Crushing Iron Triathlon Podcast

Today, we go deep on swimming but keep it relatively simple so you can work on things that matter and lock them in. We talk about some of the most important fundamentals regarding swimming: breathing, body position, and body control. There will be big wins in your swimming if you can master the basic principles of swimming. We also get into how you should be breaking up your week regarding form, intensity, and endurance. We'll look at getting a bigger return for your energy investment, why the hips are critical, why you're probably too tense in the water, and the soon to be famous Light Switch Test. Topics: Does op 20 swimming list hold up? Swimming and focus on the details Obsession over aero and watts but not swimming 90 Day Challenge Picking up swimming later in life Correct form + muscular endurance End of Ironman running form Uncomfortable doing hard swims? Efficient form for return of energy investment Day One - Pick one day for technique (AR) Day two - Focus on top speed and turnover Day Three - Longe

Today, we start by looking at the way Indiana built a program that seemingly came out of nowhere to win the National Title. It wasn't an accident and you can build yourself in the same way. And that process starts now. We'll look at micro gains and goals and how they stack up over time. We look at long term consistency vs. short term bursts and why the former is always better. We talk about just "knowing" when you're getting better vs. depending on numbers. We look at aiming low and getting things done vs. always wanting to see improvement. Improvement happens and small habits lead to big routines. Lower expectations and get to the work. Topics: Inverted world - Indiana is the National Football Champion One play at a time A disciplined process Who makes the fewest mistakes? The next thing is the most important thing Have a short memory Being grounded The process starts now, one day at a time Imagine yourself as a program 6 months vs. 6 weeks Snowball rolling down a hill Struggles with long rides? Weave in lo

Let's just stop for a minute and think about the endless choices we have and how they can overwhelm us. Ever get that feeling like you need to get in shape before you go to the gym? We talk about the rabbit hole of hacks and how it can lead to action paralysis. We talk about how to structure your mind for the right "why." We look at why getting one percent better each day is a great strategy, but why it's so tough to stick with. Training should be about much more than a time goal, it should be driven by what is truly meaningful to you and it's well worth sitting in silence and really figuring out. Topics: Getting fit before going to the gym Can you ever be fit enough? Intellectual experts vs. practitioners What's the hack? Action paralysis Endless podcasts, influencers, newsletters Drink from a garden hose vs. a fire hose We always want more When we feel like it's not enough Trying too hard The weight of the world The integrity of a workout Do we need more? We all need a bit of a buffer Being swept up in the

Today we get into understanding fatigue and what it means. Is it in your head or your body? Lungs or legs? It all matters and it's important for you to be able to recognize and adjust so that you can get the most out of your sessions or simply get off the couch. We look at different signs in swimming, cycling, and running that show fatigue and sort of look at the "seriousness" of each and how to roll right through it. Topics: Triathlete Tattoos Gross pics sent to coaches Reading books or faking it? Post-holiday fatigue Longer Zone 2 rides and runs Why do you feel better deeper into the workout? Swimming to test fatigue safely Too much focus on "times" Stress is stress Adapting to the sessions What is weighing you down? Run Camp as a science "lab" Don't let the numbers affect your day Red Zone of fatigue Feeling "off" Why to be a fan of HR Bike approaches to working through fatigue High power/Low HR means system is firing Does it feel like a fight? Is it your legs or lungs? Stacking days and getting the right

Stuck in the same gear? Not happy with your race speed? It might mean you need more work on being responsive. How do you build another gear? Glad you asked. Today, we get into why triathletes often feel stuck at the same speed and how to break the cycle. We look at swimming, biking, and running and give some thought on how to create more of a range, especially when you need it. Going fast can feel good and fun, but sometimes our Zone 4 effort equals our Zone 2 speed in a race. Today, we look at solid and proven ways to break out of being a one-speed wonder, but note, it's not always easy. Topics: Last week on C26 Coming at you consistently We're the podcast version of an age-grouper that outlasts everyone to qualify for Kona New Orleans 70.3 memories Swim rant? One speed wonders Turnover vs. Stroke length in swimming Natural cadence vs. being uncomfortable Hill sprints Something needs to be a priority Increasing FTP vs. Losing weight Swimming more or strength work? Trying to change everything at once Focus o

