstagram: alexlarsonnutritionYouTubeFaceBookFaceBook group

In this episode:training with a running injury is often impossible and can be a real issue if a race is coming up. A new device called the Lever Movement advertises itself as a potential solution allowing runners to 'unweight' themselves and train through injury getting the benefits of improved fitness while allowing for injuries to heal. Similar but much more complicated and expensive technology in the form of the AlterG offers similar claims. So what does the science say? Are these devices worth the investment of money and time or is there a cheaper more accessible solution? Plus, a conversation with Dr. Tracy Cushing. Always smiling, always moving forward no matter what obstacles she faces, this triathlete had to deal with a rare form of breast cancer and through it all used triathlon as one of her main motivators through her darkest moments. Hear how she made it through and returned just as strong as ever.Segments:[6:54]- Anti-gravity running[20:51]- Dr. Tracy CushingLinksAlterG website: linkTracy Cushing on IG: @tracycrushescancerInformation on Lobular Breast Cancer: link

In this episode:Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) has been around for more than three decades but is only now becoming more widely known among endurance athletes. What is it? How does it work? Does it really offer benefits that make it something that triathletes and other endurance athletes should consider? I look at the science. Plus, a conversation with John Duquette the owner of Blue70 sports on the how and why of wetsuits for triathlon. Are they really that much faster? Am I better with sleeves or without and what about those floaty shorts?Segments:[6:45]- Medical question[22:14]- InterviewLinksTriDoc IM Indiana Race ReportBlue70Myfirstwetsuit.com

In this episode:Fall is here and with it comes the switch back to standard time. Why do we go through the annual changing of the clocks and is there any effect on health of doing so? I look at the evidence and include a discussion on a similar subject, crossing time zones for travel. How it impacts performance and why as well as what you can do about it. Plus, a conversation with six time Ironman World Champion and Master Coach Mark Allen.Segments:[10:40]- Daylight savings time/Jet Lag[26:00]- Mark AllenLinksKelly O'Mara opinion article in Triathlete (membership required)Mark Allen Coaching

In this episode:Are you a morning person? An evening person? Something in between? Whatever it is, that chronotype has implications for when you are likely to best perform as an athlete during the day. Circadian rhythm refers to our internal clock and it has control over many physiologic processes. It turns out that it also has effects on athletic performance but it can be manipulated. In this episode I review the science on what time of day we perform our best and how we can manipulate our biology to work for us when we want it to. Plus, an interview with Detroit attorney and Ironman Foundation fundraiser Bill Ogden. Bill has had an eventful 2020 and 2021 in and out of our sport and he shares his experiences good and bad to help us all see the good that is in triathlon.Segments:[9:00]- Circadian rhythm[20:26]- Bill OgdenLinksBill Ogden IMF donation pageBill's Story with MS

In this episode:In the third and final episode looking at novel treatments for injury, I look at the evidence supporting the use of Low Levels Laser Treatment (LLLT). This is a widely available procedure with no really well understood mechanism of action. Is there evidence to suggest that it might be useful? Plus, a conversation with up and coming Australian professional triathlete Steve McKenna. After an injury forced him to take time off from Aussie Rules football, McKenna discovered his natural abilities in multisport and he has never looked back.Segments:[9:30]- LLLT[24:25]- Steve McKenna

In this BONUS episode:Tim O'Donnell had a heart attack during a race and just recently announced this to the world. Now, collectively, the triathlon world is quite justifiably freaking out. If this happened to him then couldn't it happen to anyone? In this special bonus episode I discuss what it all means and why most people don't really need to worry. I am also joined by interventional cardiologist Dr. Matt Holland to discuss some of the nuances of what Tim disclosed in his video and leave you with some important take home points of what you should consider going forward to remain healthy.LinksTim's YouTube announcement video

In this episode:Continuing the series on alternative therapies for injuries I look at the evidence in support of platelet rich plasma injections (PRP). While it has attracted a lot of attention and is advocated as a near miracle cure for all sorts of ailments, is there any research that actually bears out some of the claims? I take a look and give you a summary of the findings. Also, a conversation with the editor in chief of Triathlete Magazine, Keely O'Mara. Kelly is a pro triathlete with a lot of experience in and around the sport and has some great insights on all things triathlon.Segments:[8:40]- Medical question[27:26]- InterviewLinks

