🚀Try TrainerRoad risk-free! 👉 ⁠www.TrainerRoad.com⁠

🤝Join the TrainerRoad Zwift Club 🚴 https://trainerroad.cc/TRzwiftclub 

// SHARE AND RATE THE PODCAST!

iTunes: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/apple2⁠ 

Spotify: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/spotify2⁠

Google Podcasts: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/google⁠

// TOPICS COVERED

(0:00:00) Intro – Solo Q&A: Weight Loss, VO₂ Max & More  

(0:00:35) Lose Weight Without Losing FTP  

(0:05:00) TrainerRoad Plans for Power & Body Comp  

(0:06:25) MTB Starts – Aerobic Fitness vs. Explosivity  

(0:12:18) VO₂ Slow Component Explained  

(0:16:00) Build Muscle Efficiency with Tempo & Sweet Spot  

(0:19:32) Heat & PSI – Tire and Suspension Tips  

(0:23:56) Power on Technical MTB Courses  

(0:31:28) Training for Older Cyclists  

(0:34:58) Cape Epic Prep – Running & Heat Adaptation  

(0:42:29) Strength Training Integration  

(0:46:02) Little Sugar Tire Insights  

(0:48:56) Mixing Cycling with Backcountry Skiing  

(0:50:53) Leadville Prep & Race Analysis  

(0:57:15) Using Goal-Based Plans in Off-Season  

(0:58:51) Zone 2 Intensity – Train Smarter  

(1:05:21) Frequency vs. Volume for Fitness  

(1:08:33) Why Consistency Beats Perfection

Coach Jonathan Lee tackles your top training questions in this solo Q&A episode — from losing weight without sacrificing FTP to mastering VO₂ max, Zone 2, and aerobic fitness. He breaks down how to train smarter for bike races, manage heat and tire pressure, structure off-season plans, and balance strength, cross-training, and cycling for year-round performance.

// RESOURCES MENTIONED

- Sign up for TrainerRoad! ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/GetFaster⁠

- Follow TrainerRoad on Instagram 📸 https://www.instagram.com/TrainerRoad 

- Join the TrainerRoad Zwift Club 🚴 ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/trzwiftclub⁠ 

// TRY TRAINERROAD RISK FREE FOR 30 DAYS!

https://trainerroad.cc/GetFaster⁠ TrainerRoad is the #1 cycling training app. No other cycling app is more effective. Over 17,000 positive reviews, a 4.9 star App Store rating.

// HELPFUL LINKS

- Have a question for the podcast? Ask here: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/3HTFXNi⁠

- Watch our latest Cycling Science Explained video now! ⁠https://youtu.be/z2HXE1-il_Q⁠ 

- TrainerRoad on Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/trainerroad/⁠

- TrainerRoad Forum: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/3uHvLnE⁠

- TrainerRoad on Strava: ⁠https://www.strava.com/clubs/trainerroad⁠

- TrainerRoad on Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/TrainerRd⁠

- TrainerRoad on X: ⁠https://www.x.com/TrainerRoad⁠ 

- Learn more about TrainerRoad: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/3LBb5Ur⁠⁠ 

- Listen to the Successful Athletes Podcast: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/3JmKrN5⁠

- Listen to the Science of Getting Faster Podcast: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/3LpuIhP⁠

- Training Blog: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/3gCdNdN

🚀Try TrainerRoad risk-free! 👉 ⁠www.TrainerRoad.com⁠

🤝Join the TrainerRoad Zwift Club 🚴 https://trainerroad.cc/TRzwiftclub 

// SHARE AND RATE THE PODCAST!

iTunes: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/apple2⁠ 

Spotify: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/spotify2⁠

Google Podcasts: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/google⁠

// TOPICS COVERED

(0:00:00) Intro – Strength Training for Cyclists with Derek Teel  

(0:01:19) What Pros Actually Do in the Gym  

(0:04:15) Should Cyclists Train Their Upper Body?  

(0:07:03) The Truth About Gaining Muscle Mass  

(0:12:09) Injury Prevention and Why Strength Matters  

(0:17:09) How to Periodize Strength Training for Cyclists  

(0:24:50) The Right Rep Ranges for Cycling Performance  

(0:29:43) Best Strength Movements for Cyclists  

(0:43:47) Why Cyclists Need to Lift for Bone Density and Durability  

(0:50:44) Core Training That Improves Bike Handling  

(0:59:35) Lower Body Strength Without Hurting Ride Quality  

(1:08:15) Year-Round Strength Training Tips and Takeaways

Learn how to strength train for cycling with Jonathan Lee and Derek Teel of Dialed Health. They cover how to lift without gaining excess muscle, the best core and leg workouts for cyclists, and how to periodize your gym training for performance, injury prevention, and bone density. Get stronger, ride faster, and stay durable all season long.

