The Roadman Cycling Podcast
Anthony Walsh
We share tips, strategies & insights on how you can use cycling as a tool for health, for happiness & longevity. World Tour riders, authors & academics - every weekday.
Episodes
Mentioned books
May 12, 2025 • 30min
Why More Riding Isn’t Making You Faster - Rider Support
You doubled your training hours… but somehow got slower? This week, we unpack why more volume doesn’t always mean better performance — and how intensity control, fatigue, and poor structure can quietly derail your fitness. We also dig into whether the aero obsession is doing more harm than good for amateur riders, if shorter crank arms actually help endurance cyclists, and how to manage team dynamics during multi-day races. Plus: breaking the “bad luck” cycle after crashes, and what you need to know about hookless rims and tyre safety.To calculate your zones or tyre pressure you can use our free calculator here https://www.roadmancycling.com/membersOur S&C Plan - https://www.roadmancycling.com/strengthandconditioningThe podcast wouldn't be possible without our amazing sponsors:If you would like to join Anthony & Sarah and race the L'Etape by Tour de France event in Las Vegas go tohttps://lasvegas.letapebytourdefrance.com/ and use the following code to get a 20% discount at checkout! - Roadman20REAPCustom Carbon Composition Bikes made in the UK. REAP's gravel bike is set to redefine gravel riding with 50mm+ tyre clearance https://reapbikes.com/ROUVYROUVY replicates terrain, gradients, and resistance, giving you the most authentic indoor cycling experience possible. Explore, train, and ride with ROUVY—visit ROUVY.com to start your adventure today! And to get one month FREE use code Roadman1m4iiii PowermeterThe PRECISION 3+ Powermeter from 4iiii is a compact yet powerful unit & is packed with features that set it apart, including integration with Apple’s Find My network PLUS It's got up to 800 hours of battery life.Learn more by visiting 4iiii.comTo calculate your zones or tyre pressure you can use our free calculator here https://www.roadmancycling.com/membersOur S&C Plan - https://www.roadmancycling.com/strengthandconditioning
May 10, 2025 • 29min
Spent $15k on a Bike… Still Getting Dropped
You dropped $15,000 on your dream bike—so why are you still getting dropped on the group ride? In this week’s Rider Support, we unpack why fitness always beats gear, how to build your engine, and how to turn frustration into progress. Plus: should we trust dominant performances like Pogačar’s? Anthony gets honest about anti-doping and fan skepticism. We also dive into off-the-bike warmups—do they really help? What gearing Sarah’s running for Badlands, how to survive chaotic group rides without torching your legs, the real risks of hookless rims, and why surging out of corners might be ruining your ride.To calculate your zones or tyre pressure you can use our free calculator here https://www.roadmancycling.com/membersOur S&C Plan - https://www.roadmancycling.com/strengthandconditioningThe podcast wouldn't be possible without our amazing sponsors:If you would like to join Anthony & Sarah and race the L'Etape by Tour de France event in Las Vegas go tohttps://lasvegas.letapebytourdefrance.com/ and use the following code to get a 20% discount at checkout! - Roadman20REAPCustom Carbon Composition Bikes made in the UK. REAP's gravel bike is set to redefine gravel riding with 50mm+ tyre clearance https://reapbikes.com/ROUVYROUVY replicates terrain, gradients, and resistance, giving you the most authentic indoor cycling experience possible. Explore, train, and ride with ROUVY—visit ROUVY.com to start your adventure today! And to get one month FREE use code Roadman1m4iiii PowermeterThe PRECISION 3+ Powermeter from 4iiii is a compact yet powerful unit & is packed with features that set it apart, including integration with Apple’s Find My network PLUS It's got up to 800 hours of battery life.Learn more by visiting 4iiii.com
