Trail Runner Nation

Dr. Phil Maffetone joins TRN to talk about his new book, "1:59:The Sub-Two-Hour Marathon Is Within Reach—Here’s How It Will Go Down, and What It Can Teach All Runners about” Although 90% of us are not going to be in contention of running that fast, each of us has our own “1:59”: getting in better shape, finishing a ½ marathon, running without injury for a long time, breaking a 24-hour 100-miler, etc. Dr. Phil explains that there are small improvements that we can make that will allow us to attain our ultimate goals. Get the book HERE ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ PARTNERS OF THE NATION Take the Tailwind Challenge at: Tailwind Nutrition Check out the cool head TORCHES made for trail running at Petzl Get 20% off your purchase of INJINJI socks and wearbles by typing in the coupon code "TRNation" at check out (Valid in the USA only) Get $5 off your first purchase at HARRYS by using the promo code "TRN" at check out.

Dr. Steve Gangemi (aka the sock doc) joins TRN for grab bag Drop Bag Topics include: Weirdest thing you have seen on the trail Importance of rest Mitochondrial Bio-genesis Perfume / Cologne debate Consistency in training Do you have the C & D? Foam Rolling ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ PARTNERS OF THE NATION Take the Tailwind Challenge at: Tailwind Nutrition Check out the cool head TORCHES made for trail running at Petzl Get 20% off your purchase of INJINJI socks and wearbles by typing in the coupon code "TRNation" at check out (Valid in the USA only) Get $5 off your first purchase at HARRYS by using the promo code "TRN" at check out.

Ultrarunner of the year, Rob Krar, drops in to discuss How he got started How to juggle training and racing with a demanding job and family His training philosophy and how it has changed Plans for the future His beard, of course! ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ PARTNERS OF THE NATION Take the Tailwind Challenge at: Tailwind Nutrition Check out the cool head TORCHES made for trail running at Petzl Get 20% off your purchase of INJINJI socks and wearbles by typing in the coupon code "TRNation" at check out (Valid in the USA only) Get $5 off your first purchase at HARRYS by using the promo code "TRN" at check out.

Sports nutrition for endurance athletes has changed in the last 20 years. What you need to Know. What new theories have been discovered? Has nutrient timing changed? Have our bodies changed? Has training and racing nutrition changed? Are all sugars created equal? Which is best for me? When? "Train Low, Race High" philosophy Check out this book: Unbreakable Runner: Unleash the Power of Strength & Conditioning for a Lifetime of Running Strong Previous Podcasts with Sunny: Unbreakable review with Sunny Blende Ultrafuel for Ultrarunners Fueling for your first Ultra Metabolic Efficiency Training Fueling In The Heat Carb Burning vs. Fat Burning ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ PARTNERS OF THE NATION Take the Tailwind Challenge at: Tailwind Nutrition Check out the cool head TORCHES made for trail running at Petzl Get 20% off your purchase of INJINJI socks and wearbles by typing in the coupon code "TRNation" at check out (Valid in the USA only) Get $5 off your first purchase at HARRYS by using the promo code "TRN" at check out.

Veteran ultrarunner, Monica Moore, joins The Nation with her coach, Seth Kotelnicki to explain how she trained for the recent Pine to Palm 100 in an nontraditional way. Seth Kotelnicki is the owner of The Ranch Athletics. His training method develops mental and physical endurance by concentrating on: Perfect efficient running form (i.e. The Pose Method) Strong core and intense, regular power lifting Regular moderate-length training runs Find out more about Coach Seth, his gym and training methods on Facebook Twitter Instagram YouTube Check out links of our CoHosts, Sally McRae and Billy Yang Take the Tailwind Challenge at: Tailwind Nutrition Check out the cool head TORCHES made for trail running at Petzl Get 20% off your purchase of INJINJI socks and wearbles by typing in the coupon code "TRNation" at check out (Valid in the USA only) Get $5 off your first purchase at HARRYS by using the promo code "TRN" at check out.

Ian Torrence has been a busy guy this summer participating in 9 races thus far - and winning 3 of them! He joins us to talk about his recent race, Stagecoach 100, that he directed and had to cancel due to weather threats. Ian then opens the TRN grab bag for a lively discussion on surprise topics. You can tap into Ian's coaching skills at McMillan Running Take the Tailwind Challenge at: Tailwind Nutrition Check out the cool head TORCHES made for trail running at Petzl Get 20% off your purchase of INJINJI socks and wearbles by typing in the coupon code "TRNation" at check out. Get $5 off your first purchase at HARRYS by using the promo code "TRN" at check out.

