383 - Triathletes Before You Start Training In 2026, Listen To This

Welcome to the Purple Patch Podcast! In this episode, IRONMAN Master Coach Matt Dixon discusses strategies for setting performance goals and training effectively in 2026. He emphasizes the importance of starting now, before the holidays, to avoid the "New Year, New You" pressure. Dixon identifies three common challenges: the overwhelmed athlete, the rigid athlete, and the mature athlete. He advises against chasing specific events and instead focuses on a year-long journey of progression. Key strategies include building a flexible training plan, prioritizing strength sessions, and maintaining consistent habits. Dixon also highlights the importance of integrating training with life demands and encourages listeners to reach out for a complementary needs assessment.   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

Steve Magness x Matt Dixon on joy, resilience, and what actually creates long-term success in young athletes Too many conversations about youth sports focus on podiums, rankings, and early success. But the real power of sport isn't medals— it's the humans our kids become along the way. In this special conversation, performance experts Steve Magness and Matt Dixon break down what truly matters in youth athletics: joy, resilience, confidence, identity, and the pathways that create long-term success. They bust myths around early specialization, explore what actually predicts high-level performance, and offer practical guidance for parents, coaches, and athletes at every stage. Whether your child loves sport for fun or dreams of competing at the highest levels, this episode gives you the roadmap to support their growth—as athletes and as people.   Purple Patch and Episode Resources Steve Magness Books: https://www.stevemagness.com/wintheinside/ https://www.stevemagness.com/do-hard-things/  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 Human Performance Author & Coach Steve Magness discuss the importance of mental toughness in athletic performance and life. Magness emphasizes that mental toughness is not about ignoring pain but navigating it effectively. He highlights the need for a comprehensive approach, including sleep, nutrition, and ongoing education. Magness shares his journey from a high school athlete to a respected coach, stressing the importance of teaching psychological skills. He advises athletes to develop a mental toolkit, use self-talk, and focus strategies to manage discomfort. Magness also underscores the value of stress inoculation and the importance of putting oneself in challenging situations to build resilience.   Purple Patch and Episode Resources Steve Magness Books: https://www.stevemagness.com/wintheinside/ https://www.stevemagness.com/do-hard-things/  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 Win Cycle Podcast! On this episode, IRONMAN Master Coach Matt Dixon and Purple Patch Fitness Co-Founder Kelli McMaster interview Sami Inkinen, co-founder and COO of Trulia and CEO of Virta Health, discussing his journey of high performance in sports and business. He emphasizes the importance of managing energy over time, integrating work, family, and personal interests, and treating oneself like an Olympic athlete. Inkinen highlights the significance of sleep, nutrition, and movement for sustained high performance. He also shares his approach to building high-performance cultures at Trulia and Virta, focusing on individualized support, community, and the role of leadership in modeling healthy habits. Inkinen's strategies include weekly planning, prioritizing rest, and fostering a culture of sustainable high performance. Purple Patch and Episode Resources Learn more about Win Cycle: https://wincycle.org/   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  

Welcome to the Win Cycle Podcast! In this episode, IRONMAN Master Coach Matt Dixon introduces Win Cycle, a performance-first leadership system inspired by elite athlete training principles. Designed for executive and academic teams, Win Cycle aims to build systems for sustained high performance. The program, developed over 18 months and launched in 2024, has seen significant growth and positive feedback. Key components include physical foundations, mental game training, and team collaboration. Results show 100% of participants report improved energy and performance habits, with an average adherence to 10 core habits at 86%. The program has received high ratings and positive feedback from clients, highlighting its effectiveness in enhancing team performance and well-being. Purple Patch and Episode Resources Visit the Win Cycle Website: https://wincycle.org/ 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 off-season training for athletes, emphasizing the need for rejuvenation, flexibility, and building a foundation for next year's performance. He highlights the benefits of consistent, low-impact cycling, which not only maintains fitness but also improves cognitive health. Dixon advocates for a balanced approach, combining high-intensity interval training, skill development, and terrain management. He shares the inspiring story of Jenna Diliberto, who overcame significant challenges to achieve a top finish in an Ironman race. Dixon encourages listeners to join Purple Patch's coaching programs for personalized guidance and to enhance their cycling skills effectively.   Purple Patch and Episode Resources Check out our world-class coaching and training options: Join us this Saturday for a FREE video-coached bike ride: https://go.purplepatchfitness.com/bike 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 welcomes guest and Purple Patch Athlete Marina Gelman. In 2000, at the age of 40, Marina Gelman lost her college-aged daughter in a tragic car accident. At the time, Gelman was a new fitness enthusiast and avid runner. Overcome by grief after the accident, however, she holed herself up for almost two years and focused only on work to numb the pain. Unfortunately, during this time, she abandoned her fitness goals, started smoking again after a long hiatus, and put on weight; reaching over 200 pounds. Ironically, it was another tragedy a short time later, the death of her Father from a heart attack, that inspired her to start training again. As it turns out, training non-stop turned out to be a blessing and a curse. Yes, she lost weight and found relief from her stress and heartache, but she was also overtraining…severely. Marina eventually succumbed to the devastating effects of chronic fatigue. Even the simple act of walking up a flight of stairs became unbearable.  In 2012, after hearing about Matt Dixon and Purple Patch from her running club, she reached out. At the time, she was 240 pounds, her heaviest. She explained to Matt that she had only two small goals: Recover from her chronic fatigue Run three miles again. That's it. Matt set her sights higher. Not only did he give her hope, but he also gave her a long-term structured plan and a wonderful community of support. Today, Marina Gelman is a Half-Ironman finisher, with her hopes set on finishing a full Ironman in the near future. She has also lost 105 pounds and trains daily, fully recovered from chronic fatigue.   This is a story of hope and promise. Adopting an athletic mindset, regardless of where you find yourself, just may be the one spark to save your life. "Losing a child is something unimaginable to go through," says Marina. "Sport, in a way, and running saved me from sadness for the rest of my life." 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  

In this episode, IRONMAN Master Coach Matt Dixon discusses the evolution and future of coaching on the Purple Patch Podcast. He emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach, integrating performance with life demands, and proactive coaching that anticipates challenges. Dixon highlights the need for mutual investment, collaboration, and simplification in coaching. He warns against the "magic method" and "will it work for me" traps, advocating for individualized training plans. Dixon also stresses the role of technology, particularly AI, as an assistant rather than a replacement for human coaching. The podcast is based on feedback from athletes, with high satisfaction scores and a focus on continuous improvement. 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 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