The FitMIND FitBODY Podcast

Have you ever noticed what your hands are doing while you run? This week's ZenRUN Moment focuses on a tiny adjustment that can have a surprisingly big impact: softening your hands while you run. Many runners carry tension in their hands without even realising it. We clench our fists, tighten our fingers, and hold onto stress as we move through our runs. The funny thing is, that tension rarely stays in our hands. It often travels up into our wrists, forearms, shoulders, neck, and even our jaw. On your next run, try checking in every now and then. Are your hands relaxed or clenched? Imagine you're lightly holding a potato chip you don't want to crush. Let your fingers soften. Let your wrists relax. Notice what happens further up your body. Many runners find their shoulders drop, their breathing feels easier, and their whole run becomes a little more relaxed. It's a great reminder that running doesn't always require us to try harder. Sometimes the biggest improvements come from letting go rather than tightening up. Give it a try on your next run and see what you notice. Small moments of awareness like this can completely change the way running feels.

In this episode of the ZenRUN Podcast, I chat with the wonderful Ben Ridley - Perth runner, Delirious West athlete, self-declared road runner, proud husband of Karin Ridley, and possibly one of the most committed “super crew” members in the ultra-running world. Ben's story starts with a childhood full of sport - footy, swimming, surf lifesaving, T-ball, basketball - basically everything except running. Because running? Absolutely not. Ben grew up with chronic asthma, tricky knees, and a very strong dislike of running. But life has a funny way of circling back. After years of work, family life, health challenges, weight struggles, FIFO, mental health battles, and a major lifestyle shift, Ben and Karin found themselves at parkrun. And that changed everything. What started as a Saturday morning “why would anyone do this?” moment slowly became 5Ks, 10Ks, trails, half marathons, Feral Pig, Delirious West, 100 milers, 200 miler attempts, big DNFs, big lessons, big friendships, and a running life Ben never expected. This episode is funny, honest, emotional, and very Ben. We talk about weight loss surgery, running for mental health, the magic of parkrun, the chaos of Delirious West, crewing Karin, hallucinations, chafing, broken tyres, beers at aid stations, podcast-fuelled road running, and why community might be the greatest thing running has given him. Why You'll Love This Episode Ben shares: How he went from not being able to run a couple of hundred metres to becoming an ultra runner Why parkrun was the perfect no-pressure place to begin How he and Karin rebuilt their health together The reality of weight loss surgery - and why it was definitely not the “easy way out” His first 50K at Feral Pig and why he was “carrying on like a pork chop” halfway through His unforgettable Delirious West 100 miler finish with only 30 minutes to spare What it was like crewing Karin through her 200 miler after his own race ended The grief and emotion of losing his mum during Delirious Why DNFs hurt, but don't define you How running has become one of his biggest mental health tools Why he's currently loving road running, Melbourne Marathon training, and running into the MCG Why running with mates, coffee after parkrun, and pub run friendships matter so much Why Delirious still has baggage, but also still has a pull How he's heading back to Delirious with mates for the Great Southern Beer Run Tips From Ben Ben shared some really practical, honest advice for runners who are struggling to get out the door: 1. Find your reason why Don't just run because you “should.” Work out why it matters to you. Is it your mental health? Your fitness? Your friendships? A goal? A bit of space from life? That reason helps get you moving when motivation disappears. 2. Remember how you feel once you're out there Ben says the hardest part is often getting out the door. Once you're moving, things start to shift. Your head clears. Life feels a bit lighter. The run does what it came to do. 3. Use something that helps you get started For Ben, that might be a podcast, music, a book, or just being out on the trail listening to birds and trees. The point is simple: make the run easier to begin. 4. Run with people when you can Community has been huge for Ben. Parkrun, pub run, trail events, Ultra Series, coffee after runs - these people have become lifelong friends. Sometimes running is less about the running and more about who it brings into your life. 5. Walking counts Ben's reminder is simple and brilliant: Half an hour is better than nothing. If you can't run, walk. If you can't do the full plan, do something. It still matters. 6. Strength training helps Ben is a big believer in strength work for runners, especially if you want to keep running longer distances, reduce injury risk, and avoid the post-run “can't sit down on the toilet” situation. Very practical. Very true. A Beautiful Reminder From Ben's Story Ben's story is a reminder that running doesn't have to start perfectly. You don't need to grow up as “a runner.” You don't need to be fast. You don't need to have it all together. You can start with one parkrun. You can walk. You can struggle. You can DNF. You can come back. And somewhere along the way, running might become less about proving something - and more about finding your people, clearing your head, and becoming someone you never expected to be. Connect With Ben You'll most likely find Ben at parkrun, pub run, crewing Karin, running roads, signing up for something ridiculous with mates, or preparing for his next Delirious adventure. And if you see him at an aid station, he may remind you: You did choose to do this. Delirious WEST event Website - https://deliriouswest200miler.com.au/ Interested in the 2027 DW? Go join the event Facebook Group so you don't miss when the race opens for entries in June for new runners - https://www.facebook.com/groups/1428304207182387

Most runners think a run starts when they press start on their watch. But what if the most important part of your run is actually the first minute? In this first ZenRUN Moment, we're focusing on something incredibly simple: noticing the beginning of your run. Not your pace. Not your distance. Not whether today's run is going to feel easy or hard. Just the first sixty seconds. As you head out the door, bring your attention to what's actually happening right now. Notice your breathing. Listen to the sound of your feet touching the ground. Feel the temperature of the air on your skin. Check in with your body. Do your legs feel fresh, heavy, stiff, or full of energy today? There are no right or wrong answers - just information. Most of us start running while our mind is still somewhere else. We're thinking about work, family, errands, emails, or the rest of the day ahead. This simple practice helps you arrive properly. It helps you settle into the run you're actually having, instead of the one you're thinking about. On your next run, don't rush through the beginning. Treat the first minute as a doorway. Step through it deliberately and see what changes. Running often feels different when we stop trying to get somewhere and start noticing where we already are. Small moments of awareness like this can completely change the experience of a run.

