Endurance Nation Triathlon Podcast

What if the quiet winter months could be your secret weapon for endurance success? Welcome to Dirt Station with Coach Patrick, where we uncover the transformative power of the Endurance Nation's out-season program. This episode takes you behind the scenes of our game-changing 14-week program, launching November 4th, designed to turn the often overlooked winter season into your most crucial training period. Say goodbye to the old misconceptions about piling on the miles and discover why a well-structured approach can lead to consistent performance gains. Join us as we explore the common pitfalls that hold endurance athletes back and how our unique strategy addresses them. Through a detailed examination of what sets successful athletes apart, we reveal the importance of a steady training regimen spanning nine to ten months. Hear how we've turned the traditional off-season into an opportunity, with over 10,000 athletes reaping the benefits since 2009. Tune in to learn how to make the winter months your winning m

Ever thought winter training could be your secret weapon for endurance sports? Coach Patrick is here to prove it! This episode transforms the mundane into the magical by uncovering why the colder months are the perfect time to solidify your fitness foundation. Coach Patrick breaks down the logistical and seasonal challenges that athletes face, and how a structured winter training regimen can turn these hurdles into stepping stones. From triathlons to gravel racing, learn how consistent indoor sessions can help you bypass the typical chaos of the race season and why hitting the ground running with enhanced fitness is within your reach. Forget the notion that winter training is just dreary, monotonous busyness. Coach Patrick shares the keys to unlocking a productive off-season, emphasizing the importance of structure and high-quality workouts. Discover how a well-planned winter training schedule can eliminate weather woes and simplify your routine, allowing you to focus on building fitness rather than juggling

Transform your athletic training with insights that prioritize simplicity and consistency over the overwhelming noise of data. Experience firsthand the journey of an Ironman competitor who, guided by a high-profile coach, achieved personal bests through a straightforward training approach. This episode shares valuable lessons on how thoughtful coaching can cut through the clutter of wearable technology, offering a clear path to athletic success. Listeners are promised a deeper understanding of creating a structured seasonal roadmap that fuels progress and maintains focus. Discover the essential phases of endurance training, where each structured block from the foundational "out season" to race-specific preparation plays a crucial role in an athlete's development. We discuss the importance of benchmarking, adapting to fitness levels, and the often-overlooked benefits of recovery. Explore how maintaining control in training and competition distinguishes great performances from the average. Whether you're an asp

Special guest John Withrow returns to recount his grueling adventure at the Margie Gessick race—a notorious 110-mile mountain biking marathon with a staggering 70% Did Not Finish rate. Known for its rocky and root-filled trails in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, this race demanded intense physical and mental endurance. John opens up about the unique challenges he encountered this year compared to past races like the Leadville Trail 100, and how family dynamics influenced his decision to take on such a monumental challenge. We explore the mindset necessary to push through the exhaustion and obstacles, highlighting the personal sacrifices and strategic planning that went into this endeavor. Our conversation shifts to the critical topic of fueling and pacing strategies during these extreme endurance events. I discuss my own experiences, revealing my decision to sometimes walk instead of run to conserve energy and the complexities of maintaining proper nutrition on a technical course. An oversight led to a challengin

Consistency and simplicity changed my life in 2008, when a high-dollar coach’s straightforward advice led me to personal bests in Ironman competitions. This revelation shaped the foundation of Endurance Nation, where we prioritize long-term evolution over daily tweaks. Modern data can often distract athletes, but great coaches focus on meaningful, lasting improvements. Join me, Coach Patrick, as I share how this philosophy differentiates good coaching from exceptional guidance. We break down the essentials of a comprehensive 14-week out-season training program, exploring its distinct phases from benchmarking progress to tailored race goals. Learn why the 12-week race prep block is crucial for mental and strategic readiness, and why recovery phases are indispensable for building strength. Understand the power of block methodology in providing clear objectives and fostering community support. Finally, discover how maintaining control over your training prepares you to make smart decisions on race day. For more

