Everyday Ultra

Discover the science behind six research-backed supplements that could enhance ultrarunning performance. Learn why focusing on foundational training aspects is crucial before adding 'small rock' supplements. Get insights on the benefits of creatine for both performance and cognition, and how blackcurrant extract can improve recovery and endurance. Explore the power of dietary nitrates and caffeine, and understand the vital role of omega-3s in recovery. This informative discussion helps runners make smarter supplement choices.

Angela Sterf, an Everyday Ultra coach with Boston Marathon and 100K ultra experience, teams up with Andrew Redden, a fast marathoner and seasoned ultrarunner. They explore the synergy between marathon and ultra training, revealing how speed work enhances endurance. Listeners learn when it’s beneficial to mix the two, strategies for optimal race spacing, and the importance of fueling differently for each. The conversation also highlights the critical mindset shifts needed to conquer both distances without sacrificing performance.

Brittany Westdyke, a mother of five and endurance athlete, shares her inspiring journey of balancing family, work, and ultra running. She reveals how setting ambitious goals has made her a better mom and leader, reshaping the notion of mom guilt into a purposeful investment in herself. Brittany discusses her creative training strategies, like 4am runs, and the importance of a supportive partner. With tales of overcoming setbacks, she emphasizes patience and consistency as key drivers for success, all while advocating for running mothers through her work with For All Mothers.

Zach Bitter, a world-class ultramarathoner known for breaking the 100-mile record, shares his extensive knowledge on pacing, fueling, and longevity in the sport. He discusses the shift to a high-carbohydrate approach and details his unique fueling strategy of 96 grams of carbs per hour without gastrointestinal issues. Zach emphasizes the importance of intuitive pacing over strict data reliance and reveals his goal of completing ten sub-12-hour 100-milers. His insights into training consistency and risk management on race day provide a roadmap for runners aiming for longevity.

Dr. Alyssa Olenick, an exercise physiologist and 17-time ultramarathon finisher, shares her expertise on ultramarathon training. She discusses how speedwork can significantly enhance performance, the importance of balancing life with intense training, and lessons learned from her ultrarunning journey. Alyssa emphasizes understanding life-load versus training load to avoid burnout. She also offers practical strategies for efficient training and designing a race season that promotes fitness without overwhelm. A must-listen for those seeking to optimize their ultramarathon experience!

Alyssa Clark, a professional ultrarunner with impressive wins including Moab 240, joins to share her insights on sustainable training. She emphasizes the importance of consistency over intensity and highlights the need to balance training with life to prevent burnout. Alyssa discusses how small daily habits can enhance performance and the value of honest communication with coaches. She also introduces the concept of 'loving honesty' in coaching, reinforcing that self-reflection and adaptability are key to achieving long-term success.

Jeff Garmire, an accomplished ultrarunner, coach, and filmmaker, shares his recent triumph of setting a self-supported FKT on the Appalachian Trail. He discusses handling post-goal blues and creating new routines, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness in achieving fulfillment. Jeff reveals his preparation strategies for ultra-distance events and recounts an amusing mishap involving two left shoes during his journey. He also reflects on mental challenges faced on the trail and stresses the value of problem-solving and persistence in overcoming obstacles.

Stomach issues are the leading cause of race dropouts in ultramarathons. Training your gut to handle carbs is essential for peak performance. A three-week protocol helps athletes increase carb intake while running. Discover how to identify your carb ceiling and adjust based on race intensity and distance. Joe also shares tips on hydration, liquid calories, and dealing with nausea during races. Plus, learn the psychology behind fueling when you're not hungry and find your go-to foods for race day.

Discover how power hiking can elevate your ultramarathon performance, especially on those steep climbs. Learn the essential rules for deciding when to hike versus run and effective training strategies to improve hiking speed. Joe shares insights on using poles to reduce leg fatigue, along with techniques for maximizing their effectiveness on varying grades. Plus, get practical tips on hiking mechanics, nutrition strategies for climbs, and invaluable drills to boost your endurance. Unleash your potential with the right hiking skills!

Discover essential insights on conquering low points during an ultramarathon. Learn effective strategies for preventing blisters and managing nausea on race day. Joe shares personal reflections from the Kodiak 100M, emphasizing the importance of race selection and adapting training plans. He offers tips on setting A-B-C goals to maintain motivation even when things go awry. Plus, gain unique perspectives on tackling race logistics, including fueling and pacing for midday starts. Tune in for a treasure trove of ultramarathon wisdom!