PodcastsSportsThe Matchbox - A Cycling Podcast

The Matchbox - A Cycling Podcast

Ignition Coach Co
The Matchbox - A Cycling Podcast
Latest episode

150 episodes

  • The Matchbox - A Cycling Podcast

    Episode 190 - Training While Acclimating to Altitude, Pacing with Heart Rate, and Ultra Racing Prep

    2026/06/05 | 35 mins.
    Hello everyone. Welcome to the latest episode of The Matchbox Podcast powered by Ignition Coach Co. I’m your host, Adam Saban, and on this week’s episode we’re talking about how to train while your body is still adjusting to living at altitude, pacing long endurance events with heart rate, and how to prepare for an Ultra.

     

    As always, if you like what you hear, share this with your friends and leave us a five star review and if you have any questions for the show drop us an email at matchboxpod@gmail.com or head over to ignitioncoachco.com and fill out The Matchbox Podcast listener question form. 

     

    Alight let’s get into it!

     

    For more social media content, follow along @ignitioncoachco @adamsaban6 @dizzle_dillman @dylanjawnson @kait.maddox  

     

    https://patreon.com/MatchboxPodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink

     

    https://www.youtube.com/c/DylanJohnsonCycling https://www.ignitioncoachco.com 

    https://www.youtube.com/@DrewDillmanChannel

     

    Intro/ Outro music by AlexGrohl - song "King Around Here" - https://pixabay.com/music/id-15045/ 

     

    The following was generated using Riverside.fm AI technologies

     

    Main Topics:

    Heart rate pacing for long-distance races

    Adjusting training at altitude for optimal performance

    Preparing mentally and physically for ultra-endurance events

    Equipment and nutrition testing for multi-day races

     

    Timestamps:

    00:00 - Intro and how questions guide personalized training strategies

    02:00 - Heart rate pacing and maximum HR estimation methods

    04:00 - Challenges of correlating heart rate with performance at different ages

    06:00 - Adjusting pacing based on fitness improvements and race duration

    08:00 - Importance of perceived exertion versus strict HR zones

    10:00 - Impact of altitude on performance metrics and recovery

    12:00 - Training adjustments at altitude: reducing intensity and frequency

    14:00 - Focus on threshold work and aerobic base during altitude adaptation

    16:00 - How altitude shifts affect muscle fatigue versus aerobic capacity

    18:00 - The necessity of slow progression and realistic expectations for altitude adaptation

    20:00 - Preparing for ultra-endurance: long rides, gear, and night simulations

    22:00 - Equipment testing, nutrition, and logistical considerations for multi-day events

    24:00 - Significance of mental resilience and gradual exposure to sleep deprivation scenarios

    26:00 - When and how to simulate race conditions without overtraining

    28:00 - Analyzing specific event details: terrain, distance, and logistics

    30:00 - Final advice: start heavy, practice with gear, and embrace the challenge
  • The Matchbox - A Cycling Podcast

    Episode 189 - Running for Cycling Fitness and HEAT TRAINING!

    2026/05/29 | 43 mins.
    Hello everyone. Welcome to the latest episode of The Matchbox Podcast powered by Ignition Coach Co. I’m your host, Adam Saban, and on this week’s episode we’re talking about how to convert running into cycling fitness and some of the ins and outs of heat training for performance enhancements.

     

    As always, if you like what you hear, share this with your friends and leave us a five star review and if you have any questions for the show drop us an email at matchboxpod@gmail.com or head over to ignitioncoachco.com and fill out The Matchbox Podcast listener question form. 

     

    Alight let’s get into it!

     

    For more social media content, follow along @ignitioncoachco @adamsaban6 @dizzle_dillman @dylanjawnson @kait.maddox  

     

    https://patreon.com/MatchboxPodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink

     

    https://www.youtube.com/c/DylanJohnsonCycling https://www.ignitioncoachco.com 

    https://www.youtube.com/@DrewDillmanChannel

     

    Intro/ Outro music by AlexGrohl - song "King Around Here" - https://pixabay.com/music/id-15045/ 

     

    The following was generated using Riverside.fm AI technologies

     

    In this episode, we explore how cycling enthusiasts can adapt their training routines during major life transitions like becoming a parent, and delve into the practical benefits and considerations of heat training for endurance athletes. Whether you’re balancing family and fitness or optimizing your heat adaptation, this discussion offers valuable insights.

     

    Main topics include:

    Transitioning from cycling to running and maintaining aerobic base

    Practical tips for training with a stroller and integrating strength work

    How cycling fitness transfers to running and vice versa

    Structured heat training: active vs. passive methods and optimal timing

    Balancing sauna sessions with regular training volume

    Recommendations for low-volume training focused on general fitness

    Strategic approaches for heat training around competition schedules

     

    Timestamps: 

    00:00 - Introduction and topic overview

    00:30 - Transitioning from cycling to running post-baby

    01:21 - Can running replace cycling engine & maintaining aerobic base

    02:34 - Endurance benefits of stroller running & form challenges

    03:55 - Transferability of fitness from running back to cycling

    04:08 - Bone density gains with running versus cycling

    05:17 - Building strength at home with body weight & weights

    06:21 - Consistency and routine for returning to cycling

    07:13 - Working within time constraints and integrating running into a busy schedule

