Trail Runner Nation
Outdoors
Trail Runner Nation is devoted to sharing knowledge and advice to the trail running community - from beginners to the pros! We offer tips and discussion regarding race nutrition, pacing strategy, mental focus and much more from well-respected members of the trail community.
Location:
CA
Description:
Trail Runner Nation is devoted to sharing knowledge and advice to the trail running community - from beginners to the pros! We offer tips and discussion regarding race nutrition, pacing strategy, mental focus and much more from well-respected members of the trail community.
Twitter:
@WeAreNation
Language:
English
Website:
http://trailrunnernation.com
Episodes
EP 698: Fueling for Busy Runners- How to Eat Well, Stay Healthy, and Manage Your Time
10/10/2024
In this episode, we explore the relationship between nutrition and running with registered dietitian Jason Levy. We cover meal prep strategies, the importance of fiber for overall health, and how hydration impacts performance. Jason emphasizes balancing family health with healthy eating habits, providing practical tips on fueling before and after workouts. The discussion also highlights the value of a healthy relationship with food and making nutritious choices even when life gets busy. Listeners will learn how nutrition can enhance physical and mental performance for runners and their families.
Check out Whole Family Health, where Jason specializes in helping busy families and athletes find practical ways to prioritize nutrition.
Episode Sponsors:
JanjiAmazfitAquaTruTrail Triage ap
Duration:01:02:36
EP 697: Breaking Records: The New Era of Ultra Running
10/4/2024
Why are there so many fast finish times this year? How can you get faster?
In this episode, we explore the recent trend of record-breaking performances in ultra running, examining the key factors driving these improvements. We talk about the impact of advancements in equipment, nutrition, and coaching on performance, as well as the importance of mental training and recovery strategies. The conversation highlights how consistent training and the right fueling techniques can enhance endurance and lead to personal breakthroughs. Success comes through adopting a holistic approach to ultra running, combining the right gear, structured training, and mental resilience for long-term success.
Our coaches who lead this discussion are
Krissy Moehl, the recent voice of UTMB simulcast, coach, author, race director, etc.
Ian Sharman, "freaking fast runner" with over 250 marathon and ultra finishes and world record-holder as the fastest marathon dressed as Elvis
David Roche, coaching alongside his wife, Megan. Oh, by the way, he just broke the 19-year-old course record at Leadville 100 in his first attempt at that distance. Wanna learn more? Check out our interview about how he did it.
Find out more about this episode's sponsors:
JanjiTifosi OpticsKetone IQ AND!!!!! Check out the new free app we developed, Trail Triage
Duration:01:20:41
EP 696: The Power of Action
9/26/2024
“For us is the life of action….let us rather run the risk of wearing out than rusting out.” Theodore Roosevelt
This is the 2 episode of a 3-part series, we dive into Ryan Holiday's powerful book, The Obstacle is the Way: The Ancient Art of Turning Adversity to Advantage. Holiday, an expert on Stoicism, outlines three essential steps to overcoming challenges—Perception, Action, and Will. In this episode, we focus on Action, essential for overcoming adversity
We are joined in this series by frequent Nation guest, Coach Adam Kimble. We talk about the critical role of action in overcoming life’s challenges, emphasizing the idea that deliberate action, rather than passive reaction, is key to growth. The discussion highlights how failure is not something to be feared but rather an essential part of the learning process, helping to clarify the path forward. We draw parallels between ultra running and everyday life, showing how perseverance and resilience are cultivated through a process-oriented approach. We also discuss cultural perceptions of failure, the need to reframe obstacles as opportunities for growth, and stress the importance of community in supporting personal development.
Part 1: EP 693: Perception: Turning Obstacles into Opportunities
Learn more about Coach Adam Kimble HERE
Episode Sponsors:
JanjiAmazfitField of GreensAir DoctorTrail Triage ap
Duration:01:09:38
EP 695: The Science of Stress- Managing Physical, Mental, and Biochemical Pressure
9/19/2024
In this episode, Dr. Phil Maffetone takes a comprehensive look at stress management, breaking it down into physical, biochemical, and mental/emotional categories. He shares practical strategies for addressing common stressors, from eliminating physical stress like ill-fitting shoes to managing biochemical stress through diet and reducing inflammation.