Geoff Roes is one of the best ultra trail runners to participate in this sport. He has won many races and set course record on many of the most difficult 100-mile races in the United States including: Susitna 100 CR Resurrection Pass 100 CR 2-time winner: Wasatch Front 100 Hurt 100 CR The Bear 100 Western States 100 CR Santa Barbara 100 CR by over 3-1/2 hours! He was captured in the JB Benna film, Unbreakable, when he pulled off one of the greatest athletic come backs of all time! Geoff elaborates on his recent article he wrote in Ultrarunning Magazine. He began having severe symptoms affecting nearly every system of his body and how he has tirelessly struggled to understand the cause and remedy. Although still not sure why or how this came upon him, he has come to peace with the joy of running and taking each day by day. Check out Geoff's Alaska Running Camp Take the Tailwind Challenge at: Tailwind Nutrition Check out the cool head TORCHES made for trail running at Petzl Get $5 off your first purchase at HARRYS by using the promo code "TRN" at check out.

Dr. Nicholas Romanov is a two-time Olympic coach and creator of the Pose Method of running, which uses gravity as the primary force for forward movement, instead of muscular energy. He is a world-renowned sports scientist who as consulted with elite athletes, professional sports teams, and the National Triathlon teams of Great Britain, United States, Mexico and Russia. Supported by his latest research, his new thoroughly-illustrated book, "The Running Revolution: How to Run Faster, Farther, and Injury-Free--for Life" Dr. Romanov explains how our bodies were meant to run and provides the new rules for running faster, longer and stronger: 10 lessons to master correct running form How to gauge your own body's training needs, Simple training programs for different distances Check out this VIDEO. The book is now on sale anywhere you buy books. AMAZON Take the Tailwind Challenge at: Tailwind Nutrition Check out the cool head TORCHES made for trail running at Petzl Get a free audio book download at Audible

Ashley Walsh rejoins Trail Runner Nation to discuss some common norms that you should question: You don’t have to get faster You don’t need to run long on weekends You don’t need a sponsor You don’t need to apologize for a crappy race on social media Take the Tailwind Challenge at: Tailwind Nutrition Check out the cool head TORCHES made for trail running at Petzl

Congratulations to Jimmy Dean Freeman and Andy Kumeda for completing the Original Six Hundo Challenge (aka The Last Great Race): Old Dominion, June 7, 2014 Western States, June 28, 2014 Vermont Trail, July 19, 2014 Angeles Crest, August 2, 2014 Leadville Trail, August 16, 2014 Wasatch Front, September 5, 2014 They join a very small group of 35 athletes to have completed this task since 1989: Last Great Race Finishers Last Great Race Statistics Joe Kulak, Last Great Race record holder (114:23:49 set in 2003), joins The Nation to talk about Jimmy and Andy's incredible accomplishment. You can't run Six 100-mile races without your feet. Foot Kenetics makes a revolutionary foot care product, RunGoo that can prevent blisters and other body chafage. Get FREE shipping by using TRN2014 at checkout.

Victor Ballesteros was the second place finisher at the inaugural Tahoe 200 mile Endurance Race beginning on Friday, September 5, 2014. This 100-hour limited run circumnavigates Lake Tahoe in California. With over 39,800 feet (12,131 meters) of ascent and 39,800 feet of descent, it proved to be one heck of a challenge for the 90 warriors that toed the line. Candice Burt, the race director (masochist), of the race joins as co-host. We were pleased to learn that an amazing 67% of the starters finished the race! Listen in to find out what this beast was all about, how this distance differs from your run-of-the-mill 100-miler. Victor is CEO of Victory Sportdesign, THE best gear / drop bag available and works at San Francisco Running Company Victor's band, Voodoo Switch, plays the outgoing music on this podcast, "Waiting" Take the Tailwind Challenge at: Tailwind Nutrition Check out the cool head TORCHES made for trail running at Petzl Get free shipping and no blisters if you order some RunGoo Enter code: TRN2014 when you check out.

Candice Burt rejoins The Nation to discuss the Tahoe 200, the first 200-mile race in North America. The race will begin on Friday, September 5 and cutoff is the following Tuesday, September 9. The race will be covered by Candice's article, How to be Tough as Nails Mentally for Your 100 Miler Link to study on smiling Take the Tailwind Challenge at: Tailwind Nutrition Check out the cool head TORCHES made for trail running at Petzl Get free shipping and no blisters if you order some RunGoo Enter code: TRN2014 when you check out.

