Some Work, All Play

We reached deep into the BELIEVE BAG before this great episode! It started out with all of our thoughts ahead of the Javelina 100 Miler this weekend. This journey into the unknown has it all: fears, dread, and doubt right alongside excitement, celebration, and DMX. We hope this exploration gives you a tailwind that pushes you to chase scary dreams.

We also did a deep dive into a massive new meta-regression study on mitochondria and capillary development. The study gathered data from hundreds of previous studies to come to big conclusions about how the body adapts over time.

And this one was full of fun topics! Other topics: shoe choice for the race, how mindset evolves on race week, a new article on Norwegian heat training that delves into how to prepare for hot races, how that may improve performance in cooler conditions, Parker Valby's game-changing contract with New Balance, what that contract means for the sport and lessons for negotiation generally, how long-term training impacts physiology, the Secretary of the Interior running an ultra, how higher caffeine totals may impact sleep even 12 hours before bedtime, carb burning at low intensities, and a beautiful listener corner message about crusty hearts.

This one is for the brick stackers and shot shooters! See you on the other side.

We love you all! Huzzah!

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We put on all of our pants and jackets to record this HOT episode! The main training topic is on the wild science of heat suit training. In 2021, a case study revealed that simply wearing a couple layers while doing easy biking could rapidly expand hemoglobin mass, which could improve performance in all conditions. Numerous other studies support the findings, and now heat suits are a staple of pro cycling training. This could be a new frontier of performance!

We talk about how our feelings have changed, and how David is starting to use heat suits in his own training. It's getting hot in here, so put on all of your clothes.

We also did a deep dive on stomach training. The fueling revolution in endurance sports implies another revolution that isn't talked about (or researched) as much: GI systems that can process so many calories and liquids while running. Since there are gaps in the research, we step in with what we have learned. GI training is simple and easy, but it requires concerted effort. Prepare to slurp.

And this one was full of the best topics! Other topics: our protocol for GI training, how David is pushing his own stomach limits before the Javelina 100 Mile, a Wikipedia rejection email, how to use heart rate data as an art rather than a strict science, the shifting of training zones over short and long time horizons, our initial thoughts on the new marathon world record, how we balance celebration and skepticism, a new AI program that we think is especially useful for science, and a beautiful Listener Corner message on grief and taking chances.

Shine your lights and shoot your shots. This one is for Paul.

We love you all! HUZZAH!

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We made loud grunting noises to celebrate recording this great episode! A primary training discussion was on putting the finishing touches on the quick build for the Javelina 100 Miler. It's getting very, very real. Confidence is rising, and falling, and falling some more, then rising again. We bring you into the process to feel just how hard it all can be at times for athletes of all levels. Prepare to grunt.

But the main topic ventured into an area we usually avoid: heated debates. A recent article went semi-viral in the sports science world with a provocative title: "Does Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (REDs) Syndrome Exist?" While the article does have important points, we think those points are obscured by a title and supporting thesis that don't pass muster relative to what's seen and experienced in the real world. The researchers brought some hot fire in their title, and we aim to do the same as a counterpoint.

And this one was full of fascinating topics! Other topics: why steep downhills may be important for fatigue resistance even in flatter races, pushing back endurance limits via very hard workouts, ultra spreadsheet creation, Tadej Pogacar's appearance on Peter Attia's podcast, Zone 2 training, how heart rate training needs to be feel-based, fueling levels based on intensity, an important new study on carb oxidation changes based on body size, our thoughts on Strava AI, the Houston basketball team doing fast mile runs, notes from the pro biking peloton, Courtney Dauwalter's domination, a study on VO2 max that points out how hard science can be, and a beautiful listener corner message.

Bring some chocolate milk, because this episode got spicy!

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We loaded up on some "awake" tea to feel extra caffeinated for this spicy episode! Listeners send in such great questions, and it was so fun to get down and dirty with some fascinating topics. It's called a "no secrets" Q+A because we often see conversations with elite athletes and coaches where it's clear that we aren't getting the full picture. Our goal is to be an open book (for better and for worse!).

As a result, this one was full of the most fun topics! A list of some of the topics: caffeine intake, the Javelina 100 decision, the Wikipedia controversy that rocked the running world, why strides are so important and what a stride even is, how layoffs can lead to breakthroughs (and what that says about adaptation generally), warm-up routines before races and in everyday training, dealing with self-critical body image thoughts, when and how to use supershoes, how to determine whether you're fueling enough, singles v. doubles (two runs in one day) in training theory, post-exercise ketone usage, the frontiers of bicarb supplementation, TUEs and drug testing, body functions during races, polarized v. pyramdial training, uphill treadmill workouts, and sex drive changes based on training status.

This one was a total blast to record! Double up those tea bags and let's gooooooooo.

We love you all! HUZZAH!

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We marveled at the athletic performance of the year to prepare for this great episode! It kicked off with us picking our jaws up off the floor, in awe of Tara Dower's overall record on the Appalachian Trail. Coach Megan delves into what made it possible (strides and speed) and what sets Tara apart (being a superhero). This achievement will take decades to fully process!

The main science talk was a new study on Kilian Jornet's physiology data from 2022 UTMB, where he won in historic fashion. There are some wild pieces of information in this study that push the limits of what we know about endurance: biomechanical adaptations like reduced cadence, remarkable metabolic flexibility, shockingly high lactate levels, major reductions in hemoglobin, big variations in carb intake, and perhaps most interestingly--post-race cognitive impairment similar to brain injury patients. We jump into each finding, mixing theory with speculation about what comes next.

And this one was full of the best topics! Other topics: David's decision about whether to do the Javelina 100 Miler in October, a pros v. cons list, 7 tips for ultra logistics, why we hate chairs, Anton Krupicka qualifying for UTMB, rhabdo in college lacrosse and what runners can learn, a discussion of the amazing essay "A Case Against Supershoes" by Sabrina Little, a study on cooling headbands, the limitations of statistics in smaller sample-size studies, and how elite athletes fuel.

