Peak Endurance

In this episode of the Peak Endurance Coaching Podcast, we bring you updates from our whirlwind trip to Scotland and dive deep into the raw and honest recount of the Isle of Skye Ultra — where Isobel faced brutal conditions and made the tough call to DNF. 🌧️🌪️ With driving rain, gale-force winds, and zero visibility, it was a true test of grit and respect for the mountains.

Ron and Isobel unpack what it means to respect a race, how to stay grounded in your ‘why’, and why training in all conditions is essential — not just physically, but mentally too. Whether you're an ultra runner or just love the stories behind the miles, this one’s a powerful listen.

Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share with a running mate who needs a dose of real talk and resilience!

In this episode, Izzy and Ron tackle a common but costly mistake many athletes make—racing their training. If you've ever pushed a session too hard to chase a Strava segment or beat your last effort, this one’s for you. We unpack the risks of turning workouts into unofficial races, from increased injury risk to arriving at race day already cooked. Learn how to train with purpose, keep your ego in check, and arrive at your start line fresh, fit, and ready to fire.

Aaron Crook is no stranger to extreme endurance, but his recent victory at the 6633 Arctic Ultra — a 620km foot race through brutal Arctic terrain — took his limits to an entirely new level.

In this episode, Isobel and Ron dive deep into Aaron’s preparation, mindset, nutrition, and the brutal realities of racing in temperatures that can drop below -30°C.He shares the highs, the hallucinations, the problem-solving, and the personal transformation that happened mile by frozen mile. Whether you're training for your first 50k or chasing your own wild ultra dreams, this conversation will light a fire in you.

Today, Ron and I give our updates then discuss the importance of training suffering. If you don't ever suffer in your training, when you start to suffer in a race it will be a big shock!

Ron and I give our running life updates, then we discuss using motivation vs discipline for running. Enjoy!

Isobel's daughter Elizabeth comes on the podcast to share her experience as crew at The Barkley Marathons.

The Runner's Fuel: Why Carbs are King.Carbohydrates are quickly converted to glucose, the body's primary energy sourceGlucose is stored in muscles and liver as glycogen, which fuels intense exerciseRunning depletes glycogen stores, making carb intake crucial for performanceThe Mental Game: How Carbs Affect Your Running Psychology.Carbs influence serotonin production, affecting mood and motivationProper fueling can prevent the dreaded "bonk" or "hitting the wall"Mental clarity and focus improve with adequate carb intake

Ron and I chat about my Barkley experience! And boy, was it an experience. This is a tale of trials and tribulations: enjoy!

In this episode, Ron and I sit down with Chris Harris, creator of GoNutrition, passionate ultra runner, and accomplished mountaineer fresh off his recent climb of Vinson Massif in Antarctica. We dive into his experiences on the mountain, his journey in ultra endurance sports, and how proper training powers performance in extreme conditions. Chris shares insights on what it takes to push the limits, both in high-altitude mountaineering and ultra running, along with practical tips for endurance athletes. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about resilience, adventure, and the power of adventure!

In this episode, we dive into the crucial aspect of training specificity for runners. Learn why and how to tailor your training runs to match your upcoming race conditions for optimal performance.

It is so important to listen to the messages your body is sending you. Your watch does not know everything :) The best feedback mechanism you have is yourself.

Ron and I give you our usual update, then discuss the top 8 things (that turn into 9) that runners over 50 should NOT do

Today, after a quick QuadSaw update, we're diving into a mineral that could be the game-changer in your training: magnesium. Whether you're preparing for your first 5K or your hundredth ultra, this often-overlooked nutrient might just be the key to unlocking your full potential. Watch, and you'll discover why magnesium deserves a prime spot in every runner's nutrition plan.

In this episode of the Peak Endurance podcast, join host Isobel and Ron Tait as they dive deep into the world of cross training for runners.

Forget what you think you know about cross training! We're not talking about yoga or strength work here. Instead, discover how activities like cycling and pool running can significantly improve your running performance.

Key topics covered: • What exactly is cross training for runners? • The benefits of cross training for injury prevention and recovery • How to incorporate cycling and pool running into your training plan • Real-world examples of us using cross training effectively Whether you're a seasoned ultra-runner or just starting your running journey, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you run stronger, faster, and longer. Don't miss out on these game-changing insights that could transform your training!

Remember to hit subscribe and leave a review if you found this episode helpful. Your support helps us reach more runners with valuable content.

Run strong!

In this episode, Ron and I discuss the factors you need to take into consideration when thinking about your next race. Enjoy!

Returning to training after an injury? Don't miss this essential episode of Peak Endurance Coaching. Learn from your injury and come back stronger!

Experienced a DNF in your last ultra? Don't let it derail your running journey! In this episode of the Peak Endurance Podcast, Ron and I dive deep into strategies for ultrarunners to overcome the mental and physical challenges of a Did Not Finish.🏃‍♂️

Key topics covered: • Understanding the emotional impact of a DNF • Analysing what went wrong without self-blame • Rebuilding confidence for your next ultra • Adjusting your training plan • Real-life comeback stories

Whether you're training for your first 50K or aiming for a 100-mile finish, this episode provides valuable insights to help you bounce back stronger after a DNF. Learn how to turn setbacks into comebacks and fuel your ultra running passion. Subscribe to the Peak Endurance Podcast for more ultra running tips, training advice, and inspiration to crush your endurance goals!

In this episode of the Peak Endurance Podcast, we dive deep into the crucial yet often overlooked aspect of ultra running: recovery. Whether you're a seasoned ultra marathoner or preparing for your first long-distance event, proper recovery is key to maintaining peak performance and preventing injuries. Don't let poor recovery hold you back from reaching your full potential as an endurance athlete. Tune in now to unlock the secrets of mastering ultra race recovery! Remember to like, comment, and subscribe for more expert advice on mastering endurance sports!

In this episode of Peak Endurance, we dive deep into the crucial but often misunderstood concept of tapering before a race. Whether you're gearing up for a 5K or an ultra-marathon, proper tapering can make or break your performance. 🔑 KEY TAKEAWAYS: The science behind tapering and its impact on performance How to customise your taper based on race distance Balancing rest and maintenance during taper Nutrition strategies to maximise your taper How to stay focused and confident in your taper Ready to take your race performance to the next level? Hit that subscribe button and turn on notifications so you never miss an episode! 🎙️ ABOUT PEAK ENDURANCE: Peak Endurance is your go-to podcast for all things running, and endurance sports. From beginner tips to advanced strategies, we've got you covered.

As temperatures rise, are you ready to adapt your running routine? In this episode of Peak Endurance Podcast, we're diving into the art of running in the heat.Summer's approaching, and it's time to heat-proof your runs! Whether you're a seasoned ultra runner or a weekend warrior, this episode is packed with valuable insights to help you transition safely and effectively into warmer weather running.

Ron and I discuss what pace you should run your long runs at: should they always be at a slow easy pace? Our answer might surprise you!

As ultra runners, we're always looking for ways to improve our performance and endurance. Understanding the principles behind different types of training runs is crucial for developing a well-rounded training plan. In this podcast, we break down the science and benefits of intervals, tempo runs, easy runs, and long runs for ultra running.

As runners, we often focus on mileage, pace, and training plans. But there's one crucial element that can make or break your performance: nutrition. If you're experiencing any of these 13 warning signs, it's time to fuel up and revamp your eating habits. On this episode, we discuss the first 6

1. Constant fatigue: You're always tired, even after a good night's sleep.

2. Slow recovery: Your muscles ache for days after a run.

3. Frequent injuries: You're sidelined more often than you'd like.

4. Plateauing performance: Your times aren't improving despite consistent training.

5. Mood swings: You're irritable and your emotions are all over the place.

6. Weakened immune system: You catch every cold that comes around.

After a 5-week break, we are back!!

Ugh, well that was fun...in no way at all!! 8 cheeseburgers over 42.2kms is no easy feat! Hear how horrible it was here on the pod! Enjoy!

The importance of patience in recovery

Assessing your body's readiness to return

The "easy day for every day off" rule explained

Chest infections vs. head colds: When to run and when to rest

Balancing the desire to train with the need for recovery

• How easy runs contribute to overall fitness increase
• Addressing the common misconception: "If I'm not going fast, I'm not improving"
• The correlation between easy runs and effective recovery
• How to properly pace an easy run
• The role of easy runs in injury prevention
• Balancing easy runs with quality sessions and long runs
• The role of recovery runs in enhancing endurance and performance

Ron and I headed to Wandiligong for the long weekend...and ran (And mostly hiked) some hills. The WandiCross is a race not to be missed, hear all about it!

The dangers of ignoring the pain and pushing through

When is it safe to continue running and when should you stop?

Balancing your love for running with the need for recovery

The role of cross-training in injury recovery

The power of a positive mindset in overcoming injuries

Dynamic vs Static stretching - what's the difference?

Stretching and mobility can extend your running life span.

Practical tips for incorporating stretching and mobility into your routine.

stretching and mobility shouldn't be an afterthought.

The myth of sleep deprivation training: Dispelling common misconceptions.

An in-depth look at why sleep deprivation is more harmful than helpful.

Introduction to sleep banking: Understanding the concept and its benefits.

Caffeine depletion explained: What it means and how it works.

The importance of sleep in training and performance.

Ron and I discuss (in no particular order!)

Hut to Hut and our DNF

Why I am giving up long races

The social media bullies I have had to deal with

and more! It's like being on a long run with friends, with probably some oversharing going on!

The taper is a period of reduced training volume and intensity leading up to a race. It typically occurs in the final two to three weeks before the event. The purpose of the taper is to allow the body to recover from the accumulated fatigue of training while maintaining fitness and maximizing performance on race day.