Some Work, All Play
249 episodes - English - Latest episode: 6 days ago -Five to ten topics, sometimes about running, with lots of love and enthusiasm and science. We dig deep into training, races, studies, pop culture, and much more! With Megan Roche, M.D. and David Roche!
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Episodes
215. Hardrock 100 Resets What's Possible, Courtney Makes History, Steep Uphill Training, The Cooling Revolution, and a Cycling Performance Mystery!
July 16, 2024 14:48 - 1 hour - 86.4 MBOur GPS watches told us we were "Peaking" for this great episode! The main topic was inspiration from the Hardrock 100. Ludovic Pommeret won just before his 49th birthday, setting a course record in the process, redefining what's possible with age. Courtney Dauwalter set her 3rd consecutive course record, once again proving that she's the GOAT. We talk about how athletes should think about training for steep uphills and downhills, along with lessons for everyone from the record-setting era...
214. Silver Rush 50 Mile and Getting Back Up, Shoe Hot Takes, Fueling Slower Efforts, Unconventional Tapers, Mount Marathon, and Tour de France Stories!
July 09, 2024 13:56 - 1 hour - 81 MBWe took some Big Leadville Energy into this great episode! The main topic was the Silver Rush 50 Miler, which David raced on Saturday. The last few months have been a doozy, starting with the bike accident and severe concussion back in early April. It has been hard at times, in ways that go a lot deeper than athletics. This episode is about falling, and the power to GET. BACK. UP. The 50 Miler was David's best ultra yet, and it possibly sets up a date with destiny at the Leadville 100 in Au...
213. Western States 100 Insanity and How The Sport Has Changed Forever, Why Everyone is Getting Faster, The Biggest Trail Breakthrough Ever, and History at the Olympic Trials!
July 02, 2024 21:26 - 1 hour - 90.2 MBWe were flying high after the best sports week of all time for this amazing episode! The main topic was the 2024 Western States 100, the most insane race we have ever seen. It was not a cool year, but the times were wildly faster across the board, building on massive speed breakthroughs from 2023. What are we seeing? The same trends are present on the track and even in other endurance sports. We have theories! The biggest, most exciting question of all: where might this trend be going next...
212. Olympic Trials Stories, Western States Preview, Jim Walmsley's VK, Salty Foods for Training, Broken Arrow Breakthroughs, and Arm Band Heart Rate!
June 25, 2024 16:26 - 1 hour - 82 MBWe are coming to you from Eugene, Oregon at the Olympic Track Trials for this amazing episode! The main topic was on some inspiring stories from the first half of the Trials, which feels like the ultimate party of the US running world. And like most good parties, it features a lot of Snoop Dogg. We also talked about lessons from Broken Arrow, including Jim Walmsley doing the Vertical Kilometer race prior to the Western States 100, right alongside Anna Gibson racing the VK prior to the Olymp...
211. Speed for Long Races, Olympic Trials and Western States, vVO2 Workouts, Roger Federer's Speech on Belief, and Bicarb Hacks!
June 18, 2024 13:48 - 1 hour - 88.2 MBWe thought long and hard about alien physiology before recording this great episode! The main topic was a wildly cool wrinkle in training science. Across all different types of events, the most predictive variable for performance is often how fast an athlete can go at VO2 max effort. That could have massive implications for how we think about training and what we consider "specificity" for long events! We discussed why we think that is, along with workout designs, the use of hills, and how...
210. Why Strides Work, Supershoe Tech Review for the Trails, History at NCAA Champs, Parker Valby's Dominance, and AI Songs!
June 11, 2024 14:43 - 1 hour - 87.2 MBWe put on some bouncy shoes for optimal energy return before this great episode! The main training discussion was a new study on a speed protocol that caused major improvements in high-level runners. We zoom out to discuss other studies that have similar findings, including one that provided a theory for mechanisms in slow-twitch muscle fibers. There is one thing almost every endurance athlete should be doing--short speed/hill repeats under 30 seconds. It's wild how simple it can be! Before...
209. Love With Limits, Spring Energy's False Nutrition Labels, Kilian's Unmatched Dominance, Running Club Romance, and The Future is Female Coaches!
