238. Triathlon Training, Volume & Longevity with Coach Jack Saunders
Sat Feb 07 2026
238. Triathlon Training, Volume & Longevity with Coach Jack Saunders
Today we sit down with triathlon coach Jack Saunders to explore the world of triathlon training, endurance performance, and what it really takes to succeed across three demanding disciplines.
Jack shares his journey into triathlon during the pandemic, how his swimming background shaped his progression in the sport, and the key lessons he’s learned as both an athlete and coach. We unpack the realities of triathlon training volume, the complexity of balancing swimming, cycling, and running and scheduling intensity into the training week.
This conversation dives deep into the often-overlooked importance of swimming technique, the role of cross-training for runners, and why strength training is essential not just for performance, but long-term injury prevention. Jack also shares insights into athlete success, coaching philosophies, and why consistency and sustainability are the foundation of endurance sport longevity.
We discuss:• Jack’s pathway into triathlon and coaching• Training volume and structuring triathlon programs• Different triathlon distances and how training changes• Why swimming technique can be a major performance limiter• How to structure swim sessions for beginners and developing athletes• The importance of brick sessions and transition training• Cross-training benefits for runners and single-sport athletes• Strength training for injury prevention and performance• Traits commonly seen in successful endurance athletes• Why consistency and sustainability outperform short-term intensity
Whether you're a runner curious about triathlon, an endurance athlete looking to improve performance, or someone interested in the coaching and lifestyle side of multisport training, this episode is packed with practical insights and real-world experience.
TIMESTAMPS:00:00 Introduction to Triathlon Training with Jack Saunders02:44 Jack's Journey into Triathlon and Coaching05:44 The Life of a Triathlete: Training Volume and Structure06:29 Understanding Different Triathlon Distances08:40 Swimming Techniques for Triathletes11:25 The Importance of Technique in Swimming18:47 The Importance of Swim Technique21:09 Balancing Technique and Cardiovascular Training24:47 Neuroplasticity in Swimming Technique27:51 Structuring Swim Sessions for Beginners30:24 Cross-Training Benefits for Runners33:03 The Role of Volume in Endurance Training36:26 Common Traits of Successful Athletes
Follow Us:Instagram: @strongerstride | @lydia_mckay | @jacksaundersauYouTube: Watch on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAP9eXZNoDB_9zk7WBMm9WA
Discount Codes:TAILWINDSTRONG: 15% off Tailwind NutritionSTRONGERSTRIDE: 15% off Vivobarefoot shoesSTRONGER15: 15% off Skorcha Sunscreen
Thanks for tuning in!TSSP x
More
238. Triathlon Training, Volume & Longevity with Coach Jack Saunders Today we sit down with triathlon coach Jack Saunders to explore the world of triathlon training, endurance performance, and what it really takes to succeed across three demanding disciplines. Jack shares his journey into triathlon during the pandemic, how his swimming background shaped his progression in the sport, and the key lessons he’s learned as both an athlete and coach. We unpack the realities of triathlon training volume, the complexity of balancing swimming, cycling, and running and scheduling intensity into the training week. This conversation dives deep into the often-overlooked importance of swimming technique, the role of cross-training for runners, and why strength training is essential not just for performance, but long-term injury prevention. Jack also shares insights into athlete success, coaching philosophies, and why consistency and sustainability are the foundation of endurance sport longevity. We discuss:• Jack’s pathway into triathlon and coaching• Training volume and structuring triathlon programs• Different triathlon distances and how training changes• Why swimming technique can be a major performance limiter• How to structure swim sessions for beginners and developing athletes• The importance of brick sessions and transition training• Cross-training benefits for runners and single-sport athletes• Strength training for injury prevention and performance• Traits commonly seen in successful endurance athletes• Why consistency and sustainability outperform short-term intensity Whether you're a runner curious about triathlon, an endurance athlete looking to improve performance, or someone interested in the coaching and lifestyle side of multisport training, this episode is packed with practical insights and real-world experience. TIMESTAMPS:00:00 Introduction to Triathlon Training with Jack Saunders02:44 Jack's Journey into Triathlon and Coaching05:44 The Life of a Triathlete: Training Volume and Structure06:29 Understanding Different Triathlon Distances08:40 Swimming Techniques for Triathletes11:25 The Importance of Technique in Swimming18:47 The Importance of Swim Technique21:09 Balancing Technique and Cardiovascular Training24:47 Neuroplasticity in Swimming Technique27:51 Structuring Swim Sessions for Beginners30:24 Cross-Training Benefits for Runners33:03 The Role of Volume in Endurance Training36:26 Common Traits of Successful Athletes Follow Us:Instagram: @strongerstride | @lydia_mckay | @jacksaundersauYouTube: Watch on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAP9eXZNoDB_9zk7WBMm9WA Discount Codes:TAILWINDSTRONG: 15% off Tailwind NutritionSTRONGERSTRIDE: 15% off Vivobarefoot shoesSTRONGER15: 15% off Skorcha Sunscreen Thanks for tuning in!TSSP x