Episodes
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Summary
In this episode of the Training Babble Podcast, hosts Dave Schell and Matti discuss the said principle of training, emphasizing the importance of specificity in fitness as athletes transition from general fitness to race-specific training. They explore various aspects of training, including building work capacity, the significance of nutrition, the pitfalls of crash dieting, and the necessity of adapting to race conditions. The conversation also touches on performance management and the role of chronic training load (CTL) in predicting race performance. In this conversation, Matti and Dave discuss the critical aspects of race preparation, emphasizing the importance of race rehearsals, mental resilience, and the dangers of overtraining. They explore strategies for effective training, the psychological risks athletes face, and the significance of having faith in one's training. The discussion also highlights the need for adaptability in technical skills and the role of visualization in mental preparation for race day. Ultimately, they stress the importance of focusing on one's own training plan and the value of developing an internal power meter to gauge performance effectively.
Takeaways
The said principle emphasizes that our bodies adapt to imposed demands.Transitioning from general fitness to specific fitness is crucial as race season approaches.Building work capacity is essential for endurance athletes.Nutrition should be practiced during training to avoid issues on race day.Crash dieting can severely impact performance and should be avoided before races.Adapting to race conditions, such as heat, is important for optimal performance.Specificity in training means using the same bike and conditions as race day.Understanding performance management and CTL can help athletes gauge their fitness levels.Athletes should focus on quality training rather than just increasing volume.Maintaining a balance between intensity and recovery is key to successful training. Race rehearsals are essential for identifying potential issues before race day.Mental preparation and visualization can significantly impact performance.Athletes should avoid comparing themselves to others, especially close to race day.Overtraining can lead to burnout and negatively affect race performance.The last few weeks before a race should focus on rest and mental readiness, not cramming.Technical skills are crucial for adapting to different race conditions.Developing an internal power meter helps athletes gauge their performance accurately.Race day magic can provide an extra boost in performance.Athletes should have faith in their training and resist the urge to overdo it before a race.Focus on your own training plan and avoid distractions from others. -
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Summary
In this episode of the Training Babble podcast, hosts Dave Schell and Matti Rowe delve into the complexities of athlete mindset, focusing on time orientation, the burden of past performance, the impact of aging, and the role of metrics in training. They discuss how anxiety and depression relate to future and past thinking, respectively, and emphasize the importance of being present. The conversation also touches on the dangers of comparison and fantasy in athletics, and the need for athletes to balance their expectations with reality. In this conversation, Matti and Dave explore the complexities of athletic training, emphasizing the unpredictability of training plans and the importance of adapting to various circumstances. They discuss the balance between past experiences, present actions, and future goals in training, highlighting the need for mindfulness and self-reflection. The conversation also touches on the psychological aspects of being an athlete and the importance of maintaining a healthy perspective on performance and progress.Takeaways
Time orientation affects athletes' performance and mindset.Anxiety relates to future concerns, while depression relates to the past.Comparing oneself to past performance can hinder current progress.Aging impacts athletic performance and requires a shift in mindset.Metrics can be misleading and should be viewed with caution.Reality often doesn't meet expectations, leading to disappointment.Fantasy can distort athletes' perceptions of their achievements.Coaching should focus on consistency and doing the work.Athletes often seek control through planning, which can be counterproductive.It's essential to appreciate how far you've come, not just how far you have to go. Training plans rarely go according to plan due to unforeseen circumstances.Adaptation to training is more important than just following a plan.The coach-athlete relationship requires constant communication and understanding.Focusing too much on the future can hinder present performance.Athletes should aim for a balance between past, present, and future in their training.Mindfulness and self-reflection are crucial for athletes to manage their emotions and expectations.Fitness is not linear; it's a rolling average with ups and downs.Athletes should not overreact to day-to-day performance fluctuations.Perception and mindset play a significant role in athletic performance.Practicing mindfulness can help athletes manage intrusive thoughts and maintain focus. -
