Coach Julie Dibens with one of her professional athletes, Ironman champion Matt Hanson

Coaching

Coaching endurance athletes is an art, a science, and a craft.

We offer this selection of coaching-related articles, videos, workshops, and guides to help coaches begin to explore the support available for coaches through Fast Talk Labs.

Contact us with your questions, clarifications, or requests at coaches@fasttalklabs.com.

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Black-and-white image of a woman running past a vineyard

Changing the Conversation from Weight Loss to Performance

The misconception that “lighter is better” has undermined endurance athletes of all genders, but a shocking number of female athletes have been emotionally and physiologically destroyed by weigh-ins and negative body talk. Coaches can learn how to best navigate conversations on this topic with these simple guidelines.

Masters triathlete Dede Griesbauer races on a triathlon bike during the Ironman Texas triathlon.

11 // Coaching Masters Athletes

Training mistakes are costly for masters athletes. Coaches who are savvy to aging position their clients for a lifetime of performance.

Shirtless middle-aged man doing decline sit-ups

How Hormones Conspire to Store Fat 

As athletes get older, hormone levels shift, disrupting how the body manages glucose and insulin and inviting a slow creep of excess weight.

Illustrated headshot of Joe Friel

The Upside of Growing Old

The OG of endurance sports coaching shares how bike racing and life have changed since he turned 70—and what you have to look forward to.

A masters athlete puts on her googles as she gets ready to swim in the ocean

Lifelong Pursuit: The Value of Physical Goals for Aging Athletes

As a latecomer to the competitive running scene, Cathy Utzschneider knocked out top results as a masters athlete while also coaching 75 USATF age group champions. She shares her experience on how best to remain engaged and open to what’s next.

Masters athlete Cathy Utzschneider competing at an aquathlon event

Never Too Late to Start: Unlocking Performance as a Masters Athlete

Cathy Utzschneider took up competitive running after age 40 and quickly made up for lost time, racking up nine USATF national age group championships (including track, road, and cross-country), a silver medal at the Nike World Masters Games, and a gold medal at the North American World Regional Championships.

Maintaining Performance with Age

Maintaining Performance with Age

In this video, Joe Friel highlights three key factors for coaches to focus on to ensure their aging athletes remain fit and well.