
Purple Patch Podcast
Author and Triathlon Coach, Matt Dixon, will empower and educate you to integrate sport into life in order to reach your athletic potential because, it is through the lens of athletic potential, that you reach your human potential.
In addition to topics such as planning your fitness into a time-starved life, the show will provide in-depth interviews, advice, and insight into optimizing your health, work, and life performance, along with the critical habits and approaches that facilitate the success of some of the world's top performers across many disciplines.
Latest episodes

Jul 27, 2022 • 59min
229 Line Thams and PTSD - Navigating Adversity and Meeting Stress
Matt welcomes Purple Patch Pro Athlete, Line Thams, to the Podcast. Thams is a professional triathlete from Denmark, focusing on short-course ITU racing. She sits down with Matt to provide insight into dealing with stress and adversity. Thams shares her own story of coping with family tragedy and trauma and how to leverage adversity to emerge stronger in sport and life. Over the last few years, Thams has had to navigate her mother’s stroke and subsequent coma, her partner's battle with cancer, and the physical and emotional trauma of a major bike crash that crippled her confidence and almost ended her athletic career. Line frames her approach and the mindset she applies to move beyond the obstacles of the unexpected and provides valuable insight into formulating a plan of actionable steps towards recovery. It is an inspiring story of resilience for anyone looking to manage, control, and emerge from the sometimes overwhelming weight of stress in their life. Together, Matt and Line discuss the following themes: Learning to identify, accept and live with uncontrollables (19:50) “I've heard it's so unfair..that's probably also a lesson we can take out from this is that life is not always fair. And if we grip - dwell too much on feeling that we are in this unfair situation, at least for too long, then we will be blind on what we can actually do.” Enacting actionable behavior - adapting to the challenges Developing an adversity mindset - applying positive and productive energy (55:12)“There's a 99% likelihood it could be worse. And to quote Gary Vee, 1 billion people don't have access to clean water…I still wake up in a soft bed, I can make myself a triple Espresso from very good coffee machine, if that's what I want. My friends and family are here, I can go out and ride my bike with my teammates…But it could be worse and this too shall pass. c'est la vie and this too shall pass.” Avoiding stagnant thinking- refocusing perspective toward the positive. (47:30)“It only feels stressful, if I'm caught up in the future, or the past, because, you know, like either be worried about what we haven't done or being overwhelmed by how on earth, we're going to make it into the future that we aim for. And I think, like happiness is also about letting go of what you thought your life was supposed to be, and just embracing where you are right now. And I think if we're stressed, we're not actually present. And if we're not present, we can also not be, like, truly happy." The power of community - reaching out and letting others in Defining success in the face of adversity "(38:54)The road to success for me comes down to kind of the personal journey...on the journey, you will get tested and you will get challenges...when you meet the challenge...and look it in the eyes, then I also think that you will grow from it and you will better yourself. And to me that is success. Key lessons from Line’s personal experiences - coming back from catastrophe More on Line Thams: - 3x podium at ITU Continental Cups, 2013-2014 - Bronze Grand Prix Embrun, 2015 - Danish Champion 2014-2017, 2021 - Vice World Champion Duathlon 2022 Episode Timestamps 0:02 - 03:45 Welcome and Episode Introduction 3:45 - The Meat and Potatoes - Line Thams: Navigating Adversity and Meeting Stress Purple Patch Video Podcast and More Purple Patch Coaching Consultation Training Camp - 2022 St.George Triathlon Camp The Purple Patch Center is Open - Learn More and Schedule a Visit Purple Patch and Episode Resources This episode is sponsored by our collaboration with INSIDE TRACKER. Inside Tracker and Purple Patch - Receive 20% off their services with code: PURPLEPATCHPRO20 Ask Matt Anything - Leave a voicemail question for Matt Learn more about Purple Patch Squad High-Performance Training Program Join Bike Squad - Don’t just exercise and work out; learn to train with our structured online cycling program Join Run Squad - Increase your running performance through our progressive, multi-sport approach to running Learn more about Purple Patch Fully Customized 1:1 Coaching Learn more about Purple Patch Strength Programming Purple Patch Swim Analysis Stay Up-to-Date with Purple Patch News and Events Purple Patch Upcoming Webinars and Events

Jul 20, 2022 • 46min
228 Ask Matt Anything on Racing - From Preparation to Performance