Is it possible that we're carrying too much in our cup? Today we talk about approaching the year with a solid, focused, and consistent plan. It's so easy to want to add more, but there's real power in stripping things down, creating simplicity and getting rid of things that don't serve our purpose. We look at building routines and patterns that will help take care of our long term goals. We look at listening to and understanding our body by effort. We talk distractions, racing free, and carrying less mental baggage. The truth is, we're not usually tired because of workouts, but the extra weight we carry in our lives. Simplify and be consistent. Topics: New intro? Decompressed Dogs and slippers Create belief and trust in yourself Movement is momentum Jan 1st new habit fails Don't expect perfection What's your fallback? Mental energy distractions Can't swim without a watch Too much interference Disconnecting in workouts Understanding your body's effort Creating less noise Re-evaluating your "why" Not trying to

These next few weeks are tricky and today we look at how to get the most from them. Society has created an addictive nature in us and what's coming at you will be no easy task, but there are definitely ways to navigate the holidays and keep your training moving toward a great 2026. Take one and give the rest away! Moderation will be your best weapon both in training and at the snack table. Don't always assume that heavy breathing and sore legs means you're getting better. Keep things simple and sweet and be ready to train like you need to train in January. Dramatic swings have become the new normal, be willing to say no and stay the course. If not, don't beat yourself up by creating 180 degree swings. Happy Holidays! Thanks for listening… we love ya! --------- Get some C26 Gear for Christmas: https://c26triathlon.com/shop/ Looking for a great way to empower your training, explore your limits, and exist in the moment? Check out C26 Adventure Camps for 2026! http://watersharpensiron.com Want to build strength a

Robbie talks about a lot of stuff and Mike's not really sure what's going on. And vice versa, probably. ---------- Get some C26 Gear for Christmas: https://c26triathlon.com/shop/ Looking for a great way to empower your training, explore your limits, and exist in the moment? Check out C26 Adventure Camps for 2026! http://watersharpensiron.com Want to build strength and conquer the water? Look into our swim camps at C26Hub.com Looking for triathlon coaching? Comb through our roster at https://c26triathlon.com/about/coaches/ Topics: Ironman changes course nutrition Early season 70.3s The off season is getting shorter December Rules as life rules The quickening Money is pushing the calendar Periodization What part of the year do you have the most time? Color coding your season Building your race calendar so it makes sense Change for the sake of change? Being focused and Open Minded at once When things get stale Obsessing about Zones Micro Goals Simulating those race feelings Exploring the demands of what you wan

Are you making your days count? Is triathlon your fuel for life or is life your fuel for triathlon? It's easy to put too much pressure on ourselves with a precise target, but the truth is, going inward and staying the course will take care of most of it. We owe it to ourselves to get the most out of triathlon and life but only have so much bandwidth to always be in "chase mode." Today we look at ways to pull back the external and focus more on making real, internal improvements, which ultimately lead to long term satisfaction and real growth. We also have a little fun with Christmas music at the end of the cast. Thanks for listening! ——— Get some C26 Gear for Christmas: https://c26triathlon.com/shop/ Looking for a great way to empower your training, explore your limits, and exist in the moment? Check out C26 Adventure Camps for 2026! http://watersharpensiron.com Want to build strength and conquer the water? Look into our swim camps at C26Hub.com Looking for triathlon coaching? Comb through our roster at https

Is there is a small mental shift we can make to turn training from a pain into something we look forward to on a deeper level? We think the answer is yes, and today we look at how to make that happen. It starts with believing what you're doing is a good thing for the body and mind. There's also a lot of power in patience. Knowing that today's little step will compound with many other things to get you where you want to go. It's not about the finish line, it's about exploring your true potential, no matter what that looks like. Right now is a great way to figure out how you really feel about this journey and rewire your mind in a way that makes you believe in yourself and the long game. ———— Get some C26 Gear for Christmas (use C26Xmas for 15% off): https://c26triathlon.com/shop/  Looking for a great way to empower your training, explore your limits, and exist in the moment? Check out C26 Adventure Camps for 2026! http://watersharpensiron.com Want to build strength and conquer the water? Look into our swim cam

