heavy strength training

Why Cyclists Benefit from Heavy Strength Training

Strength training protocols for cyclists have evolved through the years, and the current consensus at CTS is that heavy strength training is recommended for most amateur, Masters, and especially Grand Masters (60+ years old) cyclists. There are exceptions for some highly competitive cyclists and elite riders who may need to sacrifice balanced, well-rounded fitness in …

Aging athlete podcast episode

The Aging Athlete: Training Considerations With Amber Neben & Tim Cusick

Topics Covered In This Episode: Developing a training strategy Chronological age vs training age 3 key tips for masters athletes to focus on Building back after a serious injury The important factors to consider beyond just training data The different ways in which masters athletes may need to train Deciding when you should push forward …

ultrarunning addison

What to Expect in Your First Ultramarathon

The first time trying something new can be exciting and intimidating, or both. Although nerves are probably part of the equation, don’t let those concerns keep you from testing your mettle. Perhaps you’ve never attended an ultrarunning event and are unsure of the details. For those of you considering your first ultramarathon, let’s walk through …

Neal Palles podcast episode

Psychological Flexibility With Coach Neal Palles

Topics Covered In This Episode: The psychology of masters athletes Psychological flexibility vs. mental toughness “Pushing away paper” exercise Developing self-awareness Guest Bio: Neal Palles is a CTS ultrarunning coach who holds dual master’s degrees in Social Work and Applied Sports Psychology, and is a licensed Psychotherapist and Sports Performance Specialist. Episode Links: Website: https://coloradopsychotherapyandsport.com/home Blog: https://coloradopsychotherapyandsport.com/news …

ultramarathon injuries

Do Older Ultramarathon Runners Get Injured Less?

By Jason Koop, Head Coach of CTS Ultrarunning Injuries in ultramarathon training and racing are not going away. That’s a sobering fact, but the numbers don’t lie. On the training side, up to 70% of runners will become injured every year and lose at least one day of training. Racing is just as injurious. For …

FTP test

FTP Tests: How to perform 20-Minute, 8-Minute, and Ramp Tests

At the beginning of a new phase of training it is important to get a snapshot of an athlete’s current fitness so you can scale training intensities appropriately. Assessing an athlete’s Functional Threshold Power (FTP) is the most utilized method because FTP testing can be accomplished outside a lab setting. All you need is a …

Base training podcast episode

A Practical Guide To Base Training With Kolie Moore

Topics Covered In This Episode: What is base training and why is it important? What intensity should your base training be performed at? Adaptations that occur in the body during base training How to know when to move on from base training Nutrition changes during base training Training on flat vs. hilly terrain Indoor vs. …

goal setting benefits

Goal Setting Benefits for Ultrarunners

By Darcie Murphy, CTS Ultrarunning Senior Coach Goal setting comes naturally to many ultrarunners and endurance athletes, almost like it’s in our DNA. If you’re resistant to setting specific goals, don’t worry. I can absolutely relate. For years I avoided New Year’s resolutions or formal goal setting sessions. I just wanted to ‘have fun’ playing …