Join TRN and follow Jimmy Dean Freeman and Andy Kumeda as they take on the original SIX 100-mile runs in the "Orignial Six Hundo Challenge". #O6HC Stan Jensen, caretaker for www.run100s.com joins us as Jimmy and Andy's mentor. Jimmy & Andy reflect on their Leadville Trail 100 races and looks ahead to their FINAL, Wasatch Front 100 this weekend. Follow Jimmy and Andy's challenge at #O6HC or @CoachJimmyDean or at Socal Coyotes To read more about JDF's challenge read here: Six Hundos You can't run Six 100-mile races without your feet. Foot Kenetics makes a revolutionary foot care product, RunGoo that can prevent blisters and other body chafage. Get FREE shipping by using TRN2014 at checkout.

Are you mentally tough to run an ultra? Are you addicted to running? Do you use imagery to make you a better runner? Dr. Duncan Simpson is a Certified Sport Psych Consultant (CC-AASP), Assistant Prof in Sport, Exercise, & Performance Psychology (SEPP) UG coordinator for SEPP Barry University in Miami, FL. He recently finished gathering information to help understand Ultra Runners. Specifically: Mental Toughness Exercise Addiction Sports Imagery Ultra running questionnaire Take the Tailwind Challenge at: Tailwind Nutrition Check out the cool head TORCHES made for trail running at Petzl Get free shipping and no blisters if you order some RunGoo Enter code: TRN2014 when you check out.

Warren Pole returns to TRN for a spirited round of Grab Bag. There are only 2 rules in TRN Grab Bag: 1. Come with two topics. 2. Be prepared to comment on every topic. Some opics that came out of the grab bag: Are ultrarunners becoming hobos? underwear or commando? Does ultrarunning cause tooth decay? ARTICLE Ultrarunning is like child birth Will the Grand Canyon forbid Rim to Rim running? Take the Tailwind Challenge at: Tailwind Nutrition Check out the cool head TORCHES made for trail running at Petzl Get free shipping and no blisters if you order some RunGoo Enter code: TRN2014 when you check out.

Join TRN and follow Jimmy Dean Freeman and Andy Kumeda as they take on the original SIX 100-mile runs in the "Orignial Six Hundo Challenge". #O6HC Legendary Marshall Ulrich joins us as Jimmy's mentor. Jimmy reflects on his AC100 race and looks ahead to his Leadville Trail 100 this weekend. Follow Jimmy's challenge at #O6HC or @CoachJimmyDean or at Socal Coyotes To read more about JDF's challenge read here: Six Hundos You can't run Six 100-mile races without your feet. Foot Kenetics makes a revolutionary foot care product, RunGoo that can prevent blisters and other body chafage. Get FREE shipping by using TRN2014 at checkout.

We met David Horton at the Hardrock 100 Endurance Run. David Horton is a 5-time finisher of this race and the winner of the first two. We discuss with him the unique qualities that make this race one of the toughest runs in the world. David has also completed over 160 ultras, has 40 wins, and many other ambitious running endeavors. This gives him the authority to teach a class at Liberty University on advanced running. In fact, they must complete a 50K race to pass the class! David recently wrote an article in the April 2014 Ultrarunning Magazine, "Your First Ultra - You Can Do It" that offers some suggestions for your first ultra. Some topics: "Do I get to run or do I have to run?" "No discomfort, no gain" philosophy vs. "No Pain, no gain" Check out the Journey Film movie about David Horton's 2700 Pacific Crest Trail run Here is a VIDEO clip. Check out the cool head TORCHES made for trail running at Petzl

Join TRN and follow Jimmy Dean Freeman as he takes on the original SIX 100-mile runs in the "Orignial Six Hundo Challenge". #O6HC Jimmy Dean Freeman's quest for the six original hundres in 13 weeks couldn't be accomplished without mentors like Thomas Green. Jimmy reflects on his race in Vermont and looks ahead to his hometown course of AC100 in this podcast. Tom has completed more than 175 ultramarathons, including more than 40 races of 100 miles or more. Tom is best known for being the first person to complete the “Grand Slam” of ultrarunning (the four major 100-mile trail runs in one summer) in 1986. Tom recently finished WS as he is on his way in 2014 to repeating the Grand Slam 28 years later. Follow Jimmy's challenge at #O6HC or @CoachJimmyDean or at Socal Coyotes To read more about JDF's challenge read here: Six Hundos You can't run Six 100-mile races without your feet. Foot Kenetics makes a revolutionary foot care product, RunGoo that can prevent blisters and other body chafage. Get FREE shipping by using TRN2014 at checkout. Go Buy some RunGoo, people! Buy some RunGoo people!!

