What does it really mean to be competitive? How can athletes develop true mental toughness?

On this episode of the Evidence-Based Triathlete podcast, we sit down with Dr. Todd Jones from UNLV to dive deep into the philosophy of competitiveness and mental resilience in endurance sports.

Dr. Jones introduces his DC-COP framework for mental toughness: 
Desire – Finding what truly drives you
Confidence – Believing in your ability to succeed
Circumvention – Avoiding mental & physical obstacles
Overcoming – Strategies to push through discomfort
Perseverance – Developing the ability to endure

From handling race-day pain to redefining competition and motivation, this episode is packed with insights every athlete and coach needs!

Join hosts Tedd and John as they jump into the latest research, training insights, and real-world applications for endurance athletes. In this episode, they explore the science of warming up, the importance of plyometrics, and how a simple five-minute daily hopping routine can improve running economy, optimizing performance and longevity in endurance sports.

In this episode, we dive into the challenges of deciphering fitness advice in the age of clickbait and discuss how to tailor training approaches to individual needs. From reflections on indoor triathlons to the balance of fast and slow training, we explore the importance of sustainability, consistency, and recovery in achieving long-term fitness goals. Highlighting real-life examples and evolving training needs across life stages, we emphasize the value of finding balance between athletic ambitions and personal life.

In this episode, we dive into the inspiring journey of the Cupcake Cartel, a global triathlon club and apparel brand, with founder Cal Millward. From transitioning out of a professional triathlon career to creating a community-driven organization, Cal shares the origins of the Cupcake Cartel and its mission to foster inclusivity, humor, and camaraderie in the often individualistic world of triathlon. We discuss the importance of building culture in the sport, the challenges of balancing competitive ambitions with a healthy lifestyle, and the role of innovation in performance gear. Tune in for a lively conversation filled with insights on the evolution of triathlon, reflections on racing in iconic locations, and how shared experiences can make the sport more meaningful.

This podcast offers practical advice, focusing on the holistic athlete experience, from training and racing strategies to mental and emotional preparation. It highlights the importance of cherishing the journey and embracing challenges as part of the growth process in triathlon.

Tips for training while recovering as well as for training indoors.

John and Tedd discussed their personal experiences and challenges, including their struggles with their bodies and minds, and their commitment to getting back into podcasting. They also discussed the recent evolutions in elite running performance, the challenges of testing and purchasing shoes for research purposes, and the concept of "Super Shoes" and how they might affect different body types. Lastly, they explored the factors contributing to the faster running times of women in endurance sports and the benefits of using super shoes for running.

John and Tedd discussed their experiences at a Las Vegas triathlon and other triathlons, emphasizing the importance of community support for athletes and the challenges of triathlon racing and spectating. They also explored the technology used in races, including an app that predicts athlete performance based on pace, and the importance of tracking race positions and splits. Lastly, they highlighted the challenges athletes face during transitions in triathlons and the importance of having well-prepared spectators at races.

Tedd shared his experiences of a serious bike crash and a triathlon race, highlighting the importance of safety and proper communication in such events. He also discussed his challenging recovery from multiple fractures, emphasizing the need for patients to take an active role in their healthcare. Lastly, Tedd expressed his determination to complete a half iron man in New Zealand despite his injury, and introduced a potential sponsor for their podcast.

Tedd and John shared their experiences and strategies for triathlon training, with a focus on injury prevention, management, and the importance of a positive mindset. They also discussed the impact of social media on their approach to sports and injuries, and the challenges of navigating the healthcare system for injury recovery. Lastly, they highlighted the value of connecting with the broader athletic community for support, education, and motivation, and the importance of individuals becoming their own advocates for reputable treatment.