In this raw and deeply personal episode, Chris interviews Dennis just one day after his emotional Ironman Hamburg experience — a race that didn’t end as planned.

Dennis opens up about the highs and lows of his preparation, what went wrong on race day, and the difficult decision to stop during the run. From tapering missteps and cold water shock to unexpected breathing issues and the emotional toll of a DNF, this is an honest reflection on the reality of long-distance triathlon.

More than a race review, this episode is about resilience, learning from failure, and the courage to keep going. Dennis shares the powerful lessons he’s taking with him — not just as an athlete, but as a person.

🎙️ A must-listen for anyone who's faced a setback, felt the weight of expectations, or needed a reminder that thriving isn’t always about crossing the finish line — it’s about continuing the journey.

In this episode, Chris and Dennis dive into what it takes to start running as part of your triathlon journey. Whether you're a complete beginner, already training, or a seasoned triathlete, this episode brings everyone together to explore how to run smarter, stay injury-free, and support a thriving triathlon community.

🏃‍♂️ Topics covered:

• How to get started with running the right way (shoes, heart rate, pace)

• Why triathlon running feels so different (hello, jelly legs!)

• The power of brick workouts and mental preparation

• The importance of feedback, drills, and community support

• Tips for beginners and those returning to fitness - including how to avoid common pitfalls

🎧 Bonus: Hear about Chris’ training missteps and Dennis’ expert tips from track & field—and why running might not always be the best first move for everyone.

Join us, get inspired, and let’s run into triathlon - together!

🎙️ Episode 3 – Strength Training for Triathletes: Yay or Nay?

In our third episode of Tri2Thrive, we dive into one of the most underestimated aspects of triathlon training — strength training. Whether you’re just starting your triathlon journey or looking to stay injury-free and powerful long-term, this episode will give you the why and how.

🏋️‍♂️ What’s Inside:

• Why strength training is essential for triathletes — not just for performance, but for long-term health and injury prevention

• Chris' honest take on struggling to make time for core work, and Dennis' practical routine that fits alongside high-volume triathlon training

• How to train functionally vs. isolated muscle groups, and why it matters

• Easy ways to build a routine — even at home — and tips on getting started without a gym

• The role of physiotherapy, balance, and longevity in training

• A powerful visual comparison of aging athletes and how training can literally reshape your body over time

• PLUS: Dennis reflects on his recent Ironman 70.3 in Venice — what went right, what surprised him, and why consistency is the ultimate superpower.

💡 Bonus insight: We discuss this article from Runner’s World on how consistent training helps preserve motor units as we age: 👉 Running Preserves Motor Units

This episode is about more than lifting weights — it's about thriving for life, not just race day.

🔁 As always, we’d love to hear your feedback! Leave a comment, follow us on social, and let us know: How do you include strength training in your routine?