June 04, 2024 15:18 - 1 hour - 88.9 MBWe were emotionally hardened by some sleepless nights before recording this special episode! A couple months ago, a brilliant podcast listener on Reddit published her predictions that Spring Energy's Awesomesauce gel had incorrect calorie counts. Three weeks ago, those findings were confirmed by a German lab. This past week, everything exploded on social media with all of Spring's gels listing fraudulent calorie totals, roping us into a situation that we never hope to relive. This episode ta...
208. Gel Controversy Grows, Courtney's Nutrition Strategy, Fueling Case Studies, World Record 10k, Trash Talking on the Track, and A Meaning of Life!
May 28, 2024 14:06 - 1 hour - 88.3 MBWe ate a bag of performance waffles to get ready for this awesome episode! The first topic was a follow-up on the controversy about a gel that may have mislabeled its calorie count. We discuss emails from listeners that provide more context, along with what it might mean for food labeling generally. It's a wild, wild world out there! The main training topic was Courtney Dauwalter's race-day nutrition, which she discussed in a recent interview. The GOAT says she only consumes 200 calories pe...
207. Core Strength, Controversy in a Gel's Calorie Total, Track Coaching Takeaways, Ketones and Hormones, Big Hope, and Coaching AI!
May 21, 2024 14:37 - 1 hour - 88.3 MBWe gathered liquid courage (chugging from a gallon of chocolate milk) for this great episode! The main training topic comes from the world of track, where athletes are probing the limits of human physiology. Because the margins separating athletes on the track are so small, there are takeaways for all endurance performance. Raise the ceiling to raise the floor! Yes, raising the roof is making a comeback like it's 2002 again. We also talked about the ongoing controversy about an energy gel's...
206. Doing Hard Things, Longevity and Training, Fueling Short Workouts, The Power of Placebo, AI Bots, and Cocodona 250!
May 14, 2024 15:00 - 1 hour - 84.9 MBWe sat in a stew of uncertainty before recording this awesome (and healing) episode! The main training topic was a pair of studies looking at longevity outcomes in serious athletes. Extra-hard training seems to have longevity benefits compared to general population lifestyles, contrary to some warnings you might hear! Let's all plan on doing uphill treadmill runs in the nursing home. The big conversation was in the spirit of sharing all of the ups and downs of life. TW: deep discussions of ...
205. The Mystery of Training Non-Response, Strength Work Approaches, Health Metrics, New Bike Day, and Track Going Mainstream!
May 07, 2024 13:35 - 1 hour - 86.8 MBWe celebrated a week with minimal life drama (YAY) before recording this great episode! The main training topic was a new study monitoring response v. non-response. Imagine two similar athletes who are given the the same training program. One could have breakthroughs, and one could face physical disaster. Why? We use the study to talk about how we have seen athletes respond differently, and ways you might be able to understand your own unique physiology. Training theory is such a cool window...
204. Canyons 100k Breakthroughs, Why Megan Didn't Race, Carb-Loading Thoughts, Bloodwork Season, TikTok Ban, and Big Surprises!
April 30, 2024 14:55 - 1 hour - 83 MBWe got the surprise of our lives before recording this dazed-and-excited episode! The main topic was the Canyons 100k. It was Megan's dream race, and you may have seen... she did not start. We had some incredibly surprising news right before we boarded our flight to California for the race, and we process it in real-time on the episode. Hopefully the discussion and Megan's openness helps you deal with whatever big surprises you face in life! Even though Megan didn't race, we cheered and cre...
203. Canyons 100k Pre-Race, Improving Power, Perils of Energy Availability Cycling, Wild Shoe Tech, and Crash Recovery!
April 23, 2024 13:43 - 1 hour - 86.3 MBWe sipped on some of the finest, chalkiest electrolyte drink for this great episode! The main topic was gearing up for big events, spurred by Megan's upcoming adventure at the Canyons 100k. After the health issues, we were unsure whether we'd ever be able to have this sort of discussion on the podcast, and listeners have been there every step of the way. If there is any test, it's in training. Racing is a celebration. This episode celebrates the broken road to get to the race-day party! Thi...
202. Process v. Competitive Fire, USA Jersey Scandal, Boston Marathon Hot Takes, Carbs and Central Fatigue, and Valby's Cross Training!