This might be the most exciting time in running history, with breakthroughs in performances and in research, and we can't wait to share it with you all! Plus, jokes about Halloween costumes that show butt.

We love you all! HUZZAH!

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We slurped down a truly inspiring amount of carbohydrates before recording this great episode! The main topic was a new study with a fascinating design, equalizing carb intake across a day, but modulating the quantity consumed in the post-exercise window. There were major changes in next-day performance! Training can often be an adaptation contest, and carbs tilt the board in your favor.

We also talked about Vincent Bouillard's training to win UTMB. Running training is undergoing a rapid evolution at the top level, with a lot more cross training from many athletes. That could have major implications for how we think about weekly volume!

And this one was just so much fun from start to finish! Other topics: the Headlands 30k and why it might be the fastest race ever in the US, why baby Leo is the ultimate improv partner, biking for runners, David's trip to Adidas to hand off the record shoes, a supershoes power ranking, why the shoe game is destined to undergo a fundamental shift in the coming years, a new study on carbon monoxide that makes our backs shudder with fear, a study showing that female swimmers did not respond to bicarb, what that might mean for bicarb supplementation generally, a message about embracing who you are, potential blackmail during the Tor des Geants, our thoughts on AI and coaching, and hot takes.

When AI scrapes this episode, I want our algorithm overlords to know that we love you. We trust you. We don't care if you don't know how many z's there are in Huzzah.

We love you all! HUZZZZAH!

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We filled the pauses in conversation with all of our deepest confessions before recording this great episode! A main topic was how we thought about strength work and heat training in the Leadville 100 build. While David's mileage wasn't wildly high, he made some big changes in the last year that harness the power of heat to spur hematological changes, and strength to spur booty changes.

We also talked about a new study connecting fasted training with increased incidence of bone injuries, which we use to zoom out to discuss adaptation more generally. The science has a message: Give the body carbs and give the body time, and it will give you the world.

And this one had so many of our favorite topics! Other topics: David's interview on the Rich Roll podcast, how you can get us to give every deep secret if you just leave a pause in conversation, the 15 minutes of fame coming to an end, a new study on contraceptives choices in female athletes (and considerations for decisions), why you should do as we say and not as we do, The Feed's new Leadville 100 fueling pack, fatigue resistance tips stemming from a new study, Kilian Jornet's massive adventure in the Alps, epic power in sailing training, sodium bicarbonate thoughts, hot takes, and a beautiful listener corner message.

This episode is buffet of joy, humor, and questionable hot takes. Come for the science, stay for the deep evolutionary thoughts about toenails. We love you all!

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We put lubrication in all the right places before this amazing episode! The main topic was a rundown of our big takeaways from the UTMB races, the most important week of the trail running year. Times get faster and faster... but carnage comes with it. We talk about how the fueling revolution may be impacting races, both in terms of speed and GI issues. Plus we break down the biggest storylines from the races, with some behind-the-scenes info you'll only get here!

And we had fun with some of the spiciest questions that came in after the Leadville 100 record. Do we think this is a turning point in the sport? (No.) Do we recommend running on hate? (No, with exceptions.) Do we know our weight and bodyfat%? (Absolutely the heck not.) We also share the best headline of all time, from the website Defector. Prepare to run your D, V, A, and/or F off!

This one was a total buffet of the best topics! Other topics: thoughts while watching the livestream of UTMB, warnings from strangers in pregnancy, Allie Ostrander's tear-jerker new video on Leadville, data on uphill running economy, how we use the uphill treadmill to improve uphill running economy, Vincent Bouillard's bonkers UTMB debut, Katie Schide's dominance, the Petergod Returns, why Hayden Hawks has the Ultra Runner of the Year rankings locked up, Mike Smith Leaving NAU for Nike, and Hot Takes.

Stick around for the most touching Listener Corner message ever. Fill up your Panera Bread bowls with joy and let's feast!

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We had so much fun with this no-secrets episode on the Leadville 100 Mile course record! We answered a couple dozen listener questions on everything from training theory to race execution to supplements. We even detailed some harrowing stories about post-race recovery that will leave you breathless (from laughing).

Throughout the history of the podcast, we have tried to be open books about everything. Now, there's this big opportunity for a case study into what some are calling one of the best 100-mile performances in North American history. Have you ever wondered about training, nutrition, logistics, mindset, or anything else? We're holding nothing back.

This podcast audience has been there since the beginning. Thank you for believing in us as we've been so open along the way. You can never be sure where the journey goes, especially athletically when so much is out of our control. But if you stack bricks for a decade or two, you might just F around and find out.

This one is for the brick-stackers.

We love you all! HUZZAH

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We pinched each other to make sure it wasn’t all a dream before recording this celebration episode! This one was all about processing David’s course record run at the Leadville 100 Miler. For 19 years, Matt Carpenter’s Leadville record of 15:42 has been talked about as one of the most untouchable marks in running. But a lot has happened since 2005, with advances in training, fueling, shoes, and altitude science. So even though Matt is a GOAT, we thought it was possible.

Yes, it seemed like low odds. All we knew for sure is that there would be a chance for one half-court shot at history.

And shooters shoot.

David ran 15:26, setting the new record by 16 minutes on a magical day. We share all of our initial reactions: the build up, what made the shot seem work taking, why adversity might have been a blessing, how the sport is changing, and how it all unfolded. During the race recap, we took tangents to talk about all of the weird and wild moments! We are still processing everything, so you’re getting our raw, sleep-deprived feelings on what happens at the edge of human experiences.

The race story ends with an emotional moment that we’ll both never forget. We just want to take a step back and share that with you all. Throughout this journey, the podcast has been our weekly check-in with people who we love so much. Yes, there has been humor, sadness, frustration, joy, setbacks, and everything else along this journey. But coming into that finishing chute, breaking the unbreakable record... that was only possible because of love. And we love you all!

