We talk with Julie Ann Davey about the bacteria in our gut and how the composition of our microflora affects everything in our bodies, including our performance.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Kate Kresge, a licensed naturopathic doctor and head of medical education at Rupa Health, delves into the intersection of nutrition and mental performance for endurance athletes. She highlights the crucial link between specific nutrients, hydration, and cognitive function, debunking myths about quick fixes like stimulants. The discussion emphasizes personalized dietary approaches based on individual needs and gut health, while advocating for the importance of hydration and essential micronutrients in optimizing both mental clarity and overall athletic performance.

Dr. Mikki Williden, a sports nutrition expert and host of the Mickeypedia podcast, teams up with Dr. Paul Laursen, owner of athletica.ai and a researcher in sports nutrition. They discuss the crucial difference between fueling for performance and fueling for health. Key topics include the pitfalls of high simple sugar consumption for athletes, the importance of high-quality food sources, strategic carbohydrate management, and practical meal prep to enhance recovery. The conversation also touches on personalized nutrition and nutritious snack options for optimal athletic training.

Dr. Andy Pruitt, the inventor of the BG Fit System, and Ryan Ignatz, a master fitter at Full Cycles, dive into essential off-season preparations for cyclists. They discuss the significance of optimal bike fitting and gear upgrades to enhance performance. Listeners learn about the joy and safety of nighttime cycling with modern lighting systems. The duo emphasizes functional strength training and the need for regular bike fit assessments to adapt to physical changes, ensuring cyclists gear up effectively for the new season.

Our host regulars discuss when an unplanned activity—such as commuting—becomes training, how to adjust for an event when returning from injury, and what training to do in the off season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Seiler explains what we can and can’t take from the Ingebrigtsen brothers and from the Norwegian approach to training in general. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Brendan Egan, a physician specializing in muscle adaptation and performance, shares fascinating insights on how our muscles respond to training. He discusses the biological processes behind strength and endurance enhancement, highlighting the essential roles of proteins in muscle building and overall athletic performance. Egan also explores the complexities of muscle adaptation, including the impact of different training types and the intriguing balance of NAD in metabolism. This conversation demystifies the science behind becoming stronger and faster.

In this lively discussion, expert Jared Berg shares valuable insights into the unique nutritional needs of junior endurance athletes. He highlights the importance of energy balance and diverse whole foods over supplements. The conversation touches on how parental influence and social media can shape young athletes' eating habits, while stressing the risks of extreme diets. Additionally, Jared explores the role of bioactive compounds in enhancing cognitive function and the need for moderation in sodium intake. A must-listen for parents and coaches!

The discussion dives into maintaining peak cycling form as the season ends while balancing fun and training. It also tackles the fascinating trend of cyclocross racers using gels for short races, weighing their benefits against health implications. Personal anecdotes reveal the unique challenges female athletes face, especially those entering sports later in life. Plus, a hilarious hiking tale involving a moose adds a light-hearted touch to the mix. Overall, it's a blend of performance tips, nutrition strategies, and empowering insights into women's cycling.

Dr. Scott Frey, a specialist in perceived exertion, joins cycling commentator Brent Bookwalter in a fascinating discussion about the mental aspects of athletic performance. They explore how our brains perceive effort and how to manipulate this perception for improved endurance. The conversation dives into Project Tailwind, focusing on mental training for amateur athletes, and emphasizes the importance of mental resilience alongside physical training. They also touch on cognitive load, self-efficacy, and how these elements can push athletes beyond their limits.