April 16, 2024 13:56 - 1 hour - 81.6 MBWe got extremely hyped watching the Boston Marathon before recording this amazing episode! The main training topic was a new study connecting carb intake during exercise to reduced central fatigue, leading to the researchers theorizing a link between "excess" carbs and improved neuromuscular function. The study protocol was weird and wild! Does this mean we should consume mid-podcast gels to improve joke performance? We promise to edit out the slurps. We also answered an incredible question...
201. Reflections From a Near-Death Experience, Getting Back on the Bike, Zone 2 Tutorial, Shoe Reviews, and Fueling Cheat Sheets!
April 09, 2024 15:15 - 1 hour - 92 MBWe enjoyed an all-expenses-paid ambulance trip before this amazing episode! The main topic was David's harrowing bike crash. The incredible paramedics said that the impact launched him 100 feet through the air. Somehow, the concussion, a broken wrist, and lacerations seem to be the worst of it. The legs are 100%! And as all runners know, wrists and brains just get in the way. We are so happy to be alive! Life is so uncertain, and maybe the inattentive driver will be a type of spiritual teac...
200th Episode Celebration! 5 Ways Our Approach Has Changed, Strength Work Evolution, Post-Race Recovery, and World XC!
April 02, 2024 13:47 - 1 hour - 87.3 MBIt's the 200th episode, and we brought so much gratitude to the party! The main topic was reflecting on 5 ways our approach to endurance training/coaching has changed, based on new research and real-world experience. The topics buffet is packed with goodness: extreme-carb fueling during hard efforts, heavier strength work (in moderation), less need for high mileage (but more cross-training), increased steady running, and more double workouts/big threshold sessions. Even more important than...
199. Jasmin's Astonishing Barkley Marathons, Crown King 50k Lessons, Squats, Downhill Training, and Power Glutes!
March 26, 2024 13:02 - 1 hour - 85.9 MBWe rode the inspiration wave from witnessing history for this great episode! The main topic was on the mind-boggling finish from Jasmin Paris at the Barkley Marathons. She is the first woman to finish the race, and we think it will go down as one of the most impressive endurance achievements ever. We break down why that is, and we proceed to eat some crow based on past statements about the race that she proved wrong. Jasmin dares us all to dream bigger. We also had a blast breaking down our...
198. Fatigue Resistance Tips, Intro to Uphill Treadmill, Ketones, Double Workout Feelings, and Performance Vibration!
March 19, 2024 13:44 - 1 hour - 85 MBWe vibed with a new playlist (Taylor's version) before this great episode! The main training topic was a new study on fatigue resistance, which used a novel protocol for testing durability involving different levels of intensity. "Durability" research may be the most exciting part of modern performance science, and we broaden it out with real-world examples. We finish with our 4 big tips! You already know tip one. Yes, it involves eating. And yes, we are in the pocket of BIG CARB. We also...
197. Lululemon's Big Ultra Bet, Running Form Science, Heat and Mitochondria, Camille's New Records, and UTMB Talk!
March 12, 2024 14:04 - 1 hour - 85.9 MBWe made questionable playlist decisions (arf arf) to get hyped for this amazing episode! The big topic was Lululemon's FURTHER event, a 6-day ultra in the California desert, full of intrigue and world records. Megan was on the ground as coach and science advisor, and she returns with a report that will blow your minds. What happens when a company invests millions of dollars in supporting athletes of all levels, along with ground-breaking research? And what does it mean for the future of runn...
196. Fueling Tutorial, Fatigue Resistance, Athlete Contracts, Megan's Biggest Week, Bike Training, and World Indoors!
March 05, 2024 14:44 - 1 hour - 88.1 MBWe ate some business PB+Js to fuel up for this great episode! The main training topic was on fueling like your athletic life depends on it. Erase all of your preconceived notions and ask this question: When you're already tired and you're still a couple hours away from home, what do you do? If you're anything like many of the best endurance athletes in the world, you learn to stuff down as many calories as you reasonably can stomach. We break it down in a fueling tutorial, through the lens o...