In this episode:No one wants to get an injury as an athlete let alone be faced with a prolonged period of recovery before being able to return training. For this reason, those with injuries, especially of the chronic kind, are always looking for ways to hasten the healing process and get back to it. On this episode I begin a series of segments looking at the evidence for or against some of the more popular treatments that athletes may turn to. The first one I will examine is the use of steroid injections. Are they helpful? Can they cause harm? Who should consider them? Plus, a conversation with recently retired professional triathlete and the entrepreneur behind Dimond Bikes, TJ Tollakson.Segments:[05:53]- Steroids for injury[19:33]- TJ TollaksonLinksDimond Bikes YouTube videos on the history of beam bikes: https://youtu.be/rKqTnuhAVZwDimond BikesRed Crown Cycling

In this episode:In episode 66 I covered the benefits of massage as well as the risks if used too close to an event. On this episode I look at what has been done to evaluate the use of massage guns and vibration massage tools. Are they helpful? Are they any different than standard massage? Plus a conversation with High Intensity Interval Training expert and consultant Paul Larsen. He literally wrote the book on how to use this popular modality of training to get stronger and faster. He joins me to discuss the methods, the evidence to back them up and how triathletes can use HIIT to get faster in all three disciplines.Segments:[06:55]- Massage guns[18:56]- Paul Larsen-HIITLinkshttps://hiitscience.comhttps://athletica.ai/Instagram@hiitscience@athletica_ai

In this episode:Injuries are a constant threat for endurance athletes including triathletes but many don't consider swimming as high risk as biking or running because of the no-impact nature of the activity.In reality, shoulder injuries are very common among swimmers including triathletes. I review the evidence on just who is likely to be affected, what kinds of activity in the water is highest risk and what might be done to decrease the likelihood of getting injured.Plus, a conversation with Andrew Patterson the author of the popular Ironman Hacks newsletter, blog and race planning app.Segments:[06:25]- Swimming injuries[26:15]- Andrew PattersonLinksTim CrowleywebsiteThe Powerful Triathlete e-book: linkAndrew PattersonIronman HacksIron Hack app

In this episode:It has long been held that what surface you run on is a major contributor to injuries in running. Harder surfaces lead to more injuries than softer ones. Or is the other way around? Is it possible that we have this upside down? Newer analyses and thinking on this matter posits that in fact, the biomechanics of running on softer surfaces might actually be worse for injuries than when running on harder ones. I look at the research and give you the inside scoop. Plus, a wide ranging conversation with six time Kona champion and legend in the sport, Dave Scott.Segments:[04:40]- The relationship between running surfaces and running injuries[14:35]- Dave ScottLinksDave's website: Link

In this episode:Tapering is a well accepted part of a triathlon training program leading up to an event. But how should a taper be structured in order to get the most out of it and how long should it last? There is actually a fair bit of research on these questions and on this episode I take a look to help answer them along with some others like whether or not the 'taper tantrums' are a real thing. Plus, an interview with USAT CEO Rocky Harris. Rocky talks to me about the state of triathlon, the future coming out of the pandemic and efforts to increase diversity and inclusion in the sport.Segments:[06:00]- The science of tapering[24:00]- Rocky Harris

In this episode:Massage therapy does a body and mind good but is there any science to support the gestalt that we all may share that it really improves recovery or performance? Despite the fact that it has been around pretty much forever and the fact that there are many technological aids that leverage massage to purportedly enhance recovery, the truth is, evidence to support these claims is pretty scarce. I look at the science of a good rubdown. Plus, my conversation with Simon Ward a longtime British triathlon coach with numerous accolades and awards to his name. Simon is the toast of an entertaining podcast that espouses his philosophy of triathlon training-that we should all aspire to be 'high performance humans' as opposed to just high performing triathletes. We discuss what that means and how you can become one.Segments:[06:30]- Massage and recovery[15:50]- Simon WardLinksIt Could Be Me: https://www.itcouldbeme.orgSimon Ward podcast: linkSimon's website: link

