How Triathlete Brock Hoel Has Used VO2 Master to Optimize His Performance

Throughout the past year, Dr. Andrew Sellars, Co-Founder of VO2 Master, has been working with professional triathlete Brock Hoel to optimize his multisport performance.

We spoke with Dr. Sellars to learn more about Brock’s journey, his progression, and how VO2 Master has supported his development.

What learnings has Brock Hoel derived from VO2 Master, and how have these insights influenced his training? 

The first thing is coming to recognize that he can use his respiratory rate to gauge intensity, especially for sustainable efforts on the bike in race situations.

With Brock’s training, our goal is to maintain an efficient and slow respiratory rate for all Zone 2 training, continue to strengthen the diaphragm, and control demands on accessory muscles.

At the moment, run efficiency remains a limitation, and the focus is on reducing ground contact time, and increasing cadence to allow for a faster pace at lower oxygen consumption.

Where has Brock personally found the VO2 Master to be most valuable in learning about his own physiology?

Understanding the effects of breathing on cardiac physiology and recognizing the running efficiency needed to be competitive at the highest level.

What have been the biggest learnings from Brock’s latest races, and how will he apply them? 

Cadence and overall run speed continue to be the greatest challenges to overcome. We will focus on this area going forward. 

What’s next in Brock’s training journey?

Retesting for changes in efficiency as his run form improves.