I caught up with one of my favorite athletes to talk to ever for this episode—someone who has a record six victories at the Hawaii Ironman and ten victories at the Nice, France World Long Course Championship.

His name is Mark Allen, and he’s also known as the greatest triathlete in history, but today, he is a popular triathlon coach at MarkAllenCoaching.com, a TV commentator, corporate speaker, author, and presenter of “Fit Soul, Fit Body” retreats with Brant Secunda, a Huichol shaman and healer.

One important takeaway from this show is what a powerful effect releasing your attachment to outcomes and being committed to both the enjoyment and appreciation of the process will have on your life. Mark shares how despite a series of unfortunate setbacks, his first victory in 1989 precipitated five Ironman attempts before he retired at the top of his game at age 39. He also talks about balancing the pursuit of extreme endurance goals with maintaining health, how research on Heart Rate Variability has been a great breakthrough in monitoring stress and planning training, and describes how he was able to live a normal, laidback lifestyle after his grueling training sessions or competitive seasons were over.

You will also hear about the importance of sleep when training and all about Mark’s new book, The Art of Competition, which blends stunning nature photography with inspirational quotes chosen by Mark for their significance to competitors seeking a healthy perspective and inspiration to pursue athletic goals.

LINKS:

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mark Allen: Appreciating The Process, Overcoming Adversity, And More Zen Master Insights