// RESOURCES MENTIONED

- Derek’s Strength Training Programs: https://marketplace.trainheroic.com/workout-plan/team/dialed-health 

- Contact Derek: https://www.dialedhealth.com 

- Derek’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dialedhealth  

- Sign up for TrainerRoad! ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/GetFaster⁠

- Join the TrainerRoad Zwift Club 🚴 ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/trzwiftclub⁠ 

// TRY TRAINERROAD RISK FREE FOR 30 DAYS!

https://trainerroad.cc/GetFaster⁠ TrainerRoad is the #1 cycling training app. No other cycling app is more effective. Over 17,000 positive reviews, a 4.9 star App Store rating.

// HELPFUL LINKS

- Have a question for the podcast? Ask here: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/3HTFXNi⁠

- Watch our latest Cycling Science Explained video now! ⁠https://youtu.be/z2HXE1-il_Q⁠ 

- TrainerRoad on Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/trainerroad/⁠

- TrainerRoad Forum: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/3uHvLnE⁠

- TrainerRoad on Strava: ⁠https://www.strava.com/clubs/trainerroad⁠

- TrainerRoad on Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/TrainerRd⁠

- TrainerRoad on X: ⁠https://www.x.com/TrainerRoad⁠ 

- Learn more about TrainerRoad: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/3LBb5Ur⁠⁠ 

- Listen to the Successful Athletes Podcast: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/3JmKrN5⁠

- Listen to the Science of Getting Faster Podcast: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/3LpuIhP⁠

- Training Blog: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/3gCdNdN

🚀Try TrainerRoad risk-free! 👉 ⁠www.TrainerRoad.com⁠

🏁 Race with us in the TrainerRoad Throwdown Series!: https://trainerroad.cc/TRrace 

🤝Join the TrainerRoad Zwift Club 🚴 https://trainerroad.cc/TRzwiftclub 

// SHARE AND RATE THE PODCAST!

iTunes: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/apple2⁠ 

Spotify: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/spotify2⁠

Google Podcasts: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/google⁠

// TOPICS COVERED

(0:00:00) Intro – Matt Beers Wins Big Sugar and Lifetime GP Finale

(0:01:20) Matt’s 431W for 2+ Hours: Breaking Down the Power File

(0:02:03) Early Race Chaos and Tactical Start Decisions

(0:03:24) Opening Attacks: 693W for a Minute, 1,000W Surges, and the Breakaway Forms

(0:05:36) Working in the Lead Group with Riley Amos and Matthew Wilson

(0:07:04) Testing the Competition – Matt’s 600W “Probe” Effort Before Going Solo

(0:08:49) Winning Move and Mechanical Drama in the Final Miles

(0:09:11) Comparing Big Sugar vs. Little Sugar – Gravel vs. MTB Power Profiles

(0:11:57) Lessons from Little Sugar: Raw Power vs. Drafting Dynamics in Gravel

(0:13:05) Mechanical Mayhem: Flats, Crashes, and Surviving Big Sugar

(0:14:08) Jonathan’s Little Sugar Recap and Power Insights

(0:16:11) Fueling for 400W – Matt’s Nutrition Plan (150g Carbs + 600mg Caffeine/hr!)

(0:19:04) Looking Ahead to Gravel Burn Stage Race in South Africa

(0:20:25) Closing Thoughts – How TrainerRoad Athletes Get Faster

Specialized Off-Road’s Matt Beers joins the Ask a Cycling Coach Podcast to break down his Big Sugar Gravel victory and mind-blowing power numbers — averaging 431 watts for over two hours to win the Lifetime Grand Prix finale. Matt and Jonathan dig into his race tactics, the violent early efforts that split the field, and how teamwork and smart fueling (150g carbs + 600mg caffeine per hour!) powered the win. They also compare gravel vs. MTB dynamics, talk mechanicals, and preview Matt’s next challenge at Gravel Burn South Africa.