Ever wondered why simply copying your early-season training plan for a late-season race can sabotage your performance? In this episode, we tackle the critical mistakes athletes make and unveil essential strategies to reach peak performance in your late-season races. We begin by exploring why attempting to replicate your early-season regimen can lead to burnout and diminished results. Through a detailed analysis of past training data and accumulated fatigue, we guide you on how to adjust your approach to balance training and recovery effectively. This ensures that you can enter your next event in optimal condition without overtaxing your body. As we transition into optimizing late-season racing performance, particularly for athletes moving from high-volume training to marathon preparation in a limited timeframe, we stress the importance of prioritizing recovery. Learn how to use a scaled-back training plan, focusing on race strategy, execution, and nutrition to prevent injury and overtraining. By making smarte

Can consistent, frequent running truly transform your race season? Join me, Coach Patrick, as we explore the revolutionary concept of run durability in this eye-opening episode. We dive into the foundational elements that can help you build a resilient running routine, setting you up for success and helping you avoid injuries year-round. From understanding the critical role that small, manageable doses of stress play in fortifying your running foundation to learning the history and development of the Run Durability Project, we'll uncover the secrets behind maintaining a strong, injury-free run regimen. Throughout this episode, we'll dissect the importance of sticking to a steady running routine, even during the off-season. You'll hear how the Run Durability Project has helped athletes at all levels achieve better performance by focusing on consistency and frequency, rather than just volume. Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner or new to the running scene, this episode offers valuable insights and practical ad

Is your Ironman race performance being held back by the heat? Coach Patrick from Endurance Nation joins us to share his expert insights on making critical decisions to excel in Ironman races, especially under scorching conditions. Learn how to master the distribution of effort during the swim, optimize positioning, and leverage drafting techniques for an edge over your competition. Patrick also delves into the crucial first hour on the bike, emphasizing the importance of managing your heart rate and establishing your hydration and fueling plan immediately post-transition to counteract fluid loss.    Moving beyond physical preparedness, Coach Patrick reveals the secrets to smart race day execution. Discover the importance of building a full season of training and crafting an effective race plan to ensure all your hard work pays off. We also introduce our newsletter, packed with valuable tips every Friday to help you continually improve and succeed. Patrick wraps up with encouraging words and reassures athletes

Susan had always believed that more training hours equated to better race day performance—until she found herself juggling Ironman prep with a demanding job and a bustling family life. It was then that she discovered the game-changing Four Keys approach from Endurance Nation, a strategy that redefined her training and race execution. In this episode, we delve into Susan’s inspirational journey, balancing the rigors of Ironman preparation with the chaos of everyday life, all while demonstrating the incredible strength and determination required to succeed in endurance sports. Join us as we recount the final stretch of Susan’s path leading up to Ironman Wisconsin, where her perseverance was tested by adverse weather and equipment challenges. Despite these hurdles, Susan’s unwavering focus and resilience shone through, culminating in a triumphant finish. We also introduce "The Unfair Advantage," our exclusive newsletter packed with insider tips to keep you ahead of the competition. Tune in for an episode brimmin

What if a tiny oversight could cost you an entire race? Join us as we recount the ups and downs of the Vermont Overland race, a brutal 55-mile course with 7,500 feet of climbing. This episode is packed with personal stories and hard-earned lessons on the importance of meticulous race preparation. From my own frustrating Did Not Finish (DNF) due to preventable equipment failures to the value of carrying spare valves and CO2 cartridges, we lay it all out. You'll get an inside look into the mechanics and mental strategies required for a successful race day, revealing how even minor oversights can lead to major setbacks. We also introduce you to the Race Saver Bag, an innovative tool designed to help runners manage their core temperature effectively and stay competitive. This game-changing product, once exclusive to professional athletes, is now available to everyone and can help you achieve your personal best. With practical tips on mental rehearsal and handling unexpected challenges, this episode aims to equip