    08:34 - Running cadence, form tips, and injury prevention

    09:52 - Structured workout ideas: fartlek, intervals, and hormone considerations

    12:11 - Weekly training strategies for runners and cyclists

    12:53 - Combining running with longer cycling sessions

    13:45 - Short, effective VO2 max workouts for endurance gains

    15:00 - Heart rate dynamics in running vs. cycling & economy transfer

    16:30 - Impact of running economy on heart rate lag

    17:08 - Effectiveness of heat training via active (trainer) versus passive (sauna)

    18:43 - When to incorporate heat training in your schedule

    22:20 - Optimizing heat training for race readiness in different climates

    23:27 - Physiological benefits of heat training for blood flow & VO2 max

    25:02 - Starting heat training now vs. waiting closer to race day

    26:30 - Practical tips for home sauna use & passive heat gains

    32:50 - Efficiency considerations: active vs. passive heat methods

    37:38 - Balancing heat stress with overall training volume

    40:05 - Using core temperature sensors for effective heat training

    44:17 - Final thoughts and wrap-up
  • The Matchbox - A Cycling Podcast

    Episode 188 - Building for Leadville: Training Strategies, Injury Management, and Altitude Preparation

    2026/05/22 | 41 mins.
    Hello everyone. Welcome to the latest episode of The Matchbox Podcast powered by Ignition Coach Co. I’m your host, Adam Saban, and on this week’s episode we’re talking about Leadville prep! Training, injury mitigation, and altitude prep.

     

    As always, if you like what you hear, share this with your friends and leave us a five star review and if you have any questions for the show drop us an email at matchboxpod@gmail.com or head over to ignitioncoachco.com and fill out The Matchbox Podcast listener question form. 

     

    Alight let’s get into it!

     

    For more social media content, follow along @ignitioncoachco @adamsaban6 @dizzle_dillman @dylanjawnson @kait.maddox  

     

    https://patreon.com/MatchboxPodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink

     

    https://www.youtube.com/c/DylanJohnsonCycling https://www.ignitioncoachco.com 

    https://www.youtube.com/@DrewDillmanChannel

     

    Intro/ Outro music by AlexGrohl - song "King Around Here" - https://pixabay.com/music/id-15045/ 

     

    The following was generated using Riverside.fm AI technologies

     

    Main Topics:

    Strategies for reintroducing training after injury, emphasizing conservative ramp-up and volume management

    Importance of base fitness and how aerobic capacity supports high-altitude performance

    Race-specific pacing and intensity focus, especially maintaining tempo to optimize endurance

    Incorporating torque and long sustained climbs for single speed riders

    Altitude acclimation: timing, frequency, and how it influences race performance

    Building durability and fatigue resistance through volume, stacking workouts, and targeted intervals

    Practical training structure during the build phase to surpass fatigue hurdles and extend endurance

    Managing logistics and mental preparation for race day at high elevation

     

    Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction and podcast goals 00:29 - Incorporating concise questions from listeners 01:16 - Brandon’s background and race goals at Leadville 02:41 - Challenges of single speed racing on steep climbs and long flats 03:40 - Importance of gradual ramp-up after injury recovery 04:48 - Risks of too rapid training progression and injury considerations 05:42 - Chronic injuries and compensatory movement patterns 06:50 - Strategies for conservative ramping and avoiding injury flare-ups 08:15 - Maintaining aerobic base and leveraging it for training efficiency 09:12 - Balancing intensity types: tempo versus high-intensity workouts 10:09 - Race-specific pacing: holding tempo and avoiding over-FTP efforts 11:26 - Focus on VO2 max and lactate threshold in training 12:12 - Adapting training zones for altitude and single speed specificity 13:28 - Role of torque intervals, especially for single speed riders 14:55 - Climbing and torque interval recommendations based on geographic location 15:00 - Adjusting training volume and intensity to build endurance 16:30 - Decision-making around race participation in the GP series and logistics 17:40 - Outperforming at altitude: genetics and acclimation cycles 18:40 - Acclimation strategies and responding to altitude over time 20:30 - Training at altitude for improved performance at sea level 22:01 - Managing chronic injuries and race day approach 23:39 - Training and recovery balance for high-altitude races 25:21 - Long-term injury management and race day performance 27:42 - Final thoughts and race prep advice from Dylan and hosts 42:19 - Community encouragement and upcoming race plans
  • The Matchbox - A Cycling Podcast

    Episode 187 - KOM Hunting and Utilizing AI for Training Optimization

    2026/05/19 | 38 mins.
    Hello everyone. Welcome to the latest episode of The Matchbox Podcast powered by Ignition Coach Co. I’m your host, Adam Saban, and on this week’s episode we’re talking about dedicated training and tactics for short-segment KOM hunting as well as utilizing AI for your benefit to help you analyze and optimize your training.

     

    As always, if you like what you hear, share this with your friends and leave us a five star review and if you have any questions for the show drop us an email at matchboxpod@gmail.com or head over to ignitioncoachco.com and fill out The Matchbox Podcast listener question form. 

