Oxygenaddict Triathlon Podcast

Six Months to IRONMAN: Building Bike Fitness That Makes (not breaks) Your IM | Ep 570

Dec 23, 2025
Coach Rob dives into the critical role of bike training for Ironman and 70.3 athletes, emphasizing why it should take priority. He reveals the fitness benefits cycling offers for improved running performance and how it minimizes injury risks. Learn about structuring an effective training week with just three rides, focusing on building engine size (FTP) and endurance. Rob discusses vital training phases, the importance of Zone 2 riding, and specific indoor versus outdoor training strategies. Topping it off, he gives key race-day tips for power control and fueling.
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INSIGHT

Bike Training Should Dominate

  • The bike leg dominates 70.3 and Ironman performance and should dominate training focus.
  • Bike fitness transfers strongly to run fitness, but the reverse is weak.
INSIGHT

Why Cycling Carries Over To Running

  • Cycling develops cardiovascular fitness and specific force transfer to pedals, producing benefits that carry to running.
  • Swimming or running don't give the same pedal-specific force adaptation, so cycling is especially valuable.
INSIGHT

Cycle More To Avoid Run Soreness

  • Cycling allows high-quality aerobic stress without the soreness and injury risk of hard running.
  • This permits more consistent high-quality sessions and faster fitness gains for older athletes.
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