How to Cross-Train with Ironman World Champion Lucy Charles-Barclay

On this month’s installment of the How To Series, WHOOP Director of Sports Marketing, Jeremy Powers, sits down with Ironman World Champion, Lucy Charles-Barclay, to explore what it takes to train as a hybrid athlete. From her roots as an elite swimmer to dominating the world of triathlon, Lucy shares how she balances high-volume training across swim, bike, and run, while incorporating strength work. Lucy breaks down her training blocks, recovery strategies, and using WHOOP to stay consistent and injury-free. Lucy also opens up about managing celiac disease, experimenting with HYROX, and building an engaged fitness community through her YouTube channel, all while maintaining elite-level performance across multiple disciplines.

(00:37) Introduction to Lucy Charles-Barclay 

(01:35) Rapid Fire Q’s 

(02:41) Lucy’s Journey From Pro-Swimmer to Ironman World Champion

(06:02) Winning The World Championship: Training & Lead-Up To Competition

(12:38) Week In The Life Training For An Ironman

(15:13) Balancing Disciplines: Training Hybrid

(18:16) Monitoring Strain While Training & Mitigating Injury

(20:26) Inside Lucy’s Recovery Habits

(21:55) Perfecting Her Game: Lucy’s Tech, Tools, and Coaching 

(27:08) Lucy’s Favorite WHOOP Metrics

(30:16) Improving Sleep Routine While Traveling: Blue light Glasses, Early Dinners, & More

(33:55) Training With Celiac: Nutrition for Endurance

(36:44) Building A Community While Training: Lucy’s YouTube and Social Media Channels

(41:52) What’s Next For Lucy? Upcoming Goals, Races, And Challenges 

Follow Lucy Charles-Barclay:

Instagram

YouTube

TikTok