Today, we're going to explore the microscopic powerhouses that fuel every step of our runs: mitochondria. Often referred to as the 'batteries' or 'powerhouses' of the cell, these tiny organelles are where the magic happens when it comes to producing the energy we need, whether we're pushing up a steep incline or sprinting towards the finish line.

Dr. Mark Cucuzzella rejoins us to help us understand what mitochondria are exactly, how we can create more, and how we can improve the efficiency of these powerhouses is an expert with a rich blend of clinical experience, athletic accomplishment and a passion for wellness. HERE is the link to the article Dr. Mark mentioned.

Check out these links:

• Two Rivers Treads, Dr. Mark's running store.
• Natural Running Center, a resource with many useful running tips.
• Freedoms Run Race Series (Full, 1/2, 5K, 10K)

Check out this link to learn more about Zone 2 training.

In today's episode, we have an incredible story of determination and endurance. Meet Kristian Morgan, a British ultra-runner who has recently achieved a remarkable feat on the famous Appalachian Trail in North America. Kristian set a new Fastest Known Time (FKT) by completing the 2,200-mile trail in just 45 days, 4 hours, and 27 minutes. Battling through challenging weather conditions and treacherous terrains, Kristian's record-breaking journey showcases his mental strength and unwavering determination. As we talk with Kristian, we might find skills that will help each of us in our own personal running goals.

Find out more about Kristian and his coaching services HERE

You can also watch a full, unedited version of the podcast on our Youtube Channel

This is the second of our series of episodes called "Endurance off the Trail" where we dive deep into the world of endurance sports outside of trail running. Our mission? To uncover the similarities we share and the differences that set us apart. We believe that by exploring the nuances of other endurance disciplines, we can enrich our own experiences on the trail.

In this episode, Liz Stephen, a former Nordic skier and Olympian, joins The Nation to discuss her transition from alpine skiing to Nordic skiing and her current involvement in coaching high school kids. Liz shares her experiences in both sports and highlights the similarities and differences between them. She emphasizes the importance of community and the welcoming nature of the Nordic skiing and trail-running communities. Liz also talks about the physical demands of Nordic skiing and the need for strength and power in the sport. She encourages trail runners to consider incorporating strength training into their routines for better overall performance and injury prevention. We also talk about Liz's love for being in the mountains and her appreciation for the beauty and possibilities they offer.

But an athlete's heart never rests! Transitioning from the icy tracks to rugged terrains, Liz embraced trail racing, competing in challenging distances like 64K and 40 miles. Join us as we journey through Liz's remarkable career and discover how her skiing experiences shaped her trail-running endeavors.

Check out this VIDEO of Liz at the Tour de Ski, Val di Fiemme

In this episode, we delve deep into the often-overlooked synergy between road and trail running with Coach Ian Sharman. As head coach at Sharman Ultra and a seasoned ultra-distance trail runner, Ian brings a unique perspective, showcasing the merits and benefits of embracing both terrains in training. From the physiological adaptions and mental resilience fostered in each discipline to actionable advice for transitioning seamlessly between them, this episode offers invaluable insights for runners of all levels. Whether you’re a trail aficionado considering your first pavement run, or a road warrior curious about the allure of the unbeaten path, join us as we explore how merging the best of both worlds can elevate your running game to unprecedented heights.

It has been a long time since we have done a drop bag episode.  Andy Jones-Wilkins takes a break from his Crack-A-Brew podcast to compare what is in his drop bag.  

Have you ever been told, you are heel striking, you shouldn't do that!  You need to land on your forefoot or midfoot!  And after trying, became frustrated and given up?

Today we are going to speak with an expert on gait, balance and stability to understand how you can improve your core balance and stability that then will help you run more efficiently.