Welcome to another "Ask Matt Anything" edition of the Purple Patch Podcast. In part 1 of our 2 part series of Q & A episodes on all topics related to racing, Matt answers your voicemails and emails on race preparation and practices. In this installment, Matt answers your questions related to: Integrating sufficient recovery into training The constraints of metrics and how to move beyond them in your athletic performance Implementing race day hydration The logistics of fueling and hydrating on the move Spotting chronic fatigue and the proper steps to righting the ship Episode Timestamps 0:02-03:43 Welcome and Episode Introduction 3:43-Question 1 from Frederik: I heard you say that the three up one down training structure is not something you believe in. Is that something that applies to pro athletes? And does the answer change if you're talking about female athletes? I have had athletes that have very successfully been able to accumulate three weeks of consistent training, and not start to overreach or not start to get too tired. But in the middle of the bell curve, I've seen that most athletes don't succeed with that recipe. And that's because quite simply, you can't beat physiology. 11:56-Question 2 from Jeff: I have a question about race execution for someone who may not really like using data. I'd rather be following general cues tied to RPE. Do you have any general guidelines to follow? The power and the metrics, whether you use heart rate, whether you use power, whether you use pace on the run, they're really valuable. They're great to have, but they shouldn't be driving the ship. What should be driving the ship is you, your intuition. 18:57-Question 3 from Les: I'm curious to know your thoughts on race day hydration. My bike is set up to carry a 750 mil bottle between my aero bars and two more behind my seat and I'll need about one bottle an hour or so I'm thinking for Ironman Canada. What are your thoughts on how much to carry versus trying to mix it along the way with tablets? I would probably lead with one bottle behind, one up front and then you are refilling your chamber on an ongoing basis at the front torpedo system with water. But then having on the top of your handlebars or in your pockets, even on your thigh underneath your race suit, you might have the sachets of precision that you can rip pour into the chamber before you get to an aid station and then squeeze and dump water over the top of it so that you fill in the concentration. 26:29-Question 4 from Richard: One thing that's taken many minutes of my time is the logistics of bike aid stations. I've got dialed into a new hydration plan. I take electrolytes to add to the water but need to continually stop and sort things out on the bike, grab more nutrition and stash it somewhere. It feels a shame to spend more than five minutes stationary over an Ironman bike leg, but I can't figure out how else to do it. I would really recommend you have a torpedo at the front of the bike. That can really be a game changer for logistics and carriage because you can then grab water as you're in flight, slowing down being very safe, keeping that hand supple on the bar, grab the water and refill while you're on the go, dump that water bottle away, and now you've got a new reservoir. 31:43-Question 5 from Brian: Is it possible to still have occasional good races despite being in a state of chronic fatigue, and is it possible to lose touch with your level of fatigue? So what we need to look at is how much long term damage is there? How much recuperation do you need? And then also a little bit of an objective review of what's the ultimate root of the problem? And you're not going to say oh, it was that it was my nutrition, it was my training program, it was my lack of recovery, because it's always more holistic than that. Ask Matt Anything! Head to the Podcast Page at PurplePatchFitness.com/podcast and leave a concise question for Matt. Tell us your name, where you're from, and ask your question. We'll get to as many as we can in future episodes. Purple Patch Video Podcast and More More on Precision Fuel & Hydration Visit Precision Fuel and Hydration's website and enter the code purplepatch_SQ93 for a discount on their products. Purple Patch Coaching Consultation Training Camp - 2022 St.George Triathlon Camp The Purple Patch Center is Open - Learn More and Schedule a Visit Purple Patch and Episode Resources This episode is sponsored by our collaboration with INSIDE TRACKER. Inside Tracker and Purple Patch - Receive 20% off their services with code: PURPLEPATCHPRO20 Ask Matt Anything - Leave a voicemail question for Matt Learn more about Purple Patch Squad High-Performance Training Program Join Bike Squad - Don’t just exercise and work out; learn to train with our structured online cycling program Join Run Squad - Increase your running performance through our progressive, multi-sport approach to running Learn more about Purple Patch Fully Customized 1:1 Coaching Learn more about Purple Patch Strength Programming Purple Patch Swim Analysis Stay Up-to-Date with Purple Patch News and Events Purple Patch Upcoming Webinars and Events