Alex Varner is an accomplished distance runner. In April he completed his first 50 mile race, Lake Sonoma 50 miler, where he came in fourth place and earning a birth in the Western States 100 Endurance Run. After just 2 1/2 months of training, he competed in his first 100 mile race finishing an impressive 7th place. He seemed like the perfect person to talk about the many different race distances and how they differ. From 5K to 100 miles, what are the differences in training, nutrition, pace, strategy, mental toughness, etc. Take the Tailwind Challenge at: Tailwind Nutrition Check out the cool head TORCHES made for trail running at Petzl Get free shipping and no blisters if you order some RunGoo Enter code: TRN2014 when you check out.

Join TRN and follow Jimmy Dean Freeman as he takes on the original SIX 100-mile runs in the "Orignial Six Hundo Challenge". #O6HC On June 29, 2014, Jimmy completed the Western States 100 Mile Endurance Run, his second of six 100-mile runs. Jimmy joins us with his virtual coach, Ian Sharman, to get a race report, discuss recovery for his third race, the Vermont 100 Mile Endurance Run, on July 19-20, 2014. Ian is well qualified to coach JDF since he is the current record holder for the Grand Slam of Ultra Running, which he set last year. Follow Jimmy's challenge at #O6HC or @CoachJimmyDean or at Socal Coyotes To read more about JDF's challenge read here: Six Hundos You can't run Six 100-mile races without your feet. Foot Kenetics makes a revolutionary foot care product, RunGoo that can prevent blisters and other body chafage. Get FREE shipping by using TRN2014 at checkout.

We were able to visit with 2014 Hardrock 100 third-place finisher, Adam Campbell, moments after kissing the rock. This was Adam's second 100-miler where he convincingly proved that he is build for endurance running. Adam talks to us about how he finds time to trail while holding down a busy career as a lawyer, his philosophy about fitness, how the Hardrock 100 is unique and intimidating. He also relates the full story of being caught on 14,058' (4285 M) Handies Peak in a storm, where he and his pacer were struck by lightning. Interesting fact about Adam: He holds the Guiness World record for fastest marathon time in a suit: Video Shortened VIDEO of the interview with Adam Campbell Check out the cool head TORCHES made for trail running at Petzl

On July 11, 2014, 141 lucky lottery winners will tow the line at one of the most demanding 100-mile endurance runs in the world, the Hardrock 100. This race began as a tribute to the toughest of the tough miners that worked in this high-altitude, picturesque paradise of western Colorado. Race Director, Dale Garland, joins the Nation to talk about the history and demands of this course. The course boasts of and average altitude over 11,000 feet, 34,000 feet of ascent and 34,000 feet of descent. There are 7 summits over 12,000' and 4 summits over 14,000'. Most runners get to see the sun set twice with the average finish time of 41 hours (cutoff time of 48-hours). Because of the harsh environment and changeable weather, Dale calls this a race for the "post graduate" ultra runner. Trail Runner Nation will be in Silverton, CO this year with Petzl (Hardrock sponsor) to provide podcasts with athletes, live updates via social media and video clips of these amazing athletes and the beautiful scenery!. Take the Tailwind Challenge at: Tailwind Nutrition Check out the cool head TORCHES made for trail running at Petzl Get free shipping and no blisters if you order some RunGoo

Sally McRae pushed her body, mind and spirit to finish F10 at the 2014 Western States 100. Sally tells her 21 hour 24 minute experience of victory and her lessons learned. Take the Tailwind Challenge at: Tailwind Nutrition Check out the cool headlamps made for trail running at Petzl

Bob Crowley joins us to build off our previous podcast with him. In "Ultra Trail Running Culture: Bob Crowley- Part 1 we discussed the tenets of being an ultra trail runner, part 2 and part 3 will focus on the emphasis and importance ultra trail runners place on mental preparation for an event. Specifically, what does one do to plan, prepare, and execute and review to optimize the experience of running an ultra event. There are four stages of mental training for a 100-mile event (some of these may transfer to shorter distances, but we will focus on the 100-miler because of its uniqueness) Plan Prepare Execute Review In Part 2 we talk about Planning and Preparing. Bob refined Sunny Blende's, "What to Do When Things Go Wrong" sheet for running Hard Rock: HRH When Things Go Wrong - Bob Crowley Previous podcasts with Bob: Bob Crowley & Josh Katzman - Trail Running Culture, Are We at Risk of Losing it? Ultra Trail Running Culture - Bob Crowley- Part 1 Take the Tailwind Challenge at: Tailwind Nutrition Check out the cool headlamps made for trail running at Petzl

We catch up with Sally McRae and Chris Vargo to find out how their training is going and talk about common questions they receive as coaches. We field some questions from live Nation listeners, Ian MacNairn and Emir Dedic. Take the Tailwind Challenge at: Tailwind Nutrition Check out the cool head TORCHES made for trail running at Petzl

Join TRN and follow Jimmy Dean Freeman as he takes on the original SIX 100-mile runs in the "Orignial Six Hundo Challenge". #O6HC Jimmy just completed the "Old Dominion". Jimmy joins us with his virtual coach, Andy Jones Wilkins, to get a race report, discuss recovery for his second race, the Western States 100 Follow Jimmy's challenge at #O6HC or @CoachJimmyDean or at Socal Coyotes To read more about JDF's challenge read here: Six Hundos You can't run Six 100-mile races without your feet. Foot Kenetics makes a revolutionary foot care product, RunGoo that can prevent blisters and other body chafage. Get FREE shipping by using TRN2014 at checkout.

Amazing trail runner and author of the book One Step Beyond Malcolm Law and his equally talented wife Sally Law sat down with us and discussed how a small gift in the form of a book became the spark for a dramatic change in life. Malcolm spun on his heel, leaving the corporate world to become a trail adventurer and a major fundraiser for Leukemia & Blood Foundation of New Zealand. Malcolm Law set out to perform a world-first attempt to run New Zealand’s seven renowned ‘Great Walks’ in seven consecutive days. It would take 3-5 days to "Walk" each of the sections so in trailrunner fashion he decided he should run them. Malcolm has set a new adventure and equally agressive fund raising goal. Running 50 Peaks in 50 days combined with a fund raising goal well over 250K for the Mental Health Foundation of NZ. You can find more about Malcolm on his website http://runningwildnz.com/ Wanna FREE signed copy of One Step Beyond. Join the contest ending June 18th, 2014. Complete this sentence, "You know you have Gone One Step Beyond when you..." Submit #OneStepBeyond on Twitter or at TRN FaceBook for a chance to be chosen by Malcolm.

"There is no such thing as the One True Way to eat for maximum health. No diet cult is better than the rest, and a person need not join any diet cult to attain maximum health. An agnostic approach to healthy eating that forbids nothing, smiles upon eating for pleasure, and encourages individual choice can do the job just as well or better" - Matt Fitgerald, Diet Cults Well known sports writer, nutritionist, athlete and trainer, Matt Fitzgerald joins the Nation to discuss how diet cults have taken over our culture, vilified many foods and lead us with fear to join their restrictive diets. This is NOT another diet book, but rather a captivating book that invites us to objectively look at different diets and figure out, through scientific research, what is healthy eating. Links: Free Audible download of "Diet Cults" Purchase the book Link to Matt's previous podcast, "The Mind-Body Method of Running by Feel" Take the Tailwind Challenge at: Tailwind Nutrition Check out the cool head TORCHES made for trail running at Petzl

Join TRN and follow Jimmy Dean as he takes on the original SIX 100-mile runs in the "Orignial Six Hundo Challenge". Prior to each run we collect a recap from the previous race, bring a mentor to help repair our athlete and commit Jimmy to a prediction. This should be fun......for us. This podcast expert: David "Sniper" Snipes: Sniper has completed >40 100-mile runs, including Jimmy's first challenge: the "Old Dominion" Follow Jimmy's challenge at #O6HC or @CoachJimmyDean or at Socal Coyotes To read more about JDF's challenge read here: Six Hundos

In the middle of the official Western States Endurance Run training weekend, we relax with Ian Torrence Emily Harrison Dominic Grossman Katie DeSplinter We chat about the weekend training Is trail running an activity or a way-of-life Mental Taper How has social media affected ultra running? If you could enter a trail running time machine, would you choose to dial back the dial 100 year? or forward 100 year? Links: McMillan Running Take the Tailwind Challenge at: Tailwind Nutrition Check out the cool head TORCHES made for trail running at Petzl

So if you get a chance to have a running discussion with Ann Trason and Andy Jones Wilkins at mile 55.7 on the Western States 100 Trail, what would you ask? We throw the kitchen sink at them both and came up with a jumbolia of topics that will make you laugh, gasp, motivate, and train you. Register for Ann's new trail race series, Overlook Endurance Runs: 50k, 50-mile, and 100K Take the Tailwind Challenge at: Tailwind Nutrition Check out the cool head TORCHES made for trail running at Petzl

We posted a video on April 9th about Josh Spector's experience running his first 135-mile race, The Brazil 135. To date it has had over 2 Million views - because it is that good! Josh's first 135-mile run was on an unfamiliar course in a foreign country, he talks to us about the difference between 100-milers and running 135 miles, how to prepare yourself for running in a foreign country, and how to enjoy the journey. Josh is currently training for the grueling Badwater 135 this summer. Josh's Blog, Twitter, and Facebook Take the Tailwind Challenge at: Tailwind Nutrition Check out the cool headlamps made for trail running at Petzl