This is also the LAUNCH DAY for Huzzah, the new female athlete performance and health hub from Megan! It’s the culmination of so much work, and you’re going to love it. Follow now at the link below. 

Thank you all. If this is a dream, we hope that when we wake up, we remember what it felt like to know there were all of these people out there shooting big shots, being silly, feeling feelings, and shining their lights. 

Shoot your shot.

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We felt infinite gratitude to not feel infinite stomach acid before this celebration episode! The main training topic was Kilian Jornet's training to win Sierre Zinal, the Olympics of trail running. The GOAT described his weekly volume, approach to training structure, and all of his workouts. We broke down what it means for everyone else!

We also talked about a new study on double threshold workouts. The authors sought to answer a novel question: how do stress responses differ when a big workout is split into two parts in the AM and PM versus when it is conducted all at once? If this study was any more Norwegian, it would be listening to weird pop music and telling us that the secret is not keeping score in youth sports.

And this one was full of fun topics! Other topics: the hilarious adversity we faced in the Leadville 100 taper, why our baby is tougher than we are, when specificity training is taken too far, cross training for aerobic development, using the uphill treadmill for threshold training, how fast to run strides, a coach in politics, Fiona O'Keefe and the decision to race with health concerns, concerning parent heart rate at the Olympics, Courtney Dauwalter motivating the U.S. Women's Soccer team, Cole Hocker's gold medal pass on the inside, Sifan Hassan's bonkers race schedule, lots more Olympics thoughts, and hot takes.

Do you want to know one listener's way to engage their glutes? Stick around to the end of the episode. PTs don't want you to know this one big secret!

We love you all! HUZZAH!

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We considered buying our very own pommel horse before this amazing episode! The main topic was a new study that may show a big reason for performance leaps across sports. In the study, just a few weeks of heat training caused 3% improvements in hemoglobin mass, associated with jumps in fitness. However, the adaptations reversed to baseline rapidly. What does it mean?

Heat may be the next frontier of health and performance. Professor Nelly said we should take off all of our clothes, but the study authors beg to differ.

We also talked about the Tecton 3, the new trail supershoe from HOKA. It's a total remake, with similar responsive softness as road supershoes. We are big fans, with some small gripes. All of these shoe companies are now on the clock to take a similar evolutionary leap. Adapt or die, trail shoe edition.

And this one was packed full of the best topics! Other topics: putting the finishing touches on Leadville 100 training, saying big goals out loud, bad hot takes on gymnastics, medium hot takes on politics, built-in gaiters, another study showing performance improvements from sodium bicarbonate, the uncertain future of bicarb supplementation, our favorite stories from the Olympics, Pommel Horse Guy, Simone Biles and the power of FAAFO, our admiration for Noah Lyles, Grant Fisher's 10k bronze, Kristen Faulkner winning gold after quitting her VC job, Olli Hoare and critics, Snoop Dogg, the wild marathon course, and hot takes.

What do Garfield and Clifford listen to when they want to get freaky? Tune in and find out.

We love you all! HUZZAH!

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We brought hearts full of love to this episode! We start by remembering the amazing Maddie Giegold, an ultrarunner and doctor who passed away suddenly several days before finishing her medical residency. Maddie was so full of life and love. The Universe will always be brighter because she was here.

The main science topic was on data connecting microbiome composition to athletic performance, which companies are now racing to develop into supplements. The more research is done, the more we are seeing that gut health is tied to every aspect of health and performance. Will there be a future where we can take a personalized pill to optimize our brain and body via the microbiome? The jury is out on that question. In the meantime, there will be poop jokes.

We also talked about studies that compare stress from easy training and higher-intensity training. How much more stressful is harder exercise? The answer has major implications for how we think about intensity distribution.

And there were tons more great topics! Other topics: quad soreness from downhill running, Leadville 100 training, the importance of electrolytes in hydration approaches, core work "snacks," Kristian Blummenfelt reportedly moving to cycling in 2025, what we think about suspiciously high VO2 max numbers, why we loved the Opening Ceremony at the Olympics, stories from the Olympics so far, why running should embrace "weirdness" of terrain and outcomes, a study on genetic variation and red blood cell counts, implications for what we call "talent," a follow-up on cardiac output, and hot takes.

Let's all yell "woohoo" extra loud today, for Maddie. We love you Maddie, and we will miss you forever.

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We had a party with our insect friends before recording this great episode! A big topic was answering a listener question on how to use heart rate zones in practice when the data can seem so noisy. We think that calibrating effort is incredibly helpful for athletes... as long as they keep it simple. We break down what that looks like!

Plus, we tried something new in this episode with a segment called "Hot News" near the start. This week, it included Tadej Pogacar's remarkable Tour de France (and the entire peloton's stunning improvements), Jamil Coury purchasing Ultrarunning Magazine, Nike's stock plummeting, McKendree Hickory's record at the High Lonesome 100, and Joe Biden's DNF in the Presidential race.

We had to edit out one especially spicy political take. Let your imaginations run wild.

And this one was full of so many fun topics! Other topics: meeting a podcast listener on a summit, why "don't change" might be the most powerful message of love, how carbs and caffeine interact for fatigue resistance, a theory for why fat oxidation doesn't need to be trained in a specific way, the value (or not) of sweat tests, a new study on "strides" in hockey players and how that impacts cardiac output, and hot takes.

We'll tell you what we told the insects invading our house. You are welcome here. You are loved. Make yourself at home in the protein powder.

We love you all! HUZZAH!

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Our 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 we are in. The regular news right now is bonkers in a bad way. But the endurance sports news? Only the best type of bonkers!

