There are so many new studies and scientific discoveries that it's tough for us runners to discern what is fact and what is fiction. That’s why we enjoy every discussion we have with Alex Hutchinson. He dispels the fake news and brings to us the latest and greatest in athletic research in his "Sweat Science" column at OutsideOnline.com. In this episode, we discuss a few of his recent articles on meditation, VO2max differences in gender, and how to fight muscle power as we age.

• Make sure you have his award-winning book, Endure: Mind, Body, and the Curiously Elastic Limits of Human Performance explores the boundaries of human potential on your reading list.
• Visit the Sweat Science website to learn more about Alex and everything he has going on.
• And pre-order his new book, The Explorer's Gene. Why We Seek Big Challenges, New Flavors, and Blank Spots on the Map - available on March 25, 2025. For sure we will be doing at least one episode on this so do your homework!

Episode Sponsors:

• Janji, Use code TRAILRUNNER for 10% off
• HUEL, 15% off with code TRAIL
• Trail Runner Nation's Trail Triage app

Have you ever wondered if you’re leaving free speed on the trail every time you hit a downhill? Today, we’ll show you how mastering the art of downhill running can not only save your legs but also transform your races—because downhill running isn’t just about gravity; it’s about strategy, skill, and confidence.

Coach Ian Sharman offers invaluable insights for trail and ultra runners. We discuss essential techniques to overcome fear, manage muscle fatigue, and master quick feet for navigating technical terrain safely. Ian shares strategies to turn downhill sections into race-winning opportunities, highlighting the importance of consistent effort, decision-making, and tailored fueling strategies. The conversation emphasizes running gear's impact on performance and safety, particularly shoes and explores how practicing falling can reduce injury risks. Listeners are encouraged to embrace new challenges, enjoy the playful side of running, and build confidence through practice and preparation for downhill racing.

Check out Sharman Ultra Coaching and get a gift card for your friend!

Episode Sponsors:

• Janji, Use code TRAILRUNNER for 10% off
• INFERNO by Running Scared Media. BOGO with Promo Code Holiday
• shokz, Use code TRN10 for 10% off
• Trail Runner Nation's Trail Triage app

Are the diet myths you’ve believed holding you back from peak performance, or could eating more actually be the key to running stronger and feeling better?

In this episode, Zoë Rom and Kylee Van Horn, creators of the podcast Your Diet Sucks, explore the critical role of nutrition in endurance sports. They discuss common diet myths, the importance of individualized nutrition, and the impact of social media on body image and eating disorders among athletes. The conversation highlights why fueling for performance should take priority over aesthetics, the pitfalls of restrictive dieting, and the value of listening to your body. They also touch on food justice, the role of organic food, and the evolving science of recovery nutrition. With their journalism and sports nutrition background, they’re on a mission to simplify nutrition, promote a healthier relationship with food, and debunk the noise surrounding endurance athletes’ diets.

Zoë Rom is an award-winning journalist and ultra-runner with a master’s in environmental journalism and author of Becoming a Sustainable Runner. Kylee Van Horn is a registered dietitian and founder of Fly Nutrition, specializing in helping athletes fuel for performance and challenge harmful dietary norms in sports. Her new book, Practical Fueling for Endurance Athletes: Your Nutrition Guide for Optimal Performance is available for preorder and release on March 3, 2025. Both are amazing trail runners who talk our language.

Episode Sponsors:

• Janji, Use code TRAILRUNNER for 10% off
• INFERNO by Running Scared Media. BOGO with Promo Code Holiday
• Liquid IV, get 20% off your first order with code TRAILRUNNER
• Tifosi Optics 20% off with code TRN20
• Trail Runner Nation's Trail Triage app