Many athletes fail to make progress or they see their fitness regress due to three main factors: You become injured You are training improperly You’ve simply lost the desire to train, or train like you used to Dr. Stephen Gangemi, the Sock Doc, joins The Nation to discuss the science behind motivation. From your brain to your gut, we will discuss the physiological and mental aspects of motivation and how you can regain the Eye of the Tiger! Here are the links to the first two articles that are the basis of this podcast: Athlete Motivation Part 1: It's In Both of Your Brains Motivation Part II: Healing and Optimizing Your Two Brains Motivation Part III: Why Your Motivation Stinks, Literally Take the Tailwind Challenge at: Tailwind Nutrition Check out the cool headlamps made for trail running at Petzl

Many athletes fail to make progress or they see their fitness regress due to three main factors: You become injured You are training improperly You’ve simply lost the desire to train, or train like you used to Dr. Stephen Gangemi, the Sock Doc, joins The Nation to discuss the science behind motivation. From your brain to your gut, we will discuss the physiological and mental aspects of motivation and how you can regain the Eye of the Tiger! Here are the links to the first two articles that are the basis of this podcast: Athlete Motivation Part 1: It's In Both of Your Brains Motivation Part II: Healing and Optimizing Your Two Brains Take the Tailwind Challenge at: Tailwind Nutrition Check out the cool headlamps made for trail running at Petzl

One of your most important tools as a runner is your feet. You need to take care of them or your training/race may be foiled. John Vonhof literally wrote the book on how to take care of your feet: "Fixing Your Feet". This book is now in the FIFTH edition! John joins The Nation to discuss the basic principles of foot care: How you can have healthy & happy feet Footwear Insoles Gaiters Blister prevention and treatment What to keep in a foot care kit Taping your feet You can learn more by visiting his website HERE. Take the Tailwind Challenge at: Tailwind Nutrition Check out the cool headlamps made for trail running at Petzl

Jared Campbell paid his $1.60 and a pack of cigarettes for his third attempt and second finish at the 2014 Barkley Marathons, a niche race in a niche sport. Since the race's inception in 1986, only fourteen runners out of about 800 have completed the 100 mile race within the official 60 hour cut-off. Jared is one of two racers that have finished the race twice. Jared joins The Nation to discuss one of the most difficult trail races and his view on training. You can learn more about Jared at his blog, Door5 and read more about his race at Barkley Marathons HERE. Watch the 2014 Barkley Marathons Movie TRAILER and find out more about the movie HERE Take the Tailwind Challenge at: Tailwind Nutrition Check out the cool headlamps made for trail running at Petzl

Dr. Mark joins us again to cover some interesting topics: America College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), the world’s authority on exercise and health, just released an article, "How to Select a Running Shoe", refining their position. Should you follow your doctor's treatment recommendations blindly? What questions should you ask and what drugs to be careful of as a runner. There was an article in Runners World talking about some medications you should avoid as a runner. Breathing is an important component in endurance sports. Can we learn to breath better?. What are things to consider and what are some exercises to learn to breath better? Check out this video of some exercises you can do. A few ways to help you improve your running gait: You need to check out THIS WEBSITE. You can get a PHd in running gait from these videos. Another LINK that has more gait analysis information. Where to find Dr. Cucuzzella: Boston Marathon: Monday, April 21 Harpers Ferry Half Marathon: Saturday, May 10 Two Rivers Treads Running Store The Natural Running Center LINK to all of Dr. Cucuzzella's podcasts with The Nation. Take the Tailwind Challenge at: Tailwind Nutrition Check out the cool headlamps made for trail running at Petzl

Dr. Ryan Green is a certified athletic trainer and holds a doctorate in kinesiology. He is a father, husband, runner and cancer survivor. He recently discovered the benefits of tacking a running break. We covered the following topics: Running Breaks - how long and how? Are their benefits to stretching? How should you warm up or should you? (Dr. Green's warm up lunge series) How to treat injuries? Ice Cup Massage Visit Ryan's running store at Varsity Sports. Visit Ryan's new web site: www.RunDocRyan.com Take the Tailwind Challenge at: Tailwind Nutrition Check out the cool headlamps made for trail running at Petzl

If you could run one last 100 miler with a personal-best time and then never run again OR you could be guaranteed to be able to run three miles a day for the rest of your life, but never run another 100, what would you choose? Andy Jones-Wilkins answers this question and other philosophical questions. AJW will be running his tenth and final Western States 100 this June. He has remained a competitive threat in this event and a HUGE fan of this race and trail running. We talk with Andy about two of his recent blog posts on iRunFar: Problem Solving on a Run Stillness on The Run Other topics covered: How do you get your kids involved in running? What is the "Sawchuk Seven" and is it true? "Race Course in Review" by Vasque Running Shoes Take the Tailwind Challenge at: Tailwind Nutrition Check out the cool headlamps made for trail running at Petzl

George Plomarity, Patagonia's Team Sports Sales and Marketing Rep, joins The Nation to talk about their marketing campaign called #sufferbetter. We discuss what this means to the ultra runner and how you can share your experiences with the community and possibly win a full Patagonia kit. Post your story and photos on Twitter or Instagram and you will be registered for a monthly drawing. "Race Course in Review" by Vasque Running Shoes Take the Tailwind Challenge at: Tailwind Nutrition Check out the cool headlamps made for trail running at Petzl

"One of the most wonderful things that has happened to the world is Trail Running", says Gordy Ainsleigh in a face to face conversation we recently enjoyed. Gordy talks about where ultra trail running has gone and his thoughts on where is is going. He talks about his passion for the sport and his secret to life-long running. He answers some of the Nation Members' questions too. Find out why Gordy believes in cotton t-shirts, grape juice and beards - even in the summer months. Gordy has finished Western States 100 twenty-two times, most recently in June, 2007, though he unofficially completed the race in just over 30 hours (the official cuttoff) in 2010. his fastest time is 20:55 in 1984, after starting 8 minutes late. "Race Course in Review" by Vasque Running Shoes Take the Tailwind Challenge at: Tailwind Nutrition Check out the cool headlamps made for trail running at Petzl

Karl Meltzer is the record holder for the most 100-mile trail wins and most 100-mile wins in one season. He joined the Nation with a studio audience the day before Way Too Cool 50K to discuss his race strategies: How does he break up a 100-mile race How does he alter his training when he is injured How has his training changed over the years His multi-day records and upcoming attempt to break the 2200-mile Appalachian Trail record How is a multi-day race different mentally and physically from a 100-mile race He also talks about Wings For Life World Run coming up on May 4th. 100% of the $50 race fee goes to find a cure for spinal cord injuries. Check out this video of Karl's Red Bull Human Express, his 2064-mile Pony Express record run in 2010. Check out our video simulcast HERE "Race Course in Review" by Vasque Running Shoes Take the Tailwind Challenge at: Tailwind Nutrition Check out the cool headlamps made for trail running at Petzl

We talk with three of Nike's newly-formed Trail Elite Team: Sally McRae, Chris Vargo, Alex Varner, and Team Manager: Pat Werhane. This interview was recorded the afternoon before Chris and Alex finished #1 and #2 at a 1200-participant, Way Too Cool 50K. Some of the topics we discuss are: How to adjust for weather or course conditions? Is there race-day cooperation between team mates? Trusting your training Pre-race pump up songs Sally: “Back it up” by Gwen Staphanie Chris: “Helecopter” by Bloc Party Alex: “The Sign” by Ace of Base uhhhhh, yea :) Core strength exercises Check out our video simulcast HERE "Race Course in Review" by Vasque Running Shoes Take the Tailwind Challenge at: Tailwind Nutrition Check out the cool headlamps made for trail running at Petzl

Nation member, Candice Burt joins us to discuss a recent lighthearted blog post she wrote on how ultra runners take things to excess. DUH! That's who we are. Fun article about people that make up excuses for not racing well. Here are some of the races she directs: Tahoe Rim 200 mile race Bellingham Trail Marathon Bellingham Trail Running Series Cle Elum Ridge 50k & 25K Rainshadow Running "Race Course in Review" by Vasque Running Shoes Take the Tailwind Challenge at: Tailwind Nutrition Check out the cool headlamps made for trail running at Petzl

Ultra Trail Running is distinctly different in culture and mental preparation than other running or endurance sports. Veteran Trail Ultra Runner, Bob Crowley, visits with the Nation about what is unique about this sports culture. Is there a difference between "doing" an ultra run and "being" an ultra runner? What are some of the tenets of the trail running culture? Are we losing the ultra trail running culture with the mass appeal and participation recently? How can we keep the culture? How does this culture helps us prepare mentally for the experiences that accompany a long trail race An interesting perspective from Geoff Roes in his article, "Ultrarunning is Dead" Join the Trail Animals Running Club "Race Course in Review" by Vasque Running Shoes Take the Tailwind Challenge at: Tailwind Nutrition Check out the cool headlamps made for trail running at Petzl

Ashley Walsh has been busy weaving a tapestry of trail philosophy on her blog AshRuns100s, training and racing. In fact, she recently killed it at Pistol 100 Mile in TN, where she won with a sub 20-hour finish! You gotta run this one just for the buckle! Grab bag topics include: Motivation vs. Commitment There is a season for everything How to guarantee a DNF Gear or no Gear? Ashley, always up for a challenge, was dared by her husband, Dan, to include this list of words. Did she succeed? "Race Course in Review" by Vasque Running Shoes Take the Tailwind Challenge at: Tailwind Nutrition Check out the cool headlamps made for trail running at Petzl

If "ultra running is 90% mental and the other 10% is in your head", shouldn't we train our brain? Is there a repeatable process for winning? Lanny Bassham went from a kid that others said would never compete as an athlete to a 2-time Olympic medalist and 4-time world champion with four world records. All winners have common threads that they do differently than everyone else. He has discovered a formula to preparing mentally to be a champion. Since retiring from competition, he continues as a coach to many World and Olympic champions, Fortune 500 companies, the United States Secret Service, the US Navy SEALS, the United States Army Marksmanship Unit, the US Marine Corps Marksmanship Unit, and the FBI. "With Winning in Mind" is in it's third edition and is a MUST read for all Nation Members. Learn more at Lanny's web site: Mental Management You will learn about the three circles of the Mental Management System three phases of a task goal getting how to use rehearsal as a mental tool How an imagined imprint can be just as real as an actual imprint. How can we be better coach your children "Race Course in Review" by Vasque Running Shoes Take the Tailwind Challenge at: Tailwind Nutrition Check out the cool headlamps made for trail running at Petzl Download a free audio book at Audible

Get out your dictionary and slow down the playback on your MP3 player! Ben Greenfield, fitness expert and top ranked Iron-Man triathlete teaches about Cold Thermogenisis Exercise throughout the day How Fasting can help you turn your body into a fat-burning machine How to "Grease your Groove" The importance of breathing correctly Ben can be found on four of his own podcasts: Endurance Planet Git Fit Guy Ben Greenfield Fitness Rock Star Podcast You can also find other valuable articles and tools on many of his web sites: Ben Greenfield Fitness Quick and Dirty Tips Endurance Planet Pacific Elite Fitness Rock Star Triathlete Academy Super Human Coach Network Here are some of the links to information that we talked about Fasting e-book by Dr. John Berardi "Running on Air" book by Budd Coates Nose Breathing Benefits by Dr. John Douillard Cold Vest Power Lung Elevation Training Mask "Race Course in Review" by Vasque Running Shoes Take the Tailwind Challenge at: Tailwind Nutrition Check out the cool headlamps made for trail running at Petzl

What if there was a nutrition training program that is NOT a calorie-deficient diet, NOT low-carb / Atkins-like, NO need to count calories, and requires NO special foods or supplements? Our favorite nutritionist, Sunny Blende, teaches us how to train our metabolism: increase our fat burning enzymes so we can be efficient running machines! Sunny's Metabolic Efficiency article Phil Maffetone's 180-Formula Bob Seebohar's book "Metabolic Efficiency Training" Matt Fitzgerald's book "Racing Weight Cookbook" Vitargo and Ucan Outro Song by DJ A Smooth Other Podcasts with Sunny: Unbreakable review with Sunny Blende Ultrafuel for Ultrarunners - Sunny Blende Fueling for your first Ultra - Sunny Blende Metabolic Efficiency Training with Sunny Blende and Tim Flemming Sunny Blende - Fueling In The Heat "Race Course in Review" by Vasque Running Shoes Take the Tailwind Challenge at: Tailwind Nutrition Check out the cool headlamps made for trail running at Petzl

Trail Runner Nation's Southern California corespondent, Jimmy Dean Freeman, joins the Nation to discuss new year's resolutions and goal setting. Stuff we referenced: Vanessa Rodriguez wrote for Active.com, "7 Ultrarunning Myths That Hold you Back". "Mind the Gap" from Jimmy's blog. Ted Video: Derek Sivers: "Keep your goals to yourself" Never too old to start: Fauja Singh, the guy who ran his first marathon at age 89! Helen Klein, now 91, started running at age 55. She is the oldest woman to run a sub 24-hour 100-mile race. She finished the Grand Slam at age 66. Here are SOME steps we came up with to achieving your running goals: Set the goal - don't worry about the myths that hold you back or what other people say Identify the obstacles that might get in your way - plan how you will overcome them Break the goal into smaller, more realistic goals Do something everyday that get you closer to that goal Adapt the plan as necessary Celebrate along the way Check out our new sponsor's, "Race Course in Review" by Vasque Running Shoes Take the Tailwind Challenge at: Tailwind Nutrition Check out the cool headlamps made for trail running at Petzl