     

    Alight let’s get into it!

     

    For more social media content, follow along @ignitioncoachco @adamsaban6 @dizzle_dillman @dylanjawnson @kait.maddox  

     

    https://patreon.com/MatchboxPodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink

     

    https://www.youtube.com/c/DylanJohnsonCycling https://www.ignitioncoachco.com 

    https://www.youtube.com/@DrewDillmanChannel

     

    Intro/ Outro music by AlexGrohl - song "King Around Here" - https://pixabay.com/music/id-15045/ 

     

    The following was generated using Riverside.fm AI technologies

     

    This episode dives into strategies for effective high-intensity efforts, training volume management, and nutrition for busy cyclists looking to improve fitness without extra hours. The hosts analyze real questions about sprinting, two-minute KOMs, overtraining, and periodization, providing actionable insights for cyclists of all levels.

     

    Main Topics:

    Optimal techniques for 2-minute maximal efforts, including standing vs seated climbing strategies

    Training volume versus intensity: what's more effective for limited schedules

    Understanding and adjusting training based on AI data analysis and perceived fitness changes

    The role of nutrition and recovery when adding intensity or volume

    Specific considerations for female versus male climbing styles and biomechanics

    Practical tips for structured training: periodization, zone targeting, and maximizing workout quality

     

    Timestamps:

    00:00 - Episode introduction & latest updates on the Matchbox podcast

    01:02 - Red River Roubaix event announcement (June 20th)

    02:33 - Changes to question submission form: 400-character limit and new process

    04:07 - Analyzing sprint vs two-minute efforts: standing or seated?

    05:55 - Best strategies for two-minute KOM attempts, climb vs flat considerations

    07:09 - Standing vs seated: biomechanical and efficiency strategies

    08:36 - Training focus: developing standing sprint power and technique

    10:10 - Differences in climbing styles between women and men

    11:15 - Impact of biomechanics and physiology on climbing posture and efficiency

    14:09 - Adjusting interval style based on effort type and goals

    15:29 - Recommendations for structured interval training and recovery

    19:37 - Advice for cyclists with busy lives: balancing volume and intensity

    23:36 - Importance of nutrition, fueling, and recovery for performance

    30:44 - Overtraining myths and how to gauge fitness declines

    33:21 - Effective training periodization & zone targeting for limited hours

    35:55 - Nutrition strategies for hard efforts and supporting low-volume training

    37:55 - Wrapping up and call for questions submissions
  • The Matchbox - A Cycling Podcast

    Episode 186 - Breaking Through Stagnation, Pedaling Heel Up vs Down, and Plyometrics for Cyclists

    2026/05/08 | 28 mins.
    Hello everyone. Welcome to the latest episode of The Matchbox Podcast powered by Ignition Coach Co. I’m your host, Adam Saban, and on this week’s episode we’re talking about how to avoid progression stagnation, pedaling heel up vs heel down, and plyometrics.

     

    As always, if you like what you hear, share this with your friends and leave us a five star review and if you have any questions for the show drop us an email at matchboxpod@gmail.com or head over to ignitioncoachco.com and fill out The Matchbox Podcast listener question form. 

     

    Alight let’s get into it!

     

    For more social media content, follow along @ignitioncoachco @adamsaban6 @dizzle_dillman @dylanjawnson @kait.maddox  

     

    https://patreon.com/MatchboxPodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink

     

    https://www.youtube.com/c/DylanJohnsonCycling https://www.ignitioncoachco.com 

    https://www.youtube.com/@DrewDillmanChannel

     

    Intro/ Outro music by AlexGrohl - song "King Around Here" - https://pixabay.com/music/id-15045/ 

     

    The following was generated using Riverside.fm AI technologies

     

    Show Summary

    In this episode of the Matchbox podcast, the hosts discuss various topics related to athletic performance and training. They explore the factors that separate athletes who continue to improve from those who stagnate, emphasizing the importance of mental mindset and willingness to adapt training routines. The conversation also touches on the impact of age on cycling performance, with insights into how athletes can continue to excel beyond their physiological peak age. The hosts address listener questions about pedaling techniques and the benefits of plyometrics for cyclists, providing practical advice and personal experiences.

     

    Timestamps

    0:01 - Introduction and listener questions

    0:29 - Discussion on athlete improvement and stagnation

    2:38 - Impact of age on cycling performance

    5:47 - Mental mindset and training breakthroughs

    10:37 - Importance of regular blood work for athletes

    18:38 - Listener question: Pedaling techniques

    24:10 - Listener question: Benefits of plyometrics for cyclists

    27:49 - Wrap-up and closing remarks
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About The Matchbox - A Cycling Podcast
The Matchbox podcast presented by Ignition Coach Co - a cycling show that covers training-related topics in a discussion-oriented format. Show hosts, Adam Saban and Kaitlyn Maddox, are endurance coaches with Ignition Coach Co who share a passion for expanding their knowledge of endurance training. They have also competed as elite cyclists across various disciplines and often lean on their experiences competing at the highest level to provide unique perspective into the world of bike racing. Tune in each week to find out how you can find that extra match for your next race.
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