The Kona Playbook: How to Race in Extreme Heat & Humidity | Hannah Berry and Ben Reszel – Season 8 Episode 11

Go inside the high-performance partnership of Hannah and Ben as they unpack the science and soul of world-class Kona prep. This episode isn’t just a talk—it’s a tactical roadmap from turning setbacks into strategy, optimizing recovery, and making every workout count. Hear how their trust, clear communication, and sharp use of TrainingPeaks help transform raw data into racing brilliance.

Learn how top coach-athlete duos use data, feedback, and smart race planning to reach the Kona podium and how elite endurance training insights and real-world tips to level up your performance—whether you’re chasing finish lines or coaching champions.

Chapters:

• 00:00 – Coach-Athlete Dynamics, Training Locations & Backgrounds

• 01:03 – Hannah’s Triathlon Journey: From Team Sports, Injury, and Entering the Pro Ranks

• 03:23 – Ben’s Coaching Path: Sports Science, Data-Driven Decisions, and Coaching Philosophy

• 05:35 – Seasonal Highs: Ironman New Zealand Podium, Performance Analysis, and Early-Season Strategies

• 07:50 – Racing Back-to-Back: Lessons from Ironman Texas, Recovery, and Season Planning

• 10:24 – Prioritizing Kona: Skipping 70.3 Worlds, Minimizing Travel, and Aiming for Peak Performance• 13:55 – Statement Win: Sunshine Coast 70.3 Performance, Tactics, and Mental Approach

• 17:57 – Kona Debrief: Race Execution, Swim Battles, Annual Improvements, and Acclimation

• 22:16 – Athlete-Coach Communication: Tools, Feedback, and Adapting Plans

• 27:33 – Planning and Recovery: Scheduling, Tracking Progress, and Trusting Experience

• 35:22 – Advice for Age Groupers: Consistency, Listening to the Body, and Embracing Rest

• 38:00 – Triathlon for All Ages: Starting Late, Community, Common Mistakes, and Coaching Value

• 45:34 – Finding the Right Coach: Building Relationships, Data Overload, and Personal Fit

• 46:26 – Quickfire Insights: Biggest Mistakes, Overrated Gear, and Free Speed Secrets

• 51:05 – Kona Excitement: Race Day Anticipation, On-Course Support, & Closing Remarks


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