On tipcast 56, I’ll wrap up my discussion of how to optimize HIT programs by touching on ways to mix and match workouts in a reduced volume tri program. Contrary to what many critics want to claim is a lower volume program with tons of short sessions of intervals, a HIT based program is really about optimizing your limited time by balancing your individual response to the training to devise a plan that meets your performance goals. In the podcast I review:

• Why individual RESPONSE MATTERS and how to make the most of your individuality
• Why and how to utilize variation to make the most of your training
• What to do if your response varies, and why this might be the case

I would like to thank Blue Ridge Outdoors magazine for their support this year

Also be sure to checkout Rudy Project for the latest technically cool eyewear and lids, including the Airstorm!

Protein timing may matter most for men

Training zone myths and misuse

Cool hand for improved performance?

Product review: Rudy Project's Wing57

Training and racing at altitude

Is too much exercise really dangerous?

Dug this up. With all th talk of the new clean sport of cycling and banning Lance, let's look at one rider who we know was doping, but no one talks of pulling Marco Pantani's titles. Note the peaks in performance with corresponding Hct. I'm certain there were a few MR. 60%'s.

Here's my Training Peaks Chart for the past few months. Its been a chore to get this thing to work well with the different data sets that I get from Tri training. Let's just say I've needed to move beyond the default settings. One thing I've noticed is that low training frequency really messes things up. Anyway, here's what I have so far. Checkout the upcoming Tipcast for more thoughts on all this.

Have no fear, the podcast is coming back. A lot of schedules have been really screwed up, so its been difficult coordinate an interview. However, I've got plenty to talk about! I'll be checking in, reviewing the XTerra Season, including what I learned and what changes I'll be making for 2012 (on top of rehab). I'll also be discussing how to use your off-season effectively.

Don't forget to keep sending those emails. We have a double Rudy give away for the end of the year, including a BRAND NEW pair of Rydon glasses, and of course my personal pair of Noyz that I wore this season-barely a scratch on'em.

Check in.

Just wanted to let everyone know that the podcast is on a short hiatus. I was involved in a serious hit and run accident 8/31/11. Therefore, I am unable to post the Aug podcast yet and probably won't have the next interview up until late Sept. Expect an abbreviated podcast soon. Until then, keep those emails coming!

On our February 2011 podcast we sit down with MTB and cyclocross National Champion Todd Wells (Specialized). Todd talks about his dramatic 2010 Cross win, what it takes to race at the top of both sports, his long-term goals and even his secret love of golf! Todd's an amazing athlete with a great personality, you won't want to miss this.

Also on the podcast we welcome new sponsor Audible.com and invite our listeners to support our podcast by trying a FREE 14 day trial from Audible.com. 

We review Zinn and Art of Road Bike Maintenance (5th ed).

We hit the mailbag to answer questions on Tabata training and Base miles.

Finally, we feature two great songs from Treadmill Trackstar in a lead up to the release of their new album on March 1. All current music is available now for a donation of your choice! 

Hi all,

It has been a long time since our last podcast, but the light at the end of the tunnel is nearly here! First, we want to send out our deepest regrets to Aldo Sassi's family. I was scheduled to interview Sassi the weekend of his death, but could not reach him. I read the news Monday morning. However, we plan to build on the loss of Sassi's great mind and bring to you amazing guests in 2011, plus some great offers and opportunities from our sponsors.

The Next podcast will be up very soon!

Coming up on our next podcasts we will be discussing the world of XTerra with one of the world's best, Conrad Stoltz!  Also on tap is a discussion with one of America's next gen Alpine Champion's, when Olympic Bronze Medalist Andrew Weibrecht joins us.  Finally, we're excited to be talking with author Matt Fitzgerald on his book, Racing Weight, and Tom Swensen returns for a friendly debate on VOLUME vs INTENSITY!

Checkout our next Tipcast next week where we hit the mail bag for a question on volume vs intensity, and we talk about the latest research on strength training and endurance training.