The Time-Crunched Cyclist Podcast by CTS

OVERVIEWPower, heart rate, or RPE (rate of perceived exertion or how you feel)? Which data point is best for gauging intensity during training or a race, and which is best for monitoring training progress? Coach Adam Pulford tackles these frequently asked questions in Episode 249 of "The Time-Crunched Cyclist Podcast". Although ALL THREE metrics have their place, Coach Adam reveals the hierarchy for what matters most and what metrics are used for context. TOPICS COVEREDPower vs Heart Rate vs RPE HierarchyHow to keep HR from drifting up during intervalsWhy HR might drop during intervalsWhy prioritize Power first, then RPE, and HR lastTraining at the top vs bottom of power zonesAll about Rate of Perceived Effort (RPE)Why three data points are better than oneASK A QUESTION FOR A FUTURE PODCASTLINKS/RESOURCESEston, R., & Connolly, D. (1996).Use of Ratings of Perceived Exertion for Exercise Prescription in the Elderly.Validates RPE as a tool even without heart rate monitoring.Shows strong correlation between RPE and physiological markers like VO2 max and lactate threshold.Faulkner, J., et al. (2008).Rating of perceived exertion during isometric and dynamic exercise is influenced by the duration of exercise.Indicates how fatigue alters perceived effort.Garcin, M., Fleury, A., & Billat, V. (2002).The correlation between RPE and physiological variables (heart rate, lactate) in cycling.Found strong correlation between RPE and lactate threshold, especially in trained cyclists.Source: International Journal of Sports Medicine.Seiler, S., & Kjerland, G.Ø. (2006).Quantifying training intensity distribution in elite endurance athletes: is there evidence for an "optimal" distribution?RPE used as a monitoring tool for training load in elite cyclists and runners.Source: Scandinavian Journal of Medicine & Science in Sports.González-Alonso J, et al. (1999). Influence of body temperature on the cardiovascular response to exercise. Journal of Applied Physiology, 86(2), 599–605.https://doi.org/10.1152/jappl.1999.86.2.599Berntson GG, et al. (1997). Heart rate variability: Origins, methods, and interpretive caveats. Psychophysiology, 34(6), 623–648.https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1469-8986.1997.tb02140.xHOSTAdam Pulford has been a CTS Coach for nearly two decades and holds a B.S. in Exercise Physiology. He's participated in and coached hundreds of athletes for endurance events all around the world.Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, Google Podcasts, or on your favorite podcast platformGET FREE TRAINING CONTENTJoin our weekly newsletterCONNECT WITH CTSWebsite: trainright.comInstagram: @cts_trainrightTwitter: @trainrightFacebook: @CTSAthlete

OVERVIEWColin Izzard and Adam Pulford have more than 45 years of coaching experience between them. In this casual conversation between two old friends and colleagues, they pull back the curtain on how the coaching process works, how it differs from a training plan or AI-generated program, and how coaching has changed for the better with the introduction of new technologies - including artificial intelligence. ASK A QUESTION FOR A FUTURE PODCASTLINKS/RESOURCESLearn About Cycling Coaching with CTSSchedule a no-charge, no-commitment consultation with a CTS CoachGUESTColin Izzard graduated from Syracuse University in 1998 with a BS in Exercise Physiology and Biomechanics. He served as the Head Coach for USA Swimming Teams as well as working at UNC Chapel Hill as a swimming and strength coach. He joined CTS as a coach in the early 2000s, developed CTS’s first regional center in Asheville/Brevard NC, and mentored, developed, and trained dozens of coaches. Other fun projects have included writing stage races for Zwift and working with Training Peaks to help develop WKO 4 software. He served as a bike fit/sports science advisor for the Hincapie Racing Team, Columbia Es Passion Professional Cycling Team, The Toronto Maple Leafs NHL Team, and Trek Regional Factory Programs. HOSTAdam Pulford has been a CTS Coach for nearly two decades and holds a B.S. in Exercise Physiology. He's participated in and coached hundreds of athletes for endurance events all around the world.Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, Google Podcasts, or on your favorite podcast platformGET FREE TRAINING CONTENTJoin our weekly newsletterCONNECT WITH CTSWebsite: trainright.comInstagram: @cts_trainrightTwitter: @trainrightFacebook: @CTSAthlete