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Summary
In this episode, Dave Schell and Matti Rowe dive into the intricacies of the coach-athlete relationship, emphasizing the importance of alignment between a coach's methodology and an athlete's goals. They discuss common misconceptions about coaching, the necessity of commitment from athletes, and the reality of athletic progress, debunking the myth of instant results. The conversation highlights the need for patience and understanding in training, as well as the significance of finding the right fit between coach and athlete. In this conversation, Dave Schell and Matti discuss the limitations of indoor training for outdoor racing, emphasizing the importance of technical skills and real-world experience. They explore the challenges of coaching know-it-all athletes, the significance of applied knowledge, and the necessity of simplifying coaching strategies. The duo also delves into various athlete archetypes, including the mind reader and tightwad athletes, and highlight the importance of a strong coach-athlete relationship. Ultimately, they reflect on how endurance sports can positively impact broader life experiences.Takeaways
Coaching is about guiding athletes through a structured system.Athletes must understand the commitment required for success.Misalignment between stated goals and actions can hinder progress.Hiring a coach does not guarantee results without effort.The relationship between coach and athlete is complex and requires mutual understanding.Athletes often underestimate the time needed for improvement.FTP is often seen as a status symbol among endurance athletes.Progress in training can be non-linear and requires patience.Coaches often care more about athletes' goals than the athletes themselves.The journey of improvement is often gradual and requires consistent effort. Indoor training can lead to a false sense of fitness.Technical skills are crucial for outdoor racing success.Coaching requires balancing athlete input with expertise.Applied knowledge is more valuable than theoretical knowledge.The coach-athlete relationship thrives on engagement.Athletes must communicate their needs and concerns.Simplifying coaching to three key focus areas is effective.Understanding different athlete archetypes can improve coaching.Building trust and rapport enhances the coaching experience.Endurance sports can foster personal growth and resilience. -
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In this episode of the Training Babble podcast, hosts Dave Schell and Matti Rowe dive into the complexities of training metrics, particularly focusing on Functional Threshold Power (FTP) and its relevance in endurance sports. They discuss the evolving definitions of endurance, durability, and the importance of volume in training. The conversation highlights the sacrifices athletes must make to achieve high performance and the often unspoken realities behind setting and pursuing goals in the competitive sports landscape. In this conversation, Dave Schell and Matti discuss the intricacies of race dynamics, the importance of nutrition, and the mental strategies needed for successful cycling. They emphasize the need for a balanced approach to training and racing, considering both performance goals and personal relationships. The discussion also touches on the psychological aspects of competition and the significance of consistency in achieving long-term success.
Takeaways
FTP is not the only metric that matters in training.Durability is a crucial aspect of endurance sports.Training volume often has a greater impact on performance than FTP alone.Athletes need to balance their training with recovery for optimal results.The importance of understanding personal goals and sacrifices in training.Metrics can be useful but should not be the sole focus of training.High performance requires significant lifestyle sacrifices.Athletes often have secret goals that they may not express openly.The relationship between training intensity and overall performance is complex.Success in endurance sports often comes from a combination of factors, not just one metric. The numbers you want to see in training are not what you want in racing.Start races conservatively to avoid burnout later.Choosing the right race distance can enhance enjoyment and performance.It's important to balance training with personal relationships.Many athletes downplay their competitive goals due to fear of failure.Risk-taking is essential in sports; you must be willing to fail.Consistency over time is more important than short-term gains.Training should be viewed as an investment with ups and downs.Athletes often struggle with the pressure of performance expectations.The journey of improvement is often not linear, but requires patience. -
