What does it really take to coach elite triathletes to world-class performances? Reto Braendli, Swiss triathlon coach and former performance lab specialist, joins us to share the individualized approach behind some of pro triathlon's most remarkable recent results.Reto coaches Sara Svensk (8th Kona 2024 with sub-3hr marathon), Anne Reischmann (back-to-back Ironman wins at Cozumel & South Africa), and Imogen Simmonds (9th overall T100 2024). In this Expert Series episode, he reveals how Sara ran one of the fastest marathons at Kona with only 4 hours of running per week (50% on a treadmill) due to injury.We dive deep into body composition analysis, Reto's balanced fueling philosophy that rejects both extreme high-carb and low-carb trends, and the truth about how pro athletes' nutrition needs differ from weekend warriors. Plus, insights on indoor versus outdoor cycling, optimal cadence, Anne's decision to race Kona while pregnant, and why loving what you do matters more than any training protocol.Whether you're a coach or athlete, this conversation offers practical wisdom for smarter, more sustainable training.00:00 Welcome and Introduction00:27 Reto's Background and Career01:33 Coaching Philosophy and Approach02:16 Case Studies: Coaching Elite Athletes05:25 Training Strategies and Adaptations11:39 Balancing Training and Life for Age Groupers17:36 Body Composition in Endurance Sports25:20 Nutrition and Fueling Strategies35:06 Approximate Energy Demand in Athletes36:23 Fueling Strategies for Endurance Athletes37:46 Integrating Cycling into Triathlon Training39:54 Indoor vs. Outdoor Cycling: Pros and Cons43:37 Cadence and Bike Position: Optimizing Performance49:02 Coaching Anne Reischmann Racing Kona Pregnant: A Unique Challenge55:45 Handling Doping Allegations: A Coach's Perspective01:02:04 Final Advice for Athletes and Coaches
What does it take to complete 31 Ironman races and coach endurance athletes for over two decades?In this Expert Series episode, we sit down with Joserra, a Spanish triathlon coach, Ironman team member, and sports science professor who has been shaping the endurance sports landscape since 2001. With credentials including an Ironman Certified Coach certification, a Master's in Applied Medical Sciences to Sport, and professorships at top Spanish universities teaching training theory and sports nutrition, he brings both academic rigor and real-world experience to every conversation.Joserra breaks down his unique "training process" approach, emphasizing that coaching is about far more than just prescribing workouts. He reveals why communication with athletes matters more than training zones, how he identifies fast versus slow responders to training stimuli, and why health must always come before performance.Key topics include race-specific pacing strategies for hilly 70.3 courses, practical nutrition guidance for Ironman distance events, the mental game of long-distance racing, and why patience is the most underrated quality in triathlon. He also shares inspiring coaching stories, including helping his wife qualify for Kona in her first four Ironman races and guiding a Canadian athlete to her lifelong dream after five years of commitment.Whether you're a coach refining your methodology or an athlete seeking sustainable approaches to endurance sports, this conversation delivers actionable insights on training, nutrition, longevity, and the "carpe diem" mindset.--Connect with JoserraWebsite: https://joserra.trainingInstagram: @coach_joserra--Hosted by Bruna (@justbrunathings) and Fabi (@endurance_fabi), founders of augo and coaches at Jornada Endurance.
In this episode, we sit down with Stu Holliday, a chartered sports psychologist with 12 years of experience working at the highest levels of sport. Stu currently serves as the GB Olympic Swimming Psychologist and has worked with GB Archery, England Netball, and Liverpool Football Academy. He's also the co-author of "The Psychology of Running" and founder of Endurance Mind Coaching, where he brings elite-level mental training to amateur endurance athletes.We explore what separates the mental approach of pros from amateurs, and how anyone can start training their mind alongside their body. Stu shares practical frameworks for building mental resilience, managing pre-race nerves, and pushing through the hardest moments of racing.Key topics covered:Why mental toughness isn't fixed - and how to actually train itThe biggest mindset difference between elites and amateurs Reframing pre-race nerves as excitementSelf-talk strategies: motivational vs. instructionalWhy visualization two weeks before your race is too latePreparing for "what if" scenarios so you don't panic mid-raceThe post-race debrief most athletes skipFinding joy again when training starts feeling like a grindFind out more on www.endurancemindcoaching.com
In this episode, we sit down with David Tilbury Davis, one of triathlon's most respected coaches with nearly 30 years of experience. David has coached world champions, Ironman podium finishers, and record-breakers including Sky Moench's American Ironman record at Florida 2023.We dive deep into David's evidence-based coaching philosophy, and what that means in practice. David shares insights on the coach-athlete relationship, the importance of trust and communication across different cultures and genders. Key topics covered:Why there's no magical formula for triathlon successThe 80/15/5 rule: basics, experimentation, and guessworkCommon training mistakes (hint: those really long runs)Sleep as the most underrated performance enhancerWhen recovery tools actually help vs. when they blunt adaptationManaging athletes across five continents and multiple culturesDavid's no-nonsense approach cuts through the noise of social media training trends and brings it back to what actually matters. Whether you're a pro or an age grouper balancing training with family and work, this episode offers practical wisdom you can apply immediately.
In this episode of the Human Endurance Podcast, we sit down with professional ultra runner Jazmine Lowther, fresh off her impressive ninth-place finish at the OCC. Jazmine shares practical training tips for people aiming to give trail running a try. We dive into transitioning from road marathons to trail running, training methodologies, the importance of mental toughness, and the unique challenges faced by women in ultra running. Discover Jazmine's insights on RPE, heart rate monitoring, VO2max training for Ultras and tailored coaching strategies that help runners of all levels. Whether you're an aspiring ultra runner or a seasoned athlete, this episode is packed with actionable advice and inspiring stories.Follow Jazmine: @jazmine_lowtherFollow Fabi: @endurance_fabiFollow Bruna: @justbrunathings
What happens when a world-class swimmer turned professional cyclist discovers that her biggest performance barrier wasn't training - it was nutrition?In this eye-opening episode, we sit down with Dani, an accredited practicing dietitian and professional cyclist who competed at 4 World Championships and 2 Pan Pacific Games as a swimmer. After struggling with recurring injuries, illnesses, and the dreaded "bonk" during training, Dani made a shocking discovery: she wasn't fueling her body properly.From getting sick every second month as a swimmer to now thriving in the European cycling peloton, Dani shares her transformation story and breaks down the science behind optimal endurance nutrition. You'll learn about REDs (Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport), why the "leaner equals faster" mentality is destroying athletes, and practical strategies for fueling your training and racing.Key Topics Covered:The real story behind recurring sports injuriesREDs: What it is and why it's more common than you thinkCarb loading done right (spoiler: it's not pasta all week)Pre, during, and post-training nutrition strategiesManaging GI distress during long sessionsWhy fasted training isn't recommended for female athletesReal-world fueling strategies from a pro cyclist (17-20 hours/week training)Whether you're a weekend warrior or aspiring pro, this conversation will revolutionize how you think about food as your most powerful performance tool."Food is fuel—it's like petrol to a car. You can put all your effort into training, but your adaptations happen after training with your food and recovery." - Dani---Follow Dani: @dani.de.dietitianBook an appointment with Dabi: https://www.pogophysio.com.au/book-now/Follow Bruna: @justbrunathingsFollow Fabi: @endurance_fabi