Danny Abshire is a veteran running coach and injury expert. He is the cofounder of Newton Running, a startup running shoe manufacturer specializing in shoes that promote an efficient midfoot/forefoot running gait. He has been making advanced footwear for runners and triathletes for more than 20 years.  He wrote the book, Natural Running: The Simple Path to Stronger, Healthier Running

Be sure to check out his new Active 88 shoes and the AI Imprint customizable insoles

Are you patient?  Can you find benefits of being more patient?  Returning expert and ultra runner, Dr. Rob Bell. helps us with some strategies that can help us be more patient.  A certified Mental Performance Coach and author of "I Can't Wait to Be Patient (And the Fastest Way to Get There)," Dr. Bell shares his expertise cultivated through years of academic research and practical coaching. Unpacking the essence of patience, he delves into the balance between process and product, emphasizing our inability to control time. Drawing from his book, he unveils four key skills that enrich not only our running endeavors but also our journey towards becoming better individuals. Whether you're a dedicated runner or on a path of personal growth, this episode offers valuable insights to infuse your pursuits with patience and purpose.

Visit Dr. Rob's WEBSITE

Listen to Dr. Rob's Mental Toughness Podcast 

Listen to his previous visits to The Nation:

Puke & Rally - Mental Toughness with Dr. Rob Bell.

Running and the Science of Mental Toughness

This year it seems like course records throughout trail running have been dropping like flies.  UltraRunning Magazine lists hundreds of new records for both men and women on their site.  Some of these records are decades old.  Are we getting faster?  It sure seems like that.  Alex Hutchinson has also been wondering this and decided to do his science thing and find out the truth.  In his recent OutsideOnline article "Why Are Runners Suddenly So Fast? Records are falling and times are dropping.  Is it the shoes, or something else?" he filters through the statistics to answer the question.

Read Alex's other articles at OutsideOnline here

Visit his web site and get his book Endure: Mind Body, and the Curiously Elastic Limits of Human Performance

Welcome to today's episode, where we explore an exhilarating topic that's been gaining traction within the endurance sports community: the fascinating role of ketones in enhancing athletic performance. Ketones, a type of fuel utilized by the body when glucose levels are low, have proven to offer numerous benefits for endurance athletes, including increased energy, improved performance, reduced fatigue, faster recovery, and enhanced mental cognition.

In this episode, we'll delve into the science behind obtaining ketones through two primary channels: a ketogenic diet and ketone supplements. While both are valuable, we'll focus on the newer option for our sport: supplemental ketones. These provide a convenient and effective way for endurance athletes to boost their performance with exogenous ketones.

But what exactly are exogenous ketones, and how can they benefit trail runners? Join us as we delve deep into the science and practical applications of incorporating ketones into your training and racing routine.

We're excited to be joined by a leading expert in the field, Mike Brandt, the CEO and Co-founder of H.V.M.N. (Health Via Modern Nutrition). With his expertise, we'll explore the potential advantages of exogenous ketones, the best timing and dosing strategies, and any potential drawbacks or limitations in their usage.

Do you want to give a ketone supplement a try? We like KetoneIQ. Visit HVMN.com/TRAILRUNNER to get 30% off your first subscription order!

Michael Brandt is co-founder and CEO of H.V.M.N. He's an avid triathlete and marathoner (2:42 PR). Prior to starting H.V.M.N., he received his BS in Computer Science & Design at Stanford, was a Product Manager at Google, and Adjunct Professor at the Academy of Art in SF. He has always been a leader, and lifelong student, of designing products around new technologies and emerging needs.

Good friend, Dr. Phil Maffetone, joins us again to help us understand how important music can be to improve the neuroplasticity of your brain and enter the alpha state.  What does this mean for an endurance runner?  Dr. Maffetone explains why you should care!

Previous episodes with Dr. Maffetone:

• Get Stronger with Dr. Phil Maffetone
• Why is Weight-Loss so Difficult Even for Runners? Dr. Phil Maffetone
• Daydreaming is Healthy for Runners
• Dr. Phil Maffetone Unplugged
• Dr. Phil Maffetone was RIGHT all along!
• Take Your Shirt Off and Get Some Vitamin D - with Dr. Phil Maffetone
• Phil Maffetone: How can Rhythm Improve Your Efficiency?
• Breaking the 1:59 marathon with Dr. Phil Maffetone
• Dr. Phil Maffetone - Building a Better Athletic Brain
• Phil Maffetone transcribed!
• Eat to Win with Dr. Phil Maffetone.
• Dr. Phil Maffetone - Speed up by slowing down

Links:

• Dr. Phil's Big Books:
  • Big Book of Health and Fitness
  • Big Book of Training and Racing
• Dr. Phil's web site
• Phil Maffetone's music site