In this episode of the ZenRUN Podcast, I chat with the wonderful Suzanne Rath - Irish farm girl, physio, business owner, leadership coach, trail runner, adventure collector, and someone who seems to casually say yes to things like cycling across South America, running from Sydney to Newcastle, and possibly signing up for Delirious WEST. As you do. Suzanne grew up on a farm in Wexford, Ireland, where resilience, self-reliance, and a “how hard can it be?” attitude were basically part of daily life. From there, her story takes us through physio study, hospital work, Uganda, Sydney, a serious cycling accident, concussion recovery, Katherine in the Northern Territory, and eventually Cairns - where she now runs a multidisciplinary allied health clinic. But this conversation is much more than a running story. It's about what happens when life knocks you sideways. It's about rebuilding after injury. It's about adventure, identity, leadership, values, community, and learning that running doesn't have to be about pace, PBs, or proving anything. Sometimes running becomes the place where we get space to think. Sometimes it becomes the thing that reminds us what we're capable of. And sometimes it becomes the reason we find ourselves surrounded by people who think running 270km from Sydney to Newcastle sounds like a perfectly reasonable personal challenge. Which, obviously, it is not. But also… I get it. Why You'll Love This Episode In this conversation, Suzanne shares: What it was like growing up on a farm in Ireland How running first became part of her life through community and connection Her time working as a physio in Uganda The serious bike accident that led to a broken jaw, post-concussion symptoms, pain, anxiety, and a long recovery Why trail running helped her fall back in love with running How she built a whole-person allied health clinic in Cairns Why running and leadership have more in common than most people think Her Sydney to Newcastle trail adventure - including flash flooding, leeches, getting lost, wet feet, and a very patient support crew Why she believes organised 200-mile races might actually be easier than self-supported chaos How she fits running, business, travel, speaking, leadership coaching, and big adventures into real life Why motivation is not the thing to rely on Why running is a privilege - especially when it's hard Suzanne's Running Tips Suzanne shared so many great reminders in this episode, including: Minimise the friction. Have your gear ready. Know what you're doing. Remove as many tiny obstacles as possible so getting out the door doesn't become a negotiation. Put your running in the calendar first. Suzanne plans her week around the things that matter - including training, adventure, family, and recovery - rather than waiting to “find time” later. Don't rely on motivation. As Suzanne says, if she waited until she felt motivated, she might never run again. Make it easier to start instead. Have something to aim for. It doesn't have to be a huge event. It can be a small goal, a race, a trail, an adventure, or simply something that gives your running a little spark. Stay connected when you're injured. If you can't run, don't disappear. Go to breakfast. Cheer people on. Stay part of the running community. Remember what a privilege it is. Even when it's hard, even when you're tired, even when your feet are wet and your brain is questioning your life choices - it's still a privilege to be able to move, explore, and do these things. A Favourite Moment One of my favourite parts of this conversation was Suzanne talking about how the joy came back into running when it became aligned with her values. Not when she got faster. Not when she ticked off another race. Not when she proved anything. But when running became connected to adventure, community, potential, and living in a way that felt true to her. And honestly, that feels very ZenRUN. Listen To This Episode If… You'll love this episode if you've ever: Come back from injury Lost your running mojo Wanted more adventure in your life Felt like your business, work, or responsibilities were swallowing all your time Used running as thinking space Wondered whether trail runners are all slightly unhinged Signed up for something before fully understanding the logistics Needed a reminder that running can be about joy, freedom, and possibility This is such a rich, funny, thoughtful conversation with a woman who has lived a lot of life, taken a lot of brave turns, and somehow still has more adventures planned. I loved this chat. And I think you will too. Suzanne's practice in Cairns - Wellness Embodied: https://www.wellnessembodiedcairns.com/

In this episode of the ZenRUN Podcast, I chat with the wonderful Astrid Volzke — runner, photographer, professional stickybeak, and the official photographer behind so many of the iconic images from Delirious West. If you've ever run Delirious, followed the event online, or changed your Facebook profile photo to one of those stunning trail-running shots, chances are Astrid was behind the camera. But this chat isn't just about photography. Astrid shares her story of growing up in Singapore, moving to Western Australia, camping adventures with her family, finding her way into photography, and eventually becoming part of the trail running world. Her journey includes early morning boats with fishermen, newspaper photojournalism, community storytelling, trail running, Birdy's Backyard, and of course, many long days and nights capturing the raw emotion of Delirious West. We talk about how photographing a 200-mile event is an endurance event in itself — the planning, the mental focus, the sleep deprivation, the gear, the editing, the sandy night drives, and the constant decision-making that happens behind the scenes. Astrid says she's either shooting or editing for most of the week, often chasing sunrise, sunset, emotional moments, funny poses, and the gritty reality of what runners go through. Astrid also shares what running means to her personally. She started trail running through a team at Margaret River Ultra, found herself hooked by the people and adventure, and has since become part of the wider ultra-running community in a very unique way — sometimes as a runner, often as the photographer, and always as someone deeply immersed in the story. One of my favourite parts of this conversation is Astrid's reflection on motivation. Her advice is simple and very ZenRUN: You don't have to feel motivated first. You just have to start. Whether it's running, photography, or any creative project, Astrid says momentum often comes after you begin — not before. Tie the shoelaces. Step outside. Pick up the camera. Start with the first step, and the rest often follows. This is a relaxed, funny, behind-the-scenes chat with someone who has seen Delirious West from a perspective most of us never will — behind the lens, in the dark, on the beach, in the dust, at the finish line, and sometimes crying behind the camera. In this episode, we chat about: Growing up in Singapore and moving to Perth as a child How Astrid found photography after realising agribusiness wasn't quite her thing Life as a photojournalist and freelance photographer Why photography is really about storytelling How trail running entered her life The origins of Birdy's Backyard Why photographing Delirious West is its own kind of endurance event The mental load of capturing a multi-day ultra The hilarious runner poses Astrid has captured over the years Why runners don't have to run when they see the photographer The emotion, grit, joy and humanity of 200-mile events Why Astrid would love to run a point-to-point adventure event one day Her simple motivation tip: just start Astrid's Tip for Runners Don't wait until you feel motivated. Just start. Go outside. Take the first step. Begin slowly. Often the motivation comes once you're already moving. And if you're out on course and see Astrid with her camera? You don't have to run. But apparently, most of us do anyway

