That Triathlon Show Manuel Sola Arjona - The Nature of Training and complexity science | EP#437
Jul 11, 2024
Manuel Sola Arjona, a cycling coach, former pro cyclist, and author of The Nature of Training, dives into the intriguing world of complexity science and endurance performance. He passionately explains why reductionism can cloud training effectiveness and how we should embrace a holistic approach. With insights on how environment and psychology influence performance, he advocates for flexible planning and listening to one’s body rather than relying solely on data. Manuel also highlights common coaching mistakes and shares practical advice for athletes.
01:15:06
Use RPE Over Gadgets For Internal Load
- Use RPE because perception integrates whole-body internal state and learned context in real time.
- Reconnect with effort sensation instead of over-relying on gadgets and single metrics.
Plan Stimuli By Type, Magnitude, Frequency
- Design stimuli by type, magnitude and frequency so they interact deliberately.
- Gauge magnitude via session RPE and consider recovery capacity from recent training.
Use Average And Peak RPE To Set Intensity
- Measure magnitude with average session RPE and peak RPE during intervals to judge stimulus intensity.
- In base phases keep most sessions moderate and reserve few near-maximum days for specificity later.
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Intro
00:00 • 6min
Manu's background and motivation
06:07 • 2min
Meaning behind the book title
07:42 • 2min
What is complexity science?
09:17 • 2min
Reductionism in sports science
11:18 • 4min
Key properties of complex systems
15:01 • 5min
Evolutionary perspective on training
19:41 • 3min
Overview of Manuel's training method
23:10 • 3min
Why Manuel favors RPE
26:14 • 3min
Prescribing intervals with RPE and power
29:32 • 3min
Managing magnitude and periodization
32:03 • 6min
Recovery, load and adaptation
38:15 • 3min
Thoughts on training zones and thresholds
40:56 • 6min
Psychology's role in performance
47:13 • 6min
Environment's impact on adaptation
53:18 • 4min
AI, big data and wearables cautions
57:22 • 4min
Common mistakes by athletes and coaches
01:01:47 • 3min
Three practical pieces of advice
01:04:20 • 2min
Further reading and resources
01:06:42 • 4min
Outro
01:10:58 • 5min
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#45230
The Nature of Training
Complexity Science Applied to Endurance Performance
Manuel Sola Arjona
#48625
Jor
Alice Hutchinson
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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