The Triathlon Brick Session

In this episode of The Brick Session, Mark Livesey sits down with renowned sports scientist Dr. Lindsey Hunt to dive deep into one of the most critical—and often overlooked—elements of triathlon success: racing in extreme heat and humidity. Whether you’re eyeing Kona, Cozumel, or any tropical test of endurance, this conversation is packed with evidence-based insights and practical advice. Dr. Hunt breaks down the science behind heat acclimation: how long it takes, why individual responses vary, and—importantly—whether it works. From structured heat training protocols to the role of sweat rate and core temperature, this episode is filled with golden nuggets that could make or break your race day. If you’ve ever wondered how to train smart for sweltering conditions or how to adapt your approach when the mercury rises, this is one episode you won’t want to miss.Also in this episode.  Mark Livesey tackles a tough but timely question: How do young professional triathletes make a living in today’s sport? With insig

In this gripping episode of The Brick Session, host Mark Livesey sits down with former elite triathlete and anti-doping advocate Nate Llerandi to explore one of sport's most controversial topics: why some athletes choose to cheat. From the psychology of performance pressure to the gray areas of intent, Mark and Nate don't hold back when they discuss the motivations behind doping.They also examine the uphill battle faced by drug testing agencies, including the technical challenges and legal loopholes that make securing convictions incredibly difficult. Plus, brace yourself for a few of the most absurd excuses ever offered by busted athletes, including the infamous "sexually transmitted doping" and the "kissing my girlfriend who took something" defense. It's a raw, honest, and sometimes laugh-out-loud conversation that shines a light on the dark corners of competitive sport.More about Nate LlerandiNate Llerandi is a former elite triathlete and accomplished endurance athlete who transitioned into a career in tec

Welcome to this episode of "Gravel Legends," where we delve into the world of ultra-endurance cycling and spotlight one of its most formidable athletes: Cynthia Carson.Cynthia Carson has rapidly ascended the ranks of gravel racing, earning her place among the elite in ultra-endurance cycling. In 2024, she made history by becoming the first woman to win the Atlas Mountain Race, a grueling 844-mile event through Morocco's rugged terrain. Completing the race in 4 days, 19 hours, and 3 minutes, she finished 15th overall, a testament to her exceptional endurance and skill. Her achievements extend beyond the Atlas Mountain Race. Carson has secured victories at the Badlands race in Spain, where she not only claimed the women's title but also set a new course record, finishing in 21 hours and 34 minutes, beating the previous women's time by 10 hours. She has also conquered the Transcordilleras in Colombia, becoming the first woman to complete the race, and has earned top finishes at events like Unbound XL and Gran Gu

Recognising the signs of over-training is crucial for athletes to prevent injury, burnout, and long-term performance decline.Over-training occurs when an athlete pushes their body beyond its ability to recover, leading to physical and mental fatigue, decreased motivation, and higher injury risk. It often happens when there's an imbalance between intense training and insufficient rest.Athletes may over-train due to a desire to improve performance quickly, pressure to compete, or a mindset of pushing through fatigue, not realizing that recovery is as important as the training itself.In this episode, Dr. Phillip Patterson explains in more detail why and what to look out for regarding overtraining.  Enjoy!Inst link @drphilbatterson

In todays episode Mark and Caroline chat with Griff Easter.Griffin Easter is an American cyclist known for his versatility across road and gravel disciplines. Born on November 6, 1991, in Claremont, California, he has achieved notable successes throughout his career. 2014: Won the 70-mile Division I men’s road race at the USA Cycling Collegiate Road Nationals in Richmond, Virginia, representing Fort Lewis College. 2017: Secured a stage victory in Stage 6 of the Vuelta a Colombia. • 2018: Claimed wins in Stage 3b and Stage 4 of the Tour de Beauce. 2024: Triumphed in the Transcordilleras, a grueling 1,045 km self-supported, eight-day gravel stage race across Colombia. Throughout his career, Easter has been associated with teams such as Airgas–Safeway, 303Project, and Start Cycling Team. He continues to compete actively, showcasing his endurance and skill in various cycling events.The Transcordilleras is an 8-stage ultra-endurance gravel race across Colombia’s rugged and breathtaking landscapes. The race takes r

In this special episode of The Brick Session, host Mark Livesey welcomes former Welsh international rugby star Alix Popham. A powerhouse on the pitch, Alix earned 33 caps for Wales, playing at the highest level before retiring from professional rugby.However, his career came at a cost—Alix has since been diagnosed with early-onset dementia and chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), conditions linked to repeated head trauma during his playing days. Determined to make a difference, Alix co-founded Head for Change, a charity advocating for better brain health awareness and player protection in contact sports. But his competitive spirit hasn’t faded—he’s now channeling his energy into triathlon, taking on the challenge of long-course racing. From brutal rugby tackles to Ironman training, Alix shares his journey of resilience, adaptation, and newfound passion for endurance sports. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about overcoming adversity, pushing boundaries, and why triathlon has become his next great chal