// RESOURCES MENTIONED

- Matt’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattbeers55 

- Sign up for TrainerRoad! ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/GetFaster⁠

- Join the TrainerRoad Zwift Club 🚴 ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/trzwiftclub⁠ 

// TRY TRAINERROAD RISK FREE FOR 30 DAYS!

https://trainerroad.cc/GetFaster⁠ TrainerRoad is the #1 cycling training app. No other cycling app is more effective. Over 17,000 positive reviews, a 4.9 star App Store rating.

// HELPFUL LINKS

- Have a question for the podcast? Ask here: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/3HTFXNi⁠

- Watch our latest Cycling Science Explained video now! ⁠https://youtu.be/z2HXE1-il_Q⁠ 

- TrainerRoad on Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/trainerroad/⁠

- TrainerRoad Forum: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/3uHvLnE⁠

- TrainerRoad on Strava: ⁠https://www.strava.com/clubs/trainerroad⁠

- TrainerRoad on Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/TrainerRd⁠

- TrainerRoad on X: ⁠https://www.x.com/TrainerRoad⁠ 

- Learn more about TrainerRoad: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/3LBb5Ur⁠⁠ 

- Listen to the Successful Athletes Podcast: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/3JmKrN5⁠

- Listen to the Science of Getting Faster Podcast: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/3LpuIhP⁠
- Training Blog: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/3gCdNdN

🚀Try TrainerRoad risk-free! 👉 ⁠www.TrainerRoad.com⁠

🏁 Race with us in the TrainerRoad Throwdown Series!: https://trainerroad.cc/TRrace 

🤝Join the TrainerRoad Zwift Club 🚴 https://trainerroad.cc/TRzwiftclub 

// SHARE AND RATE THE PODCAST!

iTunes: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/apple2⁠ 

Spotify: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/spotify2⁠

Google Podcasts: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/google⁠

// TOPICS COVERED

(0:00:00) Intro – Keegan Swenson on Training and Race Preparation  

(0:01:17) Little Sugar Race Strategy and the Importance of the Start  

(0:03:06) Keegan’s Post-Worlds Training and Recovery  

(0:04:25) Torque Training Explained – Building Strength with Low Cadence  

(0:07:24) Physiological Benefits of Torque and VO2 Work  

(0:10:15) Why Tempo and Sweet Spot Training Matter  

(0:12:25) Fueling for Long Endurance and Tempo Rides  

(0:15:05) Combining Intervals with Endurance Training  

(0:18:37) The “Gray Zone” Debate – Why Pros Still Train There  

(0:20:49) How Pros Structure Base Training with Sweet Spot Work  

(0:23:11) Sprint Training and Managing Intensity  

(0:24:43) How Hard Should You Train? Knowing When to Back Off  

(0:28:02) Group Rides, Motivation, and Mental Training  

(0:29:38) Final Takeaways from Keegan Swenson 

World Champion Keegan Swenson shares his cycling training secrets — from VO₂ intervals and sweet spot training to endurance rides, recovery, and mindset. Learn how he builds world-class power, balances intensity and recovery, and applies proven cycling tips that help him win at the highest level. Whether you’re chasing new FTP gains or just want to train like a pro, this episode of Ask a Cycling Coach shows how to train smarter, not harder.

// RESOURCES MENTIONED

- Keegan’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/keegels99 

- Sign up for TrainerRoad! ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/GetFaster⁠

- Join the TrainerRoad Zwift Club 🚴 ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/trzwiftclub⁠ 

// TRY TRAINERROAD RISK FREE FOR 30 DAYS!

https://trainerroad.cc/GetFaster⁠ TrainerRoad is the #1 cycling training app. No other cycling app is more effective. Over 17,000 positive reviews, a 4.9 star App Store rating.

// HELPFUL LINKS

- Have a question for the podcast? Ask here: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/3HTFXNi⁠

- Watch our latest Cycling Science Explained video now! ⁠https://youtu.be/z2HXE1-il_Q⁠ 

- TrainerRoad on Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/trainerroad/⁠

- TrainerRoad Forum: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/3uHvLnE⁠

- TrainerRoad on Strava: ⁠https://www.strava.com/clubs/trainerroad⁠

- TrainerRoad on Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/TrainerRd⁠

- TrainerRoad on X: ⁠https://www.x.com/TrainerRoad⁠ 

- Learn more about TrainerRoad: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/3LBb5Ur⁠⁠ 

- Listen to the Successful Athletes Podcast: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/3JmKrN5⁠

- Listen to the Science of Getting Faster Podcast: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/3LpuIhP⁠

- Training Blog: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/3gCdNdN

// UPDATE ON LITTLE SUGAR GROUP RIDE //

Saturday, Oct. 11 at 9:00am!

