I’m Going for the Appalachian Trail Record: Here’s the Plan

In this solo episode of the Free Outside Podcast, I share my full game plan for 2025—including how I’m building from Cocodona 250 to the Appalachian Trail self-supported FKT attempt this August. I break down how I’m training, recovering, testing gear, and optimizing logistics for what could be a once-in-a-lifetime record shot.

We cover:

-How Cocodona fits into my 2025 plan

-Why I’m racing Bighorn 100 as an FKT-style training run

-Nutrition experiments and how I’m training my gut for endurance

-Gear strategy: headlamps, socks, resupply boxes, portable charging

-My flexible (but spreadsheet-heavy) approach to planning FKTs

-The impact of trail damage from hurricanes and federal cuts to trail crews

-And why I think “just eat more” is still the most revolutionary ultra strategy out there

-This is a behind-the-scenes look at what it actually takes to prep for a 2,000+ mile FKT. Plus, I shout out a few sponsors that help make it all possible and give a sneak peek of a secret June project.

🔗 Sponsors:

Janji – Sun hoodies, shorts, and gear I’ll wear on the AT: janji.com

Garage Grown Gear – My go-to for ultralight headlamps and small brands

CS Instant Coffee – The frothy instant coffee I’ll be drinking on-trail

💥 Support the podcast and FKT: patreon.com/freeoutside

Subscribe to Substack: http://freeoutside.substack.com

Support this content on patreon: HTTP://patreon.com/freeoutside

Buy my book "Free Outside" on Amazon: https://amzn.to/39LpoSF

Email me to buy a signed copy of my book, "Free Outside" at jeff@freeoutside.com

Watch the movie about setting the record on the Colorado Trail: https://tubitv.com/movies/100019916/free-outside

Website: www.Freeoutside.com

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Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Year Ahead

02:50 Training and Preparation for Upcoming Races

06:02 Nutrition and Gear for the Appalachian Trail

08:47 Sponsorships and Support for the Journey