TRIATHLETE MATTHEW BACH ON TRAGEDY, TRAINING, AND TRANSITIONS
“We decided to do this triathlon in his memory. And we would raise money from family and friends and donate it to St. Jude’s.”—Matthew Bach
Every opportunity brings with it highs, lows, and lessons to be learned. Matt’s story of his triathlon journey points to common themes that endurance athletes face—practical approaches to training along with refueling and resting.
In this episode, Jon, Bryan, and Matthew compare notes on finding balance in life and welcoming the transitions that come while pursuing excellence in sports.
SHOW NOTES
(2:37) Growing up in Connecticut and playing golf every day with his brother…
(4:27) Running, as a result of “peer pressure,” but eventually committing to more and more training…
(7:12) Summer coaching with Rob Murray to make the Penn State team…
(9:57) From pledging a fraternity to finding his wife…
(12:20) The story of Matt’s brother…
(15:06) Video games, card games, and lots of memories made…
(18:26) “He was the inspiration for me doing my first ever triathlon.”
(19:31) Controlled drowning and the challenges of swimming…
(24:06) Sprints, Olympics, and ½ Ironman… the reasoning behind a quick progression…
(28:53) The tremendous time commitment involved in triathlons, a supportive wife, and earning a spot at Kona…
(34:02) Transitioning from one era of triathlon to the next, while honoring his brother…
(38:25) “I knew that whatever I was doing wasn’t working, because I basically plateaued in 2013.” Taking a closer look at training and nutrition…
(40:12) The game-changing introduction to UCAN…
(43:46) Coming to terms with diminishing returns and the various approaches to training…
(47:35) Looking at the critical role of experts and nutrition…
(50:47) “It was the first-ever race that had no pro field. So it left the door open for an amateur like me to take the title.” A recounting of his fantastic day at Maryland Ironman…
(55:33) A new mindset leads to a new era…
(58:50) To go pro or not…
(1:00:55) An injury makes a difficult decision easier…
(1:05:52) A new and exciting transition out of competitive triathlons…
(1:07:00) What does Go Be More mean to you?
If you liked this episode, check out our interviews with Cyclist Michael Lemos and elite runner Ryan Miller.
Recorded September 23, 2020.
References:
UCAN – website
Guest:
Matthew Bach – website, Instagram
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