#244 - Craig Alexander | Endurance Training Secrets with 3-Time Ironman World Champion

Craig Alexander is a retired Australian triathlete renowned for his exceptional achievements in Ironman racing. Born on April 22, 1973, he is widely regarded as one of the sport's greatest athletes, having won the Ironman World Championship in Kona, Hawaii, a record five times (2008, 2009, 2011, 2012, and 2014). Alexander is celebrated for his versatile racing skills, including his prowess in the swim, bike, and run segments of triathlons. He was also known for his strategic racing approach, endurance, and ability to perform under pressure. His contributions to the sport extend beyond racing, as he has been involved in coaching, mentoring, and promoting triathlon, influencing the sport's development and inspiring many aspiring athletes.EPISODE CHAPTERS:00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Announcements01:49 Interview with Craig Alexander04:32 Zone Two Heart Rate Training and Training Structure10:15 The Transition from Shorter Distances to Ironman13:07 The Benefits of Zone Two Training and Individual Differences16:00 The Difference Between Running a Standalone Marathon and a Marathon Off the Bike20:09 The Crossover Between Endurance Sports and Other Sports25:04 The Importance of Speed in Longer Distance Events29:21 The Benefits of Altitude Training31:18 The Appeal of the Ironman World Championship32:13 Motivation and Preparation43:24 Balancing Data and Rate of Perceived Exertion (RPE)55:39 The Importance of Strength Training01:02:46 Engaging with Coaching Communities and Events---⚡️ Episode Sponsors ⚡️PILLAR PERFORMANCE:Coupon Code (Save 15%) - RELAXEDpillar performance.shopTRAINING HOUSE:Coupon Code (Save 15%) - RELRUN15traininghouse.shop---👟Personal Running Coaching 👟https://www.relaxedrunning.com/personalrunningcoach🏃‍♂️Falls Creek Running Camp 🏃‍♂️https://www.relaxedrunning.com/falls-creek--MORE FROM CRAIG: https://alexander.sansego.coPODCAST INFO:Tyson Sträva: https://www.strava.com/athletes/83530274Podcast Website: www.relaxedrunning.comApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast...Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2MMfLsQ...RSS: https://feeds.transistor.fm/relaxed-r...SOCIALS:- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/relaxedrunning- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/relaxed_run...