Will leave from Finish Line for a 11.7mi route that covers the finish.

Route: https://www.strava.com/routes/3411217966276238992

🚀Try TrainerRoad risk-free! 👉 ⁠www.TrainerRoad.com⁠

🏁 Race with us in the TrainerRoad Throwdown Series!: https://trainerroad.cc/TRrace 

🤝Join the TrainerRoad Zwift Club 🚴 https://trainerroad.cc/TRzwiftclub 

// SHARE AND RATE THE PODCAST!

iTunes: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/apple2⁠ 

Spotify: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/spotify2⁠

Google Podcasts: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/google⁠

// TOPICS COVERED

(0:00:39) Inside Trans-Cascadia with Tobin Ortenblad: Blind Enduro and Brutal Transfers

(0:07:00) Analyzing Coach Jonathan’s CX Race File with Tobin

(0:30:34) How to Survive Little Sugar: Tires, Rocks & Strategy

(0:44:17) Coach Jonathan’s Training Block for Punchy Power

(0:51:24) How to Stop Losing Traction on Steep Climbs

Pro cyclist from the Santa Cruz ht.SQD Tobin Ortenblad joins Coach Jonathan Lee to break down one of his cyclocross race files and reveal why repeatability wins in CX. The two compare CX vs. XC power profiles, preview the punishing Little Sugar course, and discuss tire choice, line selection, and race-day strategy. Jonathan also shares the VO2-heavy training block that boosted his punch and FTP, and Tobin answers a listener question on how to stop losing traction on climbs and corners.

// RESOURCES MENTIONED

- Tobin Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mctubbbin 

- Sign up for TrainerRoad! ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/GetFaster⁠

- Join the TrainerRoad Zwift Club 🚴 ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/trzwiftclub⁠ 

// TRY TRAINERROAD RISK FREE FOR 30 DAYS!

https://trainerroad.cc/GetFaster⁠ TrainerRoad is the #1 cycling training app. No other cycling app is more effective. Over 17,000 positive reviews, a 4.9 star App Store rating.

// HELPFUL LINKS

- Have a question for the podcast? Ask here: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/3HTFXNi⁠

- Watch our latest Cycling Science Explained video now! ⁠https://youtu.be/z2HXE1-il_Q⁠ 

- TrainerRoad on Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/trainerroad/⁠

- TrainerRoad Forum: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/3uHvLnE⁠

- TrainerRoad on Strava: ⁠https://www.strava.com/clubs/trainerroad⁠

- TrainerRoad on Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/TrainerRd⁠

- TrainerRoad on X: ⁠https://www.x.com/TrainerRoad⁠ 

- Learn more about TrainerRoad: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/3LBb5Ur⁠⁠ 

- Listen to the Successful Athletes Podcast: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/3JmKrN5⁠

- Listen to the Science of Getting Faster Podcast: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/3LpuIhP⁠

- Training Blog: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/3gCdNdN

🚀Try TrainerRoad risk-free! 👉 ⁠www.TrainerRoad.com⁠

🏁 Race with us in the TrainerRoad Throwdown Series!: https://trainerroad.cc/TRrace 

🤝Join the TrainerRoad Zwift Club 🚴 https://trainerroad.cc/TRzwiftclub 

// SHARE AND RATE THE PODCAST!

iTunes: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/apple2⁠ 

Spotify: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/spotify2⁠

Google Podcasts: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/google⁠

// TOPICS COVERED

(0:20:11) Is It a Good Idea to Do Sweet Spot Block Training?

(0:41:10) Do Pro Cyclists Do Sweet Spot Training?

(0:46:53) Why Is the Tempo Zone Ignored?