Tobias Haumann is an exceptional triathlon coach with over 15 years of experience and a notable athletic career. In this episode we discuss his coaching philosophy, balancing data and feel, essential nutritional and swimming advice, and personalized training approaches. Tune in to learn about the importance of sustainable training, overcoming limitations, and the future of triathlon training. Useful links:Learn more about Scientific Triathlon and book Tobias as your coachConnect with Tobias on LinkedinFollow Tobias on Instagram: @tobiashaumannFollow Bruna on Instagram: @justbrunathingsFollow Fabi on Instagram: @endurance_fabiChapters(00:00) Introduction(01:12) AI x Coaches(05:28) Scientific Triathlon(09:22) Onboarding a new athlete(14:05) Principles of endurance training(21:55) Data vs Feel(27:46) Managing training load(36:47) HRV(38:42) Training Stress Score(45:44) Nutrition(50:12) Fueling for women vs men(53:28) Improving your swim(59:25) Closing advice & thoughts on the future(01:02:31) Athlete success story
Vic Johnson is a sports dietician specialising in mountain endurance athletes—from ultra runners, to mountaineers, skiers, and triathletes. Vic provides essential advice on hydration, carbohydrate intake, and the impact of diet on performance and health. We delve into the complexities of nutrition, exploring topics like glycogen stores, fat metabolism, and the differences between male and female nutritional needs. Whether you're an amateur or a pro, this episode offers valuable knowledge to help you enhance your performance and overall well-being.Chapters(00:00) Intro(00:32) What is a mountain sports dietitian(02:07) Vic's background(11:27) The building blocks of nutrition and performance(14:05) The importance of hydration(25:30) Pre-training nutrition(28:44) Fat metabolism and carb intake(34:11) Stress fractures and their relationship to diet(38:22) Periodising Nutrition, Low Carb Diets(42:32) Nutritional differences between men and women(47:49) Intermitent fasting and running performance(50:29) Plant based diets for endurance athletes(56:46) Where to begin with nutrition(59:55) Debunking a nutritional myth(01:03:51) Athlete success storyFollow us:VicBrunaFabiLean more about the Podcast and Fabi & Bruna's Coachingwww.jornadaendurance.comwww.ignitehumanendurance.com
In this episode of the expert series, we get the chance to talk to Triathlon coach Tom, founder of Sense Endurance Coaching. Tom has been into triathlon since more than 15 years and through time realized that chasing blindly the data can have it's negative impact to performance. Over the years, Tom moved to a more intuitive approach in coaching, focusing more on feel.Tom recently got the chance to learn from and work together with Brett Sutton, who is an icon when it comes to triathlon coaching. Brett's approach further impacted Tom in his believe that training does not need to be overcomplicated and that joy and performance can be found in the simplicity of training.Tune in to learn more about Tom's coaching philosophy and learn more about how important feel is in training.Follow Tom on IG: @senseendurance--------------(00:00) Introduction to Tom and His Journey(00:53) Tom's Philosophy on Coaching and Naming His Business Sense(02:08) Diving into Data vs. Feel in Training(10:52) Training with Brett Sutton(29:34) Applying Brett's Methods to Coaching(40:37) Understanding Easy, Moderate, Medium, Mad(42:59) Maintaining Strong Biomechanics in Long Distance Running(43:39) Training Strategies for Long Runs(47:17) Mental Strength in Endurance Training(48:31) Balancing Fun and Focus in Training(58:56) The Role of Communication in Coaching(01:03:19) Advice for Age Group Triathletes(01:08:18) Rapid Fire Questions and Closing RemarksFollow Tom on Instagram: @senseenduranceLearn more about Tom's coaching: www.sense-endurance.com
In this episode, Marco breaks down the science of heart rate variability into practical insights you can use today. He shares eye-opening insights about how your training decisions should (and shouldn't) be influenced by HRV. We also discuss the real usefulness of wearables such as Whoop and Oura, and explore often-overlooked factors that impact HRV measurements, from sleep quality to hormonal changes across the menstrual cycle. Whether you're an elite athlete or just starting your wellness journey, this episode will transform how you think about recovery and training optimization.
