TDF Climbing Performance Deep Dive

Jul 21, 2025

In this episode, Tom Danielson answers your biggest questions about climbing performance—breaking down the physical, technical, and mental aspects that define success in the mountains.

Topics covered include:

• Tom’s favorite climbs in Europe and the U.S.
• The Four Pillars of Climbing Performance
• Nutrition’s role in sustained climbing power
• Power zones and how they apply on climbs
• How to train climbing durability and force production
• Feeding strategies for long climbs
• Seated vs. standing technique—when to use each
• The mindset it takes to climb at your best
• Climbing metrics that matter for GC riders
• Drafting on climbs—how much does it help?
• Comparing the styles of Jonas Vingegaard and Tadej Pogačar

Whether you’re racing for the podium or chasing your next PR, this episode is packed with insights to help you become a better climber.