
That Triathlon Show
That Triathlon Show is the podcast for triathletes of all levels who want to train smarter and race faster. With over 600 episodes and millions of downloads since 2017, this show cuts through the noise and misinformation, delivering practical, no-nonsense advice rooted in both the art and science of training and performance.
The podcast features in-depth interviews with the world’s best coaches, top sports scientists, and elite athletes. Each episode dives into the nuances of training methodology, performance optimization, and race-day execution, providing insights you can apply right away. Whether you're preparing for a supersprint or an Ironman, or focusing on a single sport like swimming, cycling, or running, you'll find expert guidance and relevant content here.
The podcast is hosted by Mikael Eriksson, a former engineer now coaching professional and age-group athletes. Mikael is a Level III certified coach with over a decade of experience in coaching.
Join a global community of dedicated triathletes and take your performance to the next level. Learn more at www.scientifictriathlon.com/podcast.
Latest episodes

Sep 18, 2024 • 1h 52min
David Roche - The training and racing strategy behind his epic Leadville 100 course record | EP#444
David Roche, a trail runner and running coach, recently shattered the Leadville 100 course record in his first attempt at a 100-mile race. He discusses his innovative training strategies, such as low-volume workouts focused on speed and his unique nutrition plan emphasizing high carbs. Roche shares insights on race execution, from pacing to mindset, and how he incorporates lessons from cycling into his approach. Reflecting on 18 years of dedication, he underscores the importance of consistency and adaptability in achieving remarkable endurance feats.

Sep 11, 2024 • 1h 31min
Ben Stephenson, PhD - Heat preparation, physiology, performance planning, and the Paralympics | EP#443
Ben Stephenson, PhD, is Performance Planning Lead and physiologist for the Great Britain para triathlon squad in Loughborough. He joins us off the back of the Paralympics in Paris where Team GB had a very successful games with five para triathlon medals, including two golds. IN THIS EPISODE YOU'LL LEARN ABOUT: -Core temperature and thermoregulatory strain in sprint distance triathlon -Heat preparation: science and practice -How to minimise the risk of getting ill: which factors matter the most? -The performance planning process behind Great Britain's Paralympic success -Training to performance demands or to the individual physiology? -Balancing the art of coaching and sports science SHOWNOTES: https://scientifictriathlon.com/tts443/ SCIENTIFIC TRIATHLON AND THAT TRIATHLON SHOW WEBPAGE: www.scientifictriathlon.com/podcast/ SPONSORS: Precision Fuel & Hydration help athletes personalise their hydration and fueling strategies for training and racing. Use the free Fuel & Hydration Planner to get personalised plan for your carbohydrate, sodium and fluid intake in your next event. That Triathlon Show listeners get 15% off their first order of fuel and electrolyte products. Simply use this link and the discount will be auto-applied at the checkout. ZEN8 - The ZEN8 Indoor Swim Trainer allows you to improve technique, power, and swim training consistency. You can target specific aspects of your stroke, like catch and pull-through, work on core activation and body position, and make sure you stay consistent in your swim training even when you don't have time to go to the pool. Try the Zen8 risk-free for 30 days, and get 20% off your first order on zen8swimtrainer.com/tts. LINKS AND RESOURCES: -Ben's Twitter and Research Gate -High Thermoregulatory Strain During Competitive Paratriathlon Racing in the Heat - Stephenson et al. 2019 -Mixed Active and Passive, Heart Rate-Controlled Heat Acclimation Is Effective for Paralympic and Able-Bodied Triathletes - Stephenson et al. 2019 -Training Load, Salivary Immunoglobulin A and Illness Incidence in Elite Paratriathletes - Stephenson et al. 2019 -Bent Rønnestad, PhD | EP#386 -Training talk with Bex Milnes | EP#353 -Failure is not an optioon: Mission Control From Mercury to Apollo 13 - book by Gene Kranz -Mallorca Training Camp 2025 RATE AND REVIEW: If you enjoy the show, please help me out by subscribing, rating and reviewing: www.scientifictriathlon.com/rate/ CONTACT: Want to send feedback, questions or just chat? Email me at mikael@scientifictriathlon.com or connect on Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter.

Aug 28, 2024 • 1h 33min
Dr. Jeff Sankoff (the TriDoc) - Health and medicine in endurance sports | EP#442
Dr. Jeff Sankoff, an emergency physician, triathlete, and coach, shares vital insights on health for endurance athletes. He discusses the connection between longevity and endurance sports, emphasizing cardiovascular health. Jeff breaks down the significance of personalized blood tests, particularly for iron and vitamin D levels. He also tackles dental health myths tied to endurance training and dives into anti-doping challenges in amateur sports, advocating for fair competition and health awareness. An enlightening blend of medical knowledge and athletic passion!