Welcome to the next episode in the 2026 Melbourne Frontyard Ultra Mini-Series on the ZenRUN Podcast. This series follows a handful of athletes through their actual Melbourne Frontyard Ultra journey - not just the polished version after the event, but the little check-ins along the way. The tired bits. The funny bits. The snack updates. The “what on earth am I doing?” moments. And eventually, the wrap-up chat when their race is done. In this episode, we're following the wonderful Nagiska Mayes. And this one has heart. A lot of heart. Nagiska didn't grow up as a runner. In fact, she was very clear that running was absolutely not her thing as a kid. No school cross-country glory. No sporty childhood origin story. More like “please write me a note so I can sit this one out” energy. But years later, after getting married, joining a gym, Covid closing everything down, and her husband Jack suggesting they “just go for a run,” things slowly started to shift. First it was 200 metres. Then 1.1 kilometres to the footy oval. Then 2K. Then 3.5K. Then somehow, as these things tend to happen, Nagiska found herself running ultras. As you do. By the time she arrived at Melbourne Frontyard Ultra, Nagiska had already completed Surf Coast Century 100K and had fallen into the wonderfully strange world of ultra-running, largely helped along by Jack, her best friend Rach, and a healthy dose of “if they can do it, maybe I can too.” Her previous backyard ultra PB was 14 hours. At Melbourne Frontyard Ultra, she went on to reach 30 yards and 200 kilometres. That is not a small jump. That is a giant, emotional, slightly ridiculous leap into “holy moly, look what I just did” territory. In this episode, you'll hear Nagiska before the race, full of nervous excitement and ready to find her limit. You'll hear her around yard 24, about to reach her first ever 100 miler and already well past anything she'd done before. You'll hear the emotional wobble around yard 26, when the doubts started creeping in and the support from her crew became everything. And then in the wrap-up, you'll hear the full story of how she made it to yard 30 - not just physically, but mentally and emotionally. This is a conversation about big goals, self-doubt, comparison, love, teamwork, the stories we tell ourselves, and what can happen when someone who knows you well refuses to let you quit on yourself too soon. There are tears. There is swearing. There is Turkish delight and V. There is a Vegemite sandwich. There is a very wise husband. There is a best friend. There is a 200K bell ring. And there is a beautiful reminder that sometimes the biggest achievement is not just the distance you cover, but the story you rewrite along the way. Why You'll Love This Episode You'll hear the raw, real version of a huge Frontyard Ultra breakthrough Nagiska shares honestly about not growing up sporty and building her running from scratch We talk about fear, self-doubt, comparison, and the pressure we put on ourselves There's a beautiful story of Jack supporting Nagiska through the hardest yards Nagiska reaches 30 yards and 200K, doubling her distance PB You'll hear what it means to share a huge running moment with your husband and best friend It's funny, emotional, honest, and very very human A Few Favourite Themes You don't have to start as “a runner” Nagiska's story is such a good reminder that you don't need a sporty childhood or a perfect running background to do big things. Tiny steps can become massive adventures From 200 metres around the block to 200 kilometres at Melbourne Frontyard Ultra. That's a pretty solid progression. The stories we tell ourselves matter One of the strongest parts of this episode is Nagiska talking about the narration in her own head - and how that story nearly convinced her she was done. Crew can change everything Jack, Rach, Peter and the rest of the support crew weren't just practical help. They became part of the reason Nagiska kept going. You can be proud and still process it all Sometimes the emotion hits before the pride does. This episode captures that beautifully. Listen In For Nagiska's “running was not my thing” childhood story How Covid, gym closures and Jack helped start her running journey Her first 100K at Surf Coast Century Why she wanted to find her limit at MFYU The leap from a 14-hour backyard PB to 30 yards Yard 24 and her first ever 100 miler The emotional moment where she worried about letting Jack down The role of her crew and brother-in-law Peter Turkish delight, V, Vegemite sandwiches and ultra-running food logic The mental battle between being done and going one more yard How Jack helped her reframe the story in her head Reaching 200K with Jack and Rach The beautiful “we make a good team” moment What Nagiska learned about herself through the event Mentioned In This Episode Melbourne Frontyard Ultra Ultra Series Australia Shaun Kaesler Surf Coast Century Wild Dog Backyard Ultra You Yangs 100 Miler Hardcore Harry's King of the Hill The Prom Wonthaggi Daft Punk's “One More Time” Melbourne Frontyard Ultra Melbourne Frontyard Ultra Event Website https://www.melbournefyu.com.au/ Interested in the 2027 Melbourne Frontyard Ultra? Entries are open now for Saturday 1 May 2027 - and if 2026 is anything to go by, it's going to be bigger, better, and likely to sell out. Enter here: https://www.melbournefyu.com.au/

This week's mindful moment is a powerful reset: do one thing in slow motion. Choose a simple, everyday action - making your coffee, tying your shoes, closing the car door - and deliberately slow it right down. Slower than feels natural. As you move, notice each step involved, the movement of your hands, your breath, your posture. It's amazing how much we rush without even realising. By slowing just one thing, you create a small pocket of awareness where time feels like it stretches… just a little. And in that space, you reconnect with yourself. No extra time needed - just a different pace. This small habit can become a quiet anchor in your day - a moment to pause, breathe, and return to the present without needing to stop everything you're doing. Little moments like this add up. And often they're the beginning of something bigger.

In this episode of the ZenRUN Podcast, I chat with the wonderful Peta Moore - wildlife lover, ultra runner, Perth Zoo vet nurse, trail adventurer, and fellow member of the 2026 Delirious West DNF crew. Peta's story starts in a small coal mining town in Central Queensland, where she definitely did not grow up thinking she was sporty. There was a bit of T-ball, some Highland dancing, a serious Muay Thai phase, and eventually a life built around animals, wildlife, conservation, and the odd capybara obsession. From wildlife biology to Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital, bear rescue work in Vietnam, zookeeping in Alice Springs, and eventually Perth Zoo, Peta's life has been full of animals, adventure, and a very healthy amount of chaos. And then running arrived. What started as a Couch to 5K attempt on the trails around Alice Springs - complete with hills, heat, sunsets, and a dog by her side - slowly turned into trail running, ultra running, 100 milers, 200 milers, injury comebacks, big adventures, and a very deep love for the WA trail running community. We talk about Peta's first ultras, her love-hate relationship with backyard events, finishing her first 200 miler in the Blue Mountains, crying at aid stations, eating emergency Twisties for breakfast, getting through terrifying cliff sections with the help of “Spider Lady”, and the weird way ultra runners can suddenly find themselves saying things like, “There's only 80k to go!” Of course, we also talk about Delirious West 2026, where Peta went in with one of her best training blocks, a year of injury-free running behind her, and plenty of confidence - only to fall off a boardwalk just 3km into the race. From there, she managed pain, problem-solved, kept moving, questioned her sanity more than once, and eventually made the hard decision to stop at Treetop when the joy had gone and the risk felt too high. This conversation is honest, funny, emotional, and full of the real stuff that happens between start lines and finish lines - including the grief of a DNF, the fear of more injury, the pull of community, and the deep love that keeps bringing us back to the trails. Why You'll Love This Episode You'll hear about: Peta growing up in a tiny Central Queensland mining town Her path into wildlife biology, zoo medicine, and vet nursing Running in Alice Springs, Vietnam, Perth, Spain, the Blue Mountains and WA trails Her first trail events and how she got sucked into the ultra world Why the WA trail running community became her second family Her first 200 miler at Unreasonable in the Blue Mountains Sleep deprivation, aid station meltdowns, and emergency Twisties The injury rollercoaster: shoulder surgery, knee surgery, stress fractures and comebacks Her 2026 Delirious West 200 miler DNF Why stopping can sometimes be the strongest decision The strange grief that can come after a DNF Why running is still worth it, even when it breaks your heart a little Tips from Peta's Story 1. Community matters more than we realise. Peta talks beautifully about finding her people through trail running. When injury kept her from racing, she stayed connected by volunteering, crewing, cheering and showing up. 2. A DNF still contains a huge amount of courage. Peta's Delirious West didn't end the way she hoped, but she still pushed through a massive amount of pain, made smart decisions, and protected her future running. 3. Don't ignore pain just because you're tough. Ultra runners are excellent at tolerating discomfort - sometimes too excellent. Peta's story is a good reminder that pain is information, especially when there's a history of injury. 4. Cross-training can be a gift. During injury recovery, Peta discovered cycling and realised it made her stronger. Sometimes the thing we're forced into becomes part of the bigger picture. 5. Running will wait for you. One of the loveliest reminders from this episode is that if you need a break, running is still there. The trails are still there. The community is still there. 6. It's okay to grieve the race you didn't get to finish. A DNF can feel like losing the version of the story you'd been imagining. Peta speaks honestly about needing to process that. 7. Keep coming back - but come back wisely. Peta's story isn't about pretending everything is fine. It's about healing, rebuilding, adjusting, and still believing there are more adventures ahead. Delirious WEST event website: https://deliriouswest200miler.com.au/ Interested in the 2027 DW? Go join the event Facebook Group so you don't miss when the race opens for entries in June for new runners: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1428304207182387

