7 Lessons for Runners From Crewing Ultramarathons

7 Lessons for Runners From Crewing Ultramarathons

An ultramarathon isn't just about the runner, it's about the team behind them. A great crew can be the difference between reaching the finish line and dropping out of the race. From keeping athletes fueled and hydrated, to navigating aid stations and monitoring changing conditions, crewing is one of the most important (and often overlooked), jobs in ultrarunning. Fresh off crewing at the legendary Western States Endurance Run, Coach Elizabeth James joins the podcast to share the seven biggest lessons she learned from the experience. She explains why knowing the course, understanding the weather, anticipating your runner's needs, and preparing for the unexpected are all critical to a successful race. Whether you're preparing to crew your first ultramarathon or simply curious about what happens behind the scenes of these incredible events, this episode gives a new appreciation for the people who help make extraordinary performances possible.

How Fitness & Form Determine Your Running Economy

What makes you the runner that you are? According to legendary coach Bobby McGee, it comes down to two essential ingredients: fitness and efficient running form. In this episode, Bobby returns to the podcast to explain how these two elements work together and how athletes can identify the difference between their natural abilities and the areas that need improvement. He breaks down the concept of running economy, why it matters for runners of every level, and how small changes in movement can lead to big gains in performance. Whether you're looking to run faster, conserve energy, reduce fatigue, or simply make running feel smoother and more enjoyable, Bobby shares practical tips and expert insights that can help you become a more efficient athlete.

How to Fuel Your Next Training Session

Between gels, bars, liquids, and real food, the options for fueling your training and racing can feel overwhelming. Lifelong runner and Registered Dietitian Jillian Thoren returns to help break down all your training nutrition needs. In this episode, Jillian and Carrie cut through the noise on what fueling strategies actually work, how many carbohydrates and calories your body needs before, during, and after race day, and practical tips for carrying fuel on your longer runs. Whether you're figuring out fueling for the first time or fine-tuning a routine that's almost there, this episode delivers actionable advice for runners at every level.

Your Questions Answered: Hills, Long Workouts, Heat Adaptations, and More!

Run coaches Brady Hoover and Ben Sommerville jump into the hot seat on this round-robin, rapid-fire episode! The coaches answer your questions about a variety of topics. Learn strategies for running hills, maximizing your development phase, and how to train in different environmental conditions while traveling. We'll also discuss training while sick and some helpful RunDot app tips to unlock tricks for training.

A Runners Guide to Functional Movement

How well do you move? How often do you move? Despite plenty of sagittal plane movement, runners are often deficient in other movement patterns. On today's episode, Dr. B.J. Leeper joins the podcast to discuss the importance of moving often and incorporating a variety of movements. Listen in to explore squatting, balancing, rolling, breathing, and so much more! Moving well is an essential part to your running performance. Learn how you may be currently leaving performance gains on the table and how to move into your true potential.