Aug 13, 2024 • 1h 5min
Gabriele Gallo, PhD - The Science of Cycling Performance | EP#441
Gabriele Gallo, PhD, is a researcher at the University of Genoa specializing in cycling performance. He shares insights into the training strategies of elite Grand Tour cyclists, focusing on load, intensity, and recovery. Gallo discusses the balance of science and art in training, the importance of interpreting research accurately, and the challenges of misinformation in the sports world. He also emphasizes the need for adaptive training methods based on individual responses and the role of platforms like Knowledgeiswatt in bridging research and practical application.

4 snips
Aug 1, 2024 • 54min
Coaching Thoughts: 15 Underrated Factors for Triathlon Performance | EP#440
Discover 15 underrated factors that can elevate triathlon performance. Consistency, stress management, and quality sleep emerge as key elements. The value of expert coaching and effective pacing techniques is highlighted. Heart rate monitoring and bike adjustability are emphasized for optimal results. Nutrition, proper footwear, and heat preparation also play crucial roles. This engaging discussion encourages athletes to re-evaluate their training approaches and unlock their full potential on race day.

6 snips
Jul 25, 2024 • 1h 10min
Coaching Thoughts: 11 Overrated Factors for Triathlon Performance | EP#439
The discussion dives into eleven overrated factors influencing triathlon performance. Highlights include a critical take on swim training and power metrics. The hosts challenge the value placed on bike frames and specific workout metrics. They stress the importance of major training decisions over minor technical details. Additionally, the pitfalls of excessive reliance on wearables are addressed. Tune in to reassess what really drives success in the sport!

Jul 18, 2024 • 1h 13min
Q&A with Lachlan Kerin | EP#438
Mikael and Lachlan Kerin answer listener questions. IN THIS EPISODE YOU'LL LEARN ABOUT: -Training with a focus on longevity and health -Differences in power output on flats vs. uphill (and what you can do about it) -Training strategies for athletes with a "diesel" phenotype -The tradeoff between stroke (and stride) rate and stroke length -Should you ride at a lower cadence to "save" your cardiovascular system for the run? SHOWNOTES: https://scientifictriathlon.com/tts438/ SCIENTIFIC TRIATHLON AND THAT TRIATHLON SHOW WEBPAGE: www.scientifictriathlon.com/podcast/ SPONSORS: Precision Fuel & Hydration help athletes personalise their hydration and fueling strategies for training and racing. Use the free Fuel & Hydration Planner to get personalised plan for your carbohydrate, sodium and fluid intake in your next event. That Triathlon Show listeners get 15% off their first order of fuel and electrolyte products. Simply use this link and the discount will be auto-applied at the checkout. ZEN8 - The ZEN8 Indoor Swim Trainer allows you to improve technique, power, and swim training consistency. You can target specific aspects of your stroke, like catch and pull-through, work on core activation and body position, and make sure you stay consistent in your swim training even when you don't have time to go to the pool. Try the Zen8 risk-free for 30 days, and get 20% off your first order on zen8swimtrainer.com/tts. LINKS AND RESOURCES: Lachie's coaching profile page and Instagram Road gradient and cycling power: An observational study in male professional cyclists - Valenzuela et al. 2022 That Triathlon Show guests Olympic Podium picks for Paris 2024 RATE AND REVIEW: If you enjoy the show, please help me out by subscribing, rating and reviewing: www.scientifictriathlon.com/rate/ CONTACT: Want to send feedback, questions or just chat? Email me at mikael@scientifictriathlon.com or connect on Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter.

Jul 11, 2024 • 1h 15min
Manuel Sola Arjona - The Nature of Training and complexity science | EP#437
Manuel Sola Arjona is a cycling coach and former professional cyclist, author of the book "The Nature of Training", and host of the popular Spanish podcast "Rendimiento Evolutivo". IN THIS EPISODE YOU'LL LEARN ABOUT: -Complexity science, complex systems and endurance performance -The risks of reductionism in training and in sports science -An evolutionary perspective to training and performance -How to apply complex systems thinking in training planning and application -An overview of Manuel's training and coaching methodology -Common mistakes for endurance athletes and coaches to avoid -AI, big data, wearables, and technology SHOWNOTES: https://scientifictriathlon.com/tts437/ SCIENTIFIC TRIATHLON AND THAT TRIATHLON SHOW WEBPAGE: www.scientifictriathlon.com/podcast/ SPONSORS: Precision Fuel & Hydration help athletes personalise their hydration and fueling strategies for training and racing. Use the free Fuel & Hydration Planner to get personalised plan for your carbohydrate, sodium and fluid intake in your next event. That Triathlon Show listeners get 15% off their first order of fuel and electrolyte products. Simply use this link and the discount will be auto-applied at the checkout. ZEN8 - The ZEN8 Indoor Swim Trainer allows you to improve technique, power, and swim training consistency. You can target specific aspects of your stroke, like catch and pull-through, work on core activation and body position, and make sure you stay consistent in your swim training even when you don't have time to go to the pool. Try the Zen8 risk-free for 30 days, and get 20% off your first order on zen8swimtrainer.com/tts. LINKS AND RESOURCES: Manuel's website, Instagram, and Twitter The Nature of Training: Complexity Science Applied to Endurance Performance - Manuel's book Rendimiento Evolutivo - Manuel's podcast (Spanish) Manuel's Substack Newsletter RATE AND REVIEW: If you enjoy the show, please help me out by subscribing, rating and reviewing: www.scientifictriathlon.com/rate/ CONTACT: Want to send feedback, questions or just chat? Email me at mikael@scientifictriathlon.com or connect on Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter.

