EP185 - Still Competitive After 25 Years of Ultrarunning - Jeff Browning

Jeff “Bronco Billy” Browning returns to the Run the Riot podcast for a wide-ranging conversation on staying competitive in ultrarunning for decades, not just seasons. From rebuilding after tendonitis to preparing for Cocodona 250 and another run at Western States, Jeff shares practical insight every ultrarunner and ultrarunning coach can learn from.

This episode covers what it really takes to manage big ultra racing goals, recover from hard efforts like the Colorado Trail, and keep showing up healthy—physically and mentally.

In this episode, we talk about:

• Training for Cocodona 250 and managing a Western States double

• What Jeff learned from the Colorado Trail and why tendon and connective tissue damage often shows up months later

• Taking a rare full month off running and rebuilding intelligently

• Strength training for ultrarunners: heavy lifting, isometrics, mobility, and durability

• Ankle taping for technical trail racing and why Jeff tapes for every race

• Ultra shoe design: ideal drop, rocker, stack height, and stability for long distances

• Nutrition, recovery, and why Jeff prioritizes protein for longevity

• Coaching, family life, and balancing training with real-world responsibilities

• Mental resilience when races don’t go as planned and how to move forward as a competitor

Show Notes: https://www.theriot.run/jeff-browning2

Whether you’re training for your first ultra, chasing a PR, or focused on staying healthy long-term, this episode is packed with real experience from one of the most durable ultrarunners in the sport.