195. Double Workouts, Running as a Power Sport, Megan's Overall Win, Big Alta Races, and New Mental Health Study!
February 27, 2024 18:21 - 1 hour - 89.5 MBWe put on some see-through pants for this great episode! The main training topic was on double workouts, involving two moderate sessions in a single day. Norwegian athletes are notorious for their double threshold days, and over the last few years, we have been using an adapted approach with the treadmill or cross-training that can be implemented for trail runners, non-pros, and aging athletes. There's no "secret"... but this might be the closest thing to a training secret that we have. Don'...
194. World Record Training Study, Heart Rate Monitors, Sports Bras, Iron and Lactate, and AI Thoughts!
February 20, 2024 16:12 - 1 hour - 84 MBWe glugged some sugar with coffee and cream for this awesome episode! The main training topic was a new study breaking down the training of the 24-hour world-record holder. It gave us an excuse to talk about the trajectory of ultra training, and how we're in the midst of a fundamental shift in the sport at all levels. We also talked about a cool study on sports bra tightness and breathing patterns. The results were pretty stunning, and it may have implications for chest-strap heart rate mon...
193. Black Canyon 100k and Why Ultras Will Never Be The Same, Big Carb Fueling, and Taking Chances!
February 13, 2024 16:36 - 1 hour - 89.1 MBWe just got back from a joyful and intense weekend at the Black Canyon 100k, arguably the most competitive ultra on US soil! Endurance sports are in the midst of a fundamental shift in what's possible, from the winners to the final finishers. This year's Black Canyon was a mind-blowing demonstration of how the game is changing, with tons of lessons that apply to all goals! Topics we discussed: why the sport has taken such a big leap in the last few years, how race dynamics have changed, th...
192. Olympic Trials Hot Takes, How To Fuel in Races, The Enhanced Games (ugh), and Supershoe Data!
February 06, 2024 15:13 - 1 hour - 89.7 MBIt was the ultimate celebration episode, on a high from watching the Olympic Marathon Trials! We talked about some of our favorite storylines from the most exciting race on US soil: training partners finishing together (and our conspiracy theory), the next big star is born for female marathoners, an Olympian who walked onto her D2 college team, and so much more. Then we had some of the coolest data ever: internal stats on race day fueling from 60 case studies of successful races. Most fiel...
191. UTMB Strikes Back and What's Next, Olympic Trials Picks, Our Favorite Coaches, and Body Image!
January 30, 2024 16:14 - 1 hour - 81.5 MBWe rolled up our shorts to their full upright and locked positions for this spicy episode! A big topic was the final installment in our trilogy of updates on tensions surrounding UTMB. The letter sent by Kilian Jornet and Zach Miller to fellow pros added fuel to a fire that started at the grassroots level, finally leading to a response from UTMB. We provide some context that will be fascinating whether you're interested in trail running or just the business side of things, before coming to a...
190. Optimizing Testosterone Levels, Lower Mileage Training, Breathing and Stress, and US Cross Country!
January 23, 2024 17:09 - 1 hour - 85.3 MBWe chugged some chocolate whole milk to fuel this amazing episode! The main training topic was on why testosterone levels are relevant for all endurance athletes. While individuals have different genetic set-points for testosterone, studies on men and women show that training and fueling interventions can change baseline levels. Those changes can be positive, leading to more energy and better performance... or negative, possibly contributing to fatigue in training and life. We break down the...
189. UTMB Boycott News, Zone 1 v. Zone 2, Epigenetics of Endurance, Blood Values, and UROY Rankings!
January 16, 2024 18:21 - 1 hour - 83.5 MBWe had fire (and iron) flowing through our veins for this awesome episode! There is a big development in the UTMB controversy: reports that legends Kilian Jornet and Zach Miller sent a letter to some of the best athletes in the world considering a boycott of this year's races. We talk about what we think it means through the lens of negotiation theory. This shift in leverage could be a turning point in the UTMB drama! We also discussed emerging evidence that endurance training fundamentall...
188. Tempo Runs Explained, Men vs. Women Mileage, Answering Listener Questions, and Debating AI in Medicine!
January 09, 2024 18:06 - 1 hour - 82 MBWe ate the world's largest lunches to get ready for this awesome episode! The main training discussion was on tempo running. What even is a tempo? Coaches and physiologists all disagree, leaving athletes in an uncertain spot. We cut through the noise with the help of a 2019 study looking at what training elements most strongly correlate with long-term growth. We also answered some amazing listener questions! Should men and women train at different mileage? Do NSAIDs impact adaptation? The ...