In this episode:Humans domesticated wheat millennia ago and in so doing created a civilization. Despite a harmonious and fruitful relationship, the past decade has seen a revolution against the grain precipitated by one man and his book 'Wheat Belly'. The subsequent rush to a gluten free lifestyle has been as rapid as it is mystifying. Is there any scientific evidence to support the claims in Wheat Belly or is it all one man's theorizing? And what of claims that being gluten free can enhance athletic performance? I look at the evidence. Plus, the conclusion of my entertaining and thought provoking interview with Sara Gross and Sarah True-in this segment we discuss the role for men in advocating for women in triathlon as well as their thoughts on transgender women in the sport.Segments:[06:30]- Gluten free diet[16:00]- Pt. 2: Sara Gross & Sarah TrueLinksFODMAP diet: https://www.monashfodmap.comLive Feisty Media: linkIf We Were Riding podcast

In this episode:Cold has long been advocated as treatment for sore muscles after a hard workout but recent research is beginning to suggest that heat may actually be a better way to go. Can heat decrease the soreness associated with delayed onset muscle soreness and actually accelerate recovery to improved performance? I review the evidence. Sara Gross and Sarah True are the dynamic duo behind the podcast If We were Riding one of many podcasts that celebrate women in sport and can be found among the many excellent podcasts geared towards women on the Live Feisty Website. In part 1 of my conversation with them we tackle subjects like issues facing women in triathlon and how men can be better allies.Segments:[6:10]- Heat for recovery[17:30]- Sara Gross & Sarah TrueLinksUSAT & Triathlete webinar on return to racingLive Feisty Media: linkIf We Were Riding podcast

In this episode:Nutrition is often referred to as the fourth discipline of triathlon and for good reason but there are so many things that can contribute to undoing the best laid plans for a well fed race.On this episode of the podcast I am joined by Patrick Wilson PhD who has done a lot of research on how mental state can play a major role in affecting how the gut reacts during a race. We talk about anxiety and its potential impact on having a successful race. In addition, Dan Empfield, the inventor of the triathlon specific wetsuit, the first triathlon TT bike and the mind behind Slowtwitch joins me for a conversation about his journey through our sport and all the ways that he has made contributions.Segments:[04:47]- Anxiety and GI distress[31:24]- Dan EmpfieldLinkshttps://twitter.com/SportsRD_PhDhttps://theathletesgut.com/

In this episode:Asthma is one of the most common chronic respiratory conditions in the world and although it affects more children than adults, a large number of adults still suffer from its effects. In this episode, I look at the evidence that refutes many of the myths associated with asthma and endurance sport such as asthmatics have less ability to perform than non-asthmatics and exercise may be dangerous for people with asthma. In addition, I interview Australian professional triathlete Tim Reed who, it so happens, is an asthmatic himself. Tim shares his experiences as a longtime professional who has had success at all distances in the sport. He gives some insights on racing with underlying illness as well as his secret to success over a lengthy career.Segments:[07:03]- Medical question[19:50]- InterviewLinksTim Reedwww.timreed.com.auInstagram- timbo_reedTwitter: www.twitter.com/timboreedFB: www.facebook.com/timreedprotri

In this episode:It's finally time for the TriDoc to take on the keto diet. Although you likely have heard all about how keto can fix pretty much anything that ails you AND make you faster at the same time, the reality is somewhat different from the sales pitch that keto adherents love to espouse.The evidence on keto is actually really consistent: yes you can lose weight quickly but you won't keep it off and you definitely won't perform better. In fact you will perform worse. Nutritionist Celine Evans joins me to discuss the science that has been done on the keto diet and Allen Lim, founder of Skratch Labs talks carbohydrates and race day fueling as well as why you will want to stay away from keto if going fast is of any interest to you.Segments:[17:40]- Celine Evans-the science and rationale for the keto diet[44:00]- Allen Lim-carbohydratesLinksWomxn's Performance SummitCeline Evans:Celine on LifeSport CoachingCeline's websiteAllen Lim:Skratch

