That Triathlon Show

Gordo Byrn on optimising Ironman training, the importance of volume and low intensity training, and practical age-group training

Jan 22, 2026
Gordo Byrn, a former investment banker turned Ultraman World Champion, shares his unique insights on triathlon training. He emphasizes the power of high-volume, low-intensity workouts, showcasing how they can enhance endurance without burnout. Gordo discusses his comeback to the sport at age 57, offering practical tips for age-group athletes. He also explores the differences in training methods from the 2000s to today, the significance of lactate testing, and why aspiring Ironman competitors should consider a longer preparation timeline.
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ANECDOTE

Late Start, Elite Results

  • Gordo Byrn described his late start in endurance sport and rise to elite level after leaving finance in his 30s. He won Ultraman Hawaii and placed on Ironman podiums before taking a long break to raise a family.
ANECDOTE

How Ultraman Racing Works

  • Gordo explained Ultraman: a 10 km swim + ~90 mile bike day one, a ~175-mile bike day two, then a double marathon on day three. He treated it like a one-day race each day and used tactics to get early gaps.
INSIGHT

Volume Without Chronic Fatigue

  • High volume worked historically but athletes lived with chronic maladaptive fatigue and missed adaptations. Modern methods keep volume but avoid chronic fatigue to gain continual improvement.
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