By: Jay Campbell We are all in search of ‘free speed’: cycling faster at our current fitness level. For time trialists it is all about reducing aerodynamic drag. For gravel racers, reducing rolling resistance predominates. But how do you know if an equipment change or body-position change is faster for YOU? This is a blog in three Parts: 1) The Chung Method, 2) Rolling Resistance on Gravel, and 3) Aerodynamic Drag on Pavement. You can skip to the topic of interest, but the blogs build on each other. EXAMPLE: Which of four hydration set-ups is most aerodynamic for me? The results of 6 x 8-minute tests are strung together and can graphically answer this question (see below). No wind-tunnel required, only
Athlete News, Triathlon Resources
The Secret Speed You’re Probably Ignoring: Getting Tire Pressure Right in Triathlon
By: Jeremy Sikkema In the world of triathlon, athletes obsess over aerodynamics, carbon wheels, and aero helmets. But there is one performance factor that costs nothing, takes less than five minutes to optimize, and can deliver real speed gains: proper tire pressure. For many triathletes, “pump it up to the max PSI printed on the tire” has been the default strategy. But modern research shows that too much pressure can actually slow you down. On the flip side, too little pressure adds rolling resistance and makes your ride feel sluggish. The right pressure is a balance between speed, grip, comfort, and safety. That’s where the SILCA Pro Tire Pressure Calculator comes in. This free online tool takes the guesswork out of
By: Ellie Wardell My name is Ellie, a new AM athlete signing this past June. SO happy to be part of this team and represent its message. A little bit about me: I was a former collegiate soccer player at Winona State University, now chasing new athletic adventures through endurance sports. Since graduating undergrad in 2023, I have taken up marathon running and began cycling in Summer of 2024. Now, I have signed up for my first triathlon, set to take place on June 26th! For my first blog post, I have decided to share my journey of qualifying for the Boston Marathon 2026. I’ve had my eyes on Boston ever since I started marathon racing in 2023. From the
A Health Coach is a supportive partner who helps individuals make lasting lifestyle changes to improve their overall well-being and quality of life. Health Coaches work with people to develop healthier habits in areas such as nutrition, physical activity, stress management, sleep, and emotional well-being. Whether someone wants to lose weight, feel more energized, reduce stress, or simply live a healthier lifestyle, a Health Coach uses evidence-based strategies to help them achieve meaningful, sustainable results. While Health Coaches may provide information when asked, they don’t diagnose or prescribe unless licensed to do so in a specific healthcare field. How Does It Work? Health Coaching is a personalized and collaborative process. The coach helps the client clarify their vision of
More than half of all Americans report experiencing stress on a daily basis, making the United States one of the most stressed-out nations in the world. Unfortunately, chronic and long-term stress can greatly increase your risk of developing a serious health condition. Too much stress can lead to health issues such as insomnia, anxiety or depression, low morale, short temper, headaches, stomachaches, and back problems. What is stress? Stress is your body’s natural response to any type of demand. It is a feeling of emotional or physical tension in response to an event or thought that causes you to be angry, nervous or frustrated. For example, you may feel stressed out about meeting a deadline or when traveling. Short-term instances
The usage of social media and gaming has been a hot topic for a number of years, but only recently were studies conducted to truly understand the effects that prolonged online exposure can have on mental health and the brain. Not all connections to social media are negative though, and some benefits can come from a healthy balance of time online. Benefits can include: Communicate and stay up to date with family and friends around the world. Find new friends and communities; network with other people who share similar interests or ambitions. Join or promote worthwhile causes; raise awareness on important issues. Seek or offer emotional support during tough times. Find vital social connections if you live in a remote
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