From Couch Potato to World Champion: April Zilg on Coaching and What Makes a Great Paddle Athlete — Season 7 Ep 8
The evolution of paddle sport racing is pushing the limits of endurance competition, where training technology and data-driven coaching play a significant role.
April Zilg, world champion paddle athlete, joins the show to share her journey from "couch potato" to the top of the stand up paddle board (SUP) world—all powered by smart training, dedication and data. In this episode, April reveals how technique-focused coaching, a science-based approach to training and leveraging TrainingPeaks shapes her work with athletes of all levels.
Get a crash course in the many flavors of paddle sports—from lightning-fast sprints to epic 1,000-mile adventures—and how race type, equipment and environment shape effective training strategies. April stresses the importance of tracking progress, balancing intensity and recovery, and being open to new technology, including heart rate and (soon) power meters on the water.
Whether you're curious about SUP racing, endurance coaching, or just want a peek behind the paddle, this episode is full of valuable coaching and training tips.
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Gravel's Evolution: Dylan Johnson Talks Unbound, Training, Gear Choices & Strategy — Season 7 Ep 7
In this episode, host Dirk Friel sits down with professional gravel racer and Ignition Coaching coach Dylan Johnson to dig into all things gravel.
They break down the cutting-edge equipment trends seen at the 2025 edition of Unbound Gravel, as well as training trends, nutrition and training tips for both amateurs and pros. Hear why mountain bike tires are dominating the scene, the evolving role of aerodynamics in the sport, and the reasons behind faster race times over the last few years.
Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or a gravel-curious newcomer, you'll hear expert advice on your next gravel race and the new "Unbound Block" approach to training. Dylan also offers a glimpse into the future of even faster gravel racing.
To learn more about Dylan Johnson, check out his training plans or follow him on YouTube and Instagram.
TrainingPeaks CoachCast is an endurance training resource for athletes and coaches. If you're a triathlete, cyclist, runner, ultra-endurance athlete, or one of the many other sport types, subscribe to learn how to train for success. Host Dirk Friel talks with expert guests focused on the elements of endurance training and racing that lead to better performance, prolonged athlete lifestyle and more enjoyment of your sport.
To learn more about how TrainingPeaks can help you achieve your training goals, visit us at trainingpeaks.com.
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