What if the key to your best triathlon run isn't about speed, but about avoiding a slowdown? Join us as we unveil crucial strategies for effective run execution that prioritize smart decision-making over sheer hard work or luck. We'll delve into how your ingrained running identity, often linked to specific race distances and times, can be a hidden pitfall on race day. Discover how shifting your focus from running fast to managing your pace conservatively at the start can help control your heart rate and heat accumulation, allowing you to maintain your performance throughout the race. Equip yourself with knowledge and proactive practice to realize your full potential.   Aid stations might seem like minor pitstops, but improper management can cost you valuable time. We discuss the critical importance of planning what you need to achieve at each aid station, whether it's fueling, hydrating, or cooling. By having a clear strategy and executing efficiently, you can significantly enhance your race performance. More

Unlock the secrets to a stellar triathlon bike performance as you join Coach Patrick at Enduro Station! Learn the critical elements that can make or break your race day, such as mastering your nutrition strategy within the first hour, pacing yourself to save energy for the run, and effectively managing your effort to conquer the course. Coach Patrick shares a personal tale from his first Ironman in 2001, revealing the rookie mistake of not practicing non-stop rides and the challenging consequences that followed. This episode provides actionable insights to help you avoid common pitfalls and ensure a strong finish.   We also introduce you to a structured race execution framework called the four keys of race execution, designed to boost your race preparedness. Engage with us by leaving your questions, comments, and feedback; Coach Patrick is eager to help you fine-tune your strategy. Don't miss the opportunity to subscribe to our free race execution course via email, packed with invaluable tips and guidance. Be

Ever wondered why some triathletes glide effortlessly through open water while others struggle? Join Coach Patrick from Endurance Nation as he unlocks the secrets to mastering your open water swim performance. From essential tips like extending underwater and fingertip drag drills to blowing bubbles for optimal breathing, Patrick offers practical advice designed to help both novices and seasoned athletes alike. Get ahead with strategies to stay on course, such as environmental assessment and landmark identification, ensuring that you don't waste precious energy zigzagging in the water.   Stay tuned as Patrick provides insider techniques to refine your sighting and maintain proper form even amidst the chaos of race day. Learn how to integrate sighting with your breathing, using your arm as a marker to keep your hips from dropping and your speed from stalling. Discover how slight adjustments in hand placement can keep you moving straight and true. Finally, Patrick emphasizes the importance of relaxation, recent

Join me, Coach Patrick from Endurance Nation, as I share critical insights to help you avoid common mistakes and boost your performance on race day. In this episode, we explore three key errors triathletes often make, starting with the crucial practice swim. Learn how familiarizing yourself with race day conditions can manage your nerves and equip you with the confidence needed to excel in the water. Discover why ignoring this simple yet powerful step can lead to unnecessary surprises that could throw off your entire race strategy. Listen in as I uncover the second common mistake—improper hill riding techniques. Many athletes mistakenly attack hills aggressively, leading to energy depletion and inefficient performance. Instead, maintaining a steady effort and consistent pedal pressure is essential for conserving energy and performing optimally. Additionally, I highlight the importance of using a free course from Endurance Nation to guide your race day preparation. This resource provides practical tips and rul

Join us for an enlightening discussion on optimizing your endurance training and race preparation in this latest episode. We kick things off by exploring the critical importance of race selection and early planning. Using an example from Liz in Rhode Island, we illustrate how selecting a race well in advance can strategically benefit your training schedule, travel plans, and equipment needs. This proactive approach allows athletes to make thoughtful decisions that enhance their chances of success and reduce stress. Listen in as we cover effective strategies for managing heat and pacing during triathlons. We delve into maintaining a wet kit while cycling to help dissipate heat and emphasize the importance of strategic pacing to avoid overheating. We also discuss how adjusting effort levels based on the time of day and incorporating walking breaks through aid stations can help manage heart rate and sustain performance. These actionable strategies are designed to help you optimize your performance and ensure you