Jul 13, 2022 • 37min
227 Halfway There (Part 2) - Endurance and Triathlon Performance Lessons from 2022 So Far
In part 2 of our observations and lessons of 2022 so far, Matt takes a step beyond life performance and focuses on endurance sports and triathlon performance. After two years without specific goal-driven events to anchor training to, many athletes are either searching to build on the positive adaptions made during the shutdown or are looking to get their training back on track. Matt shares key insights on the habits born during the lull of the past two years and offers an approach to adapting the "pandemic training plan" to the new normal we face as the demands of life build momentum. Matt explores five main observations and lessons of 2022 to help you plot your second half of the year of performance as key races loom. Failures to Perform in Context: Adapting the training approach to the demands of life. (11:26) “we're really starting to see way too many athletes for my liking, that are looking to maintain the same let's call it pandemic training program, under the context of an environment in where the total stress accumulation from the other aspects of life is simply too high." The Fueling and Hydration Revolution: Finding the caloric mix and fluid balance that works for you. The Power of the Soul Filler: Fitting me-time into your training program (20:48) “Have a certain percentage of your training, actually play a role in life as a decompressor. A little bit of me-time, a little bit of protected time where you do something that's enjoyable...and while you're doing it, you're very gently building cardiovascular conditioning, muscular tissue resilience, et cetera, et cetera." The Performance Train is Leaving the Station: Choosing to adapt, evolve and avoid failed approaches. (27:28) “I think it's time to adapt your approach, draw the lessons of the last couple of years that were full of horror, and angst and anxiety, but also a great opportunity to imprint some really positive habits and a more pragmatic and smart approach to your overall training." We Are Social Beings: Feeding off the desire to improve. The goal of this episode is to help you approach the second half of the year with renewed vigor and a foundation for building healthy and positive adaptations in a time-starved life. Episode Timestamps 0:00-03:14 Introduction 3:20-6:13 Matt's News-ings 6:24-8:09 Word of the Week Purple Patch Video Podcast and More IOG Bike Fitting at The Purple Patch Center Sports Medicine Institute Services at The Purple Patch Center FREE Webinar - IRONMAN & IM70.3 in 8-14hrs/Week with FREE Roadmap PDF resources Purple Patch Coaching Consultation Training Camp - 2022 St.George Triathlon Camp The Purple Patch Center is Open - Learn More and Schedule a Visit Purple Patch Website and Newsletter 8:15-The Meat and Potatoes: Halfway There (Part 2) - Endurance and Triathlon Performance Lessons from 2022 So Far Purple Patch and Episode Resources This episode is sponsored by our collaboration with INSIDE TRACKER. Inside Tracker and Purple Patch - Receive 20% off their services with code: PURPLEPATCHPRO20 Ask Matt Anything - Leave a voicemail question for Matt Learn more about Purple Patch Squad High-Performance Training Program Join Bike Squad - Don’t just exercise and work out; learn to train with our structured online cycling program Join Run Squad - Increase your running performance through our progressive, multi-sport approach to running Learn more about Purple Patch Fully Customized 1:1 Coaching Learn more about Purple Patch Strength Programming Purple Patch Swim Analysis Stay Up-to-Date with Purple Patch News and Events Purple Patch Upcoming Webinars and Events

Jul 6, 2022 • 44min
226 Halfway There - Performance and Life Lessons from 2022 So Far
As we approach the midway point of 2022, it is important to pause and reflect on the challenges we faced and lessons we learned throughout the year surrounding our overall performance in life, and the habits we can establish moving forward to set ourselves up for success. In part one of our two-part series on Lessons from 2022 so far, we look closely at how we were able to adapt our lives to the slower pace and smaller scale of life in the bubble, to determine the challenges we face as life after lockdown begins to grow and pick up speed. Matt discusses the habits you should avoid and the practices you should consider to help you manage and thrive through the changes and challenges of the coming year. Matt highlights five main observations and lessons: Change is hard: How we adapt to evolving circumstances. (13:23) “We started to have a real start of a return back to normal. the thing is, normal was never going to be a simple return of the way that things were before. There's been an evolution in how we work, and what's actually important to us individually and collectively.” Life is accelerating: Shifting gears to face the amplifying demands of