In this episode of the ZenRUN Podcast, I chat with Chris Atkinson - teacher, lifelong runner, trail lover, proud New Zealander, Cairns local… and the 2026 Delirious West 200 miler winner. Chris and I met at Delirious West this year, and I loved having the chance to sit down properly and hear more about his running journey, his life, and what led him to take on his very first 200-mile race. We start right back at the beginning, with Chris growing up in a tiny town at the bottom of New Zealand's South Island, where running, rugby, fishing and community were all part of life. From primary school runs along dirt roads, to athletics clubs, cross country, rugby injuries, teaching, travel, trail running in New Zealand, Tasmania, Europe, Hong Kong and now Queensland - running has followed Chris through every chapter. And then, of course, we dive into Delirious. Chris went into Delirious West thinking he might finish somewhere around 80 hours. Instead, he moved steadily through the field, managed knee pain, hallucinations, getting lost, no sleep, long stretches alone, and still crossed the finish line first in 67 hours and 30 minutes. As you do. What I loved most about this conversation was how calm and thoughtful Chris is about the whole thing. He didn't go into Delirious with a huge ego or a dramatic race plan. He went in curious. Could he do 200 miles? Could his body and mind work through the problems? Could he keep moving, stay calm, and solve one thing at a time? Turns out… yes. Very much yes. Chris shares so many brilliant insights from the race, including how he planned conservatively, how his wife Dee crewed him through the event, how they refined the plan as they went, what worked nutrition-wise, why he didn't sleep, what it was like running alone at the front, and how important it was to eventually team up with Dom in the later stages when fatigue and hallucinations were really kicking in. We also talk about the deeper stuff running gives us - freedom, identity, resilience, connection, and that feeling of being completely alive out on the trails. Chris shares one of his favourite lessons from running: run your own race. Not just in events, but in life. And then there's Fred. Fred is Chris's 78-year-old running friend from New Zealand who still runs, travels, tries new things, tells stories, and lives with the kind of young, adventurous mindset we could all learn from. Honestly, I think we may have accidentally started a new movement in this episode: Be Like Fred. This is a beautiful, funny, thoughtful conversation about trail running, ultra running, teaching, family, adventure, crewing, nutrition, sleep deprivation, community, and why sometimes the best thing you can do is put your shoes on and head out the door. In this episode we chat about: Chris growing up in a small New Zealand town How running became part of his life from a young age Moving from track, cross country and rugby into trail and ultra running Why trail running felt more soulful and less injury-prone than road or club racing Chris's first 200 miler at Delirious West Winning the 2026 Delirious West 200 miler in 67 hours and 30 minutes Starting at the back and naturally moving through the field Managing knee pain early in the race Running without sleep for the whole event Hallucinations, spiderwebs, kangaroos and late-night trail weirdness The role of Dee, Chris's wife and crew Nutrition strategies, including instant mash, soup, maltodextrin and slow-cooked lamb Getting lost near Cozy Corner and being guided out by Scott Bunny Why Delirious felt both physically and mentally complex The importance of staying calm and solving one problem at a time Running your own race - in running and in life Why big ultra races are never really solo events Chris's love of trails, quiet, nature and freedom Why we should all aim to “Be Like Fred” Tips from Chris Run your own race. Chris says this is the advice he gives his son, and it applies to life as much as running. Listen to others, learn what you can, but in the end it's your body, your legs, your pace, and your decisions. Have a plan, but don't cling to it. Chris had a spreadsheet, pacing estimates, food ideas and crew notes - but the race still changed almost immediately. The plan gave him something to work from, but he stayed flexible. Practise your nutrition before race day. Chris worked with Erin from Ultra Appetites after struggling with GI issues in previous races. Getting his nutrition right made a huge difference at Delirious. Keep things simple when you're tired. By later in the race, Chris and Dee had a rhythm: instant mash, soup, protein shakes, electrolytes, maltodextrin, charging gear, strapping the knee, then back out again. Simple wins when your brain is fried. Let people help you. Chris makes a beautiful point that Delirious might look like an individual event, but it really isn't. You need crew, aid stations, race directors, volunteers, other runners, nutrition advice, and people who believe you can keep going. Get outside. Chris's motivation tip is beautifully simple: put your shoes on, head outside, and spend time in nature. Run, walk, explore, notice the birds, breathe the fresh air. Something is better than nothing. Be Like Fred. Stay curious. Keep moving. Try new things. Tell stories. Stay young in your mindset. And keep loving the trails for as long as you possibly can.

This week's mindful moment brings your attention right down to the foundation of your movement: wake up your ankles. Before you head out for a run, a walk, or even just start your day, take a minute to gently circle each ankle. Move slowly, without forcing anything—just explore the range. Notice what feels smooth, what feels tight, and how each direction differs. Then switch sides. Your ankles quietly do a huge amount of work every single day, especially when you're running, and this simple check-in is a way to reconnect and support them. When you start paying attention to these small, often overlooked areas, your whole body can begin to move with more ease. This small habit can become a quiet anchor in your day — a moment to pause, breathe, and return to the present without needing to stop everything you're doing. Little moments like this add up. And often they're the beginning of something bigger.

