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Supporting Champions
094: Dan Bigham on reverse engineering performance
Aug 11, 2021
Dan Bigham, a high-achieving cyclist, engineer, and author of 'Start at the End,' discusses his unique approach to reverse-engineering performance. He shares insights from his journey of combining engineering principles with sports to enhance team dynamics. With humor, he reflects on challenges, the importance of open communication, and a culture of curiosity in teams. Bigham emphasizes optimizing performance through critical metrics while maintaining mental well-being, revealing how happiness profoundly impacts athletic success.
01:14:46
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Quick takeaways
- Dan Bigham's engineering background allows him to apply reverse engineering principles to optimize athletic performance and equipment design.
- Creating a supportive team environment through open communication and collaboration is essential for maximizing morale and overall performance.
Deep dives
The Challenge of Speed Sensitivity in Aerodynamic Testing
Aerodynamic testing in cycling presents unique challenges due to the speed sensitivity of performance factors such as the Reynolds number and rider position. Athletes often find it difficult to replicate the conditions experienced during high-speed events like the Olympic team pursuit in controlled environments such as wind tunnels. For example, achieving the required wattage while maintaining the correct cadence and position can lead to discrepancies in testing outcomes. This complexity can be frustrating for engineers attempting to identify meaningful aerodynamic improvements, as changes may yield significantly different results depending on the specific conditions under which they are tested.
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Discover
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Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode