Ep. 188: New Year, New You: Finding Your Triathlon Why in 2026 + Sara Black

In this episode:The Tridoc Podcast kicks off 2026 with a bang, diving headfirst into the ever-elusive concept of 'finding your why' in the world of multisport. It’s that magical question that every triathlete grapples with at some point, often while gasping for air and questioning their life choices during a brutal workout. The hosts, Jeff and Juliet, tackle how motivations can evolve as we age and our lives change—because let’s face it, the reason I signed up for a triathlon at 20 might not cut it when I’m staring down my 40s and wondering if I should just take up knitting instead. They share their own journeys, emphasizing that it’s totally normal for your motivations to shift like a triathlete dodging a rogue bike on race day. Whether you’re racing for glory, fitness, or just to escape your responsibilities for a few blissful hours, the hosts remind us that as life throws curveballs, our 'why' doesn’t have to remain stagnant. They sprinkle in some audience feedback, highlighting stories of how other athletes have navigated the rollercoaster of motivations, which serves as a comforting reminder that we’re all in this crazy ride together. So grab your favorite snack and settle in for an insightful chat about embracing the chaos of our triathlete lives and redefining what keeps us pushing through those early morning swims.Diving deeper into the realms of triathlon and personal growth, this episode of the Tridoc Podcast doesn’t just stop at 'why'; it also ventures into practical advice for handling the inevitable ups and downs of endurance training. Jeff and Juliet, who act like the wise old sages of the triathlon world, stress the importance of adaptability. They acknowledge that as our lives morph into a whirlwind of responsibilities—like juggling kids, jobs, and the occasional existential crisis—our training must adjust accordingly. The hosts share their personal experiences of how their own motivations and training regimens have shifted over the years, often with the tangible wisdom of trial and error. They encourage listeners to embrace the idea that it’s perfectly okay to take a step back and re-evaluate what they want from their athletic pursuits, without feeling the guilt trip of ‘shoulds’ and ‘musts’. Listeners are treated to a buffet of relatable anecdotes, from the awkwardness of transitioning from youth triathlons to age-group competitions, to the realization that races don’t always define success—sometimes, just showing up is a win. This episode feels like a warm hug from a fellow triathlete who’s been through it all and is here to remind you that it’s not just about the race results, but the journey that gets you there.Lastly, the episode features a delightful guest, Sarah Black, who brings a refreshing perspective on the intersection of physical therapy and triathlon. With her background as a Division 1 swimmer turned triathlete, Sarah dives into the nitty-gritty of pelvic health—which, spoiler alert, is a topic that doesn’t get nearly enough airtime in the world of sports. She spills the tea on how pelvic floor health impacts triathletes, especially women, and why it’s crucial to address these often-ignored issues. Trust me, if you’ve ever felt discomfort on the bike or had a sneaking suspicion that your saddle might be out to get you, Sarah’s insights will resonate deeply. The conversation flows effortlessly from pelvic health to overall athletic performance, shedding light on why understanding our bodies is key to thriving in the sport. Jeff and Sarah discuss practical strategies for maintaining pelvic health, addressing issues like bladder leakage and discomfort, and how to empower athletes to prioritize their well-being. This episode is not just a deep dive into the science of triathlon, but an empowering reminder that knowledge is power, and taking care of our bodies is paramount in achieving our multisport goals. So, if you want to race smarter, train better, and laugh a little along the way, this episode is a must-listen!Segments:[6:18]- Medical Mailbag: Finding your why[31:22]- Interview: Sara BlackLinksSara's Facebook page@ziaphysiotherapy on Instagram