Dr. Phil shares his personal experiences as a songwriter and stand-up comedian, highlighting how creative outlets like music and comedy can help reduce stress. He emphasizes the importance of balancing positive and negative stress, with exercise playing a key role in stress management. Tools like heart rate monitors can serve as biofeedback for stress control, reminding us that everyone’s stress response is unique.
Learn more by watching these clips:
- Dr. Phil's Birthday Video
- The MAF Method
- Dr. Phil's music
- Dr. Phil's website
Episode Sponsors:
JanjiKetone IQAmazfitTrail Triage ap
Duration:01:26:53
EP 694: The Intersection of Trail Running, Backpacking and Fastpacking
9/10/2024
What happens when a love for the outdoors leads to launching an outdoor gear company and then running your first ultra-marathon?
In this episode of Trail Runner Nation, we’re joined by Tayson Whittaker, founder and CEO of Outdoor Vitals, to dive into the world of fastpacking, trail running, and backpacking. Tayson shares his inspiring journey of launching Outdoor Vitals, a company committed to providing high-quality outdoor gear. He reflects on his love for exploring remote areas, disconnecting from the digital world, and how his passion for backpacking evolved into a desire to push his limits through trail running.
We also explore Tayson's transition into ultra running, including the challenges he faced in his first 75K race, his experience pacing at the Moab 240, and how these trials sparked his goal of completing a 100-mile race. Throughout the conversation, Tayson emphasizes the importance of building confidence through experience, using the right gear, and embracing the mental and emotional benefits of outdoor adventures. Whether you’re a runner, backpacker, or fastpacker, this episode is packed with insights on stepping out of your comfort zone and growing through new challenges in the wilderness.
Watch Tayson talk about his 10 year journey with Outdoor VitalsTayson's documentary of his first 100-mile completionInstagramFacebookXYouTubeLiveUltraLight Episode Sponsors:
JanjiTrue NutritionTrail Triage apAmazfit
Duration:01:28:52
EP 693: Perception: Turning Obstacles into Opportunities
9/5/2024
In this first episode of a 3-part series, we dive into Ryan Holiday's powerful book, The Obstacle is the Way: The Ancient Art of Turning Adversity to Advantage. Holiday, an expert on Stoicism, outlines three essential steps to overcoming challenges—Perception, Action, and Will. In this episode, we focus on Perception, the foundation of how we approach obstacles.
We are joined in this series by frequent Nation guest, Coach Adam Kimble. Through engaging personal stories and examples from sports, business, and trail running, we discuss how changing our perception can reshape our reactions to life's challenges. We explore the importance of staying calm, reframing difficult situations, and focusing on the present moment. The conversation touches on the need to separate emotions from decision-making and the value of visualization to navigate obstacles with grace.
Whether you're facing challenges in running, work, or life, this episode offers practical insights into how perception can transform obstacles into opportunities for growth and improvement.
Tune in as we begin our journey through the timeless wisdom of Stoicism and discover how to shift your mindset to overcome adversity.
Learn more about Coach Adam Kimble HERE
Find out more about this episode's sponsors:
JanjiKetone IQ AND!!!!! Check out the new free app we developed, Trail Triage
Duration:01:08:24
EP 692: Built to Run- Mastering Running Form and Mobility
8/29/2024
Have you ever faced the frustration of persistent running injuries that keep you from enjoying running on the trails?
In this episode, We sit down with Dr. Matthew Silver, author of Built to Run, to explore practical strategies for running pain-free and overcoming common injuries. Dr. Silver delves into key topics like the importance of counter rotation, hip mobility, and the mind-body connection in running. He shares valuable tips on improving mobility, strength, and running form, and emphasizes the critical role of breathing in enhancing performance. Listeners will gain insights into the benefits of CO2 training, the significance of hip mobility, and how paying attention to movement patterns can reduce injury risks. Dr. Silver also highlights the value of finding a specialized physiotherapist and using his book as a resource to improve running efficiency and prevent injuries.