life. Leverage the lessons of change: Building on positives and avoiding stale habits of the past. (25:53) “So many athletes and fitness enthusiasts had the opportunity, and still have the opportunity in many ways, to actually take the lessons of structure, routine, prioritization, and apply it to, now once again, a really busy life. But instead, they're just running right back into the same challenge that they experienced before the slow down.” There is strength in numbers: Look for growth in a group environment. Stress accumulates: The importance of building the capacity to handle the load of multiple stressors. (36:26) “Our body is highly complex...It is a powerful thing. But one thing it's not very good at, and it's really not good at all, is differentiating different sorts of stressors.” If you are struggling or feel off course in your performance journey, this is an opportunity to take stock, and course-correct by reframing your approach to performance in life and sport through a renewed perspective. (43:47) "As you pause at the halfway point of this year, consider, I ask you, are you on a journey to thriving? Or are you just right back to the place of surviving?" Episode Timestamps 0:00-04:32 Introduction 4:40-6:33 Matt's News-ings 6:48-8:26 Word of the Week 8:27-9:11 A word from our sponsor Purple Patch Video Podcast and More FREE Webinar - IRONMAN & IM70.3 in 8-14hrs/Week with FREE Roadmap PDF resources Purple Patch Coaching Consultation Training Camp - 2022 St.George Triathlon Camp The Purple Patch Center is Open - Learn More and Schedule a Visit Purple Patch Website and Newsletter 9:16-The Meat and Potatoes: Halfway There - Performance and Life Lessons from 2022 So Far Purple Patch and Episode Resources This episode is sponsored by our collaboration with INSIDE TRACKER. Inside Tracker and Purple Patch - Receive 20% off their services with code: PURPLEPATCHPRO20 Ask Matt Anything - Leave a voicemail question for Matt Learn more about Purple Patch Squad High-Performance Training Program Join Bike Squad - Don’t just exercise and work out; learn to train with our structured online cycling program Join Run Squad - Increase your running performance through our progressive, multi-sport approach to running Learn more about Purple Patch Fully Customized 1:1 Coaching Learn more about Purple Patch Strength Programming Purple Patch Swim Analysis Stay Up-to-Date with Purple Patch News and Events Purple Patch Upcoming Webinars and Events

4 snips
Jun 29, 2022 • 1h 8min
225 Triathlon in a Time-Starved Life: IRONMAN & IM70.3 in 8-14hrs/week
For the time-starved athlete, the traditional approach to training for an Ironman or half Ironman can sometimes feel like a part-time job. Some athletes struggle to meet the demands of programs built on a foundation of accumulated weekly training hours. They often come up short when attempting to balance the demands of life and sport. Many athletes come away feeling as though the training is consuming their life, yet their race results are not reflecting their efforts or they are left trapped in a cycle of injuries. Today Matt highlights the flaws in the traditional approach that so many athletes and coaches take when preparing for an IRONMAN and half IRONMAN, and offers a more pragmatic approach to setting sustainable training hours and realistic goals within the context of each athlete’s life. In today's show you will learn 3 things: Flaws in the system - Why the common or traditional approach doesn’t work for a time-starved triathlete. (22:40) “For a time-starved athlete, I don't believe that weekly training hours can be a barometer of success in any way. We have to remember that life is not a spreadsheet." (26:08) “So, we're first looking to integrate training into life. We've got to think about things in terms of the right training intensity for the athlete, and you have to ensure that success is not built around hours of accumulation. Instead, it's about specific training that you can weave consistently over several weeks." The Optimization Challenge - An approach to building an effective and customized training program with reduced hours. [36:25] Paint a Picture of Life - Where does training fit in? [41:36] The Hierarchy of Training - Knowing when to show up [46:25] Training Cycles - Layered long-term training (35:55) “There are 24 hours in a day, we are committed to work, we are committed to family, and into that we need to integrate training." Matt’s tips: Insights on plotting training opportunities for long rides and other training sessions for readiness. [53:52]Training, Habits and Management The purpose of today’s discussion is to try and add to the conversation of what it takes for a time-starved athlete to thrive and achieve personal success in both Ironman and half Ironman distance racing. The hope is that you will apply these lessons to your own approach and develop a training methodology that not only maximizes your return on effort but allows you to enjoy the pursuit of your sporting goals without detracting from other