(0:56:42) Managing Your Breath During Intervals

Coach Jonathan and pro rider/coach Hannah Otto discuss why very long pre-race rides often backfire: they boost confidence but overcook athletes, hurting subsequent workouts. Coaches must balance fitness and confidence—save the “touch the fire” effort for race day. They pivot to sweet spot/tempo (“gray zone”) work: sweet spot delivers big aerobic ROI with manageable fatigue, but should be periodized—use it in focused blocks, then progress to threshold, over-unders, and VO₂ to raise FTP. Recovery weeks should be treated as purposeful endurance/foundation weeks (~60% volume), not time off. Pros do use sweet spot and tempo, often inside longer rides or late in sessions for fatigue resistance (sometimes with low-cadence work). For a three-week sweet spot block: fuel high-carb, prioritize sleep, consider strength training, then take a disciplined recovery week before moving up in intensity. Breathing issues at sweet spot are usually focus-related—practice deliberate, rhythmic breathing and use strong exhales to reset. Hannah reflects on placing 12th at Worlds, managing jet lag/logistics stress, rebounding from a subpar race, and looking ahead to Big Sugar.

// RESOURCES MENTIONED

- Haley’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehannahotto 

- Sign up for TrainerRoad! ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/GetFaster⁠

- Join the TrainerRoad Zwift Club 🚴 ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/trzwiftclub⁠ 

// TRY TRAINERROAD RISK FREE FOR 30 DAYS!

https://trainerroad.cc/GetFaster⁠ TrainerRoad is the #1 cycling training app. No other cycling app is more effective. Over 17,000 positive reviews, a 4.9 star App Store rating.

// HELPFUL LINKS

- Have a question for the podcast? Ask here: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/3HTFXNi⁠

- Watch our latest Cycling Science Explained video now! ⁠https://youtu.be/z2HXE1-il_Q⁠ 

- TrainerRoad on Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/trainerroad/⁠

- TrainerRoad Forum: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/3uHvLnE⁠

- TrainerRoad on Strava: ⁠https://www.strava.com/clubs/trainerroad⁠

- TrainerRoad on Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/TrainerRd⁠

- TrainerRoad on X: ⁠https://www.x.com/TrainerRoad⁠ 

- Learn more about TrainerRoad: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/3LBb5Ur⁠⁠ 

- Listen to the Successful Athletes Podcast: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/3JmKrN5⁠

- Listen to the Science of Getting Faster Podcast: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/3LpuIhP⁠

- Training Blog: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/3gCdNdN

🚀Try TrainerRoad risk-free! 👉 ⁠www.TrainerRoad.com⁠

🏁 Race with us in the TrainerRoad Throwdown Series!: https://trainerroad.cc/TRrace 

🤝Join the TrainerRoad Zwift Club 🚴 https://trainerroad.cc/TRzwiftclub 

// SHARE AND RATE THE PODCAST!

iTunes: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/apple2⁠ 

Spotify: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/spotify2⁠

Google Podcasts: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/google⁠

// TOPICS COVERED

(0:00:53) How to Review Your Training Year (Signs You’re Improving)

(0:10:25) Low Energy Availability & Working With a Dietitian

(0:13:19) What Happens When You Increase Carbs (Performance, Mood, Sleep)

(0:19:24) Haley’s Breakthrough at Africa’s Migration Gravel Race

(0:40:58) Bouncing Back From a Bad Race: The 24-Hour Rule & Debriefing

(0:49:19) Managing Expectations and Setting Process vs. Outcome Goals

(0:55:25) Haley’s Honest Look Back on a Challenging Season

(1:05:38) Haley’s Advice on Trying New Cycling Disciplines

(1:10:03) After High Carb, What’s the Next Big Performance Boost?

Olympian Haley Smith joins Coach Jonathan to break down how to tell if your training is actually working—from mood and sleep to power trends, fueling, and race execution. Using Haley’s season (Cape Epic, Migration, SBT GRVL) as a case study, we cover a practical year-in-review framework, RED-S/low energy availability lessons, and the mindset tools (journaling, debriefs, “24-hour rule”) that keep progress moving. Perfect for your end-of-season audit.

// RESOURCES MENTIONED

- Haley’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/haleyhuntersmith

- Thorne Probiotics: https://thefeed.com/en-ca/products/thorne-florasport-20b?variant=14915407773759&queryID=8cefc7fa3eacefa7830f7b7a36475677&fbclid=PAVERFWANBQbhleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABp6Co4Op1BuTlWKJ0eOeM49LEG8QyXnd-0Ko9USIjo0npfCmubxZ9192y3x7p_aem_IMddcOiMPevprfa1nxxvyQ 

- Sign up for TrainerRoad! ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/GetFaster⁠

- Join the TrainerRoad Zwift Club 🚴 ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/trzwiftclub⁠ 

// TRY TRAINERROAD RISK FREE FOR 30 DAYS!

https://trainerroad.cc/GetFaster⁠ TrainerRoad is the #1 cycling training app. No other cycling app is more effective. Over 17,000 positive reviews, a 4.9 star App Store rating.