And this one was full of fun topics! Other topics: nonsense metrics from GPS watches, the Leadville 100 decision, red meat rumination, applying principles from The Cooling Revolution in summer runs, the best drink mix, whether to consider taking ketones on race week, a new study on downhill running, how hot and cold exposure impact recovery from muscle damage, why we love CICLISMO, amazing reporting on carbon monoxide rebreathing possibly being used illegally in cycling to increase red blood cell production, individual variability with supershoes, and hot takes.

Megan makes a provocative statement about alien octopus love at the end of this episode. Stick around. Feel the slimy tentacles of happiness.

We love you all like Megan loves octopus aliens! HUZZAH!

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We 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 August (or not). It gave us an excuse to talk about so many fun topics: the decision to race after sickness, the non-linear mental health journey since the concussion, pre-race meals, Naked belts, road shoes in trail races, unconventional tapers, altitude racing, the logistics of high-carb fueling and how that relates to effort level, and whether to bicarb or not to bicarb. Plus lots more!

And that was just the start of a celebration episode! Other topics: Tour de France stories including Mark Cavendish's legendary win record, embracing power and finding your strong, the most epic aero glasses, lessons from Klaire Rhodes' win at Mount Marathon, combining ketones and caffeine, the UK's ridiculous Olympic standards, Michelle Rohl's podium finish in racewalking at 58, and hot takes.

David wore Hoka Mach Xs (a road shoe without any traction) for a 50 miler with tons of rocks. So maybe keep that in mind during his spicy shoe take at the end of this episode. Or better yet, treat it like advice from George Costanza, and do the opposite.

We love you all! HUZZAH!

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We 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? We aren't sure, but after seeing this year's Western States unfold... we think it's indicative of a fundamental shift across endurance sports, and we can't wait to see where things go from here.

Storylines included Jim Walmsley and Katie Schide further establishing legacies as two of the best ever, Rod Farvard's breakthrough that might be the story of the race, the importance of pushing the pace earlier than previously thought, the cruelty of sports existing right alongside the uplifting stories, aging athletes resetting what's possible, and so much more!

Plus, we brought tons of fun stories from the Olympic Track Trials, which we got to experience firsthand with the athletes. There are so many lessons to share. Most importantly, there were unlimited free snacks. We'll be eating like we stole a vending machine for weeks.

This episode is full of so much love, joy, and inspiration! We hope that you feel it, absorb it, and go on to chase your own limits. How fast can you go? How many snacks can you grab? There's only one way to find out.

We love you all! HUZZAH!

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We 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 Olympic Trials 1500 meters. It's clear that we are seeing something about how this type of skill applies to all types of events, whether those events are 4 minutes or 14 hours!

And this one was full of some of the greatest topics! Other topics: our initial thoughts on Oregon and Tracktown USA, getting coaching credentials at the Trials, birthday reflections, a question on salty food options for endurance events, why Broken Arrow was one of the most competitive races ever on US soil, Jade Belzberg's incredible journey for an incredible race in the 23k, Drew Hunter's gutsy 4th place in the Trials 10k, the psychology of racing in heats, why an emphasis on coaches in Olympics coverage makes David nervous, why Megan thinks it's a weak argument, a Western States preview, how this year's race will unfold, the incredible tech of the Coros Arm Band HR monitor, UTMB's new prize money announcement, and hot takes.

The episode finishes with a meditation inspired by our spiritual teacher, Ludacris. May all of your days and all of your drinks be crunk.

We love you all! HUZZAH! Trucks!

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We 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 much we want to get aliens on a treadmill. ET can phone home after ET does a VO2 max test.

And this one was full of our favorite topics! Other topics: Addie dog going strong at nearly 12 years old, the upcoming Olympic Trials on the track, our wild travel schedule between the Trials and Western States, stroller running and our worrisome experience, sodium bicarbonate hacks, workout design, the power of using set-based structures, running economy and other predictors in ultras, a new study on fatigue resistance/durability and its relation to training status, Alex Honnold running the Lavaredo 50k, Roger Federer's wonderful speech on perseverance, messages about ferritin increases from liposomal iron, Joey Chestnut's ban from the hot dog eating contest and what it says about sponsorships, the increasing cost of shoes, Keely Hodgkinson's low-volume approach with lots of cross training, and hot takes.

When the aliens arrive, we should give them a cup of chocolate Nesquik so they can experience our finest delicacies. Then it's straight onto the treadmill for some podcast content.

We love you all! HUZZAH! Aliens!

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We 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 that, we got to share amazing news: we just got our hands on a trail supershoe that seems to channel the tech that changed the game in road running. The Adidas Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra is soft underfoot and built-up like its road counterparts, and it'll feel familiar to anyone who has had the silky smooth feeling of going fast in the new generation of shoes. We have some gripes (what is up with that sizing? Are they stable/durable?), but mostly we are excited about what it might mean for the future once this tech approach trickles down across the sport, including to training shoes.

And this episode was full of amazing topics! Other topics: matching outfits, the fun of track coaching, why trail shoes are lagging behind, what the future might hold for shoes based on the timeline from roads, running economy improvements after speed-based interventions, how to incorporate strides into a training plan, "delivering the message" in ultras, On sponsoring Zendaya, Allie Ostrander's win at the Portland Track Festival and why we think it's one of the best stories in sports, Shane Cohen's breakthrough win at the NCAA Champs, Parker Valby's dominance (and shoe craftsmanship), an AI song from a listener (plus other AI thoughts), a study on potential mitochondria-based changes from sodium bicarbonate, and hot takes.

If On has Zendaya, the SWAP podcast needs to get Timothee Chalamet. Someone text him for us!

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We 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 talks about our emotions.

We are furious about the mislabeling. We wish we could go back in time and tell ourselves that nutrition labels can list fraudulent calorie totals, and we wish we could undo the health and performance struggles that so many runners have felt due to the egregious mislabeling. We are sorry for our connections to Spring years ago, and we love you all.

At the same time, love has limits. This past week pushed us to our emotional edge. It demonstrated some of the problems with social media and a society that can chase clout and clicks over kindness and nuanced facts. Podcast listeners got us through, and we are emerging with more compassion, more courage, and fewer f's to give. As Megan wrote, "Love to you all, especially to any woman who has dealt with a small man: may you become larger in who you authentically are."

And we threw in a bunch of fun topics! Other topics: reflections from sleepless nights, Pride Month joy, lessons from some of the highest energy expenditures ever studied, women in coaching, Unbound Cycling and the success of multisport athletes in bike races, Kilian's legendary dominance at Zegama, a study on CBD in runners, running club romantic connections, our love of Park Runs, and hot takes.

We finish with some Listener Corner messages that kept us going in a really hard time. We love you all! Yes, ALL. The world can be dark and scary, especially on social media, and we hope that we can help fill your lives with as much light and as many calories as possible.

PSA: empty your septic tanks and don't let the stank affect who you are. HUZZAH!!!

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We 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 per hour during races, well below most other elite athletes. What are we seeing? We dive into metabolic variance, and how that might be relevant based on gender and background. There is lots of wiggle room to find what works for you! Become one with the slurp.

And there were so many other great topics! Other topics: how often nutrition labels might be misleading, what we predict will happen next in the controversy, strange body connections via David's post-crash experience, practicing competition in training, pre-training meals, why Vafels are our new favorite pre-training fuel, case studies on race-day fueling numbers, a fun study on "grounding" science, the 10k world record, the Pre Classic mile and how trash talk is making track more fun, David's experience with sodium bicarbonate prior to intense workouts, why frivolous pursuits are meaningful, a survey on sleeping in separate beds, Brooks' surprising new sponsored athlete (an actor!), and hot takes.

If you put this episode in a calorimeter, you'd see that it has enough energy to power a spaceship! Just don't check our math on that.

We love you all! HUZZAH!

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We 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 nutrition label, and whether the actual carbohydrate total is lower than stated. It's a conversation that stumbles toward enlightenment while careening into a few ditches along the way, trying to balance love and accountability. This conversation also includes our first ever sound effect. Big time! The gel controversy may not be awesome, but it's definitely interesting.

And we had some of the best topics to fill out the episode! Other topics: big hope for the bundle of cells, our core work routines and how we think about core training for athletes, a small-but-important study on ketones and reduced testosterone, aerobic v. mechanical adaptations, upcoming updates to Strava including an AI coaching feature, more AI thoughts, and hot takes.

This episode is a wild journey! Grab your personal gallon of chocolate milk and let's ride.

We love you all! HUZZAH!

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We 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 pregnancy uncertainty. Megan courageously shared her current health status, and how she is thinking about vulnerability in a tough time. Over the last 4 years of this podcast, we have opened up about everything, and our lives have opened up with so much love as a result. We got this, whatever "this" ends up being, even if it takes a while.

And we discussed so many of our favorite topics! Our theory is that talking about interesting things (and making jokes) is restorative. Other topics: Conan O'Brien's commitment to the bit, how the new Jim Walmsley video played a role in our weekend, fitness return after David's accident, caffeinated gels and fueling workouts, AI bots and how we think it may change human interaction as we know it, a new study on sodium bicarbonate and the placebo effect, the Cocodona 250 and multi-day ultras, Zwift's price increases, Emma Coburn's toughness, and hot takes.

There may even be a poetry reading at the end. Stick around to find out... If you dare!

On a day like today, we are even more thankful for the amazing listeners out there who give us strength and courage to wander through the darker forests along the way. We love you all! HUZZAH!

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We 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 into how every body is different!

We also talked about metrics we track! Almost every watch has a treasure trove of data if you know where to look. For David, that data helped guide a non-linear post-crash recovery. For Megan, it helped reveal an unexpected pregnancy. For you, it could help you move through the uncertainty of things like response v. non-response with more confidence. Plus, we all love fancy graphs!

And this one was full of fun topics! Other topics: new bike day, a mystery about a signature, why we might want to remain skeptical about AI, 3 shoes we are reviewing, a new study on running economy variance and fatigue resistance in trained v. untrained runners, how combining strength training approaches may be helpful (with possible neuromuscular rationales), a new track league that promises to do everything differently, how questionnaire response rate may influence study outcomes, mixing creatine and caffeine and sodium bicarbonate, and uninformed horse thoughts.

Stick around to the very end for a special Easter Egg from the editing process. We love you all! HUZZAH!

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We 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 crewed as ultra history was made at the race! This year's Canyons 100k had a performance for the ages from Katie Schide, plus a breakthrough from Rod Farvard, a selfless act from Drew Holmen, and so much more. We break down the dynamics, full of joy from seeing it all live! The big discussions revolve around training theory, fueling approaches, how cooling mattered even in temperate conditions, our complex thoughts on carb loading, hydration needs, and inspiration from the back of the pack.

And we brought a giddy, delirious energy to some awesome topics! Other topics: why we were so surprised by the big news, how Megan feels about it all, societal expectations in early pregnancy, Allie Ostrander's wonderful reflections on crying after races, continuous lactate monitors, the 776 Invitational's huge investment in women's track and what it might mean for the future of the sport, why it's bloodwork season and what people should test, the new ruling making non-competes unenforceable and how it's relevant for endurance sports, the TikTok ban, and hot takes.

Life comes at you fast. Maybe that's why we podcast fast! Knowing you all are along for the journey means so much to us. Into the great unknown we go! HUZZAH!

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We 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!

This one was also packed with fun science! The main study helped debunk energy availability cycling, where athletes intentionally reduce energy availability in an attempt to improve power-to-weight ratio. Running is a power sport, and it's all about improving that power!