aspects of your life. Episode Timestamps 0:02-04:17 Introduction 4:25-7:53 Matt's News-ings Purple Patch Video Podcast and More FREE Webinar - IRONMAN & IM70.3 in 8-14hrs/Week with FREE Roadmap PDF resources Purple Patch Coaching Consultation Training Camp - 2022 St.George Triathlon Camp The Purple Patch Center is Open - Learn More and Schedule a Visit Purple Patch Website and Newsletter 7:54-The Meat and Potatoes - Triathlon in a Time-Starved Life: IRONMAN & IM70.3 in 8-14hrs/week Purple Patch and Episode Resources This episode is sponsored by our collaboration with INSIDE TRACKER. Inside Tracker and Purple Patch - Receive 20% off their services with code: PURPLEPATCHPRO20 Ask Matt Anything - Leave a voicemail question for Matt Learn more about Purple Patch Squad High-Performance Training Program Join Bike Squad - Don’t just exercise and work out; learn to train with our structured online cycling program Join Run Squad - Increase your running performance through our progressive, multi-sport approach to running Learn more about Purple Patch Fully Customized 1:1 Coaching Learn more about Purple Patch Strength Programming Purple Patch Swim Analysis Stay Up-to-Date with Purple Patch News and Events Purple Patch Upcoming Webinars and Events

Jun 22, 2022 • 1h 10min
224 Jan Sibbersen - (Part 2) - Insights and Training Tips to Improve Open Water Performance
Matt welcomes Ironman World Champion swimmer and CEO and founder of Sailfish, a triathlon performance apparel company, Jan Sibbersen, for Part 2 of their discussion in which they focus on success in open water swimming. With more than 35 years of competitive swimming experience, Sibbersen shares his insights and best training practices for athletes both with a swimming background and without. In today's show, you'll learn three main things: The key differences between pool swimming, and open water swimming. (32:49) “I think we've all seen it - how good pool swimmers sometimes completely fail in open water. And it's because [...] it's an unfamiliar environment [...] So the best way to address that is to familiarize yourself with all these situations and train it." Technical and training considerations to prepare for an open water swim. (34:21) “You know, it only helps usually when you have somebody standing on the deck on the pool deck. You can do all the drills in the world, you can do all the technique work in the world. But if you don't get immediate feedback from someone who's watching you, it's really hard to improve it over time. Recommendations and tips on how to overcome anxiety in open water. (45:20) “Give it those extra one or two minutes that the masses are gone and just jump in last. [...] it's so much better and so much more enjoyable if you start slowly, and then you ease your way into it. [...] Don't worry about this minute or so that you lose, you lose a lot more if you get a panic attack” Additional topics include: Navigating race day - What to look out for in the water and what to keep in mind. Leverage your swim - Improving overall triathlon performance and conditioning through swimming. Expert advice - Troubleshooting your wetsuit. The goal of this episode is to broaden the understanding of open water swimming and how to prepare in order to put forward your best performance. Jan Sibbersen Career at a Glance -German National Swim Team (1990 to 2000) -Harvard University: Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), Economics (2000) -Goldman Sachs New York and Frankfurt: Financial Analyst (2000 and 2002) -IRONMAN Hawaii World Championships: Swim course record, 46:29min (2018) -IRONMAN Hawaii World Championships: “First out of Water” (2001-2004) -IRONMAN Germany: Swim time record holder, 42:17min (2004) -IRONMAN Germany: “First out of Water” (2002-2004) -IRONMAN Canada: "First out of Water" (2005,2006,2008) -IRONMAN USA: "First out of Water" (2006) -IRONMAN France: "First out of Water" (2007) -Managed Patrick Lange: two-time IRONMAN World Champion (2016-2021) Episode Timestamps 0:02-05:16 Introduction 5:23-8:53 Matt's News-ings 9:09-12:34 Word of the Week Purple Patch Video Podcast and More FuelIn - Comprehensive Nutrition Programming Purple Patch Coaching Consultation More on Jan Sibbersen and Sailfish Free Webinar - Nail Your IRONMAN 70.3 and IRONMAN Race in 8-14 Hours Per Week Training Camp - 2022 St.George Triathlon Camp The Purple Patch Center is Open - Learn More and Schedule a Visit Purple Patch Website and Newsletter 12:41-The Meat and Potatoes - Jan Sibbersen - (Part 2) - Insights and Training Tips to Improve Open Water Performance Purple Patch and Episode Resources This episode is sponsored by our collaboration with INSIDE TRACKER. Inside Tracker and Purple Patch - Receive 20% off their services with code: PURPLEPATCHPRO20 Ask Matt Anything - Leave a voicemail question for Matt Learn more about Purple Patch Squad High-Performance Training Program Join Bike Squad - Don’t just exercise and work out; learn to train with our structured online cycling program Join Run Squad - Increase your running performance through our progressive, multi-sport approach to running Learn more about Purple Patch Fully Customized 1:1 Coaching Learn more about Purple Patch Strength Programming Purple Patch Swim Analysis Stay Up-to-Date with Purple Patch News and Events Purple Patch Upcoming Webinars and Events

