Endurance Nation Podcast

Ever thought winter training could be your secret weapon for endurance sports? Coach Patrick is here to prove it! This episode transforms the mundane into the magical by uncovering why the colder months are the perfect time to solidify your fitness foundation. Coach Patrick breaks down the logistical and seasonal challenges that athletes face, and how a structured winter training regimen can turn these hurdles into stepping stones. From triathlons to gravel racing, learn how consistent indoor sessions can help you bypass the typical chaos of the race season and why hitting the ground running with enhanced fitness is within your reach. Forget the notion that winter training is just dreary, monotonous busyness. Coach Patrick shares the keys to unlocking a productive off-season, emphasizing the importance of structure and high-quality workouts. Discover how a well-planned winter training schedule can eliminate weather woes and simplify your routine, allowing you to focus on building fitness rather than juggling commitments. Whether you’re a newcomer to endurance sports or a seasoned competitor, this episode offers valuable insights to ensure you kick off the race season stronger than ever. Join us, and find out how to wield winter training as your ultimate cheat code for success. Discover the OutSeason Protocol and kickstart your training journey here: https://theoutseasonprotocol.carrd.co/.  Ready for the full OutSeason experience? Join the 2025 program today: https://www.endurancenation.us/outseason-group-training-2025-edition/

Transform your athletic training with insights that prioritize simplicity and consistency over the overwhelming noise of data. Experience firsthand the journey of an Ironman competitor who, guided by a high-profile coach, achieved personal bests through a straightforward training approach. This episode shares valuable lessons on how thoughtful coaching can cut through the clutter of wearable technology, offering a clear path to athletic success. Listeners are promised a deeper understanding of creating a structured seasonal roadmap that fuels progress and maintains focus. Discover the essential phases of endurance training, where each structured block from the foundational "out season" to race-specific preparation plays a crucial role in an athlete's development. We discuss the importance of benchmarking, adapting to fitness levels, and the often-overlooked benefits of recovery. Explore how maintaining control in training and competition distinguishes great performances from the average. Whether you're an aspiring athlete or an experienced competitor, this episode provides the strategies and insights needed to build a successful athletic journey. For more resources and to enhance your training strategies, be sure to check out Endurance Nation for free courses and newsletters. Learn more and take our free email course here: https://mailchi.mp/endurancenation.us/freefourkeys

Special guest John Withrow returns to recount his grueling adventure at the Margie Gessick race—a notorious 110-mile mountain biking marathon with a staggering 70% Did Not Finish rate. Known for its rocky and root-filled trails in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, this race demanded intense physical and mental endurance. John opens up about the unique challenges he encountered this year compared to past races like the Leadville Trail 100, and how family dynamics influenced his decision to take on such a monumental challenge. We explore the mindset necessary to push through the exhaustion and obstacles, highlighting the personal sacrifices and strategic planning that went into this endeavor. Our conversation shifts to the critical topic of fueling and pacing strategies during these extreme endurance events. I discuss my own experiences, revealing my decision to sometimes walk instead of run to conserve energy and the complexities of maintaining proper nutrition on a technical course. An oversight led to a challenging four-hour stretch with minimal intake, underscoring the importance of listening to the advice of supporters like Joe Wilcox. Discover the small but impactful adjustments, such as taking quick snack breaks, that can significantly enhance performance and endurance. Finally, we reflect on the mix of unexpected challenges and triumphs that make these races unforgettable. From brake issues that turned pit stops into high-stakes moments reminiscent of NASCAR to the satisfaction of overtaking fellow racers, the episode captures the spirit of resilience. We share thoughts on the importance of preparation, the exhilaration of maintaining momentum, and lessons learned for future races. Amidst playful banter and recovery plans, we also touch on the potential for more ordinary events next year, bringing the conversation to a light-hearted conclusion filled with camaraderie and anticipation for future adventures.

Consistency and simplicity changed my life in 2008, when a high-dollar coach’s straightforward advice led me to personal bests in Ironman competitions. This revelation shaped the foundation of Endurance Nation, where we prioritize long-term evolution over daily tweaks. Modern data can often distract athletes, but great coaches focus on meaningful, lasting improvements. Join me, Coach Patrick, as I share how this philosophy differentiates good coaching from exceptional guidance. We break down the essentials of a comprehensive 14-week out-season training program, exploring its distinct phases from benchmarking progress to tailored race goals. Learn why the 12-week race prep block is crucial for mental and strategic readiness, and why recovery phases are indispensable for building strength. Understand the power of block methodology in providing clear objectives and fostering community support. Finally, discover how maintaining control over your training prepares you to make smart decisions on race day. For more insights, be sure to check out our free courses or newsletter at Endurance Nation US. Learn more and take our free email course here: https://mailchi.mp/endurancenation.us/freefourkeys

