Ask a Cycling Coach Podcast - Presented by TrainerRoad

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.

Dr. Kyle Pfaffenbach, a nutrition expert and coach at Eastern Oregon University, joins the conversation to unravel the complexities of carbohydrates for cyclists. They tackle the controversial question of high carb intake and its link to diabetes, deep-diving into insulin's regulatory role. Insights on insulin resistance highlight the importance of exercise and diet. The discussion emphasizes the significance of A1C readings and the need for balanced carbohydrate consumption, while also shedding light on the impacts of processed sugar on health and performance.

In this engaging discussion, Pete Morris, a former professional cyclist and owner of Free Lap Collective in Reno, shares insights on aging and athletic performance. He reveals strategies to counteract the decline in fitness as we age, emphasizing recovery and nutrition. The conversation also touches on the evolution of competitive cycling, including the rise of new stars and team dynamics in races. Listeners can expect amusing anecdotes about cycling events and practical training advice to help maintain peak performance.

In this engaging discussion, the relevance of Functional Threshold Power (FTP) takes center stage as hosts debate whether it should still be a primary focus for cyclists. They introduce new TrainerRoad features that enhance training personalization and emphasize the importance of durability alongside FTP. Critical insights on recovery practices highlight the risks of overexertion during rest intervals. Listeners will also gain valuable advice on balancing training with life's demands, making this a must-listen for cycling enthusiasts.

Professional gravel and mountain bike racer Hannah Otto, known for her impressive win at Leadville 100, shares her insights on balancing training and recovery. She highlights the importance of mental resilience and adapting strategies in cycling. The conversation also delves into managing social media's impact on athletes and optimizing bike setups. Otto emphasizes structuring workouts and focusing on recovery to enhance performance, illustrating how proper training can prevent overtraining and improve overall athlete well-being.

Hannah Otto, a professional gravel cyclist for Scott Bikes, shares her insights on optimizing Zone 2 training. She discusses common myths surrounding heart rate training and highlights the importance of balancing heart rate and power. The conversation delves into the significance of cadence in performance, especially for enhancing power outputs. Audiences can also expect tips on avoiding overtraining and incorporating effective recovery strategies, along with the mental aspects of cycling that contribute to overall performance.

In this engaging discussion, Alex Wild and Zach Calton, star members of Team CycleSport.com, recap their intense experiences at the rain-soaked Cape Epic 2025. They dive into the unexpected race day challenges, from torrential downpours to delays, and share their personal feelings of frustration and growth amidst the chaos. The duo reflects on the vital roles of community and family support, revealing how overcoming hurdles fosters resilience and connection in the world of endurance cycling.