
Fast Talk
The Fast Talk podcast offers the best guides to cycling performance and endurance sports training from world-class experts.Cohosted by cycling coaches and sport scientists Trevor Connor and Rob Pickels, Fast Talk episodes feature fascinating conversations with world-class experts discussing the endurance sports topics they know best: the best ways to train, effective workouts, questions on polarized and interval training, sports nutrition, physiology and recovery, and sport psychology.Fast Talk guests and regular contributors include Dr. Stephen Seiler, Joe Friel, Dr. Asker Jeukendrup, Sebastian Weber, Jim Miller, Dr. Andy Pruitt, Dr. Timothy Noakes, and elite professional athletes like Kristin Armstrong, Sepp Kuss, Brent Bookwalter, Kate Courtney, and many more.Fast Talk is part of Fast Talk Laboratories, a new endurance sports knowledgebase for endurance racers and adventurers.
Latest episodes

16 snips
May 2, 2024 • 1h 17min
317: Beyond the Basics: Everything You Need to Know About Metabolism
Explore the complexities of metabolism, including the differences between fat and carbohydrates as fuel sources, the intricacies of glycolysis and energy systems, and the role of ATP in energy production. Dive into the details of the citric acid cycle, oxidative phosphorylation, and the importance of NAD and FAD as electron carriers. Discover the interconnectedness of aerobic metabolism and the effort required for ATP production, all wrapped up with fun banter and quirky anecdotes from the hosts.

Apr 25, 2024 • 1h 17min
316: Potluck Discussion: Gear Innovation Limits, Revisiting VO2max, and Training/Life Balance
Our team dives into these important topics and along the way, Grant shows his “dadness,” while Rob and Trevor argue while making the same point. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

15 snips
Apr 18, 2024 • 1h 12min
315: Is Cadence Work a Waste of Time?
Dr. Ernst Hansen, an ex-professional cyclist and researcher from University College Absalon in Denmark, shares his expertise on the often-debated topic of cadence work in cycling. He reveals that the science behind high and low cadence training is unclear and highlights individual variability in cadence preferences among athletes. The conversation encompasses the physiological impacts of low cadence training, the significance of training metrics, and how early experiences shape future success. Hansen encourages open-mindedness in exploring varied training methods.

Apr 11, 2024 • 1h 11min
314: History of the Rolling Medical Enclosure and What to Do in an Emergency, with Dr. Andy Pruitt
Whether you’re a participant, event organizer, or volunteer, keep in mind Murphy’s Law – anything that can go wrong could (or will) go wrong. When one or more athletes are injured, you need to know what to do. We talk with Dr. Andy Pruitt about how to ensure the best outcomes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Apr 4, 2024 • 1h 12min
313: The Rise of The Adventure Athlete, with Expedition Detroit’s Dan Cooke
Dan Cooke, founder of Expedition Detroit, discusses the rise of adventure athletes in Detroit, emphasizing the need for coaching and support at all levels. The conversation covers interval training, sports trivia, safety in endurance sports, diversity in trail running, and the future of outdoor destinations as athletic hubs.

12 snips
Mar 28, 2024 • 1h 26min
312: Understanding the Impact of Common Medications on an Athlete’s Physiology and Training
Dr. Jeff Sankoff discusses the impact of common medications on athletes' physiology and training. Topics include risks of NSAIDs, misinformation about Tylenol, effects of Metformin, beta blockers, statins, and antibiotics on athletes' performance. The importance of medication management, alternatives to statins, and nuances of using stimulants in athletes are highlighted.

23 snips
Mar 21, 2024 • 1h 27min
311: Not All VO2max Intervals Are Made the Same – A Physiology Deep Dive
Delve into the intricacies of VO2 max intervals and how different types impact athletes uniquely. Explore the evolution of interval training research and the complexities of optimizing training for athletic performance. Compare high-intensity interval programs and delve into the nuances of sprint capabilities and recovery times. Embrace discomfort for athletic success and explore the differential effects of interval training on performance enhancement.

Mar 13, 2024 • 1h 11min
310: Lessons Learned Trying to “Make It” as a Pro
Former professional cyclists Jack Burke and Taylor Warren share their insights on the challenges and triumphs of pursuing success in the competitive world of cycling. They discuss the importance of adaptability, mentorship, data analysis, and perseverance in achieving goals. The conversation also touches on the impact of internal motivation, talent stacking, and the power of grit in navigating the journey to pro status.

Mar 7, 2024 • 53min
309: Potluck Discussion: Racing Without a Coach, Why Runners Use Pace, and Focusing on One Event
For this week’s potluck, we discuss what athletes lose when they don’t have a coach, Grant gets on his soapbox about running and pace, and then asks about training specifically for one event. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mar 5, 2024 • 1h 14min
Fast Talk Femmes: Tips from a Super Bowl Champ Turned Track Cyclist
Former NFL tight end Luke Willson and his coach, Jenny Trew, share tips on skill transfer between sports. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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