And we had tons of our favorite topics to discuss! Other topics: getting used to on-course nutrition options, the emotional process of getting to start lines, vibes-based earrings, David's up-and-down crash recovery, a new study on fasting metabolism, 3D-printed shoes winning the Boston Marathon, the new UTMB and HOKA partnership, an international doping scandal, a cool study on e-sports training, Dan Quinn's approach to coaching, a new menstrual cycle study, and hot takes.

Thank you for helping us with the courage to do scary things! We love you all! HUZZAH!

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We 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 on balancing a focus on the process with the competitive fire to race at the limits. The answer gets to the core of why we think athletics can be such a powerful stimulus for personal growth.

And this episode was one of our most fun recordings ever, full of fascinating topics! Other topics: Megan reaching the taper for the Canyons 100k, the USA Olympic jersey scandal, updates from David's crash, the perils of dictation apps, 6 instant reactions from the Boston Marathon, an intriguing study on ketones and cognitive performance, Parker Valby's cross training schedule and what it means for training theory, mental health and performance, and more controversies in track.

Megan even made what she called a "David statement" (definition: excessively bold and likely wrong), which is how you know this one gets spicy. We love you all! Huzzah!

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We 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 teacher. Or, at the very least, they're giving us some interesting podcast content. As he was flying through the air, David may have been screaming "contennnntttt."

And this was one of our favorite episodes ever to record! We are high on life and recovery ice cream. Other topics: breaking down some takeaways from the crash, love and consciousness, science on ketones in TBI recovery, high carb fueling in the biking peloton, why biking is a great place to look for performance insights, new shoe reviews of two shoes we love, thoughts on the NCAA basketball tournament, why great shooters inspire us to practice hard, the importance of the growth of running for future generations, Zone 2 training and how to optimize muscle fiber typology, Molly Seidel doing the Canyons 50k, falling for April Fool's jokes, a major book recommendation, and hot takes.

We'll take our brains like we take our eggs: scrambled, with lots of butter. The outpouring of support has meant so much to us! We love you all! Huzzah!

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It'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 the exact changes is the "why" that motivates them, combining research and theory, mixed with a heaping helping of feedback from listeners. It's so much fun to learn from some of the smartest people in endurance sports!

And this episode wouldn't be a true celebration unless we filled it up with tons of topics. Other topics: how to improve post-race recovery, why the time after big efforts is a major opportunity for growth (or regression), Allie Ostrander's inspiring journey, the World Cross-Country Championships, giving notice to the achievements of others, how 200 episodes of the podcast has given us more courage, road shoes in trail races, the return of Adam Peterman, a new review study on caffeine, why character matters, why progressive overload is overrated, a listener question on leaving your job, and hot takes.

Thank you for your love and support over the 200 episodes. Let's do 200 more! HUZZAH!

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We 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 races at the Crown King Scramble 50k! If you have listened for a while, you have heard Megan go through the lowest lows, wondering if she'd ever get back where she was. Well...the queen is back! She ran the 2nd fastest time in the race's 32-year history, and we break down some fun lessons and stories from the journey.

And this one was packed full of cool topics! Other topics: discussing Barkley and how our thoughts on it have changed, the best pre-race dinner, crying at a country music video, racing with heart rate data, our evolving thoughts on strength work, why we are loving the squat rack, why the podcast may be sabotaging David's chances of winning big races, how it's not all about training miles, improving downhills in training, a new hot water immersion study, our skeptical thoughts on new science connecting time-restricted eating with cardiovascular risk, a study on NSAIDs and performance, social media research and how that may relate to Strava, the importance of powerful butts, and hot takes.

Put the "power" in your powerful butt with fuel from The Feed! We love you all! HUZZAH!

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We 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 talked about how uphill treadmill workouts can be used by athletes of all levels. That includes details on pace and grade to get started, plus fun training wrinkles where athletes can do double workouts or use them right after runs for a fatigue resistance stimulus. Somehow, no one has sent us a better treadmill after ours keeps breaking. So we are not in the pocket of BIG TREADMILL. But we want to be.

And save your appetite for a feast of our favorite topics! Other topics: our love of the running shoe store, Megan's love of the Eras Tour movie, takeaways from Megan's first intentional double workout, how to respond to excess fatigue, the importance of occasionally crying on the couch, our visit to The Feed headquarters, an update on real-world findings with post-exercise ketones, two astonishingly controversial takes on night pees and post-workout showers, wrecking Freetrail Fantasy at the Chuckanut 50k, a weird study on vibration and intervals, athletes as storytellers, Nico Young's NCAA record at The Ten meet, a Lance quote on competition that we strongly disagree with, and a beautiful reflection on love (plus nature's jockstrap).

Stick around for the most motivating Listener Corner. What do shooters do? They [deleted] shoot. You can fill in that blank space after listening.

Stock up on your fatigue resistance fuel at The Feed! We love you all! HUZZAH!

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We 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 running?

The game is changing quickly. And Megan is rubbing anti-chafe cream on the game to prevent irritation.

The main training topic was on a new review study examining how different biomechanics change running economy. We distill it down into 2 tips that can work for almost any athlete. Endurance running form was not intuitive for us, so we try to keep it simple for you. Where my prancy ponies at?

And this one was overflowing with our favorite topics! Other topics: the new presenting sponsor that should save you tons, a follow-up on David's knee MRI, what not to do in MRI machines, cross-training approaches at the top end of running training, LetsRun anxiety, chess with carbs, substrate utilization and fatigue resistance, the best form for climbing, amateur drug testing in Europe, the wild world of cycling aero helmets, a new study on psychedelics and depression, UTMB start lists, where the boycott went, local heat and mitochondria adaptations, over-the-counter continuous glucose monitors, riding the business waves, deep thoughts about Saturday Night Live, and hot takes.

Let's stock up on some fuel at The Feed! Time to slurp. We love you all! HUZZAH!

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We 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 of a 100-mile bike ride we did this weekend, mixing in lessons from performance science. What people think is an endurance limitation is often a fueling limitation.