In this episode of the Human Endurance Experts series, we dive into an in-depth conversation with Moritz, a 2:23h marathon runner and coach, who found this passion in running after recovering from an ACL tear. Moritz shares his journey, training strategies, and the critical insights he gained along the way. Key highlights include his experiences running majors, his coaching philosophy, training volume and intensity, the balance between data and intuition, running mechanics, and tapering. Whether you're a beginner or an advanced athlete, you'll find valuable tips and motivational anecdotes to improve your own running journey. (00:00) Introduction to Moritz's Running Journey (05:19) Training Capacity (08:42) Training Volume and Intensity (12:06) Balancing Training with Life and Recovery (17:40) Advanced Training Techniques and Nutrition (48:37) Balancing Data and Running by Feel (56:14) Running Mechanics and Technique (01:02:49) Outdoor vs. Treadmill Running (01:06:45) Race Strategy and Preparation (01:17:42) Strength and Conditioning for Runners (01:21:48) Rapid Fire Questions (01:25:46) Conclusion and Farewell Follow us on Instagram: Moritz: @moritzrunning International Running Club Zurich: @irczrh Fabi: @endurance_fabi Bruna: @justbrunathings Be coached by Bruna & Fabi: www.jornadaendurance.com
What does it take to become a World Champion while balancing medical school? Meet Samuel Studer, the 2025 IRIONMAN 70.3 Age Group World Champion who's rewriting the rules on what's possible when you refuse to choose between your dreams.In this inspiring Guest Series episode, Samuel takes us through his incredible journey from competitive swimming to finding his true calling in middle-distance triathlon. Fresh off his stunning victory at the 2025 IRONMAN World Championships in Marbella, he shares the raw reality of race day: from a nutrition mishap on the bike to stumbling through the final 2 kilometers, unsure if he'd even won until 30+ minutes after crossing the finish line.Samuel reveals his unconventional training approach inspired by Brett Sutton methodology, including his game-changing double bike session strategy that helped him achieve breakthrough fitness gains. He opens up about the difficult conversations with his parents when switching sports, managing 20-24 hour training weeks alongside medical school rotations, and the courage it takes to speak up for what you truly need.Whether you're a coach seeking fresh training perspectives or an athlete trying to balance big ambitions with life's demands, Samuel's story proves that with the right priorities and relentless commitment, you don't have to choose.--Connect with Samuel: @samuel_studerHosts: Bruna (@justbrunathings) & Fabi (@endurance_fabi)
Meet Hans Troyer: the 25-year-old trail running sensation who's rewriting the rules of what's possible in ultrarunning. In just two years, Hans went from unknown collegiate runner to 8th place at the legendary Western States 100, but his journey includes a dramatic near-death experience that would have ended most careers before they started.After suffering complete kidney failure and spending two weeks hospitalized following the Black Canyon 100K, Hans didn't just come back - he came back stronger. Now he's sharing the raw, unfiltered truth about pushing human limits, from his unconventional diet of white bread and frozen pizza to his innovative training methods involving heat suits and uphill treadmills.In this episode, Hans opens up about the mental game of ultrarunning, the moment he knew he was in serious trouble during his hospitalization, and how he's learned to embrace the inevitable dark moments that define our sport. Whether you're a seasoned ultra runner or just starting your endurance journey, Hans's story will challenge everything you think you know about what it takes to excel at the highest level.-- Follow Hans on Instagram: @hanstroyerFollow Hans on Strava: Hans TroyerFollow Hans on Youtube: @HansIsYoungAndFit--Follow Bruna on Instagram: @justbrunathingsFollow Fabi on Instagram: @endurance_fabi
