378 - Still Skipping Strength Training? Here’s What You’re Leaving on the Table

Welcome to the Purple Patch Podcast! In this episode, IRONMAN Master Coach Matt Dixon discusses the importance of strength training during the off-season for athletes, emphasizing its benefits for longevity, performance, and overall health. He shares a case study of Dave Pray, a 70-year-old cyclist who improved his lean body mass by 8 pounds and reduced body fat by 35% through a combination of high-intensity intervals, low RPM cycling, and strength training. Dixon outlines a practical blueprint for integrating strength training into an athlete's routine, highlighting its role in power, economy, resilience, and daily function. He also introduces a new strength training program with progressions and flexibility for different fitness levels. If you have any questions about the Purple Patch program, feel free to reach out at [email protected].   Purple Patch and Episode Resources Check out our world-class coaching and training options: Book a complementary needs assessment coaching call: https://calendly.com/coaches-purplepatch/offseason-assessment-call Tri Squad: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/squad 1:1 Coaching: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/11-coached Run Squad: https://www.purplepatchfitness/com/run-squad Strength Squad: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/strength-1 Live & On-Demand Bike Sessions: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/bike  Explore our training options in detail: https://bit.ly/3XBo1Pi  Live in San Francisco? Explore the Purple Patch Performance Center: https://center.purplepatchfitness.com  Everything you need to know about our methodology: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/our-methodology Amplify your approach to nutrition with Purple Patch + Fuelin https://www.fuelin.com/purplepatch Get access to our free training resources, insight-packed newsletter and more at purplepatchfitness.com  

Welcome to the Purple Patch Podcast! On the episode, IRONMAN Master Coach Matt Dixon discusses the importance of the off-season in triathlon, offering free Needs Assessment calls to help athletes plan for 2026. He emphasizes the critical role of physical challenges in improving performance, both for athletes and non-athletes. Dixon explains that physical challenges provide embodied learning, immediate feedback, and confidence-building experiences. He highlights the neuroscience behind high-stakes situations, noting that controlled stress paired with recovery enhances resilience and performance. Dixon encourages listeners to set ambitious physical challenges now to ensure a successful and well-prepared 2026 season. If you have any questions about the Purple Patch program, feel free to reach out at [email protected].   Purple Patch and Episode Resources Check out our world-class coaching and training options: Book a complementary needs assessment coaching call: https://calendly.com/coaches-purplepatch/offseason-assessment-call Tri Squad: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/squad 1:1 Coaching: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/11-coached Run Squad: https://www.purplepatchfitness/com/run-squad Strength Squad: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/strength-1 Live & On-Demand Bike Sessions: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/bike  Explore our training options in detail: https://bit.ly/3XBo1Pi  Live in San Francisco? Explore the Purple Patch Performance Center: https://center.purplepatchfitness.com  Everything you need to know about our methodology: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/our-methodology Amplify your approach to nutrition with Purple Patch + Fuelin https://www.fuelin.com/purplepatch Get access to our free training resources, insight-packed newsletter and more at purplepatchfitness.com  

Welcome to the Purple Patch Podcast! On this episode, IRONMAN Master Coach Matt Dixon discusses the importance of the off-season in triathlon performance, offering complimentary Needs Assessment calls to help athletes prepare effectively. He introduces Renee Songer, a physical therapist at Purple Patch, who emphasizes the role of physical therapy in performance enhancement beyond injury recovery. Renee emphasizes the importance of pre- and post-activity preparation, the significance of multi-planar strength, and the necessity of individualized approaches to mobility and stability. She also addresses common mistakes athletes make, such as neglecting upper body mobility and overlooking the importance of strength training. The conversation highlights the importance of incorporating physical therapy into an athlete's routine for achieving optimal performance and preventing injuries. If you have any questions about the Purple Patch program, feel free to reach out at [email protected]. Purple Patch and Episode Resources Contact Renee directly for consults, simply fill the contact form below or reach out to her via email or phone, learn more at: https://www.360physicaltherapy.net/ Check out our world-class coaching and training options: Book a complementary needs assessment coaching call: https://calendly.com/coaches-purplepatch/offseason-assessment-call Tri Squad: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/squad 1:1 Coaching: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/11-coached Run Squad: https://www.purplepatchfitness/com/run-squad Strength Squad: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/strength-1 Live & On-Demand Bike Sessions: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/bike  Explore our training options in detail: https://bit.ly/3XBo1Pi  Live in San Francisco? Explore the Purple Patch Performance Center: https://center.purplepatchfitness.com  Everything you need to know about our methodology: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/our-methodology Amplify your approach to nutrition with Purple Patch + Fuelin https://www.fuelin.com/purplepatch Get access to our free training resources, insight-packed newsletter and more at purplepatchfitness.com  