Check out Dr. SIlver's website for more information or consultation: Alpha Project Phyzio and Performance
Find out more about this episode's sponsors:
JanjiKetone IQ AND!!!!! Check out the new free app we developed, Trail Triage
Duration:01:10:17
EP 691: Breaking Records at Leadville: A 100-Mile Journey
8/22/2024
In this episode, Coach David Roche delves into his record-breaking performance at the 2024 Leadville 100, sharing insights into his unique approach to training, racing, and pushing personal limits. David discusses the importance of embracing failure as a pathway to success, maintaining a strong mindset, and never giving in to the urge to hike aka "Never Hike" mantra.. He also offers practical advice on nutrition strategies, including the use of liquid gels and conditioning the stomach for endurance racing. Beyond the physical aspects, David emphasizes the psychological challenges of ultrarunning, the significance of the "pain cave," and the incredible power of love and support from the running community. He concludes with reflections on the lessons he's learned as a coach and his deep gratitude for the opportunity to inspire others through his running journey.
Listen to David and Megan's podcast episode about his race at Some Work, All Play
Check out more about their coaching services at SWAPrunning
Find out more about this episode's sponsor: Janji
We also mentioned Magic Mind in this episode. You can get up to 48% off your first subscription or 20% off a one-time purchase with code TRN20 at checkout. Use this link: Magid Mind
AND!!!!! Check out the new free app we developed, Trail Triage
photo credit: Cody Bare
Duration:01:15:10
EP 690:Trail Classics: 50 North American Trails You Must Try
8/15/2024
Ricky Gates discusses his latest project, The Field Guide to Classic Trails in North America Inspired by the book '50 Classic Climbs of North America,' Ricky set out to create a similar guide for trail runners. The guide aims to highlight 50 must-do trails in North America that can be completed in under 24 hours. The criteria for selecting these trails include their feasibility, historical significance, and the ability to recommend them to others. Ricky and his collaborators have already published several trails on the Janji website, including the Cactus to Clouds Trail, the Lost Coast Trail, and the double crossing of the Grand Canyon. Gates discusses the inspiration behind the book and the process of selecting the 50 classic trails featured in it. He emphasizes the diversity of the trails, including point-to-point, loop, and out-and-back options, making them accessible to solo runners. The book aims to provide information and inspiration for both new and seasoned runners, with a focus on responsible trail running. Gates also discusses the importance of technology and advancements in gear in making wilderness exploration more accessible. The conversation concludes with a discussion about the website collaboration and the future publication of the book.
About Rickey:
• Outside Online named Rickey one of “The Fittest Real Men in America.”
• He was named USA Track and Field Mountain Runner of the Year in 2007
• is a renowned ultra-runner and adventurer.
• He has twice won the grueling Mount Washington Road Race and
• set the fastest known time (FKT) for running Yosemite’s Half Dome.
• His adventures have taken him from the South Pole to Moab, New Zealand, France, Mexico, and back to his home base near Aspen, Colorado, before settling in San Francisco.
We mentioned the book Cross Country: Fifteen Years and 90,000 Miles on the Roads and Interstates of America with Lewis and Clark
Find out more about this episode's sponsors:
JanjiArc'teryxKetone IQ AND!!!!! Check out the new free app we developed, Trail Triage
Duration:01:05:15
EP 689: Finding Joy in the Process: Lessons from a 100-Mile Race
8/8/2024
In this episode, Nation friend and renowned ultra runner Krissy Moehl talks about her recent race at the High Lonesome 100. Krissy shares her experience running the challenging 100-mile race after a six-year hiatus from 100 milers and discusses her mindset as an aging athlete. She talks about the importance of accepting and embracing her body's changes and finding joy in the process. Krissy also reflects on the support and community surrounding ultra running and the lessons she learned from this race. In this conversation, She also talks about the importance of being aware of one's body and making intentional decisions to maintain long-term health and continue running. Krissy expresses her curiosity about the changes in her body as she goes through perimenopause and her desire to explore the topic further.
Takeaways
Shame on you if you don't already own a copy of Krissy's book, Running Your First Ultra. Shake of your embarassment and get a copy now!
Find out more about this episode's sponsor:
Janji AND!!!!! Check out t
Duration:01:05:33
EP 688: The Inspirational ‘Why’ Behind a Record FKT
7/31/2024
Emily Halnon joins The Nation this week. She is a trail runner and mountain athlete from Eugene, Oregon. Emily shares her awe-inspiring journey of setting the Fastest Known Time (FKT) on the 460-mile Oregon section of the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT). Driven by the desire to honor her late mother, Andrea, who inspired her to start running, Emily talks about the mental and physical preparation required for such a formidable challenge. She tells her story in the new book, To the Gorge - Running, Grief, Resilience, & 460 Miles on the Pacific Crest Trail. She highlights the importance of having a strong ‘why,’ a supportive crew, and the deep connection she felt with her mother throughout the run. Emily discusses the profound impact of running on processing emotions and healing through grief, emphasizing the vital role of community, pacers, and crew in providing emotional support. Join us as Emily explores the significance of embracing the unknown, pushing through difficult moments, and the powerful growth that comes from these experiences. You can follow Emily on Instagram
We mentioned the charity that Emily supported on her adventure Brave Like Gabe.
Find out more about this episode's sponsors:
JanjiArc'teryxKetone IQ AND!!!!! Check out the new free app we developed, Trail Triage
Duration:01:06:10
EP 687: Rewire Your Running for Stability, Strength & Speed
7/24/2024
In this Trail Runner Nation podcast episode, Jay Dicharry talks about the newly updated edition of his book “Running Rewired,” offering valuable insights on how to combat overuse injuries and optimize movement patterns for better running performance. He emphasizes the need for building a strong body through targeted exercises, as running alone isn’t enough to enhance muscle strength, bone density, and tendon capacity. Jay discusses the role of neuroplasticity in creating new physical connections in the brain by focusing on movement patterns. He provides practical tips for improving running form and mechanics, highlights the importance of strength training and precision movements, and stresses the significance of managing cumulative stress load to prevent overtraining. Jay also touches on the benefits of plyometric exercises, proper nutrition for bone health, and the Mobo board for improving foot stability and proprioception.
Check out Jay's MoBo Board and get a discount!
HERE is the link to the video, "Untll the Wheels Fall Off" with Tony Hawk that we talked about.
The paper Jay mentioned, "No Strain, No Gain"
Here is the link for the IOC Consensus Statement on REDs from 2023
Find out more about this episode's sponsors:
JanjiTifosi SunglassesArc'teryx Become a Patreon supporter to receive quarterly givebacks from us.
AND!!!!! Check out the new free app we developed, Trail Triage
Duration:01:16:49
EP 686: Unlock the Secrets to Long-Term Running Success
7/18/2024
In this episode, Coach Ian Sharman talks about the art and strategy of long-term planning in trail running, emphasizing patience and consistency for sustainable gains. Drawing from his own experiences, Ian shares how he improved his marathon times and became a successful ultra runner through diligent training. He advises runners to set long-term goals and adapt to the physical demands of trail running while listening to their bodies to prevent injuries. Ian highlights the importance of seeking advice from experienced runners and being open to learning and adjusting training plans. The conversation covers topics like the timing for replacing old running shoes, the differing rates of cardiovascular and soft tissue development, and the mental challenges in running, including the psychological impact of DNFs. Ian and the hosts also discuss the mutual respect among runners of varying abilities, emphasizing the multifaceted nature of the sport. Learn more about Ian and Sharman Ultra Coaching.
