Information overload!!

dan_forbes

 As I have read through the forums for the past couple of months, sometimes I feel left out that I have not made complete use of the EN site.  I guess my biggest concern are the podcasts.  As I look at the clock right now it is 10PM here and I just finished my workout for the day and am looking forward to bed, this seems to be the protocol everyday for me as I have a young family that requires more time than training for multiple IMs in one season.  I read sometimes about tables and calculators that I do not see thru the wiki and think I missing a lot not viewing all the videos and podcasts that are available.  One reason is selfishness as I like to veg for a half hour to an hour watching tv as I cannot concentrate and absorb what I will need to viewing or listening to these valuable pieces of information.  Are there some key ones that I can dedicate some time to that will bring me up to speed on most everything I can take advantage of here or do I need to sit down and listen to it all?  Do you guys just download to your ipod and listen while riding/or in the car? because that would be most of my "free" time and not to make excuses, I hate listening to anything but my breathing when I workout.  Make cds?  Thanks for any input!  

Dan

Al Truscott

The good news/bad news about EN is that Rich and Patrick are over the top in customer service. They do provide a seeming excess of information about training, racing and related aspects of long-course triathlon. I have not taken a systematic approach to absorbing this information. I'd guess that everyone will have different info needs from the coaches, so I can only say what has been most valuable for me, which are: Power Webinar, 4 Keys DVD and race execution PDF, and the Self-Coaching DIY summary now found in the wiki. YMMV, as well as others. The weekly podcasts are reassuring and fireside chats which give me comfort, but I don't feel lost if I miss one.

dan_forbes

Al, excellent, thank you.  I just needed a started place for a quick "up to speed" outline to get me going!  Always appreciate the help!

Dan

Kitboo

As for catching up on the podcasts, I download them to my iPod and listen while driving to work.
I agree with Al in the order of things important to review---especially the Power Webinar.

Gordon Cherwoniak

Dan,

Yes there is so much here.  My approach is to take in what I can when I have time.  Typically my focus is on what I need. 

I started with the power stuff,  then went to the run; then on to the season plannning tool.   I just went through the swim ebook which is huge.  I am a poor swimmer so this was time well spent. 

Next on tap is the race reherals and race execution stuff. 

For me I have focused on the wiki articles and the train map to get me started (video, writtine and podcast if I have time).  If I have any extra time after that it's the weekly pod cast. 

I don't have a family so I can get lots of computer time, especially when my wife travels.  I would suggest downloading and playing in the car when you can.  I'm like you an never run with music or other distractions. 

As Al said the weekly podcast are not essential. 

Gordon

gilliatt

Yes, tons of stuff be patient. I do what Kitima does and listen in the car when I drive to work. It is good stuff. I'm not that strong of a reader (Coggan, Dan Empfield, Hunter Allen, and Friel can't capture my attention for more than a few paragraphs before I zone out), but a good enough listener and doer. IMHO, RnP are much better writers than the aforementioned folk.

Nemo Brauch

Agree with what has been said thus far. I like to listen to the podcasts on my runs. In general, I find it's easier for me to absorb and understand something if I listen, read, watch it near the time when I actually need it. That way I can apply it right away and it sticks in my head a little better.

dan_forbes

 Well, I'll have to find my ipod and charge it first.  Then upload some podcasts.  Too bad my ride to work is only 2 miles!  That's a lot of trips for a 90' podcast!