
Manuel Sola Arjona - The Nature of Training and complexity science | EP#437
That Triathlon Show
Recovery, load and adaptation
Manuel warns against obsessing over training-load metrics and stresses nonlinearity between load and progress.
Manuel Sola Arjona is a cycling coach and former professional cyclist, author of the book "The Nature of Training", and host of the popular Spanish podcast "Rendimiento Evolutivo". IN THIS EPISODE YOU'LL LEARN ABOUT: -Complexity science, complex systems and endurance performance -The risks of reductionism in training and in sports science -An evolutionary perspective to training and performance -How to apply complex systems thinking in training planning and application -An overview of Manuel's training and coaching methodology -Common mistakes for endurance athletes and coaches to avoid -AI, big data, wearables, and technology SHOWNOTES: https://scientifictriathlon.com/tts437/ SCIENTIFIC TRIATHLON AND THAT TRIATHLON SHOW WEBPAGE: www.scientifictriathlon.com/podcast/ SPONSORS: Precision Fuel & Hydration help athletes personalise their hydration and fueling strategies for training and racing. Use the free Fuel & Hydration Planner to get personalised plan for your carbohydrate, sodium and fluid intake in your next event. That Triathlon Show listeners get 15% off their first order of fuel and electrolyte products. Simply use this link and the discount will be auto-applied at the checkout. ZEN8 - The ZEN8 Indoor Swim Trainer allows you to improve technique, power, and swim training consistency. You can target specific aspects of your stroke, like catch and pull-through, work on core activation and body position, and make sure you stay consistent in your swim training even when you don't have time to go to the pool. Try the Zen8 risk-free for 30 days, and get 20% off your first order on zen8swimtrainer.com/tts. LINKS AND RESOURCES:
- Manuel's website, Instagram, and Twitter
- The Nature of Training: Complexity Science Applied to Endurance Performance - Manuel's book
- Rendimiento Evolutivo - Manuel's podcast (Spanish)
- Manuel's Substack Newsletter
SPONSORS:
- Precision Fuel & Hydration produce our favourite gels, sports drinks, and electrolyte and carbohydrate products here at That Triathlon Show and Scientific Triathlon. Use the free Fuel & Hydration Planner to get a personalised plan for your carbohydrate, sodium and fluid intake in your next event, and get 15% off your first 2026 order by using the code TTS2026 at checkout.
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