May 10, 2025 • 45min
Sports Doping Encouraged! - Aron D’Souza From The Enhanced Games
Is cycling heading back into dangerous territory? In this episode, we sit down with Aron D’Souza, the man behind the controversial Enhanced Games — an unregulated sporting event with no drug testing and no limits. D’Souza wants to scrap anti-doping rules entirely, arguing that the future of sport lies in full-blown enhancement. For cyclists who lived through the sport’s darkest chapters, this hits a nerve. Is this brutal honesty... or the beginning of another downward spiral? We dive into what the Enhanced Games means for cycling, the ethics of performance at any cost, and whether sport can survive when the rulebook gets ripped up.To calculate your zones or tyre pressure you can use our free calculator here https://www.roadmancycling.com/membersOur S&C Plan - https://www.roadmancycling.com/strengthandconditioningThe podcast wouldn't be possible without our amazing sponsors:If you would like to join Anthony & Sarah and race the L'Etape by Tour de France event in Las Vegas go tohttps://lasvegas.letapebytourdefrance.com/ and use the following code to get a 20% discount at checkout! - Roadman20REAPCustom Carbon Composition Bikes made in the UK. REAP's gravel bike is set to redefine gravel riding with 50mm+ tyre clearance https://reapbikes.com/ROUVYROUVY replicates terrain, gradients, and resistance, giving you the most authentic indoor cycling experience possible. Explore, train, and ride with ROUVY—visit ROUVY.com to start your adventure today! And to get one month FREE use code Roadman1m4iiii PowermeterThe PRECISION 3+ Powermeter from 4iiii is a compact yet powerful unit & is packed with features that set it apart, including integration with Apple’s Find My network PLUS It's got up to 800 hours of battery life.Learn more by visiting 4iiii.com
May 6, 2025 • 20min
The Dark Secret Behind Masters Doping
Anthony dives into the controversial world of performance-enhancing drugs among amateur and age-group racers. With increased competition, access to powerful substances, and the pressure to perform, some masters athletes are crossing lines once reserved for the pros. To calculate your zones or tyre pressure you can use our free calculator here https://www.roadmancycling.com/membersOur S&C Plan - https://www.roadmancycling.com/strengthandconditioningThe podcast wouldn't be possible without our amazing sponsors:If you would like to join Anthony & Sarah and race the L'Etape by Tour de France event in Las Vegas go tohttps://lasvegas.letapebytourdefrance.com/ and use the following code to get a 20% discount at checkout! - Roadman20REAPCustom Carbon Composition Bikes made in the UK. REAP's gravel bike is set to redefine gravel riding with 50mm+ tyre clearance https://reapbikes.com/ROUVYROUVY replicates terrain, gradients, and resistance, giving you the most authentic indoor cycling experience possible. Explore, train, and ride with ROUVY—visit ROUVY.com to start your adventure today! And to get one month FREE use code Roadman1m4iiii PowermeterThe PRECISION 3+ Powermeter from 4iiii is a compact yet powerful unit & is packed with features that set it apart, including integration with Apple’s Find My network PLUS It's got up to 800 hours of battery life.Learn more by visiting 4iiii.com
May 5, 2025 • 40min
Keegan Swenson’s Strength Coach on Training Smart
Today, I’m joined by Art O'Connor, the strength coach trusted by some of the top names in cycling like Keegan Swenson, to break down how cyclists can get stronger, faster, and healthier — without compromising time on the bikeWhether you're chasing podiums or just want to stay sharp, Art reveals the essential exercises, smart scheduling, and strength hacks used by pros and amateurs alikePlus, you’ll learn a genius method to maintain strength anywhere — even with no equipment and just 10 minutes a dayThis one’s packed with easy wins you can start today.
