Stop Optimising the 5% You Haven't Earned Yet

Stop Optimising the 5% You Haven't Earned Yet

April 23, 2026 · 19 min · Episode 238

About this episode

Taryn Richardson discusses why triathletes should focus on foundational nutrition rather than marginal gains to improve performance.

Are you spending way too much time worrying about gels, supplements and race day nutrition… but still not getting the performance you want? Here’s the hard truth: most triathletes are focusing on the wrong things. In this episode, Advanced Sports Dietitian Taryn Richardson breaks down why chasing marginal gains is keeping you stuck and what you actually need to prioritise if you want to train harder, recover faster and perform at your best. If you’ve ever felt confused, overwhelmed or like your nutrition just isn’t “clicking”, this one’s for you. What you’ll learn in this episode: Why most triathletes are trying to optimise the last 5% without earning it The real reason your performance isn’t improving (hint: it’s not your gels) Why daily nutrition matters more than race day nutrition The dangers of under-fuelling and long-term health risks like RED-S, hormonal issues and poor bone health Common mistakes like supplement overload, fad diets and copying other athletes Why inconsistency across the week is sabotaging your progress The “Supercharged Triathlete Formula” and how to apply it The key building blocks…

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Host: Taryn Richardson

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