TrainingPeaks CoachCast

In this episode, host Dirk Friel sits down with professional gravel racer and Ignition Coaching coach Dylan Johnson to dig into all things gravel. They break down the cutting-edge equipment trends seen at the 2025 edition of Unbound Gravel, as well as training trends, nutrition and training tips for both amateurs and pros. Hear why mountain bike tires are dominating the scene, the evolving role of aerodynamics in the sport, and the reasons behind faster race times over the last few years. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or a gravel-curious newcomer, you'll hear expert advice on your next gravel race and the new "Unbound Block" approach to training. Dylan also offers a glimpse into the future of even faster gravel racing. To learn more about Dylan Johnson, check out his training plans or follow him on YouTube and Instagram.

Kristen Arnold, a registered dietitian and elite cycling coach, joins the conversation to redefine food culture in endurance sports. She discusses the hidden disordered eating patterns athletes face and offers practical strategies for fostering a healthy relationship with food. Kristen emphasizes the importance of viewing nutrition as fuel, not a punishment, and encourages coaches to create supportive environments. She also highlights the crucial influence of parents in shaping young athletes' body image and nutritional habits, advocating for compassion and balance in performance.

In this engaging discussion, Alex Martin, a former pro motocross and supercross racer turned marathon coach, shares his inspiring journey. He reveals how he seamlessly transitioned to running, recently finishing the Boston Marathon in under three hours. Alex explores the unique blend of motocross performance with endurance training, emphasizing the impact of structured coaching. He also discusses nutrition, heat training, and adapting techniques for athletes recovering from injuries, showcasing his innovative approach at Troll Training.

Matt Dixon, Founder and CEO of Purple Patch Fitness and a two-time Olympic trials finalist in swimming, shares insights on coaching for endurance athletes. He discusses the surprising effectiveness of a focused 10-hour weekly training plan, highlighting its success at the IRONMAN World Championship. The conversation covers balancing endurance training with life commitments, the importance of foundational training over technology, and the transformative power of training camps. Dixon emphasizes that stress can drive growth in both sports and professional spheres.

In this engaging discussion, Stephen Barrett, head coach of Decathlon AG2R La Mondiale, shares insights on Functional Reserve Capacity (FRC) and the importance of durability in training. Liam Holohan, performance coach at Israel Premier Tech, reveals innovative concepts like heat training and hypoxic sleeping rooms. Mattia Michelusi from Team Cofidis highlights the distinctions between strength training for sprinters and climbers, along with the role of nutritionists in optimizing athlete performance. This conversation is a treasure trove for anyone interested in elite cycling training methods!

Fergus Crawley, co-founder and head coach of Omnia Performance, brings his expertise in hybrid athlete training to the forefront. He reveals the merging of strength and endurance disciplines, sharing tips on balancing training goals. Fergus recounts his impressive feat of squatting 500 pounds and running a mile in under five minutes, emphasizing the mental approach needed for hybrid training. He discusses auto-regulation, personalized coaching strategies, and the importance of adapting to individual athlete needs for optimal performance.

Nell Rojas, a professional marathoner and coach celebrated for her top American finishes in the Boston and New York City Marathons, shares her rich insights on marathon training. She emphasizes the art and science of coaching, balancing individual needs with athletic goals. Nell discusses the importance of tailored nutrition, recovery strategies, and integrating strength training into marathon preparation. Advocating for inclusivity in running, she inspires athletes with her journey from competitor to coach, highlighting the joy of empowering others in the sport.

Scott Johnston, co-author of renowned endurance training books and founder of Evoke Endurance Coaching, shares his expertise on recovery strategies for ultramarathon runners. He emphasizes the need to balance rest and performance, considering factors like CNS fatigue and motivation. Listeners learn about actionable tactics such as tracking subjective feedback, implementing active recovery, and the importance of personalized recovery timelines. Johnston also discusses the mental aspects of recovery and the role of nutrition in enhancing performance longevity.

George Gilbert, Founder of IndieVelo and VP at TrainingPeaks, joins Lee Gerakos, TrainingPeaks President, to discuss the acquisition of IndieVelo and the launch of TrainingPeaks Virtual. They dive into how community feedback is shaping this innovative platform for indoor cycling. The duo highlights the importance of creating credible virtual races and diverse training environments. Additionally, they explore the seamless integration of athlete accounts and the extensive options for group rides and simulations that empower both coaches and athletes.

Gale Bernhardt, a veteran endurance coach with over 35 years of experience, shares her journey from a mechanical engineer to guiding Olympians. She discusses the importance of continual learning and setting long-term goals, as well as the unique challenges in coaching across different cultures. Gale emphasizes the irreplaceable human touch in coaching despite the rise of AI, and she offers invaluable advice for aspiring coaches on balancing technology with personal connections to athletes.