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In this episode of the Training Babble Podcast, Coach Dave Schell and guest Matty Rowe of Gravel God Cycling dig into the implications of AI in coaching. They discuss the rise of AI tools like CoachCat, the challenges of relying on flawed metrics, and the importance of human expertise in interpreting data. The conversation highlights the complexities of training plans and the need for personalized coaching, emphasizing that while AI can assist, it cannot replace the nuanced understanding that comes from experience and direct athlete-coach interaction. In this conversation, Matti and Dave explore the complexities of coaching, particularly in the context of AI's role in athlete performance. They discuss the importance of context and nuance in coaching, the limitations of AI in understanding human experiences, and the distinction between information and knowledge. The conversation also touches on the barriers athletes face in achieving success and the potential future of AI in coaching, emphasizing the need for human connection and understanding.Takeaways
AI is a significant trend in coaching, but it has limitations.The rise of AI tools has led to a gold rush mentality.AI can generate plausible-sounding information that may be incorrect.Coaches must be wary of relying solely on AI-generated data.Metrics like TSS and HRV can be flawed and misleading.Personalized coaching is essential for effective training.Athletes often seek simple solutions to complex training issues.The body responds unpredictably to training inputs.AI cannot address underlying issues like athlete priorities.Training effectiveness is not solely determined by data metrics. Context is crucial in coaching; without it, advice can be meaningless.AI lacks the nuance needed for effective coaching.Coaches must understand the barriers athletes face beyond just data.There's a significant difference between information and knowledge.AI can assist coaches but cannot replace the human element.Education and self-awareness are vital for athletes and coaches alike.The future of coaching may involve AI, but human connection remains essential.Athletes often overlook lifestyle factors that hinder performance.AI can help manage tedious tasks, allowing coaches to focus on athletes.Authenticity in coaching will be valued over AI-generated insights.Matti's Article on AI
Dave's Article on AI
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Summary
In this episode of the Training Babble podcast, Coach Dave Schell interviews athlete Megan Onweller, who shares her journey from a competitive high school athlete to a busy mom rediscovering her passion for cycling. Megan discusses the challenges she faced, including injuries, body image issues, and the importance of nutrition and coaching. She emphasizes the significance of finding balance between family life and personal goals, and how cycling has positively impacted her mental health and overall well-being. In this conversation, Megan Onweller shares her journey of balancing motherhood, work, and her passion for cycling. She discusses the importance of prioritizing personal health and fitness, the challenges of training while being a parent, and the joy of involving children in sports. Megan emphasizes the role of coaching in achieving personal goals and the impact of endurance sports on family dynamics. She concludes with advice for those looking to start their own fitness journey, highlighting the importance of fun and self-investment.Takeaways
Megan rediscovered her athletic identity during the pandemic.She faced challenges transitioning from high school sports to adult life.Nutrition and rest are crucial for athletic performance.Body image issues can affect female athletes significantly.Community support in cycling is invaluable.Setting personal goals can lead to significant growth.Megan learned the importance of honest communication with her coach.Cycling has helped Megan manage stress and improve her mental health.Balancing motherhood and personal fitness requires compromise.Megan encourages other moms to prioritize their well-being. I was kind of a yelly mom.You do have to prioritize it.Just start.You got to get creative.If you can only do one day a week, don't sign up for a 250 mile ride.You have to know what you sign up for.Your actions have a much bigger impact on your kids.There's nothing more rewarding than your kid watching you do hard things.Coaching is like having a secondary conscience.Never say never.Follow Megan on Instagram
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Summary
In this episode, Dave and Dr. Phil discuss the top training mistakes that athletes make. They emphasize the importance of focusing on the fundamentals of training, such as consistency, specificity, and progression, rather than chasing the latest trends or hyper-optimizing every aspect of their training. They also highlight the significance of proper nutrition, recovery, and avoiding drastic changes on race day. The key takeaways include the need to prioritize the big things that will have the most impact on training, the importance of allowing for adequate recovery and rest, and the dangers of hyper-optimization and neglecting the fundamentals.Takeaways
Focus on the big things that will have the most impact on your training.Prioritize consistency, specificity, and progression in your training.Pay attention to proper nutrition and recovery to support your training.Avoid making drastic changes to your routine on race day.Beware of hyper-optimization and neglecting the fundamentals of training. -
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In this episode of the Training Babble Podcast, host Dave Schell and Dr. Phil Batterson discuss Phil's training journey as he prepares for an uphill running race. They cover the structure of his training, focusing on VO2 max work, the importance of consistency and adaptation, and the physiological testing that has informed his progress. Phil shares insights on nutrition, health markers from blood tests, and outlines his future training plans leading up to the race.Takeaways
Consistency is crucial for improvement in training.VO2 max has increased by 10% over the training period.Quality reps are more important than sheer volume.RPE allows flexibility in training intensity.Dogs can be great motivators during workouts.Nutrition plays a significant role in performance.Blood testing can reveal important health markers.Training should adapt based on performance feedback.Physiological testing helps track progress effectively.Future training will focus on race-specific efforts. -
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In this episode of the Training Babble podcast, host Dave Schell reflects on the past year, expressing gratitude to listeners and sharing insights on coaching and training strategies. He emphasizes a minimalist approach to coaching, the importance of flexibility in training plans, and debunks myths surrounding base training and zone two training. Schell advocates for simplicity and effectiveness in workouts, encouraging athletes to focus on performance metrics beyond just FTP.Takeaways
Focus on doing a small amount of things well.Be flexible with your training plans.Quality time on the trainer is essential.Zone two training should be viewed as endurance work.Simplicity in workouts leads to better tracking of progress.Workouts should be flexible in intensity and volume.FTP is not the only measure of success.Performance at races is the ultimate goal.Consider other metrics like five-hour power.Engage in various aerobic activities during winter. -
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Nutrition plays a crucial role in endurance training success.Fasted training is not an effective weight loss strategy for athletes.Focus on losing excess body fat while maintaining muscle mass.Personalized nutrition plans are essential for athletes' success.Breakfast is a key meal for regulating hunger and energy levels.Protein intake is vital for recovery and performance enhancement.Avoid overly restrictive diets that can lead to binge eating.Front-loading nutrition can prevent evening cravings and binges.A slight caloric deficit can lead to sustainable body composition changes.Embrace carbohydrates during workouts to fuel performance. Carbohydrates are essential for energy during workouts.Feeling good after a workout boosts confidence and motivation.Proper fueling strategies can enhance workout performance.Building gut tolerance for carbs is crucial for endurance athletes.Nutrition should be optimized for both performance and weight loss.Recovery nutrition should include carbs, protein, and hydration.Age can affect muscle mass and hydration needs.Women may experience slower body composition changes during menopause.Consistency and patience are key to achieving body composition goals.Working with a dietitian can provide personalized nutrition guidance.
Summary
In this episode of the Training Babble podcast, host Dave Schell speaks with registered dietitian Alex Larson about healthy weight loss strategies for endurance athletes. They discuss the importance of nutrition in training, the shift from focusing on weight loss to improving body composition, and personalized nutrition strategies that can enhance performance. Alex emphasizes the significance of protein intake for recovery and performance, common mistakes athletes make in their weight loss approaches, and the concept of healthy caloric deficits. The conversation highlights the need for a balanced approach to nutrition that supports both athletic performance and overall well-being. In this conversation, Alex Larson discusses the critical role of carbohydrates in fueling workouts, the importance of proper nutrition before, during, and after exercise, and strategies for building gut tolerance to higher carbohydrate intake. The discussion also covers considerations for weight loss, age, and gender differences in nutrition, emphasizing the need for patience and consistency in achieving body composition goals.