Today, your hosts Caroline and Mark Livesey are joined by none other than elite triathlete James Teagle.James has made a name for himself on the international stage with his grit, determination, and standout performances. But like all great athletes, progression comes from experience, reflection, and adaptation, especially after a disappointing year in 2024.In this episode, we dive into:1.  Early season training – How James is structuring his workouts to build fitness, strength, and speed ahead of a packed race calendar. 2.  Lessons learned from last season – What went right, what went wrong, and how those experiences are shaping his 2024 approach. 3.  Key areas of development – Where James is focusing his efforts, from refining his swim technique to nailing race-day execution.The trio also discuss the new World Triathlon transgender rule and how that may affect the sport at the elite level.Whether you’re a seasoned triathlete or just starting out, this conversation is packed with insights to help you train s

In this thought-provoking episode, Mark sits down with Dr. Tom Robinson, to explore the intriguing question: Could antidepressants serve as a performance-enhancing drug in sports? Together, they discuss the science behind antidepressants, their effects on mood, stress resilience, and focus, and whether these benefits could translate to an athletic advantage. The conversation dives into ethical considerations, potential misuse, and the fine line between therapeutic use and performance enhancement. Tune in to uncover the nuanced relationship between mental health medications and athletic performance, and what it means for the future of sports.  Enjoy! 

Mark and Caroline discuss their experience racing the Across Andes unsupported gravel race, which is 1000 km long and has 12000m of total elevation. The Patagonman is now fast becoming the best extreme triathlon in the world. Caroline chats about her second race here and why she chose to go back.  Enjoy...Nepal go fund me https://gofund.me/57f2babb

Mark and Andrew catch up and discuss the Kona results, including rumors about athletes' bikes being sabotaged.  Mark has a bit of a rant about this, so buckle up. Joe, from CES Wheels, announces a prize giveaway and Claire Jackson sends in an audio file to say thanks to PFH for winning £200 worth of nutrition.   

Mark has a little fun with Jack Huthens during the show's start with a quick 1992 general knowledge quiz.   Jack has recently raised the bar with three podiums in his last three races, he will be certainly one to watch next year with the Ironman Pro series. Also, Mark lists all the current prizes available over the next nine months. You have to be a patron to win, so click the link and win some stuff...https://www.patreon.com/checkout/thebricksession?rid=0Enjoy!

Mark and Andrew discuss the importance of resting well after a long triathlon season. Plus Kona predictions, the cost of Ironman Leeds, the Pro license price hike, T100 Vegas, and much more. Enjoy! 

Mark and Andrew discuss their pre-race predictions and then compare them to the final results.  The pair then cover some of their observations regarding the first female IM World Champs that were held in Nice France.  Enjoy... 

This show is packed with Mark and Andy teaming up again to discuss the latest news from the world of triathlon, including:A Frankfurt IM race review An auio file from a winning patron detailing the FREE training camp with Treacle Velo in Morzine AlsoHow to cope with a DNFThe PTO failing to secure a final event for the T100 series How will IM Leeds affect the Oulaw long course triathlonWorld Championship (female) predictions 2024Plus lots more - enjoy!

In this show Mark introduces new co-host and Professional triathlete Andrew Horsfall - Turner to the show.   Andrew and Mark discuss some of the latest news, including Tomas Hernandez Rodriguez who was recently pinged for doping at IM Texas.   In addition to this Andy and Mark chat about: The controversy surrounding the cancelation of a Challenge distance race in Norway (Andy was also there to race) The Paris relay triathlon event. The PTO failing to confirm a grand final venue. Plus mush more,  enjoy….

Mark catches up with UK Pro Triathlete Kieran Lindars who just beat some of the very best long course triathletes in the world (IM Frankfurt).  This was a breakthrough race for Kieran and a clear reflection of his true potential in the sport. It also confirmed his place at the World Championships in Kona.  Only one of two Brits to race there this year.  Enjoy... 

Mark invites Elite triathlete Andrew Horsfall Turner to discuss the recent T100 race in London, and his thoughts regarding the Olympic Individual triathlon event.  The conversation includes thoughts on the open ceremony, biological males fighting female athletes, plus lot's more.  Buckle up, Mark may have the odd rant... 

Mark catches up with Pro IM athlete James Teagle who recently dropped a debut ironman time of 7hour 46 minutes in Spain.  James and Mark breakdown and analyses some race data from the race, and wether Sam Laidlow DQ should have menat he missed the World Championships.  This and lots more...Plus a race report, more prize giveaways and a warning about getting teh right insurance for triathlon training and racing. Link to Neil Aitkins go fund me pagehttps://www.gofundme.com/f/neil-who-is-critically-ill-after-a-serious-bike-accidentLink to Gravel race www.xgravel.com

Elite short course triathlte Sam Dickinson has worked hard over the years, and now he's been rewarded with a place at the Olympic Triathlon event in Paris. Mark has the pleasure of catching up with Sam to discuss his emotions regarding the selection prosess and how he will approuch this very special event. Enjoy... 

Tim Hemming gives his thoughts surrounding the difficult GB selection proccess for Paris, especially after the super series race in Poland at the weekend.  Speaking of which - Sam Dickinson sends in a race report detailing his experience and thoughts on possibly being selected for Paris. Plus race reports and prize winners sending in their audio files.  Marks Guest is Ben Goodfellow who recently came 4th (elite male) at IM Lanzarote last week.If you want to send money to the Nepal fund belowhttps://www.gofundme.com/f/education-funding-for-two-children-and-a-school-in-nepal?attribution_id=sl:64830f96-59f3-4a52-b6d8-9d10a97e85b5To become a patron and win shit loads of prizes. https://www.patreon.com/checkout/thebricksession?rid=0