187. New Protein Science Breakthrough, 2024 Predictions, Continuous Biomarker Monitoring, and Sleep Deception!
January 02, 2024 16:46 - 1 hour - 83.6 MBWe are coming in hot with some big 2024 energy! The main topic was a deeper science corner breakdown of the new study that challenges conventional wisdom on protein consumption. This research could change how you think about daily fueling, with potential benefits for adaptation and recovery. We geek out on the methodology, featuring an isotope-tagged cow, researchers screaming at participants as they weightlift to failure, and protein shakes with the consistency of sludge. And the new-year...
186. The Best Holiday Episode! Secrets, Science, and Stories!
December 26, 2023 17:10 - 1 hour - 73.2 MBWelcome to a very special holiday episode! We started with our thoughts on a new study on protein intake that challenges everything we previously thought about protein metabolism. It's one of our favorite studies of all time, and it's destined to reshape the field of nutrition science! But the bulk of the episode was reading from "secrets" sent in by listeners. Some were on athletics and running; many others were about different things entirely. We think these secrets provide a beautiful win...
185. Strength Work and Running Economy, Extreme Training, AI and Coaching, and 2023 Celebration!
December 19, 2023 14:54 - 1 hour - 80.4 MBWe brought some big-time celebration vibes for this holiday episode! The main training topic was on the body of literature connecting strength work to running economy improvements. Wherever you look, there seem to be agreements mixed with contradictions, and we sprinkle some spicy controversy flakes on top of it all. Our take? Endurance athletes should probably be doing some strength work, especially with age, and we lay out a simple approach that will cost almost nothing. Two times per week...
184. Omega 3 Supplements, Taylor Swift's Training, Strava Messages, and Taper Design!
December 12, 2023 17:05 - 1 hour - 80.2 MBWe loaded up on some fish candy to bring you an awesome episode! The first study of the day blew our minds, showing that just a few weeks of high-dose Omega 3 supplementation reduced some markers of heart stress after steep downhill running. We used to think that Omega 3 pills were boring, and now we have 4 jars in the pantry. Talk about some sexy science! We also talked about Taylor Swift's training plan, consisting of treadmill runs while singing her full set-list. The "Ultra Runner of t...
183. McDowell 50 Miler Lessons, Marathon Training Tips, New Shoe Previews and Pre-Race Meals!
December 05, 2023 15:45 - 1 hour - 87.7 MBIt's one of our all-time favorite episodes after a whirlwind week! The main topic was David's race at the McDowell Mountain 50 Miler, which we use to talk about a ton of different lessons for training and racing. We're talking pre-race meals, pacing, dealing with cramps, what comes after "failure," fueling and hydration, pacing, and supershoes for trails. Plus lots of training thoughts! Outside of running, we touch on everything from how to think about race trips as vacations to the perils...
182. Wild Science on Post-Exercise Ketones, New Running Tech, Bone Density, and Protein Sources!
November 28, 2023 15:00 - 1 hour - 77.8 MBWe turned the hype meters to 11 for this awesome episode! The main training topic was on the wild, uncertain science of post-exercise ketone supplementation. We take you into the cutting-edge of this emerging field of research, like a Magic Schoolbus for the scientific method. Ketone bodies are naturally produced after exercise, an evolutionary mechanism honed over millions of years. Now, through a relatively new liquid supplement, evolution has a dimmer switch. That switch could enhance ada...
181. Fueling and Next-Day Performance, Running Cadence, Sodium Bicarbonate Supplementation, and NCAA XC Recap!
November 21, 2023 15:24 - 1 hour - 86.8 MBWe brought some big-time gratitude to this supersized Thanksgiving episode! The main topic was a new study looking at how fueling during training impacts next-day performance and protein degradation. We are seeing a new world order in eating and training! We also present some contrasting perspectives from prominent coaches, trying to discern between data and anecdotes, highlighting where there is nuance. The future is here. The future is TASTY. And sometimes the future will be STICKY. Wit...
180. Strength Work and Muscle Fibers, UTMB Controversy Updates, Creatine, and Speed in Ultras!
November 14, 2023 15:21 - 1 hour - 84.3 MBWe were extra carb-loaded for this awesome episode! The main training topic was on a new study looking at how strength work changes muscle fiber properties over time. Strength training seemed to reverse the aging clock! We dig into the nuances of what it means and how to apply the findings for endurance athletes of all ages. Invest in a big kettlebell now. The juiciest topic was the upheaval in trail running after UTMB's Whistler fiasco. It's a story as old as time, with the big power playe...
179. The Carbohydrate Revolution, Deep Thoughts on Coaching and Leadership, and Pacing Like Beautiful Idiots!
November 07, 2023 15:17 - 1 hour - 80.4 MBOur brain juices were really flowing on this great episode! The main story came from the pro peloton in cycling, where athletes are pushing the limits of carbohydrate consumption during hard races. In general, teams closely monitor fueling to get athletes to 100-120 grams of carbs per hour (400-480 calories), and there are hints that some are pushing the limits even farther. What can we learn? Our theory: "food doping" is not just for the pros, it's the way for all of us to access our greate...
178. UTMB's Big Blunder and What's Next For Trail Running, Intensity Distribution Science, and Big's Backyard!
October 31, 2023 14:12 - 1 hour - 76.5 MBWe put on some dinosaur onesies (our business formal) for this awesome Halloween episode! The big discussion was on UTMB's controversial announcement of a new race in Whistler, Canada, on the same weekend as the now-discontinued, grassroots race called Whistler Alpine Meadows. UTMB rode the sport's wave of exponential growth, gobbling up races to incorporate into their World Series. When Whistler Alpine Meadows was denied a permit, they swooped in and plopped a corporate race in its place. I...
177. How to Use Caffeine, Blue Sky Marathon Lessons, Shoe Wear Science, and Pre-Run Fueling!
October 24, 2023 14:01 - 1 hour - 80.8 MBWe brought some Big Party Energy to this great episode! The main discussion revolved around different ways we put research into practice. This weekend, David had one of his best races ever at the Blue Sky Marathon, and we adventure to the coolest edges of the science to tell you what we are trying! That included a deep dive into caffeine's role as a performance enhancer, particularly for fatigue resistance. Strategic, individualized caffeine consumption could be a massive opportunity for bre...
176. Hemoglobin and VO2 Max, Zone 1 Training, Your Watch's Metrics, and Prototype Shoes!
October 17, 2023 14:04 - 1 hour - 76.9 MBWe ate a truly stunning amount of chicken and milkshakes to fuel this great episode! The main training topic was on a new review article connecting hemoglobin levels and VO2 max. Across nearly 400 studies, these variables have a strong statistical correlation. Blood volume could be primary a driver of performance, and we break down some simple ways to optimize your levels. We also celebrated Megan's return to training after some good health news! That was a great excuse to talk about the lo...
175. Running Controversies, Chicago Marathon Stories, and Heart Rate Changes!
October 10, 2023 14:12 - 1 hour - 81.5 MBWe brought some A+ brain energy and some C+ heart efficiency to this awesome episode! The main topics involved the extremely eventful weeks in the running world. On the joyous side, the Chicago Marathon was a race for the history books, with a new world record and blazing fast times from US runners. We celebrate the incredible Molly Seidel, plus talk about body image, fueling, rest days, training volume, and more. On the less joyous side, we discuss a controversy from a brand's social media ...
174. Wild Heart Rate Data, New Coaching Theories, and 8 Shoe Reviews!
October 03, 2023 15:11 - 1 hour - 75.1 MBYou want the best podcast vibes? Because that's what you get on this episode, with some 4 AM recording energy. Why were we recording at 4 AM? For the love of the game! The main training topic was answering a listener question about what excites us most right now in coaching and theory. We delve into some of the scientific history of VO2 max via a new study, whether you should do shorter races, how to think about intensity distribution, popular supplements we are intrigued by, and lots more. ...