Jun 15, 2022 • 1h 11min
223 Jan Sibbersen - Keys to a Championship Mindset in Sport, Business, and Life (Part 1)
Matt welcomes the founder of wetsuit company Sailfish, and Hawaii Ironman World Championship swim course record-holder, Jan Sibbersen, to the show. Part 1 of this 2 part series covers Sibbersen’s road to conquering the Kona swim record in a comeback performance at the age of 43 and how his swimming background influenced his success in the water and inspired him to build a business from the ground up. With Sailfish, a company he started 15 years ago, now expanding into the U.S. market, Sibbersen takes us through the lessons he gleaned from a career in competitive sport and business, and how those lessons have influenced his leadership and his company’s growth. Topics they discuss include: Sibbersen’s foundation of swimming and his eventual transition to triathlons. The driving force and frame of mind behind the quest for a comeback and a shot at the Kona swim record. The parallels between entrepreneurs and triathletes and how to apply the lessons of one career to the other. (49:47) “if you're well prepared, and if you've done your homework, there's really not that much to worry about on race day…you know if you've put in the work if you've rested well, that there's a very, very good likelihood that you're going to have a great race. It's so similar to the world of business.” The brick-by-brick approach: the benefits and challenges of growing a business organically, without external capital. (42:05) “I liked the freedom of not having any investor's...being able to make my own decisions, and do the things that were right for the long-term growth of the company, and maybe not for short-term profitability.” Important traits to effective leadership and establishing strong team dynamics. (57:39) “You need to be able to steer the tempo or the speed of a team. So I think when there is quieter times…you need to let go” Managing and mitigating adversity and stress. (57:39) “I think growth pretty much only happens when there is a healthy amount of stress.” Strategizing growth and expansion into new territory. Tips for entrepreneurs and small business owners. The goal of this discussion is to understand the mindset of a high-performer in both sport and life and to apply the behavior and principles to your endeavors. Jan Sibbersen Career Highlights -German National Swim Team (1990 to 2000) -Harvard University: Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), Economics (2000) -Goldman Sachs New York and Frankfurt: Financial Analyst (2000 and 2002) -IRONMAN Hawaii World Championships: Swim course record, 46:29min (2018) -IRONMAN Hawaii World Championships: “First out of Water” (2001-2004) -IRONMAN Germany: Swim time record holder, 42:17min (2004) -IRONMAN Germany: “First out of Water” (2002-2004) -IRONMAN Canada: "First out of Water" (2005,2006,2008) -IRONMAN USA: "First out of Water" (2006) -IRONMAN France: "First out of Water" (2007) -Managed Patrick Lange: two-time IRONMAN World Champion (2016-2021) Episode Timestamps 0:02-05:44 Introduction and Matt's Personal Picks Purple Patch Video Podcast and More More on Jan Sibbersen and Sailfish Free Webinar - Nail Your IRONMAN 70.3 and IRONMAN Race in 8-14 Hours Per Week Training Camp - 2022 St.George Triathlon Camp The Purple Patch Center is Open - Learn More and Schedule a Visit Purple Patch Website and Newsletter 5:59- The Meat and Potatoes - Jan Sibbersen - Keys to a Championship Mindset in Sport, Business, and Life (Part 1) Purple Patch and Episode Resources This episode is sponsored by our collaboration with INSIDE TRACKER. Inside Tracker and Purple Patch - Receive 20% off their services with code: PURPLEPATCHPRO20 Ask Matt Anything - Leave a voicemail question for Matt Learn more about Purple Patch Squad High-Performance Training Program Join Bike Squad - Don’t just exercise and work out; learn to train with our structured online cycling program Join Run Squad - Increase your running performance through our progressive, multi-sport approach to running Learn more about Purple Patch Fully Customized 1:1 Coaching Learn more about Purple Patch Strength Programming Purple Patch Swim Analysis Stay Up-to-Date with Purple Patch News and Events Purple Patch Upcoming Webinars and Events

Jun 8, 2022 • 43min
222 Filtering the Noise - Navigating the Landscape of High Performance Education