Takeaways
Find Alex at AlexLarsonNutrion.com or follow her on Instagram -
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In this episode, Dave Schell and Dr. Phil discuss the importance of consistency in training, the use of RPE (Rate of Perceived Exertion) for better self-awareness, and the physiological adaptations that occur with structured workouts. They explore how repeating workouts can lead to significant improvements and the necessity of managing training loads to prevent burnout. The conversation also highlights the benefits of walking as a low-stress activity that can enhance overall endurance and recovery. Ultimately, they emphasize that training should be about what one can recover from and adapt to, rather than simply increasing intensity.Takeaways
Consistency in training leads to measurable progress.RPE allows for better self-regulation during workouts.Physiological adaptations can occur rapidly with the right training.Repetition in workouts can lead to significant improvements.Managing training load is crucial for recovery and performance.Walking can enhance endurance without adding significant stress.Training should focus on what you can recover from.Intensity should be used sparingly in training.Progress is often seen when workouts become easier over time.Listening to your body is essential for long-term success -
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In this episode of the Training Babble podcast, host Dave Schell discusses the transition to indoor training as colder weather approaches. He emphasizes the importance of flexibility in workouts, understanding the limitations of erg mode, and avoiding one-dimensional training. Dave also advises on maximizing indoor training efficiency by focusing on structured workouts and adjusting targets based on perceived exertion.Takeaways
Indoor training may feel harder due to different conditions.Use RPE to adjust your training intensity indoors.Warmup duration is individual; listen to your body.Every training target should be viewed as a range.Erg mode can limit natural riding dynamics; use it sparingly.Avoid becoming one-dimensional in your training approach.Shorter, structured workouts are more effective in winter.Incorporate cadence and neuromuscular work during indoor sessions.Transition back to outdoor riding gradually in spring.Enjoy the process and adapt your training to your needs. -
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In this episode of the Training Babble podcast, host Dave Schell discusses the importance of the off-season for athletes. He emphasizes the need for physical and mental recovery, the significance of reflecting on the past season, and the necessity of setting realistic goals for the upcoming season. Dave also highlights the importance of flexibility in training schedules and the need for regular check-ins to ensure athletes remain aligned with their goals throughout the year.
Takeaways
Taking time off after the season is crucial for recovery.Mental refreshment is as important as physical recovery.Willpower is a finite resource; manage it wisely.Use the off-season to explore different activities.Reflect on the past season to identify trends and areas for improvement.Set specific A races for the upcoming season.Avoid over-scheduling races to prevent burnout.Flexibility in training is essential, especially during holidays.Focus on strength training and mobility during the off-season.Regular check-ins with athletes help align goals and expectations. -
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In this episode, Dave Schell and Dr. Phil Batterson explore the intricacies of coaching and training for endurance athletes. They discuss the importance of setting realistic goals, the role of a coach in guiding athletes, and the significance of consistency in training. The conversation delves into the mental aspects of training, the balance between hard workouts and recovery, and the necessity of enjoying the process. They also touch on the importance of adapting training plans based on feedback and the value of simplicity in workout routines. Throughout the discussion, they emphasize the need for athletes to be resilient and flexible in their training approaches, ultimately aiming for sustainable progress and health.
Takeaways
Coaching is about problem solving and guiding athletes.Consistency in training is crucial for endurance development.Enjoying the training process is essential for long-term success.Setting realistic and obtainable goals helps maintain motivation.Training should be adaptable based on feedback and individual needs.Mental resilience is developed through facing challenges in training.Simplicity in training plans can lead to better adherence and results.Hard workouts should not leave athletes feeling wrecked.Understanding the balance between intensity and recovery is key.Training is a metaphor for life, teaching resilience and adaptability. -
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In this episode of the Training Babble podcast, host Dave Schell reflects on his journey into coaching and the importance of simplicity in training. He shares personal anecdotes from his experience with triathlons, emphasizing that effective training doesn't have to be complicated. Dave encourages athletes to focus on what truly matters in their training, to be skeptical of information overload, and to find a balance that fits their lifestyle for consistent improvement.