Apr 30, 2025 • 43min
Are We Too Addicted to Metrics? - With Michael Cawley
In a world where every ride is tracked, every watt analyzed, and every metric scrutinized, are we losing something essential? Today, Anthony sits down with Michael Crawley—endurance researcher and author who lived and trained with elite Ethiopian runners—to explore a radical idea: that performance isn’t just found in the numbers, but in how it feels. Drawing on powerful insights from a culture that trains by rhythm, intuition, and community rather than tech, this conversation challenges our obsession with data and asks: what if the key to progress isn’t more precision, but more presence? Whether you’re data-driven or deeply intuitive, this episode will make you rethink the way you train.You can check out Michaels amazing book here - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Out-Thin-Air-Running-Ethiopia/dp/1472975324To calculate your zones or tyre pressure you can use our free calculator here https://www.roadmancycling.com/membersOur S&C Plan - https://www.roadmancycling.com/strengthandconditioningThe podcast wouldn't be possible without our amazing sponsors:If you would like to join Anthony & Sarah and race the L'Etape by Tour de France event in Las Vegas go tohttps://lasvegas.letapebytourdefrance.com/ and use the following code to get a 20% discount at checkout! - Roadman20REAPCustom Carbon Composition Bikes made in the UK. REAP's gravel bike is set to redefine gravel riding with 50mm+ tyre clearance https://reapbikes.com/ROUVYROUVY replicates terrain, gradients, and resistance, giving you the most authentic indoor cycling experience possible. Explore, train, and ride with ROUVY—visit ROUVY.com to start your adventure today! And to get one month FREE use code Roadman1m4iiii PowermeterThe PRECISION 3+ Powermeter from 4iiii is a compact yet powerful unit & is packed with features that set it apart, including integration with Apple’s Find My network PLUS It's got up to 800 hours of battery life.Learn more by visiting 4iiii.com
Apr 28, 2025 • 9min
Why You’re Not Getting Faster (And What to Do About It)
Progress isn’t linear — and every serious athlete eventually hits a wall. In this episode, we dive into the reality of plateaus: why they happen, how to know if you’re truly stuck, and what to do next. We unpack the major causes — training monotony, chronic fatigue, and life stress — and lay out real strategies to break through. Whether it’s introducing new training stimuli, embracing real recovery, or adjusting your life load, the goal is clear: smarter, not just harder. Plateaus aren't failures — they’re invitations to adapt. If you’re feeling stuck, this is your roadmap to stay calm, problem-solve, and unlock the next level of your fitness.To calculate your zones or tyre pressure you can use our free calculator here https://www.roadmancycling.com/membersOur S&C Plan - https://www.roadmancycling.com/strengthandconditioningThe podcast wouldn't be possible without our amazing sponsors:If you would like to join Anthony & Sarah and race the L'Etape by Tour de France event in Las Vegas go tohttps://lasvegas.letapebytourdefrance.com/ and use the following code to get a 20% discount at checkout! - Roadman20REAPCustom Carbon Composition Bikes made in the UK. REAP's gravel bike is set to redefine gravel riding with 50mm+ tyre clearance https://reapbikes.com/ROUVYROUVY replicates terrain, gradients, and resistance, giving you the most authentic indoor cycling experience possible. Explore, train, and ride with ROUVY—visit ROUVY.com to start your adventure today! And to get one month FREE use code Roadman1m4iiii PowermeterThe PRECISION 3+ Powermeter from 4iiii is a compact yet powerful unit & is packed with features that set it apart, including integration with Apple’s Find My network PLUS It's got up to 800 hours of battery life.Learn more by visiting 4iiii.com
Apr 23, 2025 • 44min
Why Team Visma Is Ditching Heart Rate for Breathing Metrics With Arnar Larusson, Tymewear