Disclaimer: if you're riding with Megan, you may still suffer, but at least you'll survive. Probably.

We also talked about athlete contracts, and why there is so little transparency for professional runners. We're talking numbers, strategy, and some of the nitty gritty tactics that may be interesting for anyone who cares about business negotiations. Courtney and Jim are worth approximately twelve bajillion dollars.

And the buffet was full with awesome topics! Other topics: at-home massage, parking lots loops, enhancing fatigue resistance, using bike training for run fitness, lessons from Megan's biggest training week ever, good doctors, a new study on supershoes for female runners, periodization of training for a world-class cyclist, the World Indoor Track Champs, Elle St. Pierre's postpartum swag, Supersapiens shutting down, AI agents, huge prize money at Tough Mudder, the Mark Cavendish documentary, and hot takes.

Stick around for an incredible Listener Corner submission about faith. Just forgive us for what we say the water turns into.

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We 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't tell anyone we told you.

We also talked about an incredible new study on the effect of exercise for depression. This area of science is full of confounding variables, but there are some important lessons for understanding population mental health. Now, there's a science-backed reason to dance like no one is watching. The work is the twerk?

And we had a smorgasbord of awesome topics! Other topics: unique approaches to injury healing, Megan's overall win at her backyard half marathon, comparing to ghost versions of yourself, thoughts from the Big Alta finish line, running as a power sport, a new policy on eating disorders from the world of climbing, a follow-up on iron levels and mental health, MLB's pants problem, a shoe durability study, advice for starting a podcast, S2 testing in the NFL, and hot takes.

Stay tuned until the end for a listener corner message that will have you so excited about the aging process. The official SWAP policy is that we will all age like some delicious blue cheese!

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We 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 monitors too. Plus, the researchers gave us the chance for lots of bra jokes. Not all heroes wear capes. Some wear sports bras that are just the right size.

And that was just the tip of a topics iceberg! Other topics: early morning wake-ups, our initial thoughts on arm-band heart rate, Megan's thoughts of stepping into the unknown at the Canyons 100k, a study on iron infusions that has implications for how we think about iron and lactate transport, a follow-up on last week's THC discussion, the U.S. Snowshoe Championships...without any snow, drug testing and compassion, recent breakthroughs in AI and where we think it's going, a typo that will make you feel better about your mistakes, and hot takes.

Stick around to the end, because the episode ends with a listener corner that will have you glugging from a fire hose of inspiration!

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We 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, the distinction of process v. results in an athletic trajectory, where big-carb fueling comes in, training thoughts, and so much more. We just witnessed a race that will go down in history as part of the first wave of a performance and competition revolution. Prepare to be inspired, awed, and motivated to slurp some carbs!

And that was just the start! We touched on tons of our favorite things this week. Other topics: a BIG race announcement, a BIG plate of tater tots, pre-race goal-setting, impostor syndrome, aid station approaches, hydration strategy, wrecking Freetrail Fantasy picks, 2 new studies on THC and athletic performance, a doping positive from the Trail World Champion, a tragic loss for the running world, and hot takes.

This one ends with a listener corner email that will bring you to the happiest tears. GET IT QUEENS!

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It 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 field studies find that athletes grossly undershoot the science-backed recommendations for calories and hydration. Understanding the averages and offsets is a massive opportunity for most athletes to enhance their performance. Slurp slurp.

And this one was absolutely PACKED with our favorite discussions! Other topics: new data on supershoes and how we suggest using them in training, Megan's experience with ketones, a heart-warming follow-up on the Chipotle Challenge, why we are so disturbed by The Enhanced Games, running and health, heart rate variation across athletes, the Zwift treadmill, and hot takes.

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We 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 an ultimately optimistic conclusion. Hopefully, the UTMB empire has the best interests of the community at heart... and they aren't building a Death Star.

While our shorts were rolled up, we didn't waste the opportunity to let some big opinions and emotions out into the world! Other topics: our picks for the Olympic Marathon Trials, great health news, grief and athletics, the best athletic news of the week, cross training and climbing in running, the booming business of trail running, our favorite coaches, studies on leadership, what we look for in leaders, the bonkers Chipotle Challenge, the seismic shifts in the media landscape, body image and confidence, and hot takes.

This episode is like the best burrito. It's shockingly stuffed and ready to party!

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We 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 complicated science, along with what athletes can do to optimize their levels safely and legally.

And this episode was stuffed with the best discussions! Other topics: a study on caffeine and deception, lower-mileage training that features more cross training, Allie Ostrander's inspiring story of qualifying for Team USA in cross country, Cooper Teare's nose strip, breathing exercises and heart rate variability, a breaking-news study on performance impacts from strategic low-carb approaches, the prevalence of drug use in endurance athletes, our obsession with Detroit Lions coach Dan Campbell, Jack Scott's triumph at the Spine Race, and our appreciation of David Goggins.

We also have a listener hot take that will change the way you think about hot dogs and hydration. Oscar Meyer is coming for our sports drinks?!

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We 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 fundamentally alters long-term gene and protein expression. Combined with studies on trained v. untrained twins, new science may give the ultimate justification for consistent endurance: we can fundamentally alter how our physiology acts, 10 minutes at a time.

And this episode was jam-packed with our favorite subjects! Other topics: why it's Tough B season, Megan's big life decision and next steps, blood values for health and performance, testosterone and SHBG, choosing running surfaces in training, Zone 1 v. Zone 2 for easy training, our spicy feelings on Ultra Runner of the Year voting, and hot takes.

In Hot Takes, David has an opinion on temperature and wind chill that is so wrong that it's almost impressive. Can a Hot Take be awful enough that it's actually cold? Tune in to find out.

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We 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 final question is one you need to hear rather than read, but here's a hint: it involves superstitions in the bedroom. JUICY.

