The High Performance Podcast E145 - Kenton Cool: Finding your inner depths in the death zone
Sep 26, 2022
Kenton Cool, a record-breaking English mountaineer and performance coach, shares his insights on navigating the high-stress environment of mountaineering. He discusses the emotional toll of the ‘death zone’ and the importance of team trust. Kenton opens up about his struggles with vulnerability and the need for self-investment. He also reflects on a life-changing encounter with a young boy in Pakistan that shifted his perspective on ambition and community. The conversation blends adventure with profound personal growth.
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Defining High Performance
- High performance is exceeding expected outcomes, whether individually, organizationally, or within a team.
- It's not sustainable constantly, leading to burnout if attempted.
Sustainable Peaking
- Maintain a sustainable performance level (70-80%) to avoid burnout and enable peaking when necessary.
- Prioritize consistent fitness to avoid starting from scratch during expedition preparation.
Stress and Everest
- Kenton Cool finds Everest relatively straightforward, but Summit Day brings immense stress due to the death zone's risks.
- Returning home involves reintegrating into society and detoxing from high stress levels.