Best Triathlon Podcasts for Training & Racing (2026 List)
I’ll admit it – I used to think podcasts were just for people who had too much time on their hands. Then I discovered the joy of learning about FTP training whilst spinning my legs on the turbo trainer at 6 am on a Tuesday morning. Suddenly, those long indoor sessions became something I actually looked forward to.
Whether you’re commuting, doing easy recovery sessions, or prepping meals for the week, the best triathlon podcasts can transform dead time into valuable learning opportunities. After consuming hundreds of hours of endurance sport podcasts over the past few years, I’ve compiled my favourite recommendations that have genuinely improved my racing and training.
Why Triathlon Podcasts Are Game-Changers
As someone who started triathlon in my thirties with zero background in endurance sports, I’ve made every mistake in the book. Podcasts became my informal coaching education – teaching me everything from proper pacing strategies to recovery nutrition without breaking the bank on expensive coaching courses.
The beauty of endurance-sport podcasts lies in their accessibility. You can absorb expert knowledge whilst doing the mundane parts of training – those long Zone 2 bike sessions suddenly become masterclasses in sports science.
The Essential Triathlon Podcast List
1. That Triathlon Show
Mikael Eriksson’s podcast is the gold standard for evidence-based triathlon content. Each episode dives deep into specific aspects of training, from swimming technique to race-day nutrition. The production quality is excellent, and Mikael’s analytical approach appeals to my engineering brain.
Best for: Athletes who want scientific backing for their training decisions.
2. The Training Science Podcast
Dr. Paul Laursen brings serious sports science credentials to this podcast. Episodes cover everything from lactate testing to periodisation, often featuring world-class researchers. It’s helped me understand the ‘why’ behind training protocols rather than just blindly following plans.
Best for: Those seeking cutting-edge sports science insights.
3. Endurance Innovations
This podcast strikes a perfect balance between accessible content and technical depth. The hosts discuss practical applications of training theory, making complex concepts digestible for age-groupers like myself.
Best for: Athletes wanting to bridge the gap between theory and practice.
4. The Kona Edge
Focused on Ironman racing, this podcast features interviews with Kona qualifiers who share their strategies. As someone working towards my next Ironman after Cascais, I’ve gleaned invaluable race-day wisdom from these episodes.
Best for: Ironman-distance athletes seeking race-specific advice.
5. The Triathlon Training Podcast
Kevin Purcell’s approach focuses on sustainable training for busy athletes. Given my juggling act between work, family, and Berkshire Tri Squad sessions, this podcast’s practical time-management tips have been invaluable.
Best for: Time-pressed athletes balancing multiple commitments.
Speciality Endurance Sport Podcasts Worth Your Time
6. TrainerRoad Ask a Cycling Coach
While cycling-focused, this podcast’s training principles apply beautifully to triathlon. The hosts tackle listener questions with scientific rigour, and I’ve learned more about power-based training here than anywhere else.
7. The Real Science of Sport
This podcast explores the broader science behind endurance performance. Episodes on heat adaptation and altitude training have significantly influenced my race preparation strategies.
8. Crushing Iron
A refreshingly honest look at amateur Ironman racing, complete with all the failures and setbacks we actually experience. The hosts’ self-deprecating humour reminds me that we’re all just trying to get to the finish line in one piece.
Hidden Gems for Specific Interests
9. The Plant Proof Podcast
While not triathlon-specific, this podcast has been instrumental in my plant-based performance journey. Episodes featuring vegan endurance athletes have provided practical nutrition strategies that fuel my training.
10. The Triathlon Taren Podcast
Taren’s enthusiastic approach and beginner-friendly content make this perfect for newcomers to the sport. His gear reviews and training tips are delivered with infectious enthusiasm.
Making the Most of Your Podcast Time
I’ve found certain activities pair perfectly with different podcast styles. Technical, education-heavy episodes work brilliantly during easy trainer sessions or long runs. Interview-based shows are perfect for commutes or meal prep.
Create themed playlists – I have separate collections for training theory, race preparation, and motivation. This way, you can match content to your current focus or mood.
The Science Behind Audio Learning
Research from cognitive science studies suggests that combining physical activity with audio learning can enhance information retention. This explains why I remember podcast lessons better when I learn them during training sessions rather than through passive listening.
The key is matching intensity – save complex technical content for easy sessions when your brain can actually process the information.
Building Your Podcast Routine
Start small with one or two regular shows rather than overwhelming yourself with subscriptions. I recommend beginning with ‘That Triathlon Show’ for technical content and ‘Crushing Iron’ for motivation and real-world perspective.
Use your podcast time strategically. Those inevitable indoor training sessions during British winters become opportunities for education rather than mind-numbing suffering.
Final Thoughts
The best triathlon podcasts have genuinely transformed my approach to the sport. They’ve filled knowledge gaps, provided motivation during tough training blocks, and connected me to a global community of endurance athletes.
Whether you’re preparing for your first sprint-distance race or chasing Kona qualification, there’s an endurance-sport podcast that matches your level and interests. Start with one that resonates with your current goals, and let your curiosity guide you from there.
What’s your favourite triathlon podcast? I’m always looking for new recommendations to add to my ever-growing subscription list!