Unlock the secrets to effective triathlon training and immerse yourself in a world of vibrant athleticism with our special guest, Mark, an age-group triathlete who juggles his regimen between the sun-soaked streets of Miami and the bustling avenues of Washington, DC. Hear Mark’s firsthand account of the unique hurdles and perks of Miami’s flat landscapes, paired with the perks of its warm winters and thriving swimming and cycling communities. Plus, get a peek into Mark’s amusing strategies for balancing remote work and training, including his innovative use of a magnetic screen door for dog training during DC’s sweltering heatwave. Experience the adrenaline rush of the Clash Miami triathlon through Mark’s eyes as we uncover the race's intriguing history and ever-evolving course. Discover what it takes to conquer the Miami distance—a unique challenge that sits between an Olympic distance and a half Ironman. Mark shares indispensable advice on hydration and nutrition to combat the intense Miami heat, especially

Unlock the secrets to race day success with Coach Patrick from Endurance Nation! Transform your race execution strategy and achieve your personal best without increasing your training volume. Learn from Coach Patrick's journey through eight Ironman races before qualifying for Kona and discover the pivotal lessons that made the difference. This episode is your roadmap to smarter, more strategic racing, focusing on the crucial elements of nutrition, pacing, and meticulous planning. Get an insider look at our comprehensive race execution course designed to help athletes craft a detailed race plan. Coach Patrick explains how writing and rehearsing your race plan can embed it into your memory, ensuring you make intelligent, on-the-fly decisions when it counts the most. Say goodbye to the cycle of endless training and hello to a well-executed race strategy that can propel you to new heights. Tune in to elevate your racing strategy and hit those ambitious goals!

Get ready to transform your endurance journey as Coach Patrick from Endurance Nation reveals the secrets behind our unique European training camps. Learn why shifting from a performance-driven mindset to one of exploration and enjoyment can vastly enhance your athletic experience. From breathtaking rides to cultural immersion, discover how our camps offer a refreshing alternative to the typical, high-pressure race preparation.  In this episode, I unpack the key lessons learned from hosting four incredible camps this year and explain why they could be the best investment for your fitness in 2024. Hear firsthand accounts of the camaraderie, the serene landscapes of Spain, Italy, and France, and the exhilarating feeling of achieving a state of Zen on your bike. If you’re ready to trade rigid schedules and stress for adventure and fun, this episode is your gateway to an unforgettable training experience.

Balancing family life and rigorous training is no easy feat, but racing close to home offers unique flexibility and greater involvement with loved ones. Reflecting on the Chattanooga 70.3, we share how family commitments, like my daughter's dance recital, influenced our choices and how a home training setup kept us on track. The journey wasn't just about physical preparation but also navigating the planning and personal growth that came with it. Facing a significant setback with a bike accident in 2022, I had to rethink my training strategy for Ironman Chattanooga. We turned the focus to volume targets and resumed swimming after a lengthy hiatus. Our conversation highlights the combo of midweek intervals, sweet spot sessions, and efficient indoor rides to prepare for race day, demonstrating resilience and strategic adaptation in the face of adversity. Ironman Chattanooga presented its unique set of challenges, from steep climbs to managing resources under hot conditions. We discuss the competitive nature of t

Unlock the secrets to maximizing your athletic potential with our latest episode. Discover how to effectively extend your rest periods beyond what you might think is necessary, ensure you're getting at least eight hours of high-quality sleep, and eliminate those sneaky, unnecessary sugars and calories from your diet. We’ll share expert strategies for reducing overall life stress by tweaking your workout load structures—keeping the frequency but dialing back the duration and intensity. Learn how these adjustments can make a significant difference in alleviating training stress and promoting optimal recovery without sacrificing your activity levels. Next, we tackle the art of balancing your training schedule to boost race day performance and recovery. Find out why prioritizing weekday workouts and incorporating strategic rest blocks or full rest days, especially on Sundays, can be game-changers. Learn how to align your workouts with the specific demands of your upcoming races, whether they call for short, inten