OVERVIEWWheels and Tires and Tire Pressure. These are the subjects of endless debates among road, gravel, and mountain bike racers. Wheel and tire technologies continue to change. Internal rim widths allow for wider tires, as do modern frames. In Episode 247 of "The Time-Crunched Cyclist Podcast", Coach Adam Pulford and Velosmith's Tony Bustamante discuss how cyclists can narrow in on the wheel + tire + pressure combination that works best in specific situation, like SBT GRVL vs. Big Sugar. TOPICS COVEREDWhy are tires so important to cycling performance?Why you should be testing multiple tire choicesSourcing course-specific info on tire selectionHow tire pressure affects wheel system performanceTinkering with tire pressure to find your preferred setupSweet spots for rire size and handling characteristicsASK A QUESTION FOR A FUTURE PODCASTLINKS/RESOURCESVelosmith Bicycle Studio- SRAM/ZIPP tire pressure guide - Schwalbe tire width guide - WTB Tire/Rim fit chartGUESTTony Bustamante of Velosmith Bicycle Studio. A second-generation bike shop owner, Tony Began working for his father in 1986 and over time worked in shops from L.A. to D.C. In the late 90s - early 00s. He worked at Seven Cycles in production/manufacturing and design before starting Velosmith in 2011 with a focus on building custom bicycles and delivering an exceptional level of mechanical service and hospitality. One last bit about Tony: he was an athlete Adam Pulford worked with for a handful of years and Adam has utilized Tony's skills and guidance on equipment choices, bike fit, and more.HOSTAdam Pulford has been a CTS Coach for nearly two decades and holds a B.S. in Exercise Physiology. He's participated in and coached hundreds of athletes for endurance events all around the world.Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, Google Podcasts, or on your favorite podcast platformGET FREE TRAINING CONTENTJoin our weekly newsletterCONNECT WITH CTSWebsite: trainright.comInstagram: @cts_trainrightTwitter: @trainrightFacebook: @CTSAthlete

OVERVIEWWhen it comes to the equipment choices and mistakes athletes make before big events, Tony Bustamante has seen it all. The founder of Velosmith Bicycle Studio, which specializes in customized builds for discerning cyclists, and a second-generation bike shop owner, Tony has been that guy you implored to fix your brakes last minute or install that super-important part the afternoon before your flight. Not only does he not recommend you do that, he has other potentially race-saving, trip-saving, and money-saving advice for cyclists as we head into the height of summer event season.TOPICS COVEREDThe 3 Categories of Concern for CyclistsRider: Apparel and Contact PointsBike: Frame/Fork, wheels/tires, drivetrain, controlsVariables: Bags, aero bars, on-bike tools, lights, etc.How to choose a mechanic you can trustTimeline for event-specific equipment choices/changesTimeline for having your bike worked on before an eventASK A QUESTION FOR A FUTURE PODCASTLINKS/RESOURCESVelosmith Bicycle StudioGUESTTony Bustamante of Velosmith Bicycle Studio. A second-generation bike shop owner, Tony Began working for his father in 1986 and over time worked in shops from L.A. to D.C. In the late 90s - early 00s. He worked at Seven Cycles in production/manufacturing and design before starting Velosmith in 2011 with a focus on building custom bicycles and delivering an exceptional level of mechanical service and hospitality. One last bit about Tony: he was an athlete Adam Pulford worked with for a handful of years and Adam has utilized Tony's skills and guidance on equipment choices, bike fit, and more.HOSTAdam Pulford has been a CTS Coach for nearly two decades and holds a B.S. in Exercise Physiology. He's participated in and coached hundreds of athletes for endurance events all around the world.Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, Google Podcasts, or on your favorite podcast platformGET FREE TRAINING CONTENTJoin our weekly newsletterCONNECT WITH CTSWebsite: trainright.comInstagram: @cts_trainrightTwitter: @trainrightFacebook: @CTSAthlete

OVERVIEWInterval training works, but there are ways to get stronger, ride faster, and win races without interval training. There are even aspects of performance that are better suited to no-interval training blocks. In some cases, the structured intensity with planned recovery breaks hinders an athlete's flexibility to use power and fitness spontaneously. Coach Adam Pulford breaks away from the dogma of interval training to show you how to improve your fitness and performance with a period of reduced structure. TOPICS COVEREDThe 5 reasons we do intervals in training3 Ways to train without intervalsSample workout 1: Hard Climbing DaySample workout 2: Kilojoules per hourSample workout 3: Normalized Power Game3 Ways to use Group Rides for productive trainingMonitoring your fitness when you're not doing intervalsSubjective feedback: "real feel" vs. "should feel"ASK A QUESTION FOR A FUTURE PODCASTLINKS/RESOURCESThe Evolution of EnduranceHOSTAdam Pulford has been a CTS Coach for nearly two decades and holds a B.S. in Exercise Physiology. He's participated in and coached hundreds of athletes for endurance events all around the world.Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, Google Podcasts, or on your favorite podcast platformGET FREE TRAINING CONTENTJoin our weekly newsletterCONNECT WITH CTSWebsite: trainright.comInstagram: @cts_trainrightTwitter: @trainrightFacebook: @CTSAthlete

Stephanie Howe, PhD, is an elite ultramarathon runner and CTS Coach specializing in nutrition for athletes. In this discussion, she shares vital race day nutrition strategies, emphasizing the significance of thorough planning and adaptability. They tackle palate fatigue and how to maintain energy during long races by varying food options. Additionally, Stephanie reveals essential sodium requirements for peak performance and offers tips for overcoming gastrointestinal issues. With practical advice, listeners will be better equipped for race day challenges.

