Block vs. Mixed Training, Best Gels for Running, and Making Data Actually Useful

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The MicroCast

Microcosm Coaching

201 episodes

5 days ago

The Microcosm Coaching Podcast helps endurance athletes—whether you're a road runner, trail runner, or training for your first marathon or 100-miler—get more out of their training with evidence-based advice, effort-based coaching, and expert mindset support. Hosted by professional coaches and athletes, each episode explores practical strategies for race prep, running recovery, mental performance, and sustainable training. If you want to build fitness, avoid burnout, and find more joy in running, you're in the right place.

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All content for The MicroCast is the property of Microcosm Coaching and is served directly from their servers with no modification, redirects, or rehosting. The podcast is not affiliated with or endorsed by Podjoint in any way.

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Block vs. Mixed Training, Best Gels for Running, and Making Data Actually Useful

The MicroCast

1 hour 2 minutes 54 seconds

4 months ago

Block vs. Mixed Training, Best Gels for Running, and Making Data Actually Useful

Zoë is at a writing conference this week, so we're dropping this banger of a replay in the feed!

Feeling overwhelmed by running data? Wondering if you're training the “right” way? This episode dives deep into periodization strategies, how to choose the best gels for your gut, and which TrainingPeaks metrics actually matter. Whether you’re training for a marathon or an ultra, you’ll leave with smarter tools and a better understanding of how to adapt your training to real life.

🎙️ In this episode, Coach Zoë and TJ cover:

Block vs. mixed periodization: which training style works best—and when
Why “the best gel” is a myth, and how to find what works for you
What to ignore and what to track in TrainingPeaks (TSS, IF, CTL, TSB explained)
How to navigate training while traveling or dealing with tough conditions

⏱️ TIMESTAMPS
00:00 – Vacation chaos + running in rural Portugal
13:40 – Hot or Not: Block vs. Mixed Periodization
31:55 – What’s the Best Gel for Running?
42:10 – TrainingPeaks metrics that matter
1:08:10 – How to use data without becoming a robot

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