As endurance athletes, understanding our bodies' physiological responses during exercise is crucial for optimizing performance. In a recent episode of my podcast, Finding Elevation, I had the opportunity to speak with Tom Cuddy, an expert in exercise physiology and founder of Calibrated Coaching.

Tom explains the different energy systems fueling our bodies, from immediate ATP sources to the aerobic system that requires oxygen. He emphasizes the significance of lactate thresholds and VO2max testing, revealing how they impact our performance during intense activities like mountaineering and trail running.

One compelling topic was Tom's research on "vertical running economy." He highlights how even at the same VO2max, athletes can exhibit vast differences in uphill running speed based on their lactate levels and economy. Training to improve these factors can significantly enhance performance.

For serious athletes, Tom offers personalized physiological testing services, providing a comprehensive analysis to optimize your training approach.

Listen to the full conversation with Tom Cuddy on the Finding Elevation podcast here. Visit Calibrated Coaching for more information.