Peak Endurance

Most runners swear running is their therapy. I get it. Ron gets it. We’ve both been there; using the miles to outrun the hard stuff instead of actually dealing with it. But in this episode we break down why that mindset quietly wrecks your running, your mood, and your progress. We get into the real reasons running can’t be your emotional safety net: You can't make good decisions when you’re fa...

Most runners think they know how to recover… until theyrealise their “rest days” aren’t actually restful, their legs always feel heavy, and they’re permanently training through fatigue. In this episode, Isobel and Ron break down the REALdifference between active recovery and passive recovery — and exactly when each one helps or hurts your performance. You’ll learn: • Why active recovery is brillia...

Are you a trail runner who avoids the road like it’s the plague? In this episode, Ron and I break down one of the biggest mistakes we see in trail and ultra runners: relying on trails alone to build fitness. We get into: • Why road running builds the engine trail runners desperately need • The fitness gaps created by “trail-only” training • How roads make pacing, speed, and long-run efficiency dra...

In this episode of the Peak Endurance Podcast, Isobel and Ron break down the exact approach runners should take when they’ve been doing nothing but easy running or have never done structured speedwork before and now want to get faster again. We cover: • Why speed is a skill not a pain game• How to introduce quality work without blowing up your tissues • Why strength must come before intensity • Th...

This week, we’re diving into the questions every ultra runner is thinking—but not always asking out loud. No fluff, no generic advice, just honest, practical coaching insights (and a few hard-earned lessons) from years of racing and coaching ultras. In This Episode, We Answer: • Training for Elevation Without Hills • Strength Training: Optional or Essential? • Bonk or Medical Danger: Know the Diff...

This week, we’re diving into the questions every ultra runner is thinking—but not always asking out loud. That's why we asked ChatGpt what ultrarunners would ask! From overtraining and gut issues to pacing mistakes, DNFs, confidence, and more, we’re tackling the real challenges you face on the trails. No fluff, no generic advice, just honest, practical coaching insights (and a few hard-earned...

Most runners obsess over VO₂ max. Watches flash it. Apps brag about it. Athletes compare numbers like trophies. But here’s the truth: if VO₂ max decided races, we wouldn’t need start lines. We’d just hand medals to lab results. In this episode, Ron and I break down the real difference between VO₂ max and lactate threshold — and reveal why neither metric tells the full story for trail and ultra run...

In this episode, Isobel and Ron are calling out the biggest myths in running that just won’t die — from “more miles are better” to “pain is weakness leaving the body.” These myths keep runners stuck, injured, and frustrated. Together, they break down the truth behind each one and share what actually works for long-term, strong, and sustainable running. Expect a mix of science, experience, and a fe...

Welcome back to the Peak Endurance Podcast with Isobel & Ron. In this episode, we flip the script: instead of adding more to your training, we’re looking at what to avoid. Because sometimes, progress isn’t about piling on — it’s about cutting out the habits that hold you back. We cover the 10 things smart runners don’t do, including: kipping strength training Ignoring recovery Pushing through...

A lot of runners think that hiring a coach means guaranteedresults. Or that once you’ve trained enough, ultras somehow get easier. In this episode, Isobel and Ron break down why both of those ideas are myths. We talk about: - why coaching is guidance and accountability - not a magic shortcut. - the truth about training: it never makes ultras easy, but it makes you stronger at handling the ahrd. If...

Ultras never go to plan. The runners who finish strong aren’t the ones who hope for a perfect day—they’re the ones who are ready for anything . In this episode, I break down how to prepare for the inevitable curveballs of ultrarunning: nutrition mishaps, gear fails, weather chaos, and those mental lows that creep in at 3 a.m. You’ll learn: Why training in adverse conditions is a hidden superpower...

Ron and I break down what it actually takes to build true endurance over months and years—not just survive a big weekend. We unpack the physiology of aerobic capacity (why an easy-paced base is your performance superpower), how to apply progressive overload without tipping into fatigue, and the mindset tools that turn consistency into confidence on race day. You’ll learn how to build the base, add...

Whether you’re logging long runs on quiet trails or squeezing in miles along busy roads, safety should always come first. In this episode, Ron and I dive into practical strategies every runner can use to stay safe while training. We cover:✅ Road running safety—visibility, traffic awareness, and sharing space with others ✅ Trail running safety—gear, navigation, wildlife, and running solo ✅ Perso...

Are you forcing your runs even when your body is screaming at you? That’s a fast track to overtraining and injury. In this episode, we break down: How to recognise the signs your body needs rest When it’s okay to swap, shorten, or walk your run The difference between productive discomfort and damaging fatigue Why adjusting your training is not “quitting”—it’s the smartest move you can make Listen...

Ever had a week where every run feels like a slog and you start wondering if you’ve lost all your fitness? You’re not alone—and it’s probably not your fitness that’s the problem. It’s your recovery. In this episode of the Peak Endurance Podcast, Ron and I break down: Why “feeling flat” doesn’t automatically mean you’re unfit The key signs you’re dealing with fatigue, not a loss of fitness How to t...

Think your best running days are behind you? Think again. In this episode, Ron and I dive deep into what it really takes to thrive—not just survive—as an ultrarunner over 50.We explore the key physiological shifts that come with age, including hormonal changes and slower recovery, and explain how smart training, targeted strength work, and a more thoughtful approach to rest can keep you performing...

Are you training hard but still not getting faster, stronger, or closer to your goals? You’re not alone—and chances are, it’s not your motivation that’s the problem. It’s your approach . In this episode of the Peak Endurance Podcast, coaches Isobel and Ron Tait break down the top 5 training mistakes most runners make—and how to fix them with smarter, more strategic methods. From running too hard a...

Join Isobel and Ron as they dive deep into Isobel's recent experience at the Ultra Adelaide 100 Miler. In this candid and inspiring conversation, Isobel shares her journey through the grueling race, while Ron offers insights from his perspective as Isobel's dedicated crew. 🏃‍♂️ Highlights: The highs: Moments of triumph and unexpected joys The lows: Battling fatigue, doubt, and physical ch...

In this episode of the Peak Endurance Podcast, we’re back from our UK adventure and catching you up on all the running, travel, and turbulence (hello, jet lag!). We share insights from our runs abroad, the struggle of returning to routine, and the powerful reminder of just how crucial sleep is for performance and recovery. Plus, after rotating back into new running shoes, we felt the difference—bi...

Ron and I chat about our UK adventures so far...and some of the interesting town names here in England :)

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 w...

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...

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...

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!