Jun 20, 2024 • 1h 4min
Rachael Maney, National Director of Bike Law | EP#436
Rachael Maney is the National Director of Bike Law, a network of independent bike crash lawyers with the goal of being cycling advocates as well as legal advocates and to pursue cycling justice. IN THIS EPISODE YOU'LL LEARN ABOUT: -Cycling and road safety -How crashes with motorists occur, and what you can (and cannot) do to protect yourself -Understanding your rights and responsibilities as a cyclist -What to do if you, your friend or family member is involved in a bike crash -What kind of legal challenges might you run into after a crash, and how to get help -Bike advocacy and societal change for safer roads for both cyclists and drivers SHOWNOTES: https://scientifictriathlon.com/tts436/ SCIENTIFIC TRIATHLON AND THAT TRIATHLON SHOW WEBPAGE: www.scientifictriathlon.com/podcast/ SPONSORS: Precision Fuel & Hydration help athletes personalise their hydration and fueling strategies for training and racing. Use the free Fuel & Hydration Planner to get personalised plan for your carbohydrate, sodium and fluid intake in your next event. That Triathlon Show listeners get 15% off their first order of fuel and electrolyte products. Simply use this link and the discount will be auto-applied at the checkout. ZEN8 - The ZEN8 Indoor Swim Trainer allows you to improve technique, power, and swim training consistency. You can target specific aspects of your stroke, like catch and pull-through, work on core activation and body position, and make sure you stay consistent in your swim training even when you don't have time to go to the pool. Try the Zen8 risk-free for 30 days, and get 20% off your first order on zen8swimtrainer.com/tts. LINKS AND RESOURCES: Bike Law's website RATE AND REVIEW: If you enjoy the show, please help me out by subscribing, rating and reviewing: www.scientifictriathlon.com/rate/ CONTACT: Want to send feedback, questions or just chat? Email me at mikael@scientifictriathlon.com or connect on Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter.

Jun 5, 2024 • 1h 8min
David McNamee - training, racing, and insights from 18 years in triathlon | EP#435
David McNamee is a two-time podium finisher in the Ironman World Championships in Kona, ranked 17th in the PTO World Rankings, and a T100 contracted athlete from Scotland, living in Girona. In this interview we talk about his season, his training, and learnings from 18 years in the sport about what works and what doesn't. IN THIS EPISODE YOU'LL LEARN ABOUT: -David's plans for the rest of the year -Racing like in the T100 World Tour -David's training setup, including home base, coaching, training groups and partners, etc. -A full week of training in preparation for T100 San Francisco -How David prepares for Kona -Insights from 18 years in the sport: what has David found works for him, and what doesn't? -Overtraining -Best coaching advice ever received SHOWNOTES: https://scientifictriathlon.com/tts435/ SCIENTIFIC TRIATHLON AND THAT TRIATHLON SHOW WEBPAGE: www.scientifictriathlon.com/podcast/ SPONSORS: Precision Fuel & Hydration help athletes personalise their hydration and fueling strategies for training and racing. Use the free Fuel & Hydration Planner to get personalised plan for your carbohydrate, sodium and fluid intake in your next event. That Triathlon Show listeners get 15% off their first order of fuel and electrolyte products. Simply use this link and the discount will be auto-applied at the checkout. ZEN8 - The ZEN8 Indoor Swim Trainer allows you to improve technique, power, and swim training consistency. You can target specific aspects of your stroke, like catch and pull-through, work on core activation and body position, and make sure you stay consistent in your swim training even when you don't have time to go to the pool. Try the Zen8 risk-free for 30 days, and get 20% off your first order on zen8swimtrainer.com/tts. LINKS AND RESOURCES: David's Instagram and results page on the PTO website Dan Bigham – aerodynamic testing, equipment, and making your bike fast | EP#229 The Hour record and aerodynamics with Dan Bigham | EP#368 Joel Filliol | EP#409 World Champions keep things simple: training masterclass with Joel Filliol | EP#172 David Tilbury-Davis | EP#416 The evolution of coaching principles and practices with David Tilbury-Davis | EP#283 Perspectives on coaching with David Tilbury-Davis | EP#227 Perspectives on training with David Tilbury-Davis | EP#226 That Triathlon Show guests Olympic Podium picks for Paris 2024 RATE AND REVIEW: If you enjoy the show, please help me out by subscribing, rating and reviewing: www.scientifictriathlon.com/rate/ CONTACT: Want to send feedback, questions or just chat? Email me at mikael@scientifictriathlon.com or connect on Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter.