Exploring the Benefits of Injecting Speed Training and Shorter Races for Marathoners

Trail running doesn't always mean running an ultramarathon. From trail 5ks to marathons, there's a growing interest in middle distance trail events. Andy Wacker is making this space a more vibrant and welcoming community for runners.

Andy Wacker is a professional runner who excels on the track, road, and trail. He is the 2019 world Mountain Running Champ, 2016 US Trail Half Marathon Champ, 2015 US Trail 50k Champion, and a two-time NCAA XC All-American.

Andy seeks longevity in the sport and embraces a seasonal training approach to keep him running strong across different distances and disciplines.

These days, Andy is growing the trail running community as the founder of The Trail Team, a group of elite and sub-elite athletes that work together in Boulder, Colorado. The Trail Team aims to professionalize the sport and create more opportunities for runners everywhere.

In this episode, Andy and I talk about:

• Andy's running journey from his first trail race in 2013 (which made him temporarily quit trail running) to now

• The mindset shift from track running to trail running and finding freedom from obsessing over splits

• Andy's unique approach to training and leaning into challenges

• How Andy focuses on a seasonal approach and a cross-over model so that athletes can run on the roads and the track

• How Andy is running for longevity in the sport

• Why Andy loves sub-ultra races: Trail running isn't only ultrarunning, and sometimes it's a great idea to focus on middle distance races

• Supporting sub-elite and professional runners through media storytelling, mentorship, and trail camps

• Andy's plans for the Track Team in 2024

If you're looking to run through many seasons of life, you'll get inspired by this episode!

Links & Resources from the Show:

• Learn about The Trail Team

• The Trail Team on Instagram

• Andy Wacker on Instagram

• Get tips to master your mindset

• Read the eBook on Running for Health and Happiness: The Beginner's Guide to Faster, Pain-Free Running

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