# Heart Rate vs Power for IRONMAN Training + Altitude Training Explained | Ep 601

An episode of [Oxygenaddict Triathlon Podcast](https://invisiblenetwork.ai/podcast/951501034), 29 Jul 2026, 26 min.

Audio: https://traffic.megaphone.fm/APO9243445368.mp3

In this episode: • Racing without a power meter: why Rob thinks a power meter is a "worry removal tool" rather than a cost, and how to reframe the spend over your training block. If you're going with heart rate, he covers the five variables that distort it, the time-lag that trips you up, how to set functional threshold heart rate from a 20-minute test, and the thirds-based pacing method that accounts for cardiac drift. • Training at altitude for a sea-level race: why you need two sets of zones, not one. How to find your delta between altitude and sea level, and why heart rate gives you a bridge between the two while pace never will. • Shoulder pain in the aero position: normal adaptation or warning sign? Why "I've had a bike fit" doesn't rule out a problem, why pain in the water as well changes the picture, and why regular hands-on physio work beats pushing through it. • Success story: Listener Max takes on IRONMAN Switzerland in 30°C heat with 2,200m of climbing and comes home in just over 12 hours! Got a question for the show, or a first 70.3 or IRONMAN story to share? Email help@oxygenaddict.com. No question is too basic, and we aim to answer every question. * * * * * * * * SPONSORS * * * * * * * * Thinking about your first Ironman or 70.3 in 2026? At Team Oxygenaddict, we specialise in helping busy professionals fit high-quality training around demanding jobs and family life. Book an application call today to find out if you'd be a good fit for Team Oxygenaddict here: https://team.oxygenaddict.com/consultation-call/ * * * * * * * * * * * * precisionfuelandhydration.com Precision Fuel & Hydration help athletes personalise their hydration and fuelling strategies for training and racing. Use the free Fuel & Hydration Planner to get a personalised race nutrition plan for your next event. And then book a free 20-minute video consultation with a member of the PF&H Athlete Support Team to refine your strategy. Listeners get 15% off their first order of fuel and electrolytes with Precision Fuel & Hydration. Simply use code OXYGEN26 at checkout to claim your 15% discount

Shows are listed from Apple Podcasts' charts and directory, and Podcast Index where it is used. Every show and episode belongs to its publisher and plays from the publisher's own feed; this site hosts none of them.