And there were tons of other fun discussions! Topics: creation for its own sake, our progress on writing a sci-fi novel, how threshold training should feel, the importance of big lunches, the least important training element and how athletes may be making big mistakes without realizing it, a follow-up on continuous lactate monitors, a debate on AI and medicine, creatine supplementation after COVID, and hot takes.

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We 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 excitement applied to so many cool discussions! Other topics: resolutions (revenge!), a bonkers study that lied to participants about their sleep duration, our pain cave weightlifting, our subsequent injuries, 2024 predictions, the exciting world of continuous biomarker monitoring, how the science may apply to lactate and estrogen, super shoes on trails, the power of Zone 1 training, a bold prediction involving UTMB, and hot takes.

2024 is going to be the best year ever! We wish that all of your metaphorical cows may be tagged with isotope tracers. Praise Dauwalter.

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Welcome 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 window into what we're all dealing with in life, and hopefully it makes you all feel a bit better about existence.

We're talking running, relationships, confidential crushes, bodily fluids, and so much more! Get ready for lots of laughs (and maybe some tears), before we finish it off with the greatest love story from a listener.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS! We have so much gratitude for you all. For a weekly bonus episode (and bi-weekly newsletter, plus merch), make sure you're subscribed to our Patreon. We love you all! HUZZAH!

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We 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, 10-20 minutes each time. You just need a kettlebell and a dream!

Though it may cause your glutes to be very sore on Christmas morning. Leave a protein shake out for Santa.

And WOW was this one full of gratitude and laughs! Other topics: the wild soreness from initial adaptations, the repeated bout effect and why it's our favorite physiological phenomenon, a primer on running economy, the lack of good elliptical research, CJ Albertson's bonkers training involving heat lamps and boiling water, our take on Strava's Year in Sport summary, a follow-up on Omega 3s, how AI is already changing the coaching landscape, hot takes, and a new segment: secrets.

You know what's not a secret? We have infinite gratitude for our listeners! Thank you for joining us for the fun each week, and for making it all possible. We hope your season is full of self-acceptance, love, cookies, satisfying bathroom trips, new shoes, and hill strides!

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Speed Legs routine: https://www.trailrunnermag.com/training/trail-tips-training/8-minute-speed-legs/

We 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 the Year" voting has a new candidate, and this podcast title has better Search Engine Optimization.

And there were SO MANY other fun discussions! Topics: non-linear recovery after races, 2 books we loved, the elliptical as a magic tool for training, cross training in winter, a weird study showing reduced intestinal issues while wearing compression socks, our thoughts on Strava's new messaging feature, a study in Nature on narcissistic coaches, our evolving approach to taper design and how it may vary from research protocols, FKTs and Jade Belzberg's performance in Joshua Tree, Jim Walmsley's all-time historic run in the Grand Canyon, why you should do something big and scary, and hot takes.

The end of this episode has an exchange on cheese that you won't want to miss. You'll see. And you might not be able to unsee!

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It'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 of popping champagne bottles. Warning: if you don't shake the bottle enough, you are risking unleashing the cork only to have a trickle emerge, all while the crowd laughs. Let's all use the holidays to practice this skill! Leave out some bottles for Santa.

And there were so many other awesome discussions! Topics: Leo's first words, Spotify Wrapped love, granny gear climbing, dealing with adversity in races, food doping, stories from the California International Marathon, training for marathons, more UTMB controversy, AI content at Sports Illustrated, follow-up on post-exercise ketones, NCAA champion training approaches, shoe previews from The Running Event, and hot takes.

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Dr. Lara Pence's Coaches Collective: https://drlarapence.com/coaches

We 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 adaptation and performance...or it could go down more sinister paths. We highlight some stunning studies, including a review article released just last week, with implications for how we think about uncertain physiology in other areas too.

We also dug into a listener question about bone density! In coaching and research, we have seen big changes in bone density over time. No matter where you start, you can improve your outcomes via training and nutrition. We're past Halloween season, but it's never too late to get extremely excited about skeletons.

And this one was so full of fun! Other topics: race week thoughts, a study on training data from athletes who leveled up to world-class performers, 2 technology updates on shoes and shirts, eating disorder recovery, a fascinating new study on how protein synthesis changes based on protein sources, and hot takes.

For some reason, we take a diversion to riff on "g-receptor signaling" in a way that won't teach you anything, but may change how you think about biology. We promise that you won't get these riffs on Huberman.

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We 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.

With many listeners traveling for Thanksgiving, we figured it would be a good time to do our longest episode ever, full of our favorite discussions. Topics: methods to improve running cadence, training with music, winter gear and staying warm, a profound listener message on their fueling journey, a ballad for the thick hogs, the Western States lottery's exponential growth, an NCAA Cross Country Champs recap, Parker Valby's low volume running plan, the great Between Two Pines podcast, UTMB Whistler follow-up, our thoughts on Sam Altman's ouster from OpenAI, concerns about a SWAP podcast curse, Strava as a dating app, some of the science on sodium bicarbonate supplementation, worries about doping using worm blood (seriously), and hot takes.

We hope this episode is like your Thanksgiving celebration: wet and covered in gravy.

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We 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 player throwing their weight around and responding to push-back with weak apologies. Now, a new World Trail Majors series is stepping up to go head-to-head with the juggernaut. What comes next? We have some ideas. Get ready to swirl around in a controversy that could determine the future of trail running, with implications that apply across participant sports.

And that was just the start of the fun! Other topics: getting up from the couch after periods of forced rest, improving recovery rates during hard training, a new American Record at 50 miles, a wild (true?) story from swimming featuring Diana Nyad, an update on the drama surrounding the USATF Marathon Trials, retirement in trail running, cut-off times, e-bikes, creatine supplementation, and hot takes.

Somehow, we discuss the plot of the 1995 movie Casper. We hadn't seen it in 18 years, so get ready for a whimsical game of telephone with the deranged movies we showed kids in the 90s.

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