If you are reading this, it’s likely because you share a common thread with many athletes, which is the desire to improve your athletic and personal potential. Dedicating yourself to learning and applying best practices and methods for achieving enduring health and high performance seems straightforward enough. Unfortunately, the challenge many people face is being able to filter through the blizzard of information and advice from performance experts and coaches. With health gurus, high-performance nutritionists, endurance coaches, life coaches, and an ever-growing list of specialists in related fields, all with seemingly sound theories and approaches, how do you know who to listen to? How do you differentiate a gimmick from good advice? It can be confusing and frustrating to cut through all the contradictions and rival theories, but with a solid guiding principle in your approach to education, you can use the wealth of knowledge to your benefit and determine which advice should be taken to heart and which should be taken with a grain of salt. Today Matt will highlight: The challenge of taking well-intentioned advice from performance experts and coaches. (31:02) “You can be learning and be inspired from a host of experts in fields, but at the same time, from those very same experts, you can fall into traps of quick fixes, instant gratifications, and ultimately culdesacs of performance failure.” The key voices and their differences, and how to build your personal filter for this type of education. (19:58) “I think one of the first steps to this is understanding who you are listening to, and what challenge they are trying to solve. And then the key component is take that information, filter it and apply it to your own goals, your own situation, and ultimately yourself.” Creating a framework for approaching advice across health and performance and how to plot the best path for your performance journey. (31:35) “I would encourage you to think in terms of long term, not interventions. That's just a globally smart way to approach performance.” (32:49) “Nothing of long-term value is going to come from some radical short-term intervention.” The goal of today’s conversation is to provide you with clarity on how to approach advice and education and how to apply it within the context of your body, your journey, and your situation. Episode Timestamps 0:00-09:37 Introduction and Matt's Personal Picks Free Webinar - Nail Your IRONMAN 70.3 and IRONMAN Race in 8-14 Hours Per Week Training Camp - 2022 St.George Triathlon Camp The Purple Patch Center is Open - Learn More and Schedule a Visit Purple Patch Website and Newsletter 9:50- The Meat and Potatoes - Navigating the Information Landscape: How to meet, greet and filter performance education Purple Patch and Episode Resources This episode is sponsored by our collaboration with INSIDE TRACKER. Inside Tracker and Purple Patch - Receive 20% off their services with code: PURPLEPATCHPRO20 Ask Matt Anything - Leave a voicemail question for Matt Learn more about Purple Patch Squad High-Performance Training Program Join Bike Squad - Don’t just exercise and work out; learn to train with our structured online cycling program Join Run Squad - Increase your running performance through our progressive, multi-sport approach to running Learn more about Purple Patch Fully Customized 1:1 Coaching Learn more about Purple Patch Strength Programming Purple Patch Swim Analysis Stay Up-to-Date with Purple Patch News and Events Purple Patch Upcoming Webinars and Events

Jun 1, 2022 • 1h 14min
221 Becoming a Better Coach - Leveraging Experts to Help Athletes
So you’ve gone all-in and put your training in the hands of your coach. It’s their role to build the framework of performance and provide clarity, accountability, and guidance through your evolution as an athlete. But how does a coach evolve beyond education and experience to become a more effective pillar of support? How do they improve themselves and grow in order to help you, the athlete, thrive? Matt answers that question with the help of Purple Patch Coach Mike Olzinksi and leading performance nutritionist, Scott Tindal, as they examine the role of mentorships in coaching. Over the last year, Mike leveraged Scott’s nutrition expertise to help facilitate high performance in several of his athletes. They discuss the importance of that collaboration to the overall success of two Purple Patch athletes, Kinga Kimbrel and Elliot Block. With the help of Mike and Scott, Kinga, relatively new to the sport of triathlon, finds perspective in training through a focus on her nutritional deficits, while Elliot defies the odds with a new approach to fueling. Matt, Mike, and Scott provide insight on: The hesitance of some coaches in seeking assistance outside of their realm of expertise. (19:19) ”The coach is hired by the athlete and has this often internal burden that they carry that they need to have every answer to every question and expertise across every subject, which of course is a dangerous thing if you think that you really are a master of everything.” Leveraging the benefits of knowledge in related fields to help drive performance and facilitate recovery. (17:53) “Tweaks are required in order to get the best out of the athlete. And it's about providing solutions to the problems that we're presented with using the best available