Science Friday Are Ultramarathoners Just Built Different?
Jan 2, 2026
Join host Flora Lichtman as she chats with Dr. Brandee Waite, a sports medicine expert at UC Davis, and Dr. Andrew Best, a biological anthropologist. They delve into the incredible world of ultramarathoners, exploring the unique physiological and psychological traits that make them extraordinary. Learn about the staggering caloric demands—running can burn up to 16,000 calories—and the limits of human endurance, including gut health and energy absorption challenges. Hear how discipline and mindset play vital roles in pushing beyond perceived boundaries.
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Seven-Day Race Medical Duties
- Brandee Waite described working on the medical team at a seven-day Racing the Planet ultramarathon in Greece.
- She treated runners for blisters, dehydration, lacerations, and supported 24/7 medical needs during staged daily marathons.
Body Prioritizes Muscles Over Digestion
- Endurance demands reallocating oxygen and fuel to working muscles while maintaining whole-body homeostasis.
- The body downregulates digestion and other systems to prioritize muscles during prolonged exertion.
Fuel Strategically Or Risk Shutdown
- Avoid running without fueling because diverted gut blood flow can shut down digestion and stop nutrient uptake.
- Plan nutrition strategies and listen for 'runner's gut' signs to prevent system shutdown during long efforts.