Critical Oxygen

In this episode of the Critical Oxygen podcast, we are doing another SOLO podcast where I discuss my journey from chronic injuries to successfully completing two races after six months of consistent training. I emphasize the importance of understanding training volume (mileage and intensity) as a load marker, the role of key individuals in my recovery, and how blood work has been a game changer for performance. The episode includes a detailed recap of my recent race experiences and the adjustments I made to my training regimen to achieve success. In this conversation, I discuss my training journey leading up to my first race in two years. I share insights on physiological testing, performance assessment, nutrition, recovery strategies, and the importance of managing training volume and intensity. And I emphasize the significance of threshold work in race preparation.

TAKEAWAYS
Training volume is not just about mileage.
Blood work can reveal underlying health issues affecting performance.
Cross-training can help prevent overuse injuries.
Monitoring physiological markers can guide training intensity.
Nutrition plays a crucial role in race preparation.
Enjoy!Enjoying these podcasts, subscribe to get notified when new episodes are released. If you have a question or topic you want me to address, leave a comment!Follow Phil on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/drphilbattersonCheck out Rythm Health - https://rythmhealth.com/?via=criticaloxygenInterested in being coached by me? Book a free consultation here - https://calendly.com/batterson-phil/critical-connectionCHAPTERS00:00 Intro
02:48 Overcoming Injuries and Building Consistency
06:04 Key Influencers in My Recovery
11:45 The Role of Blood Work in Performance
15:08 Race Recap: Tiger Claw Ascent
26:58 Training Adjustments for Success
29:27 Physiological Testing and Performance Assessment
32:39 Nutrition and Recovery Strategies
35:40 Training Volume and Intensity Management
39:55 Threshold Work and Race Preparation
49:15 Race Experience and Future Goals
KEYWORDSrunning, training volume, injuries, endurance, physiological testing, race recap, recovery, blood work, performance, consistency, physiological testing, performance assessment, nutrition, recovery strategies, training volume, intensity management, threshold work, race preparation, race experience, future goalsPhoto Credit: Mark Griffith https://markgriffith.smugmug.com/Tiger-Claw-2025

In this episode of the Critical Oxygen Podcast, Dr. Alyssa Olenick and I discuss endurance and hybrid training, focusing how we balance volume and intensity, and the importance of consistency in training.
We explore Alyssa's journey from athlete to academic to coach + athlete. Her insights on training load, and the role of cross-training in optimizing performance. We emphasize that more isn't always better and that understanding one's body and training needs is crucial for success in endurance sports. We also discuss the intricacies of hybrid training, discussing what it is, its benefits, the importance of cross-training, and the role of nutrition and sleep in optimizing performance.
We clarify the distinction between hybrid and concurrent training, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach to strength and endurance. The discussion also highlights common misconceptions about the interference effect of endurance training on strength gains and the critical role of adequate nutrition and recovery in achieving athletic goals.
More info on Dr. Alyssa Olenick:
As founder of Doc Lyss Fitness and creator of The Lyss Method, she designs transformative strength, endurance, and hybrid training programs. A certified sports nutritionist, CrossFit Level 2 Trainer, ultra-marathon runner, and strength athlete herself, Alyssa lives the principles she teaches. Her mission: translate complex science into accessible strategies that empower clients to thrive—whether in the gym, on roads, or exploring trails. Dr. Olenick bridges the gap between research and results-driven training.
Learn more at www.doclyssfitness.com and www.thelyssmethod.com
TAKEAWAYS
- Consistency in training leads to better adaptation and performance.
- Cross-training can help improve fitness without the risk of overuse injuries.
- Hybrid training aims to maximize both strength and endurance simultaneously.
- For most people the interference effect of endurance training on strength is minimal.
Enjoying these podcasts, subscribe to get notified when new episodes are released.
If you have a question or topic you want me to address, leave a comment!
Follow Phil on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/drphilbatterson
Interested in learning more about physiology? Check out the Critical Oxygen website for blogs, courses, and coaching - https://www.criticaloxygen.com/

CHAPTERS
00:00 Introduction to Endurance Training and Optimization
03:00 Alyssa Olenick's Journey in Fitness and Academia
06:10 The Balance of Training: Volume vs. Intensity
08:58 Injury Management and Training Smart
11:45 The Importance of Consistency in Training
15:10 Understanding Training Load and Adaptation
18:08 The Nuances of Training for Different Goals
21:03 The Role of Cross-Training in Endurance Training
23:56 Final Thoughts on Training Effectiveness
36:09 The Benefits of Cross-Training
39:37 Understanding Hybrid Training
44:47 Defining Hybrid vs. Concurrent Training
48:52 The Interference Effect in Training
55:07 Nutrition's Role in Hybrid Training
01:00:50 Optimizing Sleep for Performance
01:06:24 Simplifying Training for Better Results

