Ask a Cycling Coach Podcast - Presented by TrainerRoad

Hannah Otto, a professional cyclist racing for Scott Bikes, shares her gritty experiences from intense races like Unbound. She discusses the underestimated importance of cadence, revealing how low cadence can hinder performance and fatigue resistance. Insights into nutrition and training for multi-stage events, like the Tour de France, highlight caloric needs and energy management. Additionally, Hannah dives into the challenges of pacing on mountainous trails and the mental toughness required to overcome adversities in cycling.

Join Alex Wild, a Team CycleSport athlete, as he tackles the challenges of VO2 max training. He shares mental strategies to overcome limitations during grueling intervals and emphasizes the importance of a positive mindset. Discover how AI can tailor training plans for better performance and why gear choices matter in races. With tips for the Tahoe Trail 100, including pacing and nutrition, Alex offers valuable insights for cyclists looking to enhance their endurance and efficiency on diverse terrains.

In this engaging talk, Will Girling, a nutritionist for Red Bull Bora-Hansgrohe, shares his expertise on pro cycling nutrition. He introduces the controversial mid-race strategy known as 'carb bombing,' which involves consuming high carbs for performance boosts. Will discusses the importance of sweat testing and hydration strategies, especially in extreme heat. He also highlights the evolving understanding of sodium intake and its effects on athlete performance. Listeners gain invaluable insights into optimizing their nutrition for cycling success.

Dr. Kyle Pfaffenbach, a coach from Eastern Oregon University and mentor to elite athletes, dives into the fascinating relationship between keto diets and cycling performance. He discusses how carbohydrate intake can significantly influence high-intensity training and explores the science of fat oxidation. Dr. Pfaffenbach also emphasizes personalized nutritional strategies, the importance of balanced macronutrients, and the potential benefits of fasted training for cyclists aiming for peak performance.

This discussion tackles the frustration of not seeing expected training results. Coaches analyze performance across different events, highlighting the role of consistency and terrain variations. They dive into the significance of power metrics, especially on climbs, and emphasize structured training zones. Nutrition strategies for endurance rides are explored, alongside tips for assessing training effectiveness and optimizing race prep. With practical insights, this conversation aims to quench athletes' doubts and boost their performance.

In this engaging discussion, dietitian Alex Larson shares insights from his first gravel race and offers practical nutrition strategies for athletes. He delves into the challenges of the Unbound Gravel race, emphasizing pacing and preparation. Alex also recommends essential supplements and discusses the importance of balancing nutrition with mental health. With a focus on whole foods versus supplements, he encourages athletes to adopt a sustainable, individualized approach to nutrition, fostering both performance and well-being.

Sofía Gomez Villafañe, a professional cyclist specializing in gravel racing, and Keegan Swenson, an expert in both gravel and mountain biking, share their experiences as they prepare for Unbound Gravel. Sofía discusses her tapering techniques and how drafting rules may shift women's racing strategies. Keegan reveals insights on altitude training and his tire preferences. They delve into optimizing bike setups and the importance of heat training, providing invaluable tips for cyclists looking to enhance their performance.

Tobin Ortenblad, a skilled gravel and mountain bike racer for Santa Cruz ht.sqd, shares his insights on tackling Zone 2 training issues. He discusses common pitfalls that hinder performance and offers strategies to enhance endurance. The conversation veers into race tactics, the value of skill work, and the importance of using technology for accurate fitness assessments. Tobin also emphasizes the significance of personal growth and managing expectations in cycling, all while keeping the mood light with humorous observations about sock styles and race dynamics.

Explore the secrets of sweat testing and how to tailor hydration and nutrition for optimal performance. Discover the pros and cons of using ERG mode in your training routine. Learn practical tips for recovering from a broken collarbone while maintaining fitness. Dive into effective Zwift racing strategies, highlighting the importance of drafting and power output management. Get ready to enhance your cycling game with expert insights!

Hannah Otto, a professional gravel and mountain bike racer known for her victories at the Leadville 100, shares her rigorous training strategies and insights. She discusses the balance between training and recovery, emphasizing mental resilience during setbacks. Topics include optimizing bike setup, managing social media for mental preparedness, and the role of proper cadence in race readiness. Otto also reflects on unique challenges faced during races and the significance of structured workouts in achieving peak performance.