Find out more about this episode's sponsors:
JanjiArc'teryxKetone IQ AND!!!!! Check out the new free app we developed, Trail Triage
Duration:01:07:05
EP 685: Running in Circles - Backyard Ultras
7/10/2024
Join ultra runners Jennifer Russo and Megan Eckert to discuss backyard ultras, a niche of ultra trail running. They explain that backyard ultras are last-man-standing races where runners complete a 4.167 mile lap every hour until only one person is remaining. Jennifer holds the world record with 74 yards (308 miles) set last month at Capital Backyard Ultra in Lorton, VA. She beat the previous record of 68 laps set in 2020 by Courtney Dauwalter, while Megan won her first backyard ultra at Saguaro Showdown last month with the 4th highest total "yards" 65. They discuss the unique challenges of these races, the mental fortitude required, and the importance of pacing and strategy. They also highlight the sense of community and camaraderie among participants. Backyard ultras are gaining popularity globally, with more women participating and the yardage increasing. The sport is characterized by its unique format, where runners complete a 4.167-mile loop every hour until they can no longer continue. The mental and physical challenges of the race, including sleep deprivation and hallucinations, make it a unique and intense experience. Crew support is crucial in helping runners stay motivated and get back on the course.
Find out more about this episode's sponsors:
JanjiTifosi SunglassesArc'teryxand also join their Strava Challenge! Become a Patreon supporter to receive quarterly givebacks from us.
AND!!!!! Check out the new free app we developed, Trail Triage
Duration:01:02:11
EP 684: Hayden Hawkes Embracing Gratitude, A New Approach to Running Success
7/4/2024
In this episode, we sit down with the accomplished ultramarathoner, Hayden Hawks. Hayden shares his remarkable journey of overcoming a knee injury in 2023 and his triumphant return to the 2024 Western States 100, where he improved his time by 83 minutes and finished third. He opens up about his challenges during his recovery, the importance of patience, and the mental lessons that transformed his mindset. Hayden discusses his shift from focusing solely on winning to embracing gratitude and enjoying the process, which has fueled his success in trail running. He also discusses his nutrition and hydration strategies to optimize performance and recovery. Links to learn more about Hayden and his training camp:
Hawks Running
Wild Equador training camp on Oct 26-Nov 3
Find out more about this episode's sponsors:
JanjiArc'teryxCurraNZKetone IQ AND!!!!! Check out the new free app we developed, Trail Triage
Duration:01:05:32
EP 683: Sh!t You Don't Do on the Trail - Western States Edition
6/26/2024
We recently replayed an episode from 2017 called, "Sh!t You Don't Do on the Trail" with Tim Twietmeyer and Bob Crowley.
We had so much fun walking down memory lane, we thought we should update it for 2024. Since we are near the start of Western States 100, we thought we'd skew it towards this race, but many of the principles mentioned are applicable wherever you are running. And of course, it wouldn't be in TRN style without gamifying the episode :). So Bob and Tim used descriptive but cryptic titles for each topic. We have to guess what they are referring to. We hope you have fun playing along.
Tim Twietmeyer is Vice President of the Western States Endurance Run Board and board member since 1996. He is also the only person to finish the race 25 times....all under 24 hours! Oh.....and he won the race FIVE times!
Bob Crowley is a past president of ITRA, the International Trail Running Association, and a seasoned runner with notable finishes of over 80 ultras including 2019's Tor des Geants and the 2023 Tahoe 200 mile race.
Both are members of History Expeditions, where they take their passion for history and bring it to life through expeditions that combine historical research and adventure. So far they have completed four expeditions. You can find out more at historyexp.org.
Find out more about this episode's sponsors:
JanjiCurraNZTifosi SunglassesArc'teryx Become a Patreon supporter to receive quarterly givebacks from us.
AND!!!!! Check out the new free app we developed to help you, your pacer, crew or aid station workers diagnose and solve common trail issues, Trail Triage.