KEYWORDS endurance training, hybrid training, injury management, training load, consistency, volume vs intensity, cross-training, fitness optimization, exercise physiology, athlete performance, cross-training, hybrid training, concurrent training, nutrition, sleep optimization, athletic performance, endurance, strength training, recovery, training strategies

In this episode of the Critical Oxygen Podcast, Dr. Eric Harbour, Ph.D. and I discuss the how to breath better during endurance exercise according to science!
In this episode we explore the mechanics of breathing, the physiological implications of different breathing patterns, and how these can be optimized for better endurance and performance. The conversation touches on the limitations athletes face regarding their breathing, the psychological aspects of breathing, and the potential for training to improve breathing efficiency and effectiveness. We also discuss the risks associated with over and under breathing, providing insights into how these factors can impact overall health and exercise performance.
Our main topic of focus is Eric's research paper called Breath Tools: A Synthesis of Evidence-Based Breathing Strategies to Enhance Human Running - https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/physiology/articles/10.3389/fphys.2022.813243/full
TAKEAWAYS
- Breathing patterns significantly influence athletic performance.
- Breath control can enhance both physiological and psychological aspects of exercise.
- The lung structure is relatively fixed, but breathing function can be improved.
- Nasal breathing offers various benefits, including better airway quality. But has limitations at higher exercise intensities.
Enjoy!
More about Dr. Eric Harbour:Eric has a Ph.D. in sports biomechanics, with a focus on breathing pattern in sport. He is a broadly experienced practitioner with a sports medicine background and has worked in NCAA athletics, alpine ski racing, and New Zealand rugby. His current role as a postdoctoral research scientist is in collaboration with adidas and other companies developing analytical approaches and wearable feedback interfaces to better understand and improve sports experiences. He is a runner, cyclist, and keen outdoor athlete and currently lives with his wife, child, and dog in Salzburg, Austria.
Enjoying these podcasts, subscribe to get notified when new episodes are released. If you have a question or topic you want me to address, leave a comment!
Follow Phil on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/drphilbatterson
Interested in learning more about physiology? Check out the Critical Oxygen website for blogs, courses and coaching -https://www.criticaloxygen.com/
CHAPTERS
00:00 Introduction to Breathing and Performance
02:59 The Science of Breathing Patterns
05:47 Breathing Mechanics and Physiology
09:08 Breathing Limitations in Athletes
12:01 The Role of Breathing in Exercise
14:55 Breathing Techniques and Their Benefits
17:50 Breathing Adaptations and Training
20:45 Psychological Aspects of Breathing
23:58 Conclusion and Future Directions
34:40 Understanding Breathing Mechanics
36:55 Exploring Breath Tools and Strategies
39:51 The Importance of Diaphragmatic Breathing
45:51 Nasal vs. Mouth Breathing: The Debate
51:16 Active Exhale Techniques and Their Benefits
58:47 Risks of Over and Under Breathing
01:09:24 Exploring CO2 Tolerance and Exercise
01:12:24 Breath Control in Swimming and Running
01:15:50 The Synchronization of Breathing and Movement
01:20:08 Breathing Techniques and Their Impact on Performance
01:25:49 Measuring Breathing Patterns in Athletes
01:30:36 Practical Applications of Breathing Strategies
01:35:58 The Role of Sighing in Exercise
01:41:18 Conclusion and Future Directions
KEYWORDS
breathing, sports performance, physiology, endurance, breathing patterns, respiratory training, athletes, breathing mechanics, oxygen transport, psychological effects, breathing mechanics, diaphragmatic breathing, nasal breathing, mouth breathing, breath tools, respiratory training, exercise physiology, breathing techniques, performance, wellness, CO2 tolerance, exercise physiology, breathing techniques, performance, synchronization, swimming, running, sighing, respiratory patterns, athletic training