Welcome to the first episode in our brand-new 2026 Melbourne Frontyard Ultra Mini-Series on the ZenRUN Podcast. This series is a little different from our usual runner interviews. I was over at Melbourne Frontyard Ultra as one of the race directors, and while I was there, I followed a handful of athletes through their event - quick check-ins before the race, during the yards, in the tired middle-of-the-night moments, and then again after their race was done. And first up, we're following the amazing Margie Hadley. Margie came into Melbourne Frontyard Ultra with a huge amount of experience in the backyard ultra format. She's part of the incredible Perth ultra-running community, had a personal best already sitting deep in the 40-hour range, and arrived with big goals, a brilliant crew, and a very calm, steady energy. But as you'll hear in this episode, even the most experienced runners still have to face the same question every hour: Can I get back to the start line one more time? This episode captures Margie's journey from the early relaxed yards, through rain, niggles, crew chaos, toe-taping, attempts at tiny naps, second-night fatigue, and the constant sound of Daft Punk's “One More Time” reminding everyone that yes - another yard was coming. Margie went on to hit a new PB of 48 yards, become the last woman standing, and still had the courage to start yard 49 - even when she knew she had given almost everything to get back from yard 48. There are funny moments, tired moments, practical crew realities - including some very honest portaloo chat - and one of my favourite moments of the whole episode: Margie lying on the grass doing “grass angels” during yard 49 before deciding whether she could keep moving. In our wrap-up chat, Margie reflects on what worked, what didn't, the power of crew, why sleep became such a challenge, how her nutrition was a huge win, and why sometimes the most powerful thing you can do is simply start - even when you're not sure what will happen next. Why You'll Love This Episode You'll get a real inside look at what a Frontyard Ultra actually feels like You'll hear the difference between results on paper and the real story behind them Margie shares what it's like to chase big goals in the backyard ultra format We talk crew, sleep, nutrition, mental toughness, and tiny decisions There are raw check-ins from during the event, not just polished reflections afterward You'll hear why this format is brutal, fascinating, funny, and strangely beautiful And yes… you'll never hear “One More Time” the same way again A Few Favourite Themes One yard at a time The format is simple: 6.7km every hour until only one person is left. But simple does not mean easy. Crew matters Margie's crew played a massive role - from food and foot care to tough love and getting her back out there when she didn't want to go. Sleep changes everything Margie's nutrition went brilliantly, but sleep became the one-percenter she now wants to work on. You don't always know what's possible Margie talked beautifully about how quickly things can shift in endurance events - one moment you're done, the next moment something changes. Just start One of the biggest takeaways from this episode is the power of starting the next yard, even if you're not sure you'll finish it. Listen In For Margie's running background and how she grew into running as an adult Why she keeps coming back to backyard ultras Her previous PB of 47 hours and her goal to push beyond 50 Early race check-ins and the very wobbly bridge Joel's crew update after very little sleep Rain, slippery course conditions, and a few leg niggles Crew realities, including the great portaloo discussion Toe-taping with 11 minutes to go A tiny nap attempt in the middle of the night The 1am music chat Margie's 48-yard PB Yard 49, grass angels, and the moment she knew she was done Her reflections on nutrition, sleep, crew, and what comes next Interested in the 2027 Melbourne Frontyard Ultra?  Want to see how many 6.7km yard you can tick off? Entries are open now for the 2027 event to be held on Saturday 1 May 2027 - and if 2026 is anything to go by, it's going to be bigger, better, and likely to sell out. Enter here: https://www.melbournefyu.com.au/ ⸻

In this episode of the ZenRUN Podcast, I sit down with the incredibly warm, thoughtful and inspiring Juan Pablo Rodriguez - better known as JP - to chat about his journey from Mexico to Australia, his experience at Delirious WEST, and the deeper meaning he's finding through running, movement and adventure. What started as a race recap quickly turned into one of those beautiful conversations that goes far beyond running. JP shares what it felt like taking on the Delirious 200 Miler, the emotional highs and lows of the event, and why the experience left such a huge mark on him. We also dive into life, gratitude, travel, community, pushing yourself into the unknown, and the simple gift of being able to move your body. There's something really special about JP's outlook on life. He has this beautiful way of reminding us not to take movement, health or adventure for granted. At one point he says: “Go take advantage of your blessing.” ❤️  And honestly… that pretty much sums up this entire episode. We also chat about: What drew JP from Mexico to Australia His Delirious WEST experience and lessons from the trail Why the Delirious community is so special The emotional side of ultra running Gratitude, perspective and staying present Why movement is something to celebrate The explosion of running and outdoor adventure post-COVID What might be next for JP (including possibly returning to Delirious

In this Delirious WEST 2026 athlete wrap-up episode, I'm chatting with the fabulous Bianca O'Neill about her 100-mile adventure - and honestly, this one has a bit of everything. Bianca takes us through her race from the slightly questionable pre-race preparation of champagne, beach walks and buying far too much food, through to the night start, the Monkey Rock “zombie train”, emotional moments on the trail, aid station chaos, freezing cold naps that didn't quite happen, and the beautiful final stretch into Albany. This year was extra special because Bianca ran alongside her mum, Sue, which brought a whole extra layer of fun, support, worry, laughter, and probably a few “slow down” wheezes along the way. There's something pretty amazing about sharing 100 miles with your mum - even when neither of you has had enough sleep and your feet are well and truly over it. Bianca also shares the deeper “why” behind her race, running in support of her friend Danielle, who is going through brain cancer. That emotional thread runs through the episode beautifully - the reminder that sometimes when things get hard, remembering why you're there can be the thing that keeps you moving. We also talk about all the important ultra-running things… like stale hot cross buns, toasties that hit the spot, maple syrup as race nutrition, chafing tips, emu export at Shaz's, windmills that feel like there are 900 of them, and that final road section that felt much longer than it had any right to. Bianca finished in 50 hours and 1 second - yes, one second - and somehow that feels perfectly Bianca. A little note on this episode: we had a few audio gremlins along the way. We've cleaned it up as much as we can, and rather than making Bianca re-live the whole 100 miles again, we're sharing it as it is - real, honest, slightly imperfect, and full of brilliant stories. Why You'll Love This Episode You'll love this chat if you enjoy stories about: Running huge distances with family The emotional side of ultra-running Why sleep matters so much in 100-mile races Aid station food, drop bag chaos and nutrition lessons The Delirious WEST community and all the people who make the race special Keeping going when your feet are burning, your brain is tired, and the finish line feels like it has moved further away Laughing at the ridiculous things that happen when you've been awake for far too long Tips from Bianca A few little gems from Bianca's race: Don't overpack your drop bags. Bianca bought heaps of food, but ended up sticking mostly to a few reliable favourites. Find nutrition you can actually keep using when tired. Precision hydration and chews worked well for her because she could keep getting them down. Sleep is worth practising. Bianca's biggest challenge wasn't fitness - it was not being able to switch off and nap properly during the race. Have simple go-to foods. Soup, toasties, burritos and bread became easier than trying to force random snacks. Use distraction when things hurt. Bianca looked for whales near the windmills to take her mind off her feet. Remember your why. When things got tough, Bianca came back to the reason she was out there - her friend Danielle. Chafe tip! Bianca swears by putting Bepanthen on before showering if you're badly chafed, to help stop that horrible shower sting. Delirious WEST event Website – https://deliriouswest200miler.com.au/ Interested in the 2027 DW?  Go join the event Facebook Group so you don't miss when the race opens for entries in June for new runners – https://www.facebook.com/groups/1428304207182387 ⸻

This week's mindful moment is a gentle invitation to soften: turn your palms up and pause. Wherever you are - sitting, standing, or lying down - simply rotate your hands so your palms face upward. Then pause. Take a slow breath in… and out. Notice how this small shift changes the feeling in your body. Palms up is an open, receptive position - it's the opposite of gripping, bracing, or holding on. So often we move through the day with subtle tension in our hands and body without even realising it. This tiny adjustment can signal safety, ease, and letting go. Just for a moment… nothing to hold, nothing to do… just breathe. This small habit can become a quiet anchor in your day — a moment to pause, breathe, and return to the present without needing to stop everything you're doing. Little moments like this add up. And often they're the beginning of something bigger.