173. Grindstone 100k Lessons, Jim Walmsley's Training, and Marathon World Record!
September 26, 2023 15:17 - 1 hour - 82.1 MBThe vibes were STRONG in this episode, even though the ankles were WEAK. It started off with a fun recap of the Grindstone 100k. What happens when an entire season is built around a goal, but it all ends in some delicious failure? Setbacks can be good for the soul, in moderation. In that way, they're kinda like bacon. Even more joyous than that was a full breakdown of Jim Walmsley's UTMB training, distilling some lessons from last week's interview. He gave us so many good nuggets, from weekl...
172. Jim Walmsley Interview! Training at the Edge and Betting on Yourself
September 19, 2023 14:05 - 1 hour - 79.2 MBThis episode is one of the coolest moments of our lives: interviewing Jim Walmsley! We met Jim way back in 2016, and since then, we have been two of his biggest fans. Reconnecting more than 7 years later after his course record triumph at UTMB was such a joy. Jim opened up about everything around UTMB, from his specific training approach to the emotional side of getting vulnerable, "failure," and finally achieving his big goal. Jim moved to France with his partner Jess, with everything poi...
171. High Energy Training, Health and Longevity in Ultras, and Heart Rate Changes!
September 12, 2023 19:05 - 1 hour - 65.8 MBWe brought joy and so many spike proteins to this episode! The main training topic was on post-UTMB reflections about lower volume, higher energy training from the incredible Leah Yingling. You don't need to hammer your body to have success! We discuss why endurance training should uplift feeling good as a proxy for adaptation over time, starting at the cellular level and going all the way up to brain function. Healthy athletes crush b*tches! A background theme of the episode was the sickn...
170. History at UTMB! Courtney Dauwalter, Jim Walmsley, and a Year of Legends! Live from Chamonix!
September 05, 2023 10:04 - 1 hour - 91.1 MBThis very special episode is coming to you from Chamonix, right after the finish of the UTMB races! We were all around the courses, screaming until our voices gave out, gathering up all the inspiration from the incredible athletes. Our goal is to transport you to France with us for the most historic year ever! For the optimal listening experience, consume this podcast with a warm baguette. The main stories were Courtney Dauwalter and Jim Walmsley at UTMB. Courtney redefined what is humanly ...
169. Live from Chamonix! UTMB Races, Facing Adversity, and More from Trail Running's Super Bowl!
August 29, 2023 15:59 - 1 hour - 86.1 MBWe traveled halfway around the world to bring you this very special episode from Chamonix, France, the site of the UTMB races later this week! Our sleep is low, but our spirits are high. The main topic was on initial reflections on European racing and UTMB later this week. Our biggest prediction is that North American runners are going to have some major success over here in the coming decade, and we explain why. It's not just because we are extremely biased, though that plays a role. That d...
168. Leadville 100 Magic, UTMB Preview, and Lower Volume Training!
August 22, 2023 18:55 - 1 hour - 84.6 MBWe had a blast on this episode talking about some of our favorite topics! The main discussion was on takeaways from a magical Leadville 100 Miler. Jacquie Mannhard's breakthrough win came from shockingly low training volume (often under 45 miles per week) and we break down some lessons from her journey. At the finish, she popped a champagne bottle like it was her destiny! New life goal: train hard to pop them bottles. We also break down this year's UTMB races, making some predictions and deb...
167. Fueling Breakthroughs, Mental Health and Performance, and Stomach Training!
August 15, 2023 17:37 - 1 hour - 77.8 MBThis episode was a total joy talking about food, brains, and training! The main discussion was on a term sent in by a listener: "food doping." Endurance sports are being revolutionized by a focus on high fueling levels during activity. Some cyclists consume up to 600 calories per hour in hard races! In the process, performances and fatigue resistance are accelerating at rates that haven't been seen since previous eras defined by PEDs and cheating. Is mid-activity fueling the secret to unlock...
167. Fueling Breakthroughs in Endurance Sports, Mental Health and Performance, and Gut Training!
August 15, 2023 17:37 - 1 hour - 77.8 MBThis episode was a total joy talking about food, brains, and training! The main discussion was on a term sent in by a listener: "food doping." Endurance sports are being revolutionized by a focus on high fueling levels during activity. Some cyclists consume up to 600 calories per hour in hard races! In the process, performances and fatigue resistance are accelerating at rates that haven't been seen since previous eras defined by PEDs and cheating. Is mid-activity fueling the secret to unlock...