The ESP TipCast covers quick tips for the latest health, fitness, nutrition and training science. On this TipCast we return to the topic of the dangers of endurance training and address a recent paper on the possible damaging effects of long-term training.

If you're interested in reading the papers, they can be found here:

http://www.tradewindsports.net/wordpress/training/is-endurance-training-dangerous/

The ESP TipCast covers quick tips for the latest health, fitness, nutrition and training science. On the latest Tipcast we discuss why the off-season should not be a time for rest, but should be a time for change and building.

The off-season is the time to fully recharge, address injuries and other issues, as well as plan for the next season. However, the Off-season is also the time to build off of last season's success, but to do so you need to avoid the typical long hybernation and maintain your fitness with shorter, more frequent "breaks" throughout the year. Learn how.

On this months podcast we sit down with Mike Kuhn, co-promoter of the Stan's No Tubes Trans-Sylvania Epic MTB Stage Race. Mike talks about the race, the riders, preparation for the race and why everyone should checkout the race at least once! It was a great way to reconnect with an old teammate and learn from one of the most innovative promoters in the US.

VIDEO

Also on the podcast we offer our thoughts on the Stan's No Tubes ZTR Podium MMX 3.30Ti wheelset. For the money, these are some of the best race wheels around!

Here's what we look at:

ZTR CREST

The Crest 26" wheelset perfect for racing or cross country riding. This set features Crest black rims on Stan's 3.30 front and rear hubs, 2.0/1.5 DT Revolution black spokes, DT silver alloy nipples at 1440 grams. The rear hub can be converted to 12x142 with ZH0077.

Est. Weight: 1440 grams

VERDICT


Aesthetics: A


Performance: A; solid, race ready training wheels


Durability: A


Reliability: A

Price: $525 for the set

ZTR Podium MMX 3.30Ti

Light, reliable, and fast rolling, Stan's NoTubes wheelsets have helped change the face of XC racing forever. Featuring the Stan's 3.30Ti hubs laced to the race proven Podium MMX rim this wheelset offers proven World Cup performance at a price for racers everywhere. With countless podium finishes to their credit, the Podium MMX wheels will allow you to gain time on the competition and deliver you to the top step.

Est. Weight: 1275 grams

VERDICT


Aesthetics: A


Performance: A; ultra light and agile

Durability: B+; light weight rims can dent

Reliability: A; dents aside, these remained true, without any issues

Price: $900 for the set is one hell of a price!