In a sport that often glorifies pushing through the pain, could a softer approach be the secret to unlocking your true endurance potential?In this episode of the Human Endurance Podcast, we sit down with Brian, a 2h44 marathoner and the founder of Great Day coaching. Brian challenges the "hustle harder" mentality and introduces his powerful philosophy: the "soft approach to hard goals." He shares how this framework—built on self-kindness, adaptability, and long-term thinking—can help athletes not only get faster but also build a more sustainable and joyful relationship with their sport.From the single biggest mistake new marathoners make to the art of integrating high-volume training into a busy life, this conversation is a masterclass in building resilience, both on and off the road.-- Follow Brian: @brianboisvertLearn more about Great Day: https://greatdayforrunners.com/https://greatdayforrunners.com/
Anton was the first person to ever swim from New Norfolk to Bruny Island in Tasmania. He accomplished this in 15h23min with a pace of 1:35min/100m.We spoke about his journey towards this challenge, including his intense training route, cold training exposure, and performance mindset as well as about the swim in itself, of course. Tune in to learn more about swimming training and to be inspired by this great athlete with such a positive and strong mindset.Chapters:(00:00) Opening(02:51) Swimming journey(09:34) Training volume(16:57) Nutrition in training(20:01) Training routine(30:09) Cold exposure training(36:57) The 58km swim(50:20) Mindset & Mental Training(01:00:24) Hardest part about the swim(01:04:55) Arriving at the coast(01:10:06) Learnings from the swim(01:14:45) Advice for novice swimmers(01:21:32) Fire questionsFollow Anton on Instagram: @anton_ilchenkoFollow Bruna: @justbrunathingsFollow Fabi: endurance_fabi
In this episode of Human Endurance, we catch up with Paul Robinson a guest we had on last year. Paul is an extraordinary athlete who recently completed the world's hardest triathlon, the Arch to Arc. The race involves running 87 miles from London to Dover, swimming across the English Channel, and cycling 181 miles to Paris. Paul not only finished but also set a new men's non-wetsuit course record. Tune in as Paul shares his race experience and how he managed to physically and push through. Paul also reflects on raising £13,000 for motor neuron disease (MND) research and discusses his future athletic pursuits. (00:00) Introduction (01:14) Paul's Record-Breaking Achievement (02:44) Reflecting on the Journey (06:46) The Start of the Arch to Arc Challenge (10:19) Facing the Channel Swim (19:30) The Final Leg: Cycling to Paris (32:17) Support Crew (32:55) Challenges During the Run (35:12) Blister Management and Trust in the Team (37:02) Power Naps and Sleep Strategy (38:25) Planning for All Eventualities (39:42) Raising Money for MND Research (43:15) Mental vs Physical Challenge (45:54) Post-Race Recovery (47:43) Shifting Focus to a sub 3 hours Marathon (50:23) Reflections on Life and Challenges (55:54) Becoming an Open Water Coach (58:14) Final Thoughts and Advice
Fabi embarked on her journey into endurance sports in her mid-twenties. Initially starting with running, she soon found her passion in triathlon.Throughout the conversation we discuss training, mental strategies, and nutrition. You'll hear about her tough training regimen, tips for aspiring triathletes, and her future goals. This candid and motivational conversation is perfect for anyone interested in endurance sports or looking for a story of perseverance and determination.(00:00) Introduction: Meet Fabi (02:25) First Full Distance Triathlon: Challenge Roth Recap (14:44) Ironman Nutrition Mistake (27:31) Ironman Mental Strategies (30:00) Mind vs Body (33:39) Ironman Training (41:11) Peak training and tapering (46:27) What it takes to do a full Ironman (49:05) Making endurance sports more social (51:25) Adapting training when life gets in the way (52:53) Fabi's start in endurance sports (58:24) Fabi's incredible progression in swimming (59:32) Swimming tips from zero to Ironman (01:06:42) What Fabi is most proud of (01:07:24) Advice for aspiring triathletes (01:08:35) Future goalsInstagram:@endurance_fabi@justbrunathings