Duration:01:12:50
EP 682: 2024 Western States 100 Prognostications
6/20/2024
Each year at this time, Andy Jones-Wilkins joins The Nation each year to discuss the Western States 100-mile Endurance Run. This is the 11th year that he ruminates and give us his picks for the podium and the other notable runners. We decided this year to take a look at the constant character in every year's race, the course and do an in-depth description of the course.
Find out more about this episode's sponsors:
JanjiTifosi SunglassesKetone IQ AND!!!!! Check out the new free app we developed, Trail Triage
Duration:01:41:42
EP 681: Stories From Western States 100
6/14/2024
Leading up to the 2024 Western States 100 Endurance Race, ultra legends Ellie Greenwood and Ian Sharman share their incredible experiences at the Western States 100. Ellie, who set a new women’s record in her first WS100 in 2011, and Ian, with the record for the fastest cumulative time across 10 WS100 finishes, dive into their journeys into ultra running. They discuss their initial expectations, evolving gear and training techniques, and the critical importance of pacing, discipline, and mental focus. With insights from racing at the front, mid-pack, and back, they also highlight the joy of the race and finding moments of fun along the way.
Find both Ian and Ellie at Sharman Ultra Coaching
Find out more about this episode's sponsors:
JanjiArc'teryxCurraNZ
Lumen
AND!!!!! Check out the new free app we developed, Trail Triage
Duration:00:56:08
EP 680: Breaking Barriers in Women’s Running
6/7/2024
We are joined by Maggie Mertens, the author of "Better Faster Farther: How Running Changed Everything We Know About Women," which challenges long-held beliefs about women in running. Starting with a powerful reminder from over a century ago, when a woman ran the first modern Olympic marathon without permission, the book reveals how women have faced relentless opposition from the medical establishment, media, and athletic associations. Despite these challenges, they ran barefoot, without sports bras, and sometimes disguised as men, defying quack science and societal norms. Mertens takes us from this boundary-breaking marathon in Greece in 1896 to today's ultra-marathons, like the Spine Race, where women have shattered records. The conversation explores the history of women in running, the progress made, and the lingering stereotypes and inequalities. It highlights the achievements of female athletes, the impact of Title IX, and the need for more research on women's bodies in sports. Overall, it sheds light on the importance of breaking down barriers and empowering women in the world of running.
You can preorder the book now or buy it on June 18th when it is released.
Learn more by going to Maggie's website or following Maggie on Instagram
Find out more about this episode's sponsors:
JanjiTifosi SunglassesAG1Ketone IQ Become a Patreon supporter to receive quarterly givebacks from us.
AND!!!!! Check out the new free app we developed, Trail Triage
Duration:00:54:58
EP 679: Training Variety for Peak Performance
5/30/2024
In this episode, we discuss "Adaptation and Diversity in Training" with our adventurous guests Emma Cook-Clarke and Adam Campbell. Both elite athletes in mountain endurance sports, Emma and Adam share how their diverse sports backgrounds influence their training approaches.
From soccer and rugby to running and ski mountaineering, Emma discusses her journey of integrating different sports to enhance her performance and maintain her passion for the alpine. Adam, a member of several Canadian national teams and a three-time Guinness World Record holder, shares his insights on the importance of variety and adaptability in training.
We explore the benefits of cross-training, emphasizing how it improves overall fitness, prevents injuries, and keeps training interesting. The conversation highlights the value of lower-impact activities like cycling and swimming for aerobic development and recovery, as well as the mental and physical advantages of engaging in other sports like rock climbing and hiking.
Tune in to learn how embracing variety and listening to your body can lead to better performance, prevent injuries, and make training more enjoyable. Whether you're a trail runner or just love trying new activities, this episode offers valuable takeaways for all fitness enthusiasts.
Find out more about this episode's sponsors:
JanjiTifosi SunglassesArc'teryxand also join their Strava Challenge! Become a Patreon supporter to receive quarterly givebacks from us.
AND!!!!! Check out the new free app we developed, Trail Triage
Duration:01:08:23