That Triathlon Show
Mikael Eriksson
That Triathlon Show is the podcast for triathletes of all levels who want to train smarter and race faster. With over 600 episodes and millions of downloads since 2017, this show cuts through the noise and misinformation, delivering practical, no-nonsense advice rooted in both the art and science of training and performance.
The podcast features in-depth interviews with the world’s best coaches, top sports scientists, and elite athletes. Each episode dives into the nuances of training methodology, performance optimization, and race-day execution, providing insights you can apply right away. Whether you're preparing for a supersprint or an Ironman, or focusing on a single sport like swimming, cycling, or running, you'll find expert guidance and relevant content here.
The podcast is hosted by Mikael Eriksson, a former engineer now coaching professional and age-group athletes. Mikael is a Level III certified coach with over a decade of experience in coaching.
Join a global community of dedicated triathletes and take your performance to the next level. Learn more at www.scientifictriathlon.com/podcast.
The podcast features in-depth interviews with the world’s best coaches, top sports scientists, and elite athletes. Each episode dives into the nuances of training methodology, performance optimization, and race-day execution, providing insights you can apply right away. Whether you're preparing for a supersprint or an Ironman, or focusing on a single sport like swimming, cycling, or running, you'll find expert guidance and relevant content here.
The podcast is hosted by Mikael Eriksson, a former engineer now coaching professional and age-group athletes. Mikael is a Level III certified coach with over a decade of experience in coaching.
Join a global community of dedicated triathletes and take your performance to the next level. Learn more at www.scientifictriathlon.com/podcast.
Episodes
Mentioned books
7 snips
Jan 27, 2026 • 15min
Long Intervals Optimised for Time Near VO2max and a Classic Norwegian Threshold Session
A breakdown of a variable intensity protocol that boosts time spent near VO2max through redistributing effort within long intervals. A classic Norwegian-style threshold bike session with long 10-minute blocks and short recoveries gets explained. Practical comparisons with 30-15 micro intervals and coaching tips on when to use each approach are discussed.
Jan 22, 2026 • 1h 59min
Gordo Byrn on optimising Ironman training, the importance of volume and low intensity training, and practical age-group training
Gordo Byrn, a former investment banker turned Ultraman World Champion, shares his unique insights on triathlon training. He emphasizes the power of high-volume, low-intensity workouts, showcasing how they can enhance endurance without burnout. Gordo discusses his comeback to the sport at age 57, offering practical tips for age-group athletes. He also explores the differences in training methods from the 2000s to today, the significance of lactate testing, and why aspiring Ironman competitors should consider a longer preparation timeline.
8 snips
Jan 20, 2026 • 19min
What Gordo Byrn learnt about training load, stress and fatigue management from Nils van der Poel, Stephen Seiler, and Olav Aleksander Bu
Gordo Byrn, a former investment banker and now a professional triathlete and coach, shares insights on training load and fatigue management. He emphasizes the importance of maximizing training volume while preventing chronic fatigue and recognizing the signs of overtraining. Gordo discusses lessons from elite athletes like Nils van der Poel and Stephen Seiler, focusing on the necessity of low-stress training and carefully planned recovery. He also highlights the role of simplicity in life to enhance performance, offering practical tips for amateur athletes.
Jan 15, 2026 • 1h 8min
Power Rankings - Our top five sessions to improve your triathlon swimming
In this episode, triathlon coach and former competitive swimmer Jack Hutchins shares his expert insights on swim sessions. He discusses VO2max sets and the surprising inclusion of butterfly drills for technique improvement. Listeners can expect to learn about two effective open-water swim simulations and key workouts like the 1,000m time trial and descending 50s for technique assessment. Jack and co-host Mikael also debate and rank their favorite sets, providing fresh ideas to enhance triathlon swimming performance.
5 snips
Jan 13, 2026 • 15min
An Ironman specific and a VO2max swim set that will improve your triathlon swimming
Discover two swim sets that will elevate your triathlon game! First, the Ironman-specific 10×400m session builds mental toughness and pacing skills. Then, dive into a challenging VO2max set featuring 4 rounds of 8×25s, pushing your limits while integrating butterfly strokes. Learn how these workouts enhance endurance and race readiness, with tips on form and pacing strategies. Plus, find out about unique training methods like pool deck runs to mimic race conditions. Get ready to swim your best!
8 snips
Jan 8, 2026 • 1h 29min
Triathlon Base Training Series 5 - Strength Training, Nutrition & Diet, and Listener Q&A
In this engaging discussion, triathlon coach Jack Hutchens shares his insights on strength training and nutrition for triathletes. He emphasizes the importance of periodizing strength workouts throughout the year. The duo also explores effective home workout strategies and the role of mobility and core exercises. They delve into nutrition adjustments during the base training phase, recommend sustainable habits for the festive season, and tackle listener questions about training strategies and injury management. Their friendly banter makes complex topics accessible!
16 snips
Jan 6, 2026 • 15min
Core principles of triathlon strength training during the base phase
Strength training is crucial for injury prevention and debunking stretching myths. Consistency in strength work is emphasized over seasonal spikes for better results. Recommendations include two sessions a week, timed to protect sport-specific workouts. The conversation highlights practical session placement, plyometrics, and a strategic approach to progressive loading. Exercise selection evolves from unilateral work to heavy lifts and explosiveness as race season approaches. Integrating strength training seamlessly into triathlon training is key for performance.
10 snips
Dec 30, 2025 • 1h 15min
[Triathlon Science] Durability decoded - a 2025 perspective with Michele Zanini, PhD
In this enlightening discussion, Michele Zanini, PhD, a lecturer and head of strength & conditioning for the Italian triathlon team, shares groundbreaking insights on durability in endurance sports. He explores how long runs impact running economy and presents research showing significant physiological differences after 90 versus 120 minutes of running. Michele highlights effective training interventions, including strength and plyometric methods, while addressing open questions in sports science. The episode closes with recommendations on utilizing training technologies and the latest trends influencing performance.
Dec 11, 2025 • 1h 31min
Cycling training methods from the WorldTour with Stephen Barrett, Head Coach of Decathlon AG2R La Mondiale and coach of Felix Gall
Stephen Barrett, head coach of Decathlon AG2R La Mondiale and mentor to elite riders like Felix Gall, shares insights from the WorldTour. He delves into training philosophies, emphasizing the critical role of VO2max and periodization strategies. Discussing the intricacies of coaching varied athletes, he highlights the importance of adaptability and collaboration. Stephen also explores the benefits of indoor and altitude training, and predicts how emerging talents may soon challenge cycling giants like Tadej Pogacar.
12 snips
Dec 4, 2025 • 1h 4min
Triathlon Base Training Series 4 - Running
Joining the conversation is Jack Hutchens, an experienced triathlon coach and performance consultant with a focus on run training. He and Mikael Eriksson explore the essentials of base training for triathletes. They dive into the significance of long runs and hill training, effective volume progression, and the balance between Zone 1 and Zone 2 running. Jack also shares strategies for incorporating VO2max sessions and emphasizes the importance of adapting training based on weather conditions, ensuring every runner can thrive.
