Some Work, All Play 225. Kilian's Wild Physiology Data, Tara Dower Sets the Overall AT Record, The Next Race After Leadville, 7 Ultra Logistics Tips, and How Elite Athletes Eat!
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Sep 24, 2024 Tara Dower, an ultra-endurance athlete, shares her inspiring journey of setting the Appalachian Trail record, showcasing her extraordinary resilience. Meanwhile, legendary runner Kilian Jornet's groundbreaking physiology study reveals shocking insights on endurance performance, including post-race cognitive effects. The duo discusses practical ultra-logistics tips, nutrition tactics, and the intriguing debate over super shoes versus trail shoes. This lively conversation balances deep insights with light-hearted moments, making for a captivating listen!
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Tara's 40-Day Appalachian Trail Triumph
- Tara Dower set the Appalachian Trail overall FKT in 40 days, averaging ~54 miles/day over very technical terrain. Megan, her coach, described Tara's mix of fierce mental toughness and radiating joy as central to the achievement.
Turn On The Nervous System With Strides
- Do include strides and speed work close to events to 'turn the nervous system back on' and preserve running economy. Megan used surges and strides 10 days before the AT to maintain Tara's neuromuscular readiness.
Trail Biomechanics Trade Off Flat Speed
- Trail specialists often show similar systemic physiology to road runners but different neuromotor adaptations like lower cadence. Those biomechanical adaptations may limit flat-speed potential while optimizing mountain efficiency.