Ever wondered why simply copying your early-season training plan for a late-season race can sabotage your performance? In this episode, we tackle the critical mistakes athletes make and unveil essential strategies to reach peak performance in your late-season races. We begin by exploring why attempting to replicate your early-season regimen can lead to burnout and diminished results. Through a detailed analysis of past training data and accumulated fatigue, we guide you on how to adjust your approach to balance training and recovery effectively. This ensures that you can enter your next event in optimal condition without overtaxing your body. As we transition into optimizing late-season racing performance, particularly for athletes moving from high-volume training to marathon preparation in a limited timeframe, we stress the importance of prioritizing recovery. Learn how to use a scaled-back training plan, focusing on race strategy, execution, and nutrition to prevent injury and overtraining. By making smarter decisions and leveraging your existing fitness, you'll discover how to finish your season strong and set the stage for future success. Join us as we share insights and tips to maintain peak performance and end your season on a high note. Learn more and take our free email course here: https://mailchi.mp/endurancenation.us/freefourkeys

Can consistent, frequent running truly transform your race season? Join me, Coach Patrick, as we explore the revolutionary concept of run durability in this eye-opening episode. We dive into the foundational elements that can help you build a resilient running routine, setting you up for success and helping you avoid injuries year-round. From understanding the critical role that small, manageable doses of stress play in fortifying your running foundation to learning the history and development of the Run Durability Project, we'll uncover the secrets behind maintaining a strong, injury-free run regimen. Throughout this episode, we'll dissect the importance of sticking to a steady running routine, even during the off-season. You'll hear how the Run Durability Project has helped athletes at all levels achieve better performance by focusing on consistency and frequency, rather than just volume. Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner or new to the running scene, this episode offers valuable insights and practical advice on making consistency your best training ally. Don't miss out on this opportunity to enrich your running strategy and ensure a fantastic race season ahead! Learn more and take our free email course here: https://mailchi.mp/endurancenation.us/freefourkeys

Is your Ironman race performance being held back by the heat? Coach Patrick from Endurance Nation joins us to share his expert insights on making critical decisions to excel in Ironman races, especially under scorching conditions. Learn how to master the distribution of effort during the swim, optimize positioning, and leverage drafting techniques for an edge over your competition. Patrick also delves into the crucial first hour on the bike, emphasizing the importance of managing your heart rate and establishing your hydration and fueling plan immediately post-transition to counteract fluid loss.    Moving beyond physical preparedness, Coach Patrick reveals the secrets to smart race day execution. Discover the importance of building a full season of training and crafting an effective race plan to ensure all your hard work pays off. We also introduce our newsletter, packed with valuable tips every Friday to help you continually improve and succeed. Patrick wraps up with encouraging words and reassures athletes that support is always available online and at the races. Tune in to elevate your race performance and ensure your race day is challenging due to speed, not poor decisions.   Learn more and take our free email course here: https://mailchi.mp/endurancenation.us/freefourkeys

Susan is an athlete who learned to juggle Ironman training while managing a demanding job and family life. In this engaging conversation, she shares her transformative journey, emphasizing the Four Keys approach that redefined her training methods. Susan recounts the intense challenges she faced during her preparation for Ironman Wisconsin, including adverse weather and equipment issues. Her story is a testament to resilience and focus, showcasing how everyday athletes can thrive in the face of adversity.

What if a tiny oversight could cost you an entire race? Join us as we recount the ups and downs of the Vermont Overland race, a brutal 55-mile course with 7,500 feet of climbing. This episode is packed with personal stories and hard-earned lessons on the importance of meticulous race preparation. From my own frustrating Did Not Finish (DNF) due to preventable equipment failures to the value of carrying spare valves and CO2 cartridges, we lay it all out. You'll get an inside look into the mechanics and mental strategies required for a successful race day, revealing how even minor oversights can lead to major setbacks. We also introduce you to the Race Saver Bag, an innovative tool designed to help runners manage their core temperature effectively and stay competitive. This game-changing product, once exclusive to professional athletes, is now available to everyone and can help you achieve your personal best. With practical tips on mental rehearsal and handling unexpected challenges, this episode aims to equip you with the knowledge to make smart, decisive choices when it counts the most. Don’t let preventable mistakes sabotage your performance—listen in and prepare to elevate your race game.   Learn more and take our free email course here: https://mailchi.mp/endurancenation.us/freefourkeys

What if the key to your best triathlon run isn't about speed, but about avoiding a slowdown? Join us as we unveil crucial strategies for effective run execution that prioritize smart decision-making over sheer hard work or luck. We'll delve into how your ingrained running identity, often linked to specific race distances and times, can be a hidden pitfall on race day. Discover how shifting your focus from running fast to managing your pace conservatively at the start can help control your heart rate and heat accumulation, allowing you to maintain your performance throughout the race. Equip yourself with knowledge and proactive practice to realize your full potential.   Aid stations might seem like minor pitstops, but improper management can cost you valuable time. We discuss the critical importance of planning what you need to achieve at each aid station, whether it's fueling, hydrating, or cooling. By having a clear strategy and executing efficiently, you can significantly enhance your race performance. Moreover, we emphasize that exceptional run execution is part of a broader preparation that includes solid swims, good biking, and effective nutrition strategies. Listen in as we share insights and resources from Endurance Nation to help you race to your peak potential.   Learn more and take our free email course here: https://mailchi.mp/endurancenation.us/freefourkeys