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In this episode of the Critical Oxygen podcast, it's just me! In the first solo episode where I discuss my recent physiological testing, and the actionable data I got from the tests. I share my current training, goals, and the specific tests conducted over a week, including 2 performance tests, a 5min all-out test, uphill run. AND 2 physiological tests, a 3-1 limiter assessment and an incline treadmill run. The episode highlights the significance of consistency, nutrition, and monitoring health through blood work, ultimately aiming to optimize endurance performance. I also discuss my training strategy as I transition from VO2 max work to threshold training, emphasizing the importance of protein, and carb intake and caloric management for endurance athletes. I explain the significance of resting metabolism tests and how to interpret RMR results. The conversation also covers the balance between carbohydrates and fats in an athlete's diet, the importance of performance metrics like my Hill test, and the use of technology in physiological testing. Finally, I introduce the concept of a limiter assessment to identify the most significant factors limiting endurance performance. I explain how to determine individual training needs based on physiological data, the significance of incremental treadmill testing, and the relevance of fat max testing for endurance athletes and when to use it or not use it. Throughout the discussion, I emphasize the need for personalized training protocols and the practical applications of test results to optimize performance and overall fitness.

TAKEAWAYS

- Actionable data from physiological tests is crucial for improvement.

- Consistency, specificity, and progression are essential for fitness gains.

- Physiological testing helps identify training zones and limitations.

- Regular physiological assessments can guide training adjustments.

Enjoy!

Enjoying these podcasts, subscribe to get notified when new episodes are released.

If you have a question or topic you want me to address, leave a comment!

Follow Phil on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/criticalo2

Interested in being coached by me? Book a free consultation here - https://calendly.com/batterson-phil/critical-connection

CHAPTERS

00:00 Introduction to Physiological Testing

02:02 The Importance of Actionable Data

04:51 Personal Training Context and Goals

08:53 Overview of Testing Week

18:04 Detailed Breakdown of Tests

36:01 Results and Insights from Testing

46:04 Transitioning from VO2 Max to Threshold Work

48:27 Understanding Resting Metabolism and RMR Testing

50:48 The Importance of Protein in Endurance Training

52:43 Carbohydrate vs. Fat: Finding the Right Balance

54:36 Tracking Caloric Intake and Weight Management

55:07 Understanding RMR and CO2 Measurement

58:56 The Hill Test: Measuring Performance

01:01:49 Assessing Max Heart Rate and Performance Metrics

01:04:45 Using Technology for Physiological Testing

01:10:57 Conducting a Limiter Assessment for Endurance Performance

01:33:55 Understanding Limiter Assessments

01:38:05 Determining Training Zones

01:46:36 Incremental Treadmill Testing Protocols

01:55:36 Analyzing VO2 Max and Performance Metrics

02:01:52 Practical Applications of Testing Results

02:10:16 Fat Max Testing and Its Relevance

02:18:31 Reflections on Physiological Testing

KEYWORDS

physiological testing, VO2 max, endurance training, performance optimization, fitness goals, training consistency, nutrition, injury prevention, blood work, exercise physiology, VO2 Max, Threshold Work, RMR Testing, Endurance Training, Protein Intake, Weight Management, Performance Metrics, Physiological Testing, Limiter Assessment, limiter assessment, training zones, VO2 max, performance metrics, physiological testing, endurance training, incremental treadmill test, fat max testing, exercise physiology, training optimization

In this episode of the Critical Oxygen podcast, Dave Schell and I discuss the use of Near Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS) technology, specifically the Moxy Monitor, to enhance endurance training. We discuss the importance of proper placement of the device, how to interpret SMO2 readings, and the practical applications of NIRS in optimizing warmups and training readiness. The conversation emphasizes the need for athletes to understand their physiological responses to training and how to use this data to inform their workouts effectively.

TAKEAWAYS
- Proper placement of the Moxy Monitor is crucial for accurate readings.
- SMO2 indicates how muscles cope with exercise intensity.
- Warmups should be tailored to individual needs for optimal performance.

If you have a question or topic you want us to address, leave a comment!

Follow Phil on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/criticalo2
Follow Dave on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/kaizenendurance/ OR YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@UCT5Cy95BiLIDQh4KS5bohhQ
Interested in Gravel or Mountain Bike Coach? Head to Dave's website - https://www.kaizenendurance.coach/

Want to learn more physiology, check out my blog, and courses - https://www.criticaloxygen.com/

CHAPTERS
00:00 Introduction to Near Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS)
10:07 Practical Application of Moxy Monitor in Training
20:09 Understanding SMO2 and Its Implications for Performance
30:02 Optimizing Warmups and Training Readiness
40:04 Future Directions and Conclusion

KEYWORDS
NIRS, Moxy Monitor, SMO2, endurance training, physiological testing, warmup optimization, performance monitoring, exercise physiology, training readiness, athlete development