The Athlete's Compass

Athletica
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The Athlete’s Compass Podcast is your compass for navigating endurance training and health. In this show, we explore the cardinal directions of training, nutrition, recovery, and mindset, delving into the dynamic relationship that drives athletic success. Athletes are more than numbers; they're individuals with unique lifestyles and mindset challenges. Coaches who understand these personal nuances play a vital role in their athletes' journey. While training details and data are important, tools like Athletica provide a solution to streamline the technicalities, allowing coaches to focus on the human connection which makes the human coaches the best they can be. Each week, renowned sports scientist and researcher Paul Laursen will be our teacher and guide as we break down training principles so you can understand how best to train for your sport! We take a no-bullshit and practical approach to support age-groupers, masters, and everyday cyclists, runners, and triathletes like you as you find your direction as an athlete. The hosts are Paul Laursen, sports scientist and founder of the Athletica.ai training platform, Marjana Rakai, coach, sports scientist, and triathlete, and Paul Warloski, coach and cyclist.

  1. 22 HR AGO

    How to Train for Hyrox with Siren Seiler-Viken

    Episode SummaryIn this episode of The Athletes Compass, the team sits down with Siren Seiler-Viken—researcher, coach, and emerging voice in Hyrox performance science. From her early years as an elite dancer to national-level distance running and now competitive Hyrox racing, Siren shares how sustainability, intelligent planning, and aerobic development form the foundation of hybrid performance. The conversation explores the physiological demands of Hyrox, why running may be the most overlooked performance driver, how to balance strength and endurance without sabotaging adaptation, and why pacing strategy can make or break your race. Whether you're a competitive athlete or new to hybrid fitness, this episode delivers practical, science-backed insight on building performance that lasts. Key Episode TakeawaysRunning accounts for ~60% (or more) of Hyrox race time — aerobic development is foundational.Wall balls produce the highest physiological strain due to total-body demand + accumulated fatigue.Hyrox is primarily an endurance event with strength elements—not the other way around.Max strength matters—but mostly to raise your ceiling so race loads feel submaximal.Muscle mass can become a liability if it compromises running economy.A pyramidal or polarized endurance approach builds sustainable fitness.Double-threshold training can be effective for advanced athletes when carefully structured.Splitting strength and endurance sessions by 5–6 hours reduces interference effects.Pacing is critical—early overexertion can derail the entire race.Variation in endurance modalities (run, row, ski) supports durability and injury prevention.Hyrox’s appeal lies in accessibility, inclusivity, and standardized global competition. Timestamps:00:00 – Injury Prevention & Mixing Modalities 02:07 – From Elite Dance to National-Level Running 07:57 – What Is Hyrox? Format & Demands 12:03 – Why Running Determines Hyrox Performance 16:25 – Why Wall Balls Break Athletes 22:13 – Is Max Strength Overrated in Hyrox? 26:25 – Programming: Base Building, Strength & Specificity 52:35 – Double Threshold & Concurrent Training 46:05 – The Rise of Hyrox & Olympic Potential Siren Seiler-Viken CoachingPaul Warloski - Simple Endurance CoachingMarjaana Rakai | Nordic Performance Lab

    1h 1m

  2. 19 FEB

    From First 10K at 48 to Ironman: Jeff Weiss’ Endurance Journey

    In this powerful and deeply relatable episode, Jeff Weiss shares how he went from starting his first 10K at age 48 to completing Ironmans, ultra marathons, and chasing the World Marathon Majors in his 60s. Along the way, he unpacks the mental battles behind endurance sport, the value of failure, and why chasing big goals reshapes how we see ourselves. From narrowly missing the cutoff at the legendary Comrades Marathon to discovering resilience through ice baths and yoga, Jeff makes a compelling case that racing isn’t just about fitness — it’s about identity, courage, and choosing a life without regret. Key Episode TakeawaysYou’re never too old to start — progress is possible at any age.Big races build identity and self-belief, not just fitness.Failure can unlock even bigger breakthroughs.Planning your “next goal” prevents post-race emotional crashes.Working with a coach builds confidence, accountability, and consistency.Long races reveal mental weaknesses — and mental strength.Ice baths and endurance racing both train the same muscle: courage.Controlled discomfort in sport builds resilience for life and business.“Do it scared” — fear is natural, but action reduces it.Health span (not just lifespan) should be the real goal of training. Paul Warloski - Simple Endurance CoachingMarjaana Rakai | Nordic Performance Lab