In this episode:Caffeine is one of the most frequently used drugs around the world and apparently for good reason. New research suggests that drinking coffee with caffeine can reduce heart disease and all cause mortality. There is also research that demonstrates that caffeine can enhance athletic performance. I review all the details and let you know how much coffee you should be drinking in order to benefit. Simon Marshall and Lesley Paterson are the dynamic author duo behind the deservedly successful book 'The Brave Athlete; Calm The F*ck Down and Rise To The occasion'. They join me for a conversation about the book and how it informs their coaching and their lives.Segments:[05:24]- Caffeine for performance and for life[17:11]- Marshall & PatersonLinksThe Brave Athlete on AmazonBraveheart CoachingLesley Paterson site

In this episode:More data is more better right? Maybe, and then again, maybe not. Just because you can measure something doesn't necessarily mean that you should or that knowing that measurement is necessarily helpful or beneficial to performance. In this episode I review the evidence and discuss the physiology on continuous glucose monitoring. Is this a metric that can be helpful in informing training, racing or recovery? Also, an interview with accomplished ultra runner and producer of the Pain Cave podcast, Jason Friedman. Jason gives some insights on what it takes to start in the sport of ultra running and what it takes to succeed.Segments:[05:39]- Continuous glucose monitoring[15:39]- Jason FriedmanLinksJason's website: https://www.gunksrunner.comPain Cave podcast: https://www.gunksrunner.com/paincaveJason's coaching site: https://boundless10200.com/bios

In this episode:Bicarbonate is the latest in a long line of supplements to get the TriDoc treatment. I review the physiology to support the theoretical benefits and then review the scientific evidence to answer the important question: does it work? Then, I have a conversation with Tom Miller, a Colorado ultra-distance cyclist who learned last year that you should always listen to your body and seek medical care when things don't seem right because often, they aren't. Tom shares his cautionary tale as a warning to all.Segments:[04:40]- Medical question-Bicarbonate supplementation[16:00]- Interview-Tom MillerLinksLinkedin:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-miller-0ba1258/Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/tomcolorado

In this episode:The pandemic continues to be a scourge around the globe but even for those who recover the virus often leaves significant disability for many, many months. I discuss what is known of the post-Covid syndrome and why athletes need to be especially wary of contracting this virus if they haven't already. Plus, I speak with Colorado State University Triathlon coach Jon Mason. Mason is an avid proponent of the Stryd running power meter and he explains how it works and why he thinks you should use it to train and race.Segments:[04:33]- Post-Covid syndrome[11:50]- Jon Mason, running with powerLinksJon Mason-Coaching

In part 2 of her interview with Dr. Michael Papadakis, Helen Murray of the Inside Tri Show explores the association between endurance sports and atrial fibrillation and gets some insight in to the risks for sudden cardiac death that while rare are obviously important! The doctor addresses the ideas behind screening and whether or not athletes should concern themselves with this risk to any great degree. Plus, I am joined by Hunter Allen, a giant in the world of endurance cycling when it comes to understanding power and how to best use it to inform your training and racing on the bike.The Inside Tri Show: linkHunter Allen:Peaks Coaching GroupBook: Training and Racing with PowerPatreon page for bonus interview and video with Hunter Allen

In a collaboration with Helen Murray of The Inside Tri Show, I present part 1 of her interview with Dr. Michael Papadakis, a leading cardiologist and expert in sports cardiology on the impact of exercise on the heart and the risks of cardiac issues with exertion. In addition, I have a conversation with Iggy Perillo. Iggy has worked with world champion athletes and people in corporate spaces as a leadership and team development coach for the past 20 years. She brings her expertise to the podcast and gives some insights that are invaluable for triathletes to win the mental aspect of training and racing.Inside Tri ShowDr Michael Papadakis TwitterDr Michael Papadakis's work at St George's University in LondonMy Heart which offers support for young people diagnosed with life threatening heart conditionsIggy PerilloIG: @wsl_leadership_coachingFB: @WSLLeadershipCoachingMonthly newsletter:  https://www.subscribepage.com/wslBooks:DriveMindset