Today the listener controls the show! We talk about building bike strength to be a better climber. We get into how to fall in love with the trainer and the treadmill this winter. We also look at strengths and weaknesses. How do you define them and decide where to put the most work. We get into swimming and how much you should be doing it. Some of the best drills and things to think about. Also, finding your swimming economy and body position. We also look at controlling your breath on the run and raising your bike threshold. ————— Get some C26 Gear for Christmas: https://c26triathlon.com/shop/ Looking for a great way to empower your training, explore your limits, and exist in the moment? Check out C26 Adventure Camps for 2026! http://watersharpensiron.com Want to build strength and conquer the water? Look into our swim camps at C26Hub.com Looking for triathlon coaching? Comb through our roster at https://c26triathlon.com/about/coaches/ Topics: Thanksgiving Recap and favorite foods Building climbing strength

Happy Thanksgiving from C26 and all of our coaching staff!  ***Check out the C26 Store and use Code: C26Xmas for 15% off your shopping!  We can't ask for change and expect everything to be the same. The comfort of the old world with the excitement of the new one. Wanting both creates pain and suffering. Today, we look at listening to how you feel and finding what the true you inside really wants. We get into burnout and how to avoid it. We talk about greatness, loving yourself, and finding calm in the chaos. ----- Looking for a great way to empower your training, explore your limits, and exist in the moment? Check out C26 Adventure Camps for 2026! http://watersharpensiron.com Want to build strength and conquer the water? Look into our swim camps at C26Hub.com Looking for triathlon coaching? Comb through our roster at https://c26triathlon.com/about/coaches/ Topics: Rewards cards Early bird Ironman Deals Podcast Ads Mirroring what our athletes are going through. Burnout is a choice Burnout is usually external

Is your REAL goal to be fast, healthy, or just have a good time with training and racing? Today, we talk about why it's important to define your true aspirations in the sport so you can come to an internal agreement with yourself as the year rolls on. It's not uncommon for athletes to go through an identity crisis many times a year. We get into some of our personal struggles as we look at finding our sweet spot with training, racing, and life. We also look at clashing value systems and how that can make things tougher. ----------- Looking for a great way to empower your training, explore your limits, and exist in the moment? Check out C26 Adventure Camps for 2026! http://watersharpensiron.com Want to build strength and conquer the water? Look into our swim camps at C26Hub.com Looking for triathlon coaching? Comb through our roster at https://c26triathlon.com/about/coaches/ Topics: The Final IM Arizona New races coming? Will they build a really hard race? Looking at racing calendars What if you travel a lot?

Going HARD is easy to understand, but taking rest for recovery of your mind and body can sometimes create guilt. Why do we think like that? Today, we dive into the psychology of taking a day, or two, off when our body needs it. We also talk about getting trapped in upper Zone 2 and how that can often turn into Zone 3 which is wearing you down far more than you think. We look at junk miles and asked if they really are junk, or if they're something more than we think. We talk flexibility, pliability, and how range of motion can create more economy in your stroke, peddling, and stride. Explore the definition of "quality" and look at things from a different perspective. Be objective and understand the big picture. ------  Looking for a great way to empower your training, explore your limits, and exist in the moment? Check out C26 Adventure Camps for 2026! http://watersharpensiron.com Want to build strength and conquer the water? Look into our swim camps at C26Hub.com Looking for triathlon coaching? Comb through o

Today we look at the Ironman 70.3 World Championship weekend. We break down each event, including the unbelievable comebacks for Lucy and Taylor, along with the wild 3 second separation finish in the men's. We talk coming back from a bad race and turning it back on again. Having a short memory and the ability to let it rip. Great discussion about what the pros are doing and how it applies to you! ----------- Looking for a great way to empower your training, explore your limits, and exist in the moment? Check out C26 Adventure Camps for 2026! Want to build strength and conquer the water? Look into our swim camps at C26Hub.com Looking for triathlon coaching? Comb through our roster at https://c26triathlon.com/about/coaches/ Topics: Water temps If you're doing anything, you're doing something Facing the elements Weather Zones 70.3 World Championship Tough course The women bounce back I made mistakes, now I have an opportunity Short memories Bad races or workouts don't define us What's going on with your life? T

