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The Strength Running Podcast

Ego is the Enemy: Pro Ultrarunner Ian Sharman on Training Your Mindset

Jan 16, 2025
Ian Sharman, founder of Sharman Ultra Coaching and an elite ultrarunner, shares insights from his impressive career, including a personal best marathon at 43. He discusses the mental challenges runners face, like handling pre-race excitement and avoiding the comparison trap on platforms like Strava. Sharman emphasizes the importance of a process-oriented mindset, focusing on training over outcomes, and learning to adapt to race conditions—showing that with commitment, age doesn't have to define performance.
57:46

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Quick takeaways

  • Ian Sharman emphasizes that endurance athletes can achieve personal bests well into their 40s by setting realistic goals and adapting training.
  • The podcast highlights the importance of a flexible mindset and the ability to adjust race strategies in response to unexpected challenges.

Deep dives

Pushing Limits and Redefining Age

Ian Sharman's recent accomplishments, including setting a personal record in the half marathon at age 44, highlight the idea that endurance athletes can continue to improve well into their 40s and beyond. He emphasizes how individuals can maintain and even enhance their performance despite getting older by setting realistic goals and adapting their training. Sharman shares that while he aimed to achieve specific marathon PRs this year, unexpected logistical issues during one race forced him to quickly adjust his strategy and focus on completing the half marathon instead. This adaptability is a crucial lesson for runners of all levels, reminding them that success can come from flexible thinking and an openness to challenges, rather than strict adherence to previously set goals.

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