Redefining Strength and Endurance with Morgan McKay

In this episode of The Exercise Mechanic Podcast, Etienne and Ryan sit down with ultra-endurance athlete and Guinness World Record holder Morgan McKay. From competing in World’s Toughest Mudder to conquering the Spartan Ultra in Iceland and setting a record for the fastest 10K carrying 100 lbs, Morgan’s story is one of resilience, mindset, and sheer mental toughness.

You’ll hear how Morgan went from a self-described “terrible cross-country runner” to one of the top names in obstacle course racing. She opens up about balancing motherhood, marriage, and training, and why community, teamwork, and planning have been keys to her success.

Whether you’re an endurance athlete, a fitness coach, or just someone fascinated by what it takes to push through the “pain cave,” this conversation will leave you inspired.

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Chapters

00:00 – Kicking things off & intro to Morgan01:30 – The DNF at World’s Toughest Mudder & bouncing back to win in Iceland04:00 – What these 24-hour obstacle events actually look like07:30 – Facing fear: electrocution, cliff jumps & why she does it10:30 – The psychology of endurance athletes & her early struggles13:00 – The “mental switch” that changed everything16:30 – Balancing family, training, and being a mom22:00 – Setting an example for kids & building family fitness culture29:30 – Community, BeFit, and building teams for Spartan races34:00 – Loving the process vs. chasing the event42:00 – Why strength training sets her apart in endurance sports46:00 – Preparing for a 100K on short notice48:00 – Inside the “pain cave” & mental tricks to keep moving53:00 – Her Guinness World Record: fastest 10K with 100 lbs59:00 – Fueling strategies & the art of “endurance eating”01:05:00 – Rapid fire questions (books, food, lifts, hard truths for trainers)01:12:00 – Reflections on sales, business, and growth as a coach