    44 min

  3. 12 FEB

    The Second Threshold Explained: LT2, FTP & Critical Power Demystified

    In this episode of The Athletes Compass, Dr. Paul Laursen and the team break down the science and practical application of the second threshold — also known as LT2, VT2, FTP, or critical power. They explain what physiologically happens when you cross this boundary, why base training is essential before adding threshold work, and how over-unders, tempo sessions, and VO2 max intervals raise performance. The conversation explores common mistakes athletes make (especially doing too much intensity), the role of durability, and how to assess threshold progress without lab testing. If you want to train smarter, improve pacing, and sustainably increase performance, this episode delivers a masterclass in intensity control. Key TakeawaysLT1 vs LT2: LT1 (aerobic threshold) = top of Zone 2, sustainable “all-day” effort. LT2 (second threshold) = highest sustainable steady-state effort before rapid fatigue.Above LT2: Glycolytic demand increases, lactate accumulates faster, heart rate drifts, and fatigue accelerates.Functional vs Lab Testing: FTP and critical power are practical field markers of LT2. Lab tests measure physiology, but field tests often matter more for performance.Day-to-Day Variation Is Real: Sleep, fueling, equipment, environment, and training phase can significantly affect test results.Base Training First: A strong aerobic base (mitochondrial development) improves tolerance to threshold work and increases fat oxidation capacity.Over-Unders Work Because: They stimulate mitochondrial adaptations by forcing lactate clearance and improving aerobic durability.Intensity Control Matters: Spending more time in the correct zone is more beneficial than constantly pushing the top end.Most Common Mistake: Too much high-intensity work without sufficient aerobic base.Durability Is the Goal: Threshold training should build resilience so performance doesn’t break down late in races. Paul Warloski - Simple Endurance CoachingMarjaana Rakai - Tired Mom Runs - Where fitness meets motherhood.

    42 min

  4. 5 FEB

    Why More Exercise Doesn’t Always Burn More Calories with Dr. Mikki Williden

    In this episode, Dr. Mikki Williden returns to The Athletes Compass to explore the Constrained Energy Model, a concept reshaping how athletes and coaches think about training and fueling. Drawing on the groundbreaking work of Dr. Herman Pontzer, Mikki discusses the biological limits of daily energy expenditure, and why the old model of "more exercise = more calories burned" often backfires, leading to fatigue, weight gain, and hormonal dysfunction. The conversation tackles RED-S, perimenopause, nutrient timing, energy availability, and the limits of tracking tools, all while emphasizing the importance of individual context, intuitive feedback, and informed nutrition. Key Episode TakeawaysThe Constrained Energy Model posits that daily energy expenditure plateaus, even with increased exercise.Energy is redirected from "non-essential" functions like immunity and reproductive health under high training loads.Over-relying on devices or formulas to track calories burned can lead to overfueling, weight gain, or gut issues.RED-S (Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport) can impair hormones, recovery, and bone health, especially in female athletes.Basal metabolic rate (BMR) forms the majority of energy use, but varies with sex, age, lean mass, and training history.Fueling needs are individual: what works for Michael Phelps or Killian Jornet won’t work for everyone.Tools like calorie counters can be helpful for education, but not as rigid frameworks.Protein and strength training are critical, especially for perimenopausal women looking to protect bone and muscle mass. Paul Warloski - Simple Endurance CoachingMikkipedia | Dr. Mikki Williden’s podcast, covering topics such as nutrition, fitness, and longevity.Marjaana Rakai - Tired Mom Runs - Where fitness meets motherhood.