// HELPFUL LINKS

- Have a question for the podcast? Ask here: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/3HTFXNi⁠

- Watch our latest Cycling Science Explained video now! ⁠https://youtu.be/z2HXE1-il_Q⁠ 

- TrainerRoad on Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/trainerroad/⁠

- TrainerRoad Forum: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/3uHvLnE⁠

- TrainerRoad on Strava: ⁠https://www.strava.com/clubs/trainerroad⁠

- TrainerRoad on Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/TrainerRd⁠

- TrainerRoad on X: ⁠https://www.x.com/TrainerRoad⁠ 

- Learn more about TrainerRoad: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/3LBb5Ur⁠⁠ 

- Listen to the Successful Athletes Podcast: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/3JmKrN5⁠

- Listen to the Science of Getting Faster Podcast: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/3LpuIhP⁠

- Training Blog: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/3gCdNdN

🚀Try TrainerRoad risk-free! 👉 ⁠www.TrainerRoad.com⁠

🏁 Race with us in the TrainerRoad Throwdown Series!: https://trainerroad.cc/TRrace 

🤝Join the TrainerRoad Zwift Club 🚴 https://trainerroad.cc/TRzwiftclub

// SHARE AND RATE THE PODCAST!

iTunes: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/apple2⁠ 

Spotify: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/spotify2⁠

Google Podcasts: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/google⁠

// TOPICS COVERED

(0:00:00) Welcome!

(0:07:21) How Zach Calton won Crusher in the Tushar

(0:11:12) Polarized Training for Racing

(0:22:04) How Individual is Training Volume?

(0:25:41) What a Pro Thinks Amateurs Misunderstand About TSS

(0:32:59) Should Every Cyclist Train Their Sprint?

(0:46:41) 3 Biggest Mistakes in Cycling

(1:01:58) Leadville Power File Comparison

In this episode of the Ask a Cycling Coach Podcast, Zach Calton joins to break down the training mistakes that can actually make cyclists slower. Zach shares the highs and lows of his season—bouncing back from illness, crashes, and overtraining at Cape Epic and Unbound to winning Crusher in the Tushar and Park City Point to Point. The discussion dives into polarized training, how pros think amateurs misunderstand TSS, and how important it is to manage training load, pacing, and mental resilience. Coach Jonathan and Zach also cover whether every cyclist should train their sprint, the three biggest mistakes athletes make with their cycling, plus a power file comparison from Leadville that shows how pacing and efficiency trump raw watts. It’s a deep look at practical lessons for anyone aiming to train smarter, race better, and avoid the pitfalls that hold riders back.

// RESOURCES MENTIONED

- Zach’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zachcalton 

- Sign up for TrainerRoad! ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/GetFaster⁠

- Join the TrainerRoad Zwift Club 🚴 ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/trzwiftclub⁠ 

// TRY TRAINERROAD RISK FREE FOR 30 DAYS!

https://trainerroad.cc/GetFaster⁠ TrainerRoad is the #1 cycling training app. No other cycling app is more effective. Over 17,000 positive reviews, a 4.9 star App Store rating.

// HELPFUL LINKS

- Have a question for the podcast? Ask here: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/3HTFXNi⁠

- Watch our latest Cycling Science Explained video now! ⁠https://youtu.be/z2HXE1-il_Q⁠ 

- TrainerRoad on Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/trainerroad/⁠

- TrainerRoad Forum: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/3uHvLnE⁠

- TrainerRoad on Strava: ⁠https://www.strava.com/clubs/trainerroad⁠

- TrainerRoad on Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/TrainerRd⁠

- TrainerRoad on X: ⁠https://www.x.com/TrainerRoad⁠ 

- Learn more about TrainerRoad: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/3LBb5Ur⁠⁠ 

- Listen to the Successful Athletes Podcast: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/3JmKrN5⁠

- Listen to the Science of Getting Faster Podcast: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/3LpuIhP⁠

- Training Blog: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/3gCdNdN

🚀Try TrainerRoad risk-free! 👉 ⁠www.TrainerRoad.com⁠

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// SHARE AND RATE THE PODCAST!

iTunes: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/apple2⁠

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Google Podcasts: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/google⁠

// TOPICS COVERED

(0:02:07) Rapid Fire Questions

(0:08:57) From The Ground Up Project

(0:12:42) How Pro Athletes Balance Content and Racing

(0:16:00) How To Win Races As a Marked Rider

(0:29:15) Why Don’t World Tour Cyclists Dominate Gravel?