Deep vein thromboses are potentially dangerous clots in the large veins of the legs or pelvis that can break and travel to the lungs. Treatment is to take a blood thinner for at least three months. But is it safe to get back to training after this diagnosis is made? I review the evidence. Tim Crowley is a successful triathlon and strength and conditioning coach. He recently published his first book; The Powerful Triathlete and he joined me to talk about it.Lance Watson Tri ClubLifeSport CoachingThe Powerful Triathlete on CoachtubeTC2 Coaching

The Lumen advertises itself as a handheld device that is the first of its kind able to help users 'hack their metabolism'. What is it, how does it work and more importantly is it of any use to the endurance athlete? Also, Mario Mejia embodies the saying 'triathlon changed my life' in every possible way. From the depths of despair, he leveraged everything that multisport has to offer to turn his life around and become a role model to many and at the same time give back to as many more as he could. Hear his story as he prepares to tackle his first Ironman race in Cozumel.Ironman Hacks: https://ironmanhacks.comMario Mejia:Personal Instagram username: @rico.chicoCharity Instagram: @heartsofempowermentCharity Link: www.heartsofempowerment.org/ironman

In winter when daylight hours shrink and temperatures drop we tend to get much less sun exposure due to staying indoors and putting on more clothes to stay warm. While this obviously has the benefit of keeping us from freezing to death it can also decrease the amount of vitamin D that we are able to produce in our skin. Vitamin D deficiency is a real entity but it is not nearly as common as is the practice of taking vitamin D supplements might have you think. Supplementation has become quite popular especially amongst athletes but the question remains, is it necessary and does it actually confer any benefits? Also, Brodie Sharpe is the producer of the Run Smarter podcast and as a physiotherapist manages all manner of running injuries. He joins me to discuss common running mistakes and injuries as well as his thoughts on orthotics.The Run Smarter Podcast: www.runsmarter.online 

Triathlons are great for the mind and on the whole for health and well being but long distance events can definitely take a toll on our bodies. Researchers have known for some time that markers of tissue injury and even death rise after races but what this means remains unclear. I review some of the recent data on this subject and give some insights on what it all might mean for the longterm health of the long distance triathlete. Also, Ironman racing has returned. Despite an increase in cases, Arizona gave the go ahead for the 70.3 event in Tempe. Bryan Dunn was one of the many competitors to participate and he gives his insights on how it went as well as some thoughts on what it might mean for racing in the near and mid-term.Triathlete magazine:https://www.triathlete.com/active-pass/#_active-passTriDoc Podcast Patreon page:https://www.patreon.com/TriDocPodcast

While women can do pretty much anything men can athletically this doesn't mean that there aren't important differences between the sexes. The most important of those relates to the female menstrual cycle with its complex interplay of hormones and their effects on various systems and cells. As scientists and physiologists have learned more about those effects, some have suggested that women may perform differently depending on where they are within their cycle. But is this true? I am joined by Shama Padwarthan, an obstetrician and gynecologist to discuss this and to review the evidence. Plus, a conversation with Michael Bowers of local bike shop Campus Cycles to learn how 2020 has impacted his business and how he is planning for the future.Social media for Michael Bowers:IG: cyclingmichaelFor Campus Cycles:IG: campuscyclesdenvercampuscycles.com

Returning to training after Covid-19 seems like it should only be a matter of waiting for symptoms to resolve. Unfortunately for many this takes a really long time and for others, an insidious, underlying issue may remain even when other symptoms have all disappeared. Myocarditis or inflammation of the heart is a recognized complication of Covid infection and can be fatal in athletes in whom it is unrecognized. I review the recommendations on safe return to training after infection in the context of this potential complication. Khem Suthiwan is triathlete, triathlon coach and ambassador for the Ironman and USAT Foundations and has an impressive career in the sport not only as an athlete but in helping many, many others find their own potential. She joins me to talk about her experiences and what motivates her to motivate others.

We often hear of overtraining but it seems quite nebulous. Is it really a thing? How is it defined and diagnosed and treated and most importantly can it be prevented? These are surprisingly tough questions to answer and I explain why as well as the current state of understanding of this complex issue. Endurance athletes and triathletes spend a lot of time preparing their bodies for competition but are they preparing their minds? Frazer Atkinson, a mental performance coach joins me to discuss this important aspect of getting the best from ourselves.