Welcome to the Purple Patch Podcast! In this episode, IRONMAN Master Coach Matt Dixon discusses the importance of the off-season for athletes, emphasizing intentional recovery and strategic planning for 2026. He introduces two case studies: Miguel, a first-time IRONMAN athlete who improved his training approach and finished under 13 hours, and Markus, a seasoned triathlete who overcame injury and frustration by focusing on foundational habits and smart training. Both athletes achieved success by leveraging the off-season to build a strong foundation, emphasizing organization, recovery, and targeted training projects. Dixon highlights the value of off-season preparation in setting the stage for a successful race season. If you have any questions about the Purple Patch program, feel free to reach out at [email protected].    Purple Patch and Episode Resources Check out our world-class coaching and training options: Book a complementary needs assessment coaching call: https://calendly.com/coaches-purplepatch/offseason-assessment-call Tri Squad: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/squad 1:1 Coaching: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/11-coached Run Squad: https://www.purplepatchfitness/com/run-squad Strength Squad: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/strength-1 Live & On-Demand Bike Sessions: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/bike Explore our training options in detail: https://bit.ly/3XBo1Pi Live in San Francisco? Explore the Purple Patch Performance Center:https://center.purplepatchfitness.com Everything you need to know about our methodology: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/our-methodology Amplify your approach to nutrition with Purple Patch + Fuelin https://www.fuelin.com/purplepatch Get access to our free training resources, insight-packed newsletter and more at purplepatchfitness.com  

Welcome to Purple Patch Podcast! On this episode, IRONMAN Master Coach Matt Dixon discusses the importance of the off-season in triathlon, emphasizing it as a critical phase for performance breakthroughs. He highlights three open spots in their one-to-one coaching program and offers complimentary off-season needs assessments. Dixon outlines a five-step plan for a successful off-season: nailing basics like nutrition, hydration, and sleep; reducing training load by 30-40% while maintaining rhythm with strength and technical sessions; infusing fun and flexibility; tackling specific projects to address weaknesses or build strengths; and leveraging team and coaching support. He emphasizes the importance of consistency and intentional recovery to prepare athletes for success in the next season. If you have any questions about the Purple Patch program, feel free to reach out at [email protected]. Purple Patch and Episode Resources Check out our world-class coaching and training options: Book a complementary needs assessment coaching call: https://calendly.com/coaches-purplepatch/offseason-assessment-call Tri Squad: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/squad 1:1 Coaching: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/11-coached Run Squad: https://www.purplepatchfitness/com/run-squad Strength Squad: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/strength-1 Live & On-Demand Bike Sessions: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/bike Explore our training options in detail: https://bit.ly/3XBo1Pi  Live in San Francisco? Explore the Purple Patch Performance Center: https://center.purplepatchfitness.com Everything you need to know about our methodology: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/our-methodology Amplify your approach to nutrition with Purple Patch + Fuelin https://www.fuelin.com/purplepatch Get access to our free training resources, insight-packed newsletter and more at purplepatchfitness.com  

Welcome to the Purple Patch Podcast! In the episode, IRONMAN Master Coach Matt Dixon discusses the importance of a structured off-season for athletes to avoid performance regression. He emphasizes the need for consistent, lighter training rather than complete shutdown or high-volume base building. Dixon highlights the significance of maintaining rhythm, technique, and strength during the off-season to ensure better performance in the next season. He advocates for focusing on specific projects, such as improving technique or building strength, and stresses the importance of organizational effectiveness and supporting habits like sleep and nutrition. Dixon concludes by encouraging athletes to view the off-season as a performance accelerator rather than a break.  If you have any questions about the Purple Patch program, please don't hesitate to contact us at [email protected].    Purple Patch and Episode Resources Check out our world-class coaching and training options: Book a complementary needs assessment coaching call: https://calendly.com/coaches-purplepatch/offseason-assessment-call  Tri Squad: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/squad 1:1 Coaching: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/11-coached Run Squad: https://www.purplepatchfitness/com/run-squad Strength Squad: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/strength-1 Live & On-Demand Bike Sessions: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/bike  Explore our training options in detail: https://bit.ly/3XBo1Pi  Live in San Francisco? Explore the Purple Patch Performance Center: https://center.purplepatchfitness.com  Everything you need to know about our methodology: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/our-methodology Amplify your approach to nutrition with Purple Patch + Fuelin https://www.fuelin.com/purplepatch Get access to our free training resources, insight-packed newsletter and more at purplepatchfitness.com

Welcome to the Purple Patch Podcast! On this episode, IRONMAN Master Coach Matt Dixon and Chris Soden of Strategic Fitting, one of the world’s leading experts in bike fitting, discuss the importance of customized coaching and bike fitting. Chris shares his background, emphasizing the evolution of bike fitting from basic measurements to advanced systems. He highlights the significance of saddle fit, tire pressure, and equipment choices, advocating for adjustable components and proper positioning. Chris also stresses the importance of preemptive bike fits to avoid issues during training. They discuss the benefits of road bikes for triathletes and the need for proper equipment to enhance performance and comfort. Chris offers remote consultations and aims to provide personalized solutions for athletes. If you have any questions about the Purple Patch program, feel free to reach out at [email protected]. Purple Patch and Episode Resources Check out our world-class coaching and training options: Tri Squad: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/squad 1:1 Coaching: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/11-coached Run Squad: https://www.purplepatchfitness/com/run-squad Strength Squad: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/strength-1 Live & On-Demand Bike Sessions: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/bike Explore our training options in detail: https://bit.ly/3XBo1Pi Live in San Francisco? Explore the Purple Patch Performance Center: https://center.purplepatchfitness.com Everything you need to know about our methodology: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/our-methodology Amplify your approach to nutrition with Purple Patch + Fuelin https://www.fuelin.com/purplepatch Get access to our free training resources, insight-packed newsletter and more at purplepatchfitness.com  