(0:51:29) Signs a Breakaway Will Stick

(1:14:23) How Alexey Built His Bike Handling Skills

// RESOURCES MENTIONED

- Alexey's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexeyvermeulen

- Sign up for TrainerRoad! ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/GetFaster⁠-

Join the TrainerRoad Zwift Club 🚴 ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/trzwiftclub⁠ 

// TRY TRAINERROAD RISK FREE FOR 30 DAYS!

https://trainerroad.cc/GetFaster⁠ TrainerRoad is the #1 cycling training app. No other cycling app is more effective. Over 17,000 positive reviews, a 4.9 star App Store rating.

// HELPFUL LINKS

- Have a question for the podcast? Ask here: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/3HTFXNi⁠

- Watch our latest Cycling Science Explained video now! ⁠https://youtu.be/z2HXE1-il_Q⁠

- TrainerRoad on Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/trainerroad/

⁠- TrainerRoad Forum: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/3uHvLnE

⁠- TrainerRoad on Strava: ⁠https://www.strava.com/clubs/trainerroad⁠

- TrainerRoad on Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/TrainerRd⁠

- TrainerRoad on X: ⁠https://www.x.com/TrainerRoad⁠

- Learn more about TrainerRoad: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/3LBb5Ur⁠⁠

- Listen to the Successful Athletes Podcast: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/3JmKrN5⁠

- Listen to the Science of Getting Faster Podcast: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/3LpuIhP⁠

- Training Blog: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/3gCdNdN

Keegan Swenson breaks down his Marathon World Championships victory in this in-depth Cycling Podcast episode. From the decisive hike-a-bike to his 6-hour effort at 5 W/kg, Keegan shares the race strategy, fueling for endurance, and power data cycling insights that led him to the rainbow jersey. We dive into his bike setup—including running a hardtail MTB—and how he balanced speed, comfort, and control across technical terrain.

Whether you’re into MTB Marathon Worlds, Marathon MTB, or just love mountain bike racing, this conversation is packed with takeaways for every rider. Keegan also reflects on years of preparation, the highs and lows of racing in Europe, and what this win means for his future in endurance racing.

If you geek out on W/kg cycling, training details, or want to learn how the world’s best tackle brutal courses, this one’s for you.

#KeeganSwenson #MTBMarathon #MarathonWorlds #MountainBike #CyclingPodcast #BikeSetup #RaceStrategy #EnduranceCycling #PowerData

🚀Try TrainerRoad risk-free! 👉 ⁠www.TrainerRoad.com⁠

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// SHARE AND RATE THE PODCAST!

iTunes: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/apple2⁠ 

Spotify: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/spotify2⁠

Google Podcasts: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/google⁠

// RESOURCES MENTIONED

- Keegan’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/keegels99 

- Sign up for TrainerRoad! ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/GetFaster⁠

- Join the TrainerRoad Zwift Club 🚴 ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/trzwiftclub⁠ 

// TRY TRAINERROAD RISK FREE FOR 30 DAYS!

https://trainerroad.cc/GetFaster⁠ TrainerRoad is the #1 cycling training app. No other cycling app is more effective. Over 17,000 positive reviews, a 4.9 star App Store rating.

// HELPFUL LINKS

- Have a question for the podcast? Ask here: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/3HTFXNi⁠

- Watch our latest Cycling Science Explained video now! ⁠https://youtu.be/z2HXE1-il_Q⁠ 

- TrainerRoad on Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/trainerroad/⁠

- TrainerRoad Forum: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/3uHvLnE⁠

- TrainerRoad on Strava: ⁠https://www.strava.com/clubs/trainerroad⁠

- TrainerRoad on Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/TrainerRd⁠

- TrainerRoad on X: ⁠https://www.x.com/TrainerRoad⁠ 

- Learn more about TrainerRoad: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/3LBb5Ur⁠⁠ 

- Listen to the Successful Athletes Podcast: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/3JmKrN5⁠

- Listen to the Science of Getting Faster Podcast: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/3LpuIhP⁠
- Training Blog: ⁠https://trainerroad.cc/3gCdNdN