    50 min

  5. 29 JAN

    The Athlete’s Guide to Smarter Warmups

    In this episode of Athlete’s Compass, hosts Paul Warloski, Dr. Paul Laursen, and Marjaana Rakai explore the overlooked yet critical elements of pre-race preparation: warmups and openers. Drawing on science and experience, they break down concepts like post-activation potentiation (PAP), the Q10 temperature effect, VO2 kinetics, and how proper timing, intensity, and individual context can make or break race performance. The trio shares personal anecdotes, training data insights, and cautionary tales (including cold-water swims gone wrong), helping athletes navigate both physiological and psychological readiness strategies. Whether you’re a crit racer, triathlete, or weekend warrior, this episode will change the way you approach race day — and the day before. Key Takeaways Post-Activation Potentiation (PAP) boosts nervous system readiness for explosive performance.Q10 effect (temperature-driven) enhances muscle enzyme activity—warm muscles perform better.VO2 kinetics are improved with short, intense primers done 5–10 minutes before start time.Day-before openers should include high-intensity, low-volume efforts to keep CNS sharp without fatigue.Warmup routines are highly individual—test in training, adjust for temperature and race type.Over-warming or overtraining pre-race is a common mistake; less is more.Cold environments demand longer warmups and appropriate clothing to avoid CNS suppression.Caffeine can enhance CNS drive when timed 30–90 minutes before competition—test before race day. Paul Warloski - Simple Endurance CoachingEffect Of High Intensity Intervals 24hr Prior To A Simulated 40 KM Time TrialThe Effects of a Cycling Warm-up Including High-Intensity Heavy-Resistance Conditioning Contractions on Subsequent 4-km Time Trial Performance - PubMedEffect of warm-up on cycle time trial performance - PubMedImprovement of Oxygen-Uptake Kinetics and Cycling Performance With Combined Prior Exercise and Fast Start - PubMedMarjaana Rakai - Tired Mom Runs - Where fitness meets motherhood.

    45 min

  6. 22 JAN

    How a Late Start Led to World Championships: Jerome’s Triathlon Story

    In this episode, triathlete Jerome Guionnet shares his inspiring transformation from a non-competitive French parent to a world-class age-group triathlete competing in multiple Ironman World Championships. Sparked by his daughter’s interest in triathlon, Jerome began his journey in his 50s and now regularly finishes in the top 10% of his age group. He discusses the difference between exercising and structured training, the value of consistency, recovery, coaching, and cutting-edge tech like AI coaching and biometric wearables. Jerome also opens up about time management, the importance of strength training, and the surprising mental tricks that keep him going, even in low-motivation moments. Key Episode TakeawaysStarting triathlon later in life is possible with structured training and motivation.Exercising is not the same as training—purposeful structure yields results.AI tools like Athletica help with personalized insights, but coaches bring human touch and emotional intelligence.Consistency, especially with zone 2 training, is essential but often lonely.Time management includes using “bricks” (back-to-back workouts) and home trainers for efficiency.Strength training and activation exercises help prevent injury and improve running form.Transition time is a weakness Jerome plans to improve by doing more local races.Gadgets like Timeware and Cori (continuous lactate monitoring) are part of Jerome’s optimization toolkit.Training is part of a balanced lifestyle that improves work performance and mental health. Paul Warloski - Simple Endurance CoachingMarjaana Rakai - Tired Mom Runs - Where fitness meets motherhood.

