In this episode of the Multisport Mindset Podcast, coaches Aubrey Hayes and Joshua Gordon dive deep into the role of tracking and analyzing triathlon training. From watches and bike computers to TrainingPeaks and Strava, we explore how the right mindset—not obsession—can turn numbers into progress.
Whether you're just starting to log workouts or are knee-deep in spreadsheets and metrics, this conversation will help you sharpen your focus, avoid common traps, and get more out of your training.
Listen here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2460038/episodes/16900348
Why Tracking Matters
“What gets measured gets managed.”
Tracking adds intention and structure to training. It helps identify what’s working and what needs to change—just like reviewing a bank statement to align with financial goals. When training is recorded, we become more engaged. When analyzed, it becomes actionable.
That said, not every run or ride needs to be dissected. Sometimes it’s better to simply move, especially in off-season or recovery weeks. The key is balance.
The Evolution of a Data Mindset
Both hosts share how their approach to data has evolved:
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Josh: Started by obsessing over heart rate and pace; now more focused on broader fitness patterns and how the body feels.
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Aubrey: Initially wanted all the data and tools but learned to focus only on the metrics that count—especially during key training blocks.
Takeaway: Be data-informed, not data-obsessed. Use data to guide, not to stress.
Devices We Use (and Why Simpler Can Be Better)
Here's the core gear we rely on for triathlon:
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Watch: For running and pool swims (Garmin, Wahoo, etc.)
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Bike computer: Bigger screen and mapping for the bike leg
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Heart rate strap (optional): Useful but not critical for all athletes
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Power meter (essential for cycling, optional for running)
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Core body temp sensor (great for heat-adapted athletes)
And yes, we’ve tried everything from smart goggles to foot pods—but more devices = more chargers, more frustration, more noise. Stick to the basics and only add tools if they solve a real problem.
Platforms We Trust
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TrainingPeaks: Great for structured coaching, plans, and fitness metrics (TSS, CTL, ATL, TSB)
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Strava: Perfect for community, visualizing trends, and comparing distance/hours
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Garmin Connect: Seamless with Garmin devices, good for general tracking
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Golden Cheetah & Intervals.icu: Nerdier tools for power-based analysis
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Manual tracking: We still love spreadsheets, whiteboards, and athlete feedback threads.
What Metrics Matter?
💡 Top Metrics We Check (but not always daily):
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Time and Distance
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Normalized Power or Pace
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Heart Rate (mainly for review, not during training)
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Efficiency Factor & Aerobic Decoupling
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TSS / CTL / ATL / TSB (especially during build or taper phases)
But remember, context is key. A 100 TSS swim isn’t equal to a 100 TSS bike. Know what the numbers mean—and when to ignore them.
Subjective Data > Objective Data (Sometimes)
Ask your athlete (or yourself):
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How did that feel?
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Any soreness, fatigue, or mental fog?
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Are you motivated or dragging?
Numbers don’t tell the full story. Feelings matter. Sometimes, the most important metric is how your legs feel on the stairs after a brick workout.
Analysis Without Overwhelm
There’s value in reviewing every workout, but deeper analysis should be saved for key sessions or trend tracking. Here’s a rule of thumb:
| Metric | Look at... |
|---|---|
| Heart Rate Trends | Monthly |
| Efficiency Factor | Every Season |
| TSS/CTL | In season build/taper |
| Athlete Feedback | 2x/week at least |
| Power/Pace | Key workouts |
The Joy of the Process
With all this data, how do you keep training fun?
“I don’t let robots tell me what to do.”
We talk a lot about the potential future of AI in coaching—but the joy still comes from community, process, and presence. Whether it’s a whiteboard at the pool or a group ride with friends, triathlon is about more than numbers.
Final Thoughts
If you could only track one thing?
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Josh: Time. Everything else can be estimated.
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Aubrey: Power. It’s actionable, objective, and works across cycling and running.
Where Tracking Is Headed
We predict more AI-driven training plans, real-time biometrics, and tools that “think” for you. But there’s a danger: losing agency in your training journey. Data is powerful, but your intuition is irreplaceable.
Thanks for reading!
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Got questions or want your training plan reviewed?
📩 Contact us at PreciseMultisport.com/contact-us or email us at precisemultisport@gmail.com.