We can't go hard all the time. Movement is medicine and those movements should have different speeds. Today we get into Zone Zero or active recovery or supplemental movement. It doesn't matter what you call it, it's a key piece of the big picture puzzle. And often it doesn't even include motion directly related to triathlon. We'll go over simple ways to ensure longevity and even race better by giving your recovery the attention it deserves. ----------- Looking for a great way to empower your training, explore your limits, and exist in the moment? Check out C26 Adventure Camps for 2026! Want to build strength and conquer the water? Look into our swim camps at C26Hub.com Looking for triathlon coaching? Comb through our roster at https://c26triathlon.com/about/coaches/ Topics: The Original Iron Men 2,632 in a row The legendary ultra man Endurance junkies So. Much. Sitting. Walking for your health Supplemental movements Trying to fix the problem with the problem Just don't think about it Extra BP to get out of a

Are you giving enough love to the process? Today, we look at what the process is and why it's really the way ti get better and get more out of life and triathlon. We point out that when you are "looking forward" to simple aerobic runs and rides you're probably in a good place. We can't rush our way through process to get to performance. It's all tied together and the process can become your healthy addiction and keep you away from burnout. Let's all make the goal to end 2025 like you want to begin 2026. ------------- Empower your training, explore your limits, and exist in the moment. Check out C26 Adventure Camps for 2026! Want to build strength and conquer the water? Look into our swim camps at C26Hub.com Looking for triathlon coaching? Comb through our roster of Coaches.  C26 Gear available here. Topics: Halloween revisited (Triathlon talk starts around the 9 min mark) Feeling tension to be done before you even get started Why it's so important to love the process Process, Purpose, Performance. Wanting ae

Don't turn triathlon into a job you hate. Now is the time to embrace flexibility and work on being healthy, happy, and a more resilient athlete. Today we look at the toughest times of the year and how to use them to your advantage. We also get into how gratitude makes us faster. We talk about keeping an eye on how far you've come. We talk maintaining vs. losing and how your body will thank you on race day. We talk about why overly specific interval training is overrated. We look at burn out and how to make sure you can have a long and healthy life with triathlon as your guide. Topics: Embrace The Costume Day Ironman Florida 2nd Toughest Time of Year for Training Last hour of the road trip When we get sooo close to the season Max Flexibility Season It's keep moving time Starting a band Cramming for a test The triathlete's seasonal cycle Craving the run? It's Yellow Season Gratitude can make us faster Look back at how far you've come Don't let yourself fall so far behind Being an Athlete versus Chasing a Race

Today we look at the three dominant metrics in triathlon: Heart Rate, Power, and RPE. Which one is right for you, and does that answer change with different variables? We look at things like time of the day, time of the year, and adjusting based on how you feel. We tackle questions like intensity vs. volume and look at different scenarios depending on if you're racing an Ironman or something shorter. We talk Vo2 max and look at whether or not you should even be thinking about it. And we also get into how a lot of triathletes screw up their races with nutrition. Topics: Wetsuit legal questions Dominant metrics When to use power vs HR vs RPE Does the time of day matter? Different stress from different pools Hot water, cold water, shallow water When are you strongest on the bike? Is HR higher in the morning? Warm ups Lower volume, higher intensity Swim hard, bike aerobic, run hard? Looking at numbers too often How we screw up our races with nutrition Smash test for a 15 hour race? Vo2 Max - small piece of the p

Motivation is fleeting. How do we train and live in such a way that we’re looking forward to what’s next? Not down the road in 10 months, but what’s next today and tomorrow? Today, we look at finding a good combination of freedom within the discipline. Do you buy in to your direction or are you struggling with understanding the real goals? Do you have conviction for what you’re chasing? Topics: Favorite Holidays Four reels per week? What’s the top thing to do right now? Put your shoes on and go We all need freedom Racing season is our school year Finding a freedom and discipline mix Athlete buy-in and conviction Workouts as prompts Mine and matching workouts Getting that dopamine rush Accepting the outcome Guiding and giving options Creating new options Enlightened monk is like winning the age group Less conviction to one thing Igniting a workout It’s YOUR dream Long-term buy in to yourself   Mike Tarrolly - mike@c26triathlon.com Robbie Bruce - robbie@c26triathlon.com