    57 min

  7. 15 JAN

    HIIT: The Secret Weapon for Endurance Athletes

    In this episode, the Athletes Compass team dives into the physiology and performance science behind 30/30 HIIT intervals—30 seconds on, 30 seconds off. Dr. Paul Laursen explains why these short, intense bursts are so effective at improving VO2 max and recruiting fast-twitch muscle fibers. With insights into training stress, recovery, athlete profiling, and when to use short versus long intervals, the conversation highlights how even endurance athletes can benefit from raising their "ceiling" with strategically timed HIIT sessions. They also cover programming for different athlete types and how tools like Athletica and Velocity help customize training to individual needs. Key Takeaways:30/30 intervals (30 seconds on, 30 seconds off) effectively recruit fast-twitch fibers and promote adaptations in both the cardiovascular and muscular systems.These short intervals stimulate VO2 max while minimizing long-term fatigue compared to longer intervals.Power output is higher during 30/30s than in 4x5 minute VO2 workouts, leading to better adaptations in well-trained athletes.Recovery periods between intervals are key—passive recovery enables myoglobin resaturation and better performance.30/30s can benefit even Ironman athletes, despite the lack of specificity to long race paces.Athlete type matters: “Diesel” athletes may prefer longer intervals; “twitchy” athletes often thrive with short ones.Tools like Athletica’s workout reserve and power profile analysis help guide interval prescription.Heart rate and power trends during sets can indicate whether an athlete is adapting well—or overreaching. Paul Warloski - Simple Endurance CoachingAthlete Profiling PrimerThe Power of Optimizing HIIT Short IntervalsMarjaana Rakai - Tired Mom Runs - Where fitness meets motherhood.

    47 min

  8. 8 JAN

    Why You Need Cross-Training in Your Plan

    In Episode 110, the hosts of The Athletes Compass dive into the overlooked powerhouse of endurance training: cross-training. Dr. Paul Laursen, Marjaana Rakai, and Paul Warloski explore how activities like rowing, skiing, and cycling aren't just recovery fillers—they're performance-enhancing tools backed by science. The trio debates whether strength training should count as cross-training, unpacks when specificity should take priority, and shares stories of elite athletes like Kyle Chalmers and Mahe Drysdale whose success came from training smarter, not harder. More than anything, the conversation is a powerful reminder that enjoying your training—and staying injury-free—may be the ultimate performance advantage. Key Takeaways Strength Training ≠ Cross-Training: It’s foundational and should be part of every endurance athlete’s program.Specificity Still Matters: But the need for it increases closer to race day.Cross-Training Works: It can directly improve aerobic fitness, reduce injury risk, and maintain performance.Minimum Effective Dose Exists: You might not need as much sport-specific work as you think.Joy Enhances Adaptation: Enjoyable training (including cross-training) supports better recovery and long-term consistency.Elite Athletes Use It: Olympic champions like Mahe Drysdale and Nils van der Poel used 50%+ cross-training in their routines.Technique is Sport-Specific: For technical sports like swimming or skiing, keeping some year-round specificity is key.Balance is Critical: Cross-training supports mental freshness and helps athletes avoid burnout.

    34 min
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About

The Athlete’s Compass Podcast is your compass for navigating endurance training and health. In this show, we explore the cardinal directions of training, nutrition, recovery, and mindset, delving into the dynamic relationship that drives athletic success. Athletes are more than numbers; they're individuals with unique lifestyles and mindset challenges. Coaches who understand these personal nuances play a vital role in their athletes' journey. While training details and data are important, tools like Athletica provide a solution to streamline the technicalities, allowing coaches to focus on the human connection which makes the human coaches the best they can be. Each week, renowned sports scientist and researcher Paul Laursen will be our teacher and guide as we break down training principles so you can understand how best to train for your sport! We take a no-bullshit and practical approach to support age-groupers, masters, and everyday cyclists, runners, and triathletes like you as you find your direction as an athlete. The hosts are Paul Laursen, sports scientist and founder of the Athletica.ai training platform, Marjana Rakai, coach, sports scientist, and triathlete, and Paul Warloski, coach and cyclist.

Information

  • Creator
    Athletica
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    117
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 Athletica
  • Show Website
    The Athlete's Compass

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