For years we have been obsessed with heart rate monitors and power meter data but what if there is a new way to measure fitness and set training - Your breathing! Today Anthony sits down to chat with Arnar Larusson founder of Tymewear, a technology that is already being used by Team Visma Lease A Bike. This tech lets the user establish new and more accurate training zones! This innovation has the potential to be the biggest breakthrough since heart rate first hit the scene. So if you want to know how your next secret weapon is as simple as breathing better listen up! To calculate your zones or tyre pressure you can use our free calculator here https://www.roadmancycling.com/membersOur S&C Plan - https://www.roadmancycling.com/strengthandconditioningThe podcast wouldn't be possible without our amazing sponsors:If you would like to join Anthony & Sarah and race the L'Etape by Tour de France event in Las Vegas go tohttps://lasvegas.letapebytourdefrance.com/ and use the following code to get a 20% discount at checkout! - Roadman20REAPCustom Carbon Composition Bikes made in the UK. REAP's gravel bike is set to redefine gravel riding with 50mm+ tyre clearance https://reapbikes.com/ROUVYROUVY replicates terrain, gradients, and resistance, giving you the most authentic indoor cycling experience possible. Explore, train, and ride with ROUVY—visit ROUVY.com to start your adventure today! And to get one month FREE use code Roadman1m4iiii PowermeterThe PRECISION 3+ Powermeter from 4iiii is a compact yet powerful unit & is packed with features that set it apart, including integration with Apple’s Find My network PLUS It's got up to 800 hours of battery life.Learn more by visiting 4iiii.com
Apr 21, 2025 • 47min
Simple Fixes for Amateur Cyclists - Dan Lorang (Team Red Bull BORA Hansgrohe)
Dan Lorang is the Head Of Performance for World Tour Team Red Bull BORA Hansgrohe. He has coached Olympic champions and Tour de France winners for over a decade. In today's mind blowing conversation with conversation with Anthony he reveals the biggest difference between amateurs and pros and how amateur riders can do some simple tweaks that can't be ignored. If you've ever wondered why your plateauing this is one episode you can not afford to miss. To calculate your zones or tyre pressure you can use our free calculator here https://www.roadmancycling.com/membersOur S&C Plan - https://www.roadmancycling.com/strengthandconditioningThe podcast wouldn't be possible without our amazing sponsors:If you would like to join Anthony & Sarah and race the L'Etape by Tour de France event in Las Vegas go tohttps://lasvegas.letapebytourdefrance.com/ and use the following code to get a 20% discount at checkout! - Roadman20REAPCustom Carbon Composition Bikes made in the UK. REAP's gravel bike is set to redefine gravel riding with 50mm+ tyre clearance https://reapbikes.com/ROUVYROUVY replicates terrain, gradients, and resistance, giving you the most authentic indoor cycling experience possible. Explore, train, and ride with ROUVY—visit ROUVY.com to start your adventure today! And to get one month FREE use code Roadman1m4iiii PowermeterThe PRECISION 3+ Powermeter from 4iiii is a compact yet powerful unit & is packed with features that set it apart, including integration with Apple’s Find My network PLUS It's got up to 800 hours of battery life.Learn more by visiting 4iiii.com
Apr 18, 2025 • 35min
Your Tyres Are Slowing You Down Here’s Why
This week on Rider Support, Anthony and Sarah dive deep into the rubber that meets the road. Tyre width, PSI, tubeless vs clincher—turns out most riders are doing it wrong. We break down the myth of high pressure, the truth about rolling resistance, and exactly what setup you should be using based on your weight and terrain. We also tackle tubeless fails, sealant myths, and whether the switch is worth it. Plus: a wild moment at Roubaix involving Van der Poel, honest thoughts on whether cycling clubs are pushing people away from the sport, Garmin vs Hammerhead, kit sizing nightmares, and the great Velosamba style debate.To calculate your zones or tyre pressure you can use our free calculator here https://www.roadmancycling.com/membersOur S&C Plan - https://www.roadmancycling.com/strengthandconditioningThe podcast wouldn't be possible without our amazing sponsors:If you would like to join Anthony & Sarah and race the L'Etape by Tour de France event in Las Vegas go tohttps://lasvegas.letapebytourdefrance.com/ and use the following code to get a 20% discount at checkout! - Roadman20REAPCustom Carbon Composition Bikes made in the UK. REAP's gravel bike is set to redefine gravel riding with 50mm+ tyre clearance https://reapbikes.com/ROUVYROUVY replicates terrain, gradients, and resistance, giving you the most authentic indoor cycling experience possible. Explore, train, and ride with ROUVY—visit ROUVY.com to start your adventure today! And to get one month FREE use code Roadman1m4iiii PowermeterThe PRECISION 3+ Powermeter from 4iiii is a compact yet powerful unit & is packed with features that set it apart, including integration with Apple’s Find My network PLUS It's got up to 800 hours of battery life.Learn more by visiting 4iiii.com
