The TriDoc Podcast, triathlon and health in one place

Wearing a mask reduces the spread of Covid-19. This is not debatable. Some have suggested that wearing a mask is necessary when exercising because heavy breathing while exercising by asymptomatic infected individuals can result in significant spread of the virus. Is this true? And what of all the naysayers (aka Karens) who insist that wearing a mask makes it harder to breathe and impairs oxygenation and ventilation? I review the evidence. Lance Panigutti of Without Limits Sports joins me to discuss the impacts of race cancellations on his business and the possibility of moving forward.

In part 2 of my series on muscle cramps I look at the science behind the neuromuscular theory of exercise associated muscle cramps. Is this the real reason for cramps? Is there anything that can be done about it? What is the best method to avoid cramps? Michelle Lund is the co-owner and the face of BBSC endurance sports. She joins me to talk about the impact that the pandemic has had on small race organizers and her ideas for moving forward. Finally, another episode of Motivation in Isolation with Uberman finisher Melissa Urie.

Exercise associated muscle cramps are the bane of many athlete's existence and cause so much havoc to even the best laid plans.Despite more than a hundred years of research, the reason for cramping is still hotly debated and not well understood. In part 1 of a 2 part series, I take a look at one of the two most likely underlying causes of cramping; electrolyte imbalances. Jay Weber has a long time association with triathlon as a participant and as the director of operations at Base Performance. But he is also a certified triathlon official and he joins me to talk about that aspect of his life in multi-sport. Finally, Ann Barnes is a multiple Kona qualifier and podium finisher on the big island. She talks to me about her motivation in isolation.    

Morton's Neuroma is a common cause of foot pain especially in middle age and more so in women. What is it and how can it be treated? George Cespedes has a long history in triathlon and is now a coach but more importantly is the driving force behind the Tri Animals group on FaceBook. He joins me to talk about what drew him to the sport and how he has developed the Animals into a worldwide influencer of positive energy in multisport. Finding Motivation in Isolation is difficult enough for age groupers, it is a whole different level for professional triathletes whose livelihoods have been completely upended. Alise Selsmark and Cal Millward have an intimate perspective on both worlds as pros themselves and operators of the age group team the Cupcake Cartel. They join me to talk about how they are doing and to give ideas for you to keep moving forward as well in this time of uncertainty.

Blood donation is the ultimate selfless gift to those in need. But how does the gift of life interfere with endurance sport? Does a pint of blood result in significant losses in hemoglobin that can impact exercise performance? Can triathletes be blood donors and still effectively train? Kevin Koskella is the TriSwimCoach and has a podcast of the same name. He has made a career out of helping triathletes swim better and faster. He joins me to talk about how even adult learners can be better in the water and gives his thoughts on the need for flip turns when training in the pool. Finally, another member of the Cupcake Cartel joins me to share thoughts and tips for keeping up Motivation in Isolation.

The Covid-19 pandemic has shaken the world in ways that we can barely begin to comprehend. Why all the fuss? The TriDoc brings a triathlete's perspective to understanding this disease and why we need to take it so seriously. How long will all this last and what can we do to stay safe?Mikael Ericksson preaches the science behind triathlon and has a podcast dedicated to the same. He joins me to give his perspective on this and other matters in coaching and training. Finding motivation in this time of isolation can be difficult. On a new segment I speak to a guest to learn how they are managing.

Hydration during training and racing is important but can you get by on plain water alone? Laurel Graham is an Ironman athlete racing in the physically challenged division with Charcot-Marie-Tooth muscular dystrophy. She talks about her journey and how to not piss her off because you don't want to make her stabby. The triathlete routard is off to the Buckeye state to review the Ohio 70.3 race

Beetroot juice has been theorized and advocated to improve endurance sports performance for years. There are plentiful options of supplements to choose from but does the science support their use? Peter Sankoff is a professor of law and the co-founder of Animal Justice, a Canadian animal rights advocacy group. He is well positioned to discuss the Game Changers and the moral and ethical issues around meat consumption. And Reels for Wheels is here for the final episode of the year with recommendations for your recovery rides.

Photobiomodulation is the application of red or near infrared light to muscles to enhance performance or recovery. The devices that do this are pricey and marketed as having pretty consistent benefits across a wide breadth of applications. But are they worth the investment and do they actually do what their makers claim? Dr. Rolf Halden is an environmental engineer and professor at Arizona State University. He co-wrote a report for the Pew Charitable Trusts on the environmental impacts of animal farming and is well suited to opine on the Game Changers.Finally, Reels for Wheels suggests Wanted and Drive for your trainer rides.

Electrical muscle stimulators in the form of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulators (TENS) or neuromuscular electrical stimulators (NMES) are expensive devices with manufacturers who justify their costs based on claims that they can improve strength, recovery and healing from injury. Are those claims backed by science? I look at the evidence and weigh in on whether or not these devices make for a good investment. In my continuing series looking at the controversies raised by the Netflix documentary the Game Changers I speak to a professional triathlete with an impressive track record and a diet that includes animal products. We did not get this perspective in the film so Chris Leiferman brings it here. Finally, Reels for wheels has two new film recommendations to help you get through your winter trainer rides.