OVERVIEWStephanie Howe, PhD is our go-to source for no-nonsense, evidence-based nutrition guidance. She doesn't abide fads or pseudoscience and has no allegiances to sports nutrition or supplement companies. An elite ultramarathon runner who won Western States, CTS Coach, and the provider for CTS Nutrition Coaching services, Stephanie works with cyclists, runners, triathletes, and more. In Episode 243 of "The Time-Crunched Cyclist Podcast", Stephanie and Coach Adam Pulford discuss the fundamentals of sports nutrition for training, misconceptions about eating sugar, how the recent "max carbohydrate" trends apply to Time-Crunched Athletes, and more.TOPICS COVEREDWhy athletes shouldn't be afraid of consuming sugar during exerciseIngredients to look for in sports nutrition productsAdjusting calorie/carbohydrate intake by exercise intensityNutrition for endurance days vs. interval/competition daysGut training: what it is, why it's good, how to do itWhat to eat in the 24 hours before important training/competitionHydration recommendations for training/competitionWhy you should carry both water and sport drinkASK A QUESTION FOR A FUTURE PODCASTLINKS/RESOURCEShttps://stephaniemariehowe.com/about/https://trainright.com/nutrition/HOSTAdam Pulford has been a CTS Coach for nearly two decades and holds a B.S. in Exercise Physiology. He's participated in and coached hundreds of athletes for endurance events all around the world.Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, Google Podcasts, or on your favorite podcast platformGET FREE TRAINING CONTENTJoin our weekly newsletterCONNECT WITH CTSWebsite: trainright.comInstagram: @cts_trainrightTwitter: @trainrightFacebook: @CTSAthlete

Discover how much fatigue athletes can handle without sabotaging recovery and progress. Dive into essential training metrics, such as Acute and Chronic Training Load, to optimize performance. Learn the significance of training stress scores and how they relate to rest. Understand the critical balance of stress and recovery, especially for those returning from injuries. Coach Adam Pulford shares data analysis techniques to fine-tune workouts and prevent overtraining, helping you achieve your fitness goals.

Training zones can be confusing, especially with different systems defining ‘Zone 2’ uniquely. The discussion highlights the differences between the 3-Zone and 7-Zone training systems, revealing how they impact performance. The hosts delve into the significance of aerobic decoupling as a measure of conditioning and offer practical advice for athletes. Personalized training strategies are emphasized, showing how individual testing can optimize performance and adapt training methodologies to each athlete's needs.

OverviewWe love checking out what the pros are riding, but "normal" riders aiming to finish the Leadville 100 MTB in under 9 hours or under 12 hours have different needs on race day. Ten-time LT100 finisher, coach, and author Jim Rutberg talks with 3-time finisher Adam Pulford about the best bikes, equipment choices for the 2000+ riders behind the race leaders. And, since they're both coaches, they throw in a bunch of training, nutrition, and race strategy tips as well.Key topics in this episode:Challenges of Leadville 100 courseIs Leadville a drop-bar bike course?Best Bike Setup for Leadville 100How much suspension do you need?Bottles or hydration pack?What about a hardtail MTB?Wheels and Tires for Leadville 100Crank length for mountain bikingMTB, Gravel, or Road shoes and pedals?Training and Nutrition tips for Leadville 100LINKS5 Race Bikes from the 2022 Leadville 100 - PinkbikeTech Week – Bike & Tire Guide for the Stages Cycling Leadville Trail 100 MTBRoundup: The mountain bikes of Leadville - VeloXC vs Trail Bike Geo: Trail vs cross-country mountain bikes: Which is right for you? | BikeRadarASK A QUESTION FOR A FUTURE PODCASTGuestJim Rutberg has been an athlete, coach, and content creator in the outdoor sports, endurance coaching, and event industries for more than 20 years. He is the Media Director and a coach for CTS and co-author of several training and sports nutrition books, including Training Essentials for Ultrarunning with Jason Koop, Ride Inside with Joe Friel, and The Time-Crunched Cyclist with Chris Carmichael. A graduate of Wake Forest University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Exercise Physiology, Jim resides in Colorado Springs, Colorado, with his two sons, Oliver and Elliot. He can be reached at jrutberg@trainright.com or @rutty_rides on Instagram.HostAdam Pulford has been a CTS Coach for nearly 20 years and holds a B.S. in Exercise Physiology. He's participated in and coached hundreds of athletes for endurance events all around the world.Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, Google Podcasts, or on your favorite podcast platformGET FREE TRAINING CONTENTJoin our weekly newsletterCONNECT WITH CTSWebsite: trainright.comInstagram: @cts_trainrightTwitter: @trainrightFacebook: @CTSAthlete