In this Delirious WEST 2026 wrap-up episode of the ZenRUN Podcast, I catch up with the incredibly honest and resilient Eve Knudson after her 100-mile adventure through the wild coastline, sand, sleep deprivation and emotional rollercoaster that is Delirious WEST.  This conversation is raw in the best possible way. Eve shares what it was really like tackling the 100-miler after previously completing the 200-mile event - and surprisingly, she found the shorter distance mentally tougher. From brutal Monkey Rocks climbs in the dark, dirt naps on sandy 4WD tracks, painful feet and missing aid station beds… through to emotional moments seeing her kids at Parry Beach and standing silently at Jeff's Tree with Brian… this episode captures the highs, lows and strange beauty of ultra running perfectly.  We also dive into: Why lack of sleep completely changed the experience The mental spiral that Eve couldn't quite shake during the race The huge difference a coach and crew can make in these events Decision fatigue at aid stations Why she now thinks the 200-miler might actually be “easier” than the 100 Her first ever shoey at the finish line

In this episode of the ZenRUN Podcast, I catch up with the very entertaining, very thoughtful, and very honest Warren Page after his first ever Delirious WEST 100-mile finish.  Warren came into the race with a meticulous training plan, a sports nutrition background, a huge support crew… and absolutely no idea just how much the event would challenge him mentally and emotionally. What unfolds is an incredible story of resilience, self-discovery, hallucinations, dirt naps, near-snake disasters, frozen aid stations, soul brothers on trail, and learning that sometimes the biggest battle isn't your body… it's your own expectations.  We talk about: What it's really like to prepare for a 100-mile ultra while juggling work, family, life and training Why Warren believes strength training was a huge part of his success The importance of crew support and how his wife Emma became the ultimate crew chief The emotional rollercoaster of spending too long at aid stations and mentally “chasing time” Running through the night with hallucinations, loneliness and sleep deprivation Dirt naps, cold mornings and the magical sunrise leaving Cozy Corner Getting completely lost on the beach after Cozy Corner and nearly breaking down emotionally The terrifying moment Warren almost landed on a deadly dugite snake mid-stride Why ultra running completely levels the playing field and proves that runners don't need to “look” a certain way The strange emotional comedown after finishing a huge event Why he's already planning his return to Delirious next year There are also SO many great little insights and tips sprinkled throughout this conversation, including: Don't underestimate how much time aid stations can steal from you Change socks and look after your feet early and often Tiny dirt naps can completely reset your brain Pacing and crew support at night can make a massive difference Your fueling strategy matters enormously - especially late in the race when decision fatigue kicks in Training consistency over many months matters more than hero sessions Big goals are built through “small masterpieces” - one session, one rep, one run at a time But honestly… this episode is bigger than just ultra running. It's about identity. It's about resilience. It's about what happens when ordinary people decide to attempt extraordinary things. And Warren shares all of it with humour, honesty and zero ego. Such a fun conversation.

In this very special Delirious WEST 2026 wrap-party episode of the ZenRUN Podcast, a whole bunch of us jumped onto Zoom together to unpack the adventure that was Delirious this year… and honestly, it felt a bit like therapy mixed with sleep deprivation and ultra runner chaos

This week's mindful moment is all about softening how you move: glide through one part of your day. Choose a simple moment—walking down the hallway, heading to your car, or moving around the kitchen—and instead of rushing, ease into it. Let your steps feel smooth, your arms relaxed, your body a little softer. Not exaggerated… just less sharp, less hurried. As you do, notice what shifts. Does your breath slow? Do your shoulders drop? This gentle change in movement sends a powerful signal to your body: there's no rush, you're okay. It's a simple way to bring calm, presence, and a little bit of flow into your everyday life. This small habit can become a quiet anchor in your day — a moment to pause, breathe, and return to the present without needing to stop everything you're doing. Little moments like this add up. And often they're the beginning of something bigger.

In this Delirious WEST 2026 wrap-up episode, I'm joined once again by the wonderful Karin Ridley, fresh from completing the 200 miler and earning her second Delirious plugger - which officially makes her a double plugger!

In this Delirious W.E.S.T 2026 athlete wrap-up episode, I catch up with the wonderfully tough, funny and no-nonsense Sym Mercer after her 200-mile adventure. Sym had a chilled drive across the Nullarbor - complete with a very questionable golf performance along the way - and arrived at Delirious ready to finally get moving after months of build-up, planning, podcast check-ins and travel. But, as we all know, 200-mile events rarely go exactly to plan. Early in the race, Sym's pack wasn't sitting quite right, then a couple of unlucky battles with sticks jarred her knee - the second one changing the whole direction of her race. From there, running became difficult, downhill became seriously painful, and what was meant to be a much faster finish turned into a massive hike, grit-fest and full-body exercise in determination. There were dry retches, bile, dirt naps, warmed-up coconut chocolate water, crew checkpoints, toddler-style food negotiations, squeaky pain noises, and one very clear thought from Sym: she did not want to spend another night out there. But at no point did she decide she was done. With her amazing crew - Paul, Ed, Libby, Trace, Ali and her dad - helping her regroup, sleep, eat, hydrate and keep moving, Sym found a way to get herself to the finish line around 1am Sunday morning. It may have been about 10 hours later than planned, but in true Sym style, the job was done. We also chat about coming back to reality after a huge event, the strange brain fog of returning to work, why these big adventures are such a powerful mental reset, and what Sym learned about fuelling in cooler conditions. And because apparently resting is optional, Sym already has more adventures on the horizon, including pacing at West Macs, heading back to Coast to Coast in New Zealand, and taking on Race Across Scotland. This is a brilliant, honest, funny and quietly powerful conversation about problem-solving, crew support, digging deep, and getting it done even when the original plan has completely gone out the window. Why You'll Love This Episode Sym's very casual approach to driving across the Nullarbor and playing golf badly along the way The moment a simple trip changed the whole race How she managed knee pain for a huge part of the 200 miler Why fuelling in cool weather caught her by surprise The incredible role her crew played in keeping her moving Dirt naps, emergency bivvies and “squeaky noise” monitoring The mental simplicity of ultra events - eat, move, change socks, repeat The shock of returning to real life afterwards Sym's reflections on finishing even when the race doesn't go to plan A sneak peek at her next big adventures Tips from Sym's 200-Mile Adventure 1. Things can change in a split second You can be fit, prepared and ready - then one little trip, fall or jar can completely change the race. That doesn't mean the race is over. It just means the plan has changed. 2. Fuelling still matters when it's cold Sym was eating and drinking, but not enough. Cooler weather made it harder to read her body's needs, and that caught up with her later in the race. 3. A good crew is everything Sym's crew didn't just cheer her on - they made decisions, adjusted pacing plans, got food and fluids into her, monitored her condition and helped her keep moving safely. 4. You don't have to feel amazing to keep going Sometimes finishing looks less like running strong and more like walking, squeaking, swearing at bitumen and refusing to stop. 5. Big events strip life right back No emails. No work decisions. No legislation. Just: what do I need to eat, how do I get to the next checkpoint, and can someone please tell me which socks to wear? Delirious WEST event Website – https://deliriouswest200miler.com.au/ Interested in the 2027 DW?  Go join the event Facebook Group so you don't miss when the race opens for entries in June for new runners – https://www.facebook.com/groups/1428304207182387 ⸻

