Fast Talk

Isaiah Newkirk, top coach and performance director for the Project Epsilon cycling team, discusses the vital role of progressive overload in athletic training. He shares innovative strategies to enhance performance even when increasing volume or intensity isn't an option. The conversation highlights the balance between stress application and recovery, the importance of personalized training, and recognizing the signs of fatigue. With a blend of humor and practical advice, Isaiah emphasizes adapting training methods for optimal results.

In this engaging conversation with Jared Berg, head physiologist and registered dietitian at Fast Talk Lab, the significance of muscle mass for endurance athletes is explored. He highlights the crucial connection between strength training and performance. Key topics include effective protein intake strategies, the role of carbohydrates for energy, and the importance of metabolic testing. Jared also emphasizes the benefits of quality nutrition in preventing muscle loss while trying to improve body composition. A must-listen for athletes seeking to enhance their strength and endurance!

We discuss how to find the right plan for you, using virtual training platforms in the base season, and the state of U.S. Cyclocross. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Brendan Egan, an expert in exercise physiology, dives deep into the concept of homeostasis and its vital role in our bodies. Learn how your body maintains stability while training, how fatigue affects performance, and why overtraining could backfire. Egan also addresses the importance of gut health and diet on athletic performance. He emphasizes the delicate balance between stress and recovery for optimal health, encouraging listeners to prioritize long-term wellness while striving for peak performance.

Dr. Jeff Breckon, an expert in motivational interviewing and Associate Dean at Teesside University, shares insights on empowering athletes through effective communication. He highlights the importance of athlete-driven motivation and a collaborative coach-athlete relationship. Breckon discusses techniques like open-ended questions and positive affirmations to encourage self-discovery and personal growth. The conversation also addresses common communication traps in coaching, emphasizing empathy and reflective practices to foster a supportive environment for athletic development.

Join Dr. Stacey Brickson, an exercise physiology professor and founder of Draft Responsibly Coaching, as she shares her expertise on enhancing endurance athletes' performance and longevity. She discusses the crucial role of off-the-bike work, including cross-training, to prevent injuries. Dive into the four foundational elements—mobility, flexibility, stability, and strength—and discover how they interconnect to optimize athletic function. Learn about the science behind stretching and the importance of tailored strength training throughout the aging process.

Dr. Kate Bennett, a clinical psychologist and founder of Athlete Insight, specializes in the psychological needs of athletes. She dives into the importance of ethical boundaries in coach-athlete relationships, examining power dynamics and the implications of dual roles. The conversation highlights the necessity of clear communication to foster trust and ensure safe environments. Dr. Bennett also discusses the challenges athletes face when balancing multiple responsibilities and emphasizes the need for written codes of conduct to navigate ethical complexities.

Jack Burke, a former aspiring world tour cyclist and record-holder on iconic climbs, shares his journey from the pressures of professional racing to embracing the joy of cycling. He discusses training strategies for record-breaking climbs like Alpe d'Huez and the Stelvio, highlighting the emotional challenges and triumphs along the way. Burke emphasizes the importance of building a strong aerobic base, mastering pacing for Strava climbs, and finding a balance between ambition and enjoyment in cycling. His insights inspire cyclists to pursue both performance and passion.

Our hosts talk about whether it is better to be balanced or pursue something fully, good workouts to start the season out, and how much communication is too much.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Professional cyclist Noah Granigan races with the Denver Disruptors, while Madigan Munro is a national champion mountain biker for Trek Factory Racing. They share personal insights on maintaining motivation during the off-season, discussing the psychological challenges athletes face in early training. Strategies include individualized training plans and the importance of balancing fitness with personal life. The duo also jokes about transitioning sports and adapting to outdoor cycling in winter, making for a light-hearted yet insightful conversation.