Sports
Modern Triathlete: Training, Myths, and the Impact of Comparison
Uncover the truths and challenges of modern triathlon, from the pursuit of performance to the digital age of comparison.
On 'Café com Tri', hosts Wagner Spadotto, Beto Nitrini, and Sérgio Magalhães welcome triathlete and coach Fellipe Santos for an open discussion. They delve into the evolution of training, the successes and pitfalls of modern athletes, and how to manage the pressure for results and constant comparison.
In the latest episode of Café com Tri, co-hosts Wagner Spadotto, Beto Nitrini, and Sérgio Magalhães delved into a thought-provoking debate with triathlete and coach Fellipe Santos. Known for his impressive achievements, such as the overall amateur title at Ironman Curitiba and runner-up in the 30-34 age group world championship, Fellipe brought his vast experience to discuss the evolution of training in triathlon and the reality of the modern triathlete. The central question echoed: Is the modern triathlete truly evolving, or are they just training while exhausted?
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The Modern Triathlete: Between Evolution and Exhaustion
Fellipe Santos, who competed professionally and now excels at a high amateur level, observes a curious dichotomy: "everything has changed, and nothing has changed." He argues that while technology and data monitoring have advanced exponentially, the fundamental training principles from 20 years ago weren't all that "wrong." The big difference today is the ability to individualize and precisely quantify training volume, something unimaginable in the past.
In the past, the focus was on shorter, more intense races in Brazil, such as Copa Brasil and Troféu Brasil, where "hitting it hard" was the norm. With the growth of Ironman, training had to adapt, but the mindset of overloading still persists. Fellipe and Wagner, who have worked together, reflected on a time when athletes' bodies could no longer withstand the "beatings," highlighting the need for a smarter approach. They lament that, in many respects, the performance of Brazilian professional athletes was superior 20 years ago, with names like Paulo Miyashiro and Reinaldo Colucci shining internationally.
The Culture of Comparison and the Rush for Results
One of the biggest changes for the modern triathlete is the culture of comparison, driven by social media and easy access to other athletes' data. Sérgio Magalhães points out that in the past, no one knew what their peers were doing; today, information is immediate, generating anxiety and the feeling that "the other person is always doing better." This comparison leads to a rush for results, with many pursuing races like Ironman or a "sub-3" marathon without adequate foundational training.
Fellipe uses the term "Nutella generation" to describe athletes who, despite having immense potential, seek shortcuts or expect quick results without the proper process. "Many want to do the race, but few enjoy the entire process of training," Wagner comments. This mindset extends to equipment, where the search for the "little part" that promises a few seconds less on the bike often transcends financial capacity and the athlete's actual need. The obsession with high-end gear, such as ceramic bearings or latest-generation aero bikes, can lead to debt and unnecessary pressure, while the true gain in performance would come from more basic factors, such as adequate training and recovery.
The Coach's Role: Empathy and Individualization
Given this scenario, the coach's role has evolved drastically. Wagner Spadotto emphasizes that coaches are no longer "Bernardinhos" (referring to Bernardinho, a famous Brazilian volleyball coach known for his strictness) who dictate rules. It's essential to have empathy and understand the athlete's "moment," as they often have limited time windows to achieve big goals. Flexibility and the ability to "be tough and gentle" are crucial to keeping the athlete engaged.
Fellipe and Wagner discussed the practice of "locking" Training Peaks to prevent athletes from altering their training plan, ensuring periodization is followed. The challenge of explaining that endurance requires time and patience is constant. Fellipe, for instance, reduced his Ironman Brazil time by 30 minutes over 10 years, a marginal gain for an athlete of his caliber, but one that illustrates the necessary gradual progression. The concept of "diminishing returns" from annual training volume is crucial: adding more volume beyond a certain point does not generate more performance, but rather increases the risk of injury.
Beyond Metrics: Perceived Exertion and the Reality of Elite Amateurs
On "Café com Tri," the discussion also touched on the over-reliance on metrics (FTP, NP, pace, etc.) to the detriment of perceived exertion. Fellipe, despite using technology, emphasizes the importance of "training without a watch" and listening to one's own body, especially during technological mishaps (like GPS failure or power meter issues). The ability to "feel" the pace in swimming, for example, is something he developed as a child and considers vital.
Competition at the amateur level, especially in races like Ironman Kona, has reached an extremely high standard. Fellipe shares his experience in South Africa, where amateurs run marathons in 2h40, demonstrating that there are no longer any "easy targets." He criticizes the "cancel culture" that often targets amateur athletes seeking improvement, while the performance of some professionals goes unchecked. For him, accountability is essential to elevate the sport's level and general interest.
In summary, the triathlete's journey, whether beginner or advanced, requires a balance between the pursuit of performance, understanding one's own body, patience with the process, and the ability to resist the temptation of comparison. Success in modern triathlon lies in intelligent individualization, respecting limits and ambitions, and prioritizing longevity in the sport.
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