About this episode
In this episode of the Race Ready Podcast, Andy Newell and Brian Halligan tackle one of the most misunderstood topics in endurance training: overtraining versus overreaching. Timed perfectly with mid-summer volume weeks, they discuss how athletes at every level—from juniors to pros—can recognize the signs of training stress and avoid the downward spiral of under-recovery. They also reflect on their own personal experiences with fatigue, including suppressed heart rates, poor race performance, and the emotional roller coasters that often accompany intense training blocks. The hosts share practical tips on managing high-volume weeks, emphasizing hydration, fueling, sleep, and recovery. They dive into how life stress outside of training—work, school, emotional stress—can compound the physical load and lead to burnout. This episode also answers listener questions about heart rate suppression, explains how to detect early signs of overtraining, and challenges common assumptions around training intensity for juniors and masters. Whether you're aiming for a 30-hour training week or just trying to balance skiing with your job and family, this episode offers grounded, science-backed advice to help you stay healthy, consistent, and race ready. Overtraining vs. overreaching vs burnout? Fast talk podcast CTS: Overtraining signs, symptoms, and solutions for athletes