Takeaways
The desire to keep coaching simple is crucial.Training for a triathlon can be overwhelming but manageable.More training doesn't always mean better results.Effective recovery is key to training success.Athletes should focus on what truly matters in training.Information overload can hinder an athlete's progress.Consistency and progression are essential for improvement.Skepticism towards training advice is important.Finding a personal training approach is vital.Coaching is about helping athletes navigate their journey. -
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In this episode, Coach Dave discusses the importance of calibrating your inner power meter by pairing your perception of effort with objective metrics like power, heart rate, and pace. He emphasizes the need to tune into how different sensations feel and not blindly follow the numbers on your devices. Dave explains the three energy systems our bodies use and how they work together during different intensities. He also challenges the idea of false precision in training and encourages athletes to focus on effort and how their body feels rather than getting fixated on specific numbers.Takeaways
Pair your perception of effort with objective metrics to get more accurate information about your training.Tune into how different sensations feel to account for variability in devices and conditions.Understand the three energy systems and how they work together during different intensities.Training is not as precise as it may seem, so focus on effort and how your body feels rather than getting fixated on specific numbers.Pay attention to your breathing and how your legs feel to gauge the intensity of your workouts. -
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In this episode of Fast Physiology, Dave and Dr. Phil discuss the validity and reliability of training devices and the advice they provide. They highlight the issue of proprietary algorithms and the lack of transparency in how these devices come up with their recommendations. They also discuss the limitations and inaccuracies of metrics such as heart rate and sleep tracking. The key takeaway is to be skeptical of the advice provided by these devices and to use them in conjunction with one's own subjective feelings and experiences.
Takeaways
Be skeptical of the advice provided by training devices and their proprietary algorithms.Use training devices in conjunction with your own subjective feelings and experiences.Be aware of the limitations and inaccuracies of metrics such as heart rate and sleep tracking.Maintain a healthy level of skepticism and don't blindly follow the advice provided by these devices.Find Phil at CriticalOxygen.com and follow him on Instagram.
Find other episodes of #FastPhysiology on the Critical Oxygen Podcast
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In this episode, Dave Schell discusses the concept of intuitive endurance training, which involves listening to your body and structuring your training based on subtle cues like fatigue, soreness, and motivation. He emphasizes the importance of considering subjective factors like how athletes feel during workouts and how they handle training. Dave also talks about the origins of the idea and how it can be beneficial for athletes. He highlights the need for flexibility in training and adapting it to individual circumstances, as well as the importance of monitoring motivation and taking breaks when needed.Takeaways
Intuitve endurance training involves listening to your body and structuring your training based on subjective cues like fatigue, soreness, and motivation.Considering how athletes feel during workouts and how they handle training is crucial for effective coaching.Flexibility in training and adapting it to individual circumstances is important for optimal performance.Monitoring motivation and taking breaks when needed can help prevent burnout and maintain long-term motivation.Consistency, lots of easy rides, and occasional hard workouts are key components of intuitive endurance training. -
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In this episode, Dave and Dr. Phil discuss the healthy way to return to training after dealing with an illness. They emphasize the importance of understanding the stress that illness puts on the body and the need for proper recovery. They caution against jumping back into intense training too soon and recommend a conservative approach. They also discuss the cultural tendency to push through illness and the importance of being patient and not rushing the return to training. Overall, they stress the importance of stress management and listening to your bodyTakeaways
Illness is an extra stressor on the body and requires recovery time.Returning to training after illness should be done conservatively, gradually increasing intensity and volume.Listen to your body and be patient with the recovery process.Avoid the temptation to jump back into intense training too soon.Proper stress management is key to maintaining overall health and performance.Find Phil at CriticalOxygen.com and follow him on Instagram.
Find other episodes of #FastPhysiology on the Critical Oxygen Podcast
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Summary
In this episode of Fast Physiology, Dave and Phil discuss ergogenic aids or performance-enhancing substances. They cover various types of aids, including caffeine, beetroot juice, sodium bicarbonate, beta-alanine, and creatine. They emphasize the importance of focusing on the fundamentals of training, nutrition, and recovery before considering the use of supplements. They also touch on the topic of ketones and highlight the lack of clear evidence for their effectiveness. Overall, they recommend prioritizing the big rocks of training and using supplements sparingly.Takeaways
Focus on the fundamentals of training, nutrition, and recovery before considering the use of supplements.Caffeine, creatine, and beta-alanine may have some benefits for performance, but their effects are individual and should be used in moderation.Beetroot juice and sodium bicarbonate may have some positive effects on endurance performance, but the evidence is not conclusive.Ketones are expensive and their effectiveness is unclear, so they are not recommended for most athletes.Prioritize the big rocks of training and use supplements sparingly. - Show more
