Carefully Curated Triathlon News for October 1, 2026

IN THIS EDITION…

  • Nailing your optimal bike pace
  • 5 performance metrics that matter most
  • Is cold Coke a legit recovery drink?
  • 8 hamstring exercises for triathletes
  • Try this risk-based pacing framework for a faster run

METRICS THAT MATTER

The true measure of triathlon performance lies in how efficiently you can sustain a high percentage of your aerobic capacity over hours of racing.

Here are the 5 physiological metrics that matter most to triathletes along with the types of workouts that improve each. Get to work.

WATT RESTRAINT

Coach Matt Bottrill explores the fundamental question: How hard should you ride to ensure the best run possible?

He explains why strong cyclists should dial back their intensity, and provides a blueprint for determining and executing your ideal bike pace.

JOIN THE #1 TEAM

Whether you’re a triathlon rookie or a seasoned IRONMAN veteran, Team Zoot provides the resources and community you need to help achieve your multisport goals.

Underwritten by triathlon’s original apparel brand, Zoot, team members receive an unparalleled collection of benefits.  Who doesn’t love free race entries, 40% off Zoot apparel, incredible partner discounts, exotic training camps and more?!

Make 2027 your best year ever by joining Team Zoot, the #1 ranked triathlon club in the world!

THROTTLE CONTROL

Risk-based pacing is a planning framework to help determine – and manage in real time — your ideal marathon speed.  It breaks the run course into three different zones, each having different rules for how aggressively you race at that moment.

It’s designed to help you walk that fine line between blowing up and undershooting your potential.

Risk-based pacing is not a single number.  It’s a series of decisions that inform your varying intensities throughout the event, based on the factors you face on race day.

HAMSTRONG

Triathletes are notorius for overemphasizing their quads and glutes at the expense of their hamstrings.

Hamstring strength training can dramatically improve running performance, increase power and reduce the risk of injury.

Here are 8 effective hamstring exercises for endurance athletes, and how to program them.

QUICK HIITS:

  • Kona Calculus
    Statistician Thorsten Radde just released his annual IRONMAN World Championships forecast.  In it he provides everything you need to know about this uniquely challenging course.  He also shares expert analysis on who to watch and how the men’s and women’s races could play out.  Get your copy today!