Welcome to the Purple Patch Podcast! This week, we're revisiting one of the most insightful interviews we've done here on the Purple Patch Podcast. In this episode, we're exploring the topic of mature athletes. These athletes are just as ambitious and goal-driven as younger ones, but they often have a deeper and more meaningful purpose beyond winning races and setting personal records. We received a great question from a podcast listener who has participated in triathlons for over 20 years. Despite still being ambitious, she now has three kids and is seeking advice on approaching the sport from a new perspective and adjusting her training. This is a common challenge for many athletes, not just in triathlon. We've dedicated a whole show to addressing this question and hopefully, we provide helpful guidance for any mature athlete looking to optimize their mindset, strategy, and training for performance gains. The episode is divided into three parts. The first part discusses "perspective" and building a new relationship with sports. It provides context for understanding how to adjust your approach to sports and how it may differ from your younger and more competitive years. If you have any questions about the Purple Patch program, feel free to reach out at [email protected].  Purple Patch and Episode Resources Check out our world-class coaching and training options: Tri Squad: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/squad 1:1 Coaching: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/11-coached Run Squad: https://www.purplepatchfitness/com/run-squad Strength Squad: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/strength-1 Live & On-Demand Bike Sessions: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/bike  Explore our training options in detail: https://bit.ly/3XBo1Pi  Live in San Francisco? Explore the Purple Patch Performance Center: https://center.purplepatchfitness.com  Everything you need to know about our methodology: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/our-methodology Amplify your approach to nutrition with Purple Patch + Fuelin https://www.fuelin.com/purplepatch Get access to our free training resources, insight-packed newsletter and more at purplepatchfitness.com  

Welcome to the Purple Patch Podcast! On this episode, IRONMAN Master Coach Matt Dixon introduces the Purple Patch Marathon Special program, offering personalized coaching for $99/month with a 25% discount on the first month. The program includes live education, race strategy support, and on-site coaching. Dixon emphasizes the importance of balancing pressure with support to enhance performance, using examples like Sami Inkinen's success in IRONMAN and business leadership. He explains that pressure is a privilege when met with the right support system, advocating for high expectations and intentional recovery. Dixon encourages athletes and leaders to set high standards and provide a supportive environment to achieve sustained high performance. If you have any questions about the Purple Patch program, feel free to reach out at [email protected].    Purple Patch and Episode Resources Fast Track Run Squad: purplepatchfitness.com/fasttrackmarathon Check out our world-class coaching and training options: Tri Squad: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/squad 1:1 Coaching: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/11-coached Run Squad: https://www.purplepatchfitness/com/run-squad Strength Squad: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/strength-1 Live & On-Demand Bike Sessions: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/bike Explore our training options in detail: https://bit.ly/3XBo1Pi Live in San Francisco? Explore the Purple Patch Performance Center: https://center.purplepatchfitness.com Everything you need to know about our methodology: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/our-methodology Amplify your approach to nutrition with Purple Patch + Fuelin https://www.fuelin.com/purplepatch Get access to our free training resources, insight-packed newsletter and more at purplepatchfitness.com  

Welcome to the Purple Patch Podcast! On this episode, IRONMAN Master Coach Matt Dixon introduces the Purple Patch Marathon Special Program, offering personalized coaching for $99/month with a 25% discount for new subscribers. He also promotes the Win Cycle leadership program, designed to enhance team performance and adaptability. Dixon emphasizes the benefits of taking on challenges mid-year, whether in sports or professional life, to foster growth, resilience, and high performance. He encourages triathletes to diversify their training and busy professionals to adopt new, demanding goals. Dixon highlights the importance of stepping out of comfort zones to build capacity and improve overall performance.   Purple Patch and Episode Resources Fast Track Run Squad: purplepatchfitness.com/fasttrackmarathon Check out our world-class coaching and training options: Tri Squad: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/squad 1:1 Coaching: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/11-coached Run Squad: https://www.purplepatchfitness/com/run-squad Strength Squad: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/strength-1 Live & On-Demand Bike Sessions: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/bike  Explore our training options in detail: https://bit.ly/3XBo1Pi  Live in San Francisco? Explore the Purple Patch Performance Center: https://center.purplepatchfitness.com  Everything you need to know about our methodology: https://www.purplepatchfitness.com/our-methodology Amplify your approach to nutrition with Purple Patch + Fuelin https://www.fuelin.com/purplepatch Get access to our free training resources, insight-packed newsletter and more at purplepatchfitness.com