In this episode of the Human Endurance Expert Series, we talked to Brenton Ford, founder of Effortless Swimming. Brenton founded Effortless Swimming with the mission to help people around the world in improving their swimming technique. Effortless Swimming has grown to be one of the biggest channels on Youtube, having 350K followers reaching with 30M+ views on their top videos. Apart from their content, Effortless Swimming provides online courses, in-person clinics, as well as training camps around the world.(00:08) Meet Brenton Ford: Founder of Effortless Swimming(11:13) Common Mistakes and Foundational Skills for Swimmers(18:48) Improving Swimming Technique and Training Tips(29:08) The Importance of Drills and Effective Training(39:34) Skills in Open Water Swimming vs. Pool Swimming(43:51) Increasing Stroke Rate vs. Distance Per Stroke(47:36) Choosing the Right Wetsuit(58:04) Fueling for Long Swim Sessions(01:03:45) The Journey of Effortless Swimming(01:15:53) The Future of Swimming(01:20:30) Fire Questions---Website: https://effortlessswimming.com/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@EffortlessSwimmingFollow Effortless Swimming on IG: @effortlessswimmingFollow Fabi on IG: @endurance_fabiFollow Bruna on IG: @justbrunathings
In this episode of Human Endurance, we dive deep into the incredible transformation journey of Roberto, a former heavy smoker and obese individual who turned his life around to become a top endurance swimmer. Starting from his initial struggles during swim tryouts, Roberto shares how he overcame physical and mental barriers through swimming, therapy, and sheer discipline. Highlights include his participation in the Oceanman competition, qualifying for world finals, and his future goals like the Ocean Seven challenge. Roberto’s story is a testament to the power of the human spirit, discipline, and the relentless pursuit of personal betterment.(00:00) Meet Roberto (03:26) Smoking & Obesity (09:31) Quitting Smoking & Drinking (11:22) The Turning Point: SwimGym (16:13) First Swim (18:15) How Swimming Helped Roberto Quit Smoking (21:24) Improving in Swimming (25:25) Gaining Feel for the Water (28:41) Ocean Swimming Technique (30:50) How to Overcome Plateauing in Swimming (36:00) Discipline Over Motivation: Achieving Long-Term Success in a Sport (38:58) Mind vs. Body in Ultra-Endurance Sports (40:22) The Journey into Endurance Swimming (43:00) The Transformative Pool Session (45:43) Discovering Open Water Swimming (46:37) Overcoming Injury and Embracing the Ocean (52:22) Training for Competitions (01:02:26) The Ocean 7 Dream (01:07:41) Ultimate Goal: Swimming at 70 (01:11:19) Rapid Fire Questions (01:12:15) Final Thoughts and Farewell Follow Roberto on IG: @roblescrauwaetFollow Bruna on IG: @justbrunathingsFollow Fabi on IG: @endurance_fabiFabi & Bruna coach running & triathlon, to learn more head over to: www.jornadaendurance.com
We launched our expert series with our first guest Markus Rummel, physicist and triathlete. Markus founded the company AI Endurance, a platform that leverages AI for coaching. Markus' mission is to modernize coaching by following a scientific and data-driven approach to training. Listen in to learn more about Markus' journey from physics to predicting his own bike power to what became the company AI Endurance is today.(00:00) Introduction(00:49) Markus journey into endurance sports(05:55) Early experiments: Predicting his FTP, challenges in predicting bike performance vs. running performance(16:20) Defining AI, Machine Learning and Generative AI(22:58) AI Endurance: The AI Coach for Runners, Triathletes & Cyclists(26:25) Essential tools to connect with AI Endurance(31:16) The role of Heart Rate Variability (HRV) in training & performance(36:18) How AI Endurance uses HRV to determine an Athlete’s threshold(47:06) Challenges in using data for swimming(50:06) AI driven Training Plan creation(01:03:07) AI Coach vs. Human Coach(01:16:03) Future of AI in Sports---Try AI Endurance today for free & support this podcast: https://aiendurance.com?aieref=6839Learn more about human coaching on top of AI Endurance on www.jornadaendurance.com----Follow AI Endurance on IG: @aienduranceFollow Bruna on IG: @justbrunathingsFollow Fabi on IG: @endurance_fabi