science, the best available evidence.” The symbiotic relationship between nutrition coaching and performance training. (48:43) “Nutrition shouldn't be viewed as like, Oh, I've got a nutrition program, and I've got a training program, they're just synonymous with each other. And if you want to do a really good training block, you're gonna need to fuel yourself appropriately.” (39:18) Case Study: Kinga Kimbrel - The marriage of passion, potential, and science. (56:14) Case Study: Elliot Block - Solving the protein problem. Episode Timestamps 0:00-09:59 Introduction and Matt's Personal Picks Purple Patch Podcast - Episode 219: The Biggest Mistakes Coaches Make When Guiding Time-Starved Athletes Purple Patch Blog - Improve Triathlon Performance in the Heat with the Sauna Protocol Heat Acclimation Training Purple Patch Blog - How to Race Effectively in Hot and Humid Conditions Purple Patch Blog - Are You in a Broken Triathlon Coaching Relationship? Purple Patch Athlete Case Study - Kinga Kimbrel Learn More About Scott Tindal and FuelIn The Purple Patch Center is Open - Learn More and Schedule a Visit Purple Patch Website and Newsletter 10:14- The Meat and Potatoes - Leveraging Expertise to Expand Knowledge and Performance Purple Patch and Episode Resources This episode is sponsored by our collaboration with INSIDE TRACKER. Inside Tracker and Purple Patch - Receive 20% off their services with code: PURPLEPATCHPRO20 Ask Matt Anything - Leave a voicemail question for Matt Learn more about Purple Patch Squad High-Performance Training Program Join Bike Squad - Don’t just exercise and work out; learn to train with our structured online cycling program Join Run Squad - Increase your running performance through our progressive, multi-sport approach to running Learn more about Purple Patch Fully Customized 1:1 Coaching Learn more about Purple Patch Strength Programming Purple Patch Swim Analysis Stay Up-to-Date with Purple Patch News and Events Purple Patch Upcoming Webinars and Events

May 25, 2022 • 48min
220 Ask Matt Anything on Running - Are You on the Niggle Bus?
Welcome to another "Ask Matt Anything" edition of the Purple Patch Podcast. In this episode, Matt answers your voicemails and emails on all topics related to run performance. In this installment, Matt answers questions related to: Running with a high heart rate Coming back from injury Dealing with the incessant niggles Fostering a lifelong love of running potential in children Arriving on race day injury-free and ready to run healthy Episode Timestamps 0:00-02:10 Welcome and Episode Introduction 02:10-The Meat and Potatoes 02:10 -Question 1 from Brett: I tend to succumb to injuries with the required running mileage in a leadup to IRONMAN and IRONMAN 70.3. I have heard you talk about the multisport approach for run performance and I’m a bit skeptical. I’d love insights on how I might think about these coming months into race day to help me arrive healthily, but also race-ready. 13:12 - Question 2 from Carol: Any tips on helping my child get the most out of her running potential? 22:11 - Question 3 from Van: I’m coming back from a fractured tibia and I still feel residual pain and discomfort in the area, mostly to the touch but not during exercise. Is that relatively normal on the return from running? 29:22 - Question 4 from Theo: I feel like my heart rate is much higher than most people. When I'm doing a very easy effort, my heart rate will still read 165-175, even creep up to 180. My max heart rate is just under 200. And so my question is, when it comes to zone two running, or easy, long runs, should I really be forcing myself to stay in what is calculated as zone two? I'm 29 years old. Or, is it okay to stay out of that range and go a little bit more off of perceived exertion? 36:58 - Question 5 from Alice: What do you do when you're on the niggle bus? And by that, I mean, constantly wrestling with minor pre-injuries? Ask Matt Anything! Head to the Podcast Page at PurplePatchFitness.com/podcast and leave a concise question for Matt. Tell us your name, where you're from, and ask your question. We'll get to as many as we can in future episodes. Purple Patch and Episode Resources This episode is sponsored by our collaboration with INSIDE TRACKER. Inside Tracker and Purple Patch- Receive 20% off their services with code: PURPLEPATCHPRO20 Ask Matt Anything - Leave a voicemail question for Matt Purple Patch Blog for Free Training Resources and Education Learn more about Purple Patch Squad High-Performance Training Program Join Bike Squad - Don’t just exercise and work out; learn to train with our structured online cycling program Join Run Squad - Increase your running performance through our progressive, multi-sport approach to running Purple Patch Training Camps - Education, Skills, Community Learn more about Purple Patch Fully Customized 1:1 Coaching Learn more about Purple Patch Strength Programming Purple Patch Swim Analysis Stay Up-to-Date with Purple Patch News and Events Purple Patch Upcoming Webinars and Events