FTP Test on Zwift & Afternoon Run Session with Sam Long || Vlog

I still remember the day I convinced myself that fatigue was a formidable limit I couldn't move past—much like telling myself I was too old to start something new. Time and again, real-life lessons have proven those mental barriers to be illusions. If there's one triathlete who truly embodies that unstoppable spirit, it's Lionel Sanders, widely known as Mr. No Limits. Drawing inspiration from his determination, I’ve come to appreciate that sometimes, the hardest training days become the greatest catalysts for progress.

Morning: 70.3-Specific Swim

Instead of waiting for the “perfect time” to tackle rigorous sessions, I’ve found that simply diving in—both literally and metaphorically—works best. This particular day began with a 70.3 specific swim, honing the technique and stamina needed for long-distance races. Just like compounding interest in finance, every stroke invested adds up exponentially, preparing you for the big day.

Mid-Day Charge: 190 TSS Bike Ride & Zwift Games

Next up was the 190 TSS bike ride, which by itself would have made for a pretty exhausting schedule. However, triathlon (like life) doesn’t always come one neat box at a time. Taking advantage of the Zwift Games event, I decided to do an impromptu FTP test (Functional Threshold Power) right in the middle of this already intense ride. One might say it’s “insane” to attempt an FTP test under such fatigue, but that’s precisely how we learn just how far we can push.

I set my sights on hitting an FTP of 380, a number I thought might reflect my current condition. To my surprise, I clocked in at 387, surpassing the goal. It’s proof of the training progress that’s often hidden behind layers of self-doubt and a heavy load of fatigue. While I’m no stranger to feeling stronger in previous seasons, crossing that line reminded me we’re never truly “too old” or “too tired” to keep inching forward.

Afternoon Grind: Running Session with Sam Long

If there’s one thing that gets the blood pumping as much as an FTP test, it’s a trail or track run with a game partner who keeps you on your toes. I teamed up with Sam Long for an intense running session at the track. The workout featured a 6K tempo run followed by six 1K repeats with short recovery intervals. My legs were already protesting from the bike, but I knew it was time to switch gears—quite literally—because you never learn to run fast unless you train tired.

The dynamic reminded me of what happens when you invest in multiple areas at once—like diversifying finances.