In this Delirious W.E.S.T. 2026 athlete wrap-up episode, I catch up with Matthew Farrand after his huge journey from London to Western Australia to take on the 200 miler. And what a journey it was. Matthew arrived from the other side of the world, dealt with jet lag, pre-race nerves, cold nights, rain, tracker issues, tired legs, sore knees, sleep deprivation, and the small matter of trying to keep moving for more than 100 hours. As Matthew says in this episode, Delirious doesn't really feel like four days. It feels like one very, very, very long day - with some day and night mixed in. We talk about the early calm at the start line, the mental battle that hit much earlier than expected, the moment he questioned whether he was out of his depth, and the advice from Scott and Shaun that helped get him back up and moving again. From Broke Inlet to Mandalay, Walpole, Giant Tingle Tree, Conspicuous Cliffs, Peaceful Bay, Monkey Rocks, Lowlands, Cozy Corner and finally into Albany - Matthew takes us through the highs, lows, odd little moments, painful steps, and unexpected boosts that carried him forward. There were sleep stops in marquees, on air mattresses, in tents, and even a glorious little dirt nap on a sand dune. There were double espressos from his dad, beautiful volunteers, hot food, pancakes, Eccles cakes, whales, wind turbines that seemed to go on forever, and a knee that decided to make the second half of the race “interesting”. But this episode is also about much more than sore legs. It's about resilience. It's about family. It's about how far the body can go when the mind has already tried to quit several times. And it's about the power of having a reason to keep going - including a note from Matthew's daughter reminding him not to forget to bring home that medal. Matthew also shares how the Delirious podcast helped him believe this race was even possible in the first place, which honestly made me a little emotional. Because that really is what this series is all about - showing that everyday people can take on extraordinary things when they train, believe, keep moving, and surround themselves with the right people. This is a beautiful, funny, honest, and very real 200-mile wrap-up. And yes, Matthew may have said he's retired from 200 milers. We'll see

This week's mindful moment is beautifully simple: do something small with total attention. Choose one everyday task—zipping your jacket, peeling a mandarin, tying your shoes—and give it 100% of your awareness. Slow it down. Feel each movement. Notice the sounds, textures, even the subtle shifts in your breath. Let the task become a ritual instead of just another thing to get through. This is how we practise presence in real life—not in perfect silence, but in the middle of ordinary moments. Because mindfulness isn't about adding more to your day. It's about noticing the day you're already living. This small habit can become a quiet anchor in your day — a moment to pause, breathe, and return to the present without needing to stop everything you're doing. Little moments like this add up. And often they're the beginning of something bigger.

In this Delirious 2026 wrap-up episode, I catch up with Gabe Alves after his huge 200-mile finish - and what a journey this has been. After two previous attempts at Delirious, Gabe came back for round three with one mission: get to that finish line. And in true Gabe style, he didn't just train for it - he absolutely scienced the heck out of it. We talk about the chaos before the race even started, including a campervan “upgrade” held together with duct tape, gaffer tape and hope. We also dive into Gabe's race from the early kilometres, where a sock-related leg swelling issue threatened to derail everything far too early, through to the drowsy overnight sections, dirt naps, magical beach moments, snake sightings, the infamous sleepy shake/wakey shake mix-up, and that final emotional run into Albany. A huge part of Gabe's story this year was his keto experiment. He tracked glucose and ketones throughout the race, stayed incredibly steady energy-wise, avoided the big highs and lows, and finished feeling physically better than he ever has after a massive event. This isn't presented as “everyone should do keto” - even Gabe is very clear about that - but it's a fascinating example of someone being curious, disciplined, and willing to find what works for their own body. We also get to hear from Belinda, Gabe's amazing crew, about what it was like supporting him across the event, managing the logistics, and being part of a journey that so many people had become invested in. This episode is about persistence, problem-solving, community, stubbornness, science, humour, and the beautiful madness of going back until you finally get the job done. Gabe crossed the line in 99 hours and 57 minutes - with almost no wiggle room - after years of learning, adjusting and coming back again. Why You'll Love This Episode Gabe finally gets his Delirious 200-mile finish after two previous attempts. The campervan story is ridiculous - duct tape, broken fridge, dodgy doors and all. Gabe shares how he managed an early leg swelling issue by cutting into his very expensive socks mid-race. We talk dirt naps, sleep deprivation, drowsy walking, and why 10 minutes on the ground can sometimes save the day. Gabe explains his keto race strategy and what he learned from tracking glucose and ketones. Belinda shares the crew perspective - including snakes, sleep deprivation and trying to calculate arrival times while exhausted. There are plenty of classic Delirious moments: beaches, aid stations, Monkey Rocks, jet ski chaos, sunsets, snakes and finish-line emotions. It's a great reminder that sometimes the “limit” isn't the real limit - you just need to find another way. Tips from Gabe's Journey Keep experimenting until you find what works for you. Gabe's strategy wasn't random. It came from years of learning, testing, failing, adjusting and trying again. Don't ignore small problems early. The sock pressure issue could have ended his race if he'd tried to push through it. Instead, he stopped, problem-solved, cut the socks and kept going. Plans matter - but flexibility matters more. Showers, sleep, food, aid station timing, crew logistics - so much changes during a 200-miler. The plan gives you structure, but adaptability gets you through. Short naps can make a big difference. Gabe didn't always feel better after a dirt nap, but his pace improved. Sometimes the body just needs a tiny reset. The work shows up. Gabe doubled his training distance and vert compared with previous years, and he could feel that strength late in the race - especially over Monkey Rocks. Find your own formula. Keto worked beautifully for Gabe, but the bigger lesson is not “do keto.” It's “pay attention, be curious, and figure out what works for your body.” Delirious WEST event Website – https://deliriouswest200miler.com.au/ Interested in the 2027 DW?  Go join the event Facebook Group so you don't miss when the race opens for entries in June for new runners – https://www.facebook.com/groups/1428304207182387 ⸻

In this Delirious WEST 2026 wrap-up episode, I catch up with Ben Pyman after his 100-mile adventure - and what a run he had. Ben takes us right back to the start line in Walpole, the nervous energy, the familiar faces, the late-night race briefing, and that feeling of finally being let loose into the dark. From there, we follow him through the beautiful, brutal, hilarious and slightly ridiculous journey that is Delirious WEST. There's the early buzz of running with others, meeting fellow podcast guests Warren Page and Jason, the stunning sections through Conspicuous Cliffs, Peaceful Bay and Boat Harbour, and of course - the very important aid station food reviews. Risotto, creamy chicken and potato, bacon and egg sandiches, soup, brownies… honestly, this episode may make you hungry as well as inspired. But it wasn't all smooth running. Ben talks honestly about the soft sand that absolutely smoked him, the long lonely night sections, the hallucinations, the sleepy shuffle from Lowlands to Cosy Corner, and the very real difference a pacer or crew can make when your brain has gone on holiday. One of the most powerful parts of this chat is hearing Ben describe how he came good again after a short sleep, food, rest and sunrise. After hours of dragging himself along, he suddenly found himself running freely through the windmills, feeling like it was a brand-new day - and then, somehow, finishing the final stretch with strength, emotion and a massive sense of pride. Ben finished the 100 miler in 39 hours and 37 minutes, hitting his secret sub-40 goal and coming away with a whole lot of lessons, a black toenail caused by a chair rather than the race, and a very strong suspicion that the 200 miler might be next.  We talk about what worked, what he'd change, why sand training may need to become a thing, how his feet survived almost perfectly, and why Delirious WEST is about so much more than just the kilometres. This is a beautiful, funny, honest episode about community, resilience, food, fatigue, emotion, and those strange ultra moments where you wonder how on earth you're still moving - and then suddenly realise you're running better than you thought possible. Previous episodes mentioned: Jason Phillips - https://fitmindfitbody.co/episode-600-running-through-lifes-toughest-moments-jason-phillips-journey-back-to-the-start-line/  Warren Page - https://fitmindfitbody.co/episode-583-warren-page-walk-the-hills-build-the-legs-play-the-long-game/   Delirious WEST event Website – https://deliriouswest200miler.com.au/ Interested in the 2027 DW?  Go join the event Facebook Group so you don't miss when the race opens for entries in June for new runners – https://www.facebook.com/groups/1428304207182387 ⸻

In this Delirious WEST 2026 wrap-up episode, I catch up with Kylie Bell after her 100-mile adventure - and as always, Kylie brings such a calm, honest and experienced perspective to the conversation. Kylie has done plenty of big ultras before, but this year surprised her in one very specific way: she got properly tired. Not just “ultra tired” but weaving-on-the-trail, seeing-smiley-faces-in-rocks, cupboards-and-benches-in-the-bushes tired.

This week's mindful moment invites you to slow down inside a stretch. Instead of rushing through your usual routine, choose one simple stretch—after a run, when you wake up, or anytime during the day—and hold it a little longer than usual. Not to force it. Not to chase flexibility. Just to breathe. As you stay there, notice what shifts. What feels tight? What softens? What feels surprisingly good? Let your body guide the depth and the release. This practice isn't about performance—it's about presence. When you hold a stretch with curiosity and kindness, it becomes more than physical. It becomes a pause for your whole nervous system. This small habit can become a quiet anchor in your day — a moment to pause, breathe, and return to the present without needing to stop everything you're doing. Little moments like this add up. And often they're the beginning of something bigger.

What happens when a mother and daughter take on one of Australia's wildest ultramarathon adventures together… and get interviewed about it by one of their fellow Delirious athletes? In this very special wrap-up episode of the ZenRUN Podcast, Ben Pyman jumps into the host chair and chats with Michelle Frost and Nikki Frost about their experience tackling the Delirious West 200-miler side by side. This conversation is full of everything that makes these events so unforgettable - the laughs, the planning, the sleep deprivation, the hallucinations, the community, the crew chaos, the deep lows, the little wins, and the strange things that become very important when you've been out on the trail for a very long time

In this week's mindful moment, we turn everyday doorways into tiny reset buttons. Pause at the threshold. Each time you walk through a doorway today - at home, at work, even into the fridge for a snack - stop for just a second. Feel your feet on the ground. Notice your breath. Become aware of the shift from one space to another. This small act transforms a mindless transition into an intentional one. Doorways are thresholds - not just physically, but mentally and emotionally too. Let them remind you that you can reset your attention and step into the next moment with clarity and presence. This small habit can become a quiet anchor in your day - a moment to pause, breathe, and return to the present without needing to stop everything you're doing. Little moments like this add up. And often they're the beginning of something bigger.

What happens when a kid who just wanted a motorbike ends up falling in love with endurance sport instead? In this episode of the ZenRUN Podcast, I chat with Rick Prince, founder of UESCA (https://uesca.com/) - the organisation where I completed my Ultra Running Coach Certification last year. Rick shares the story of how a cool red cycling helmet, a job in a local bike shop, and a love of being outside helped shape a lifelong passion for endurance sport.  We talk about Rick's early years growing up in Pennsylvania, racing bikes seriously as a junior, studying kinesiology, and eventually building a business that set out to raise the standard of education for endurance coaches. He explains why he started UESCA, why so many people told him it was a terrible idea, and why he stuck with it anyway - even through those early years when it felt very hard and success was far from guaranteed.     We also dive into the world of endurance and ultra sport more broadly - why more people seem drawn to longer events, trail running, gravel cycling and getting off the road and into nature. Rick shares some great insights around challenge, community, social connection, and why getting outside may be more important than ever in a world full of screens, notifications and constant input.     One of my favourite parts of this chat is Rick's honest take on motivation. He talks about the value of having a goal, trying new things when training feels stale, and not being so rigid with ourselves. He also makes a really strong case for occasionally ditching the data, ignoring the Garmin, and going out for a run or ride simply for the joy of it. Honestly, I think a lot of us need that reminder.  This was such a fun conversation - thoughtful, practical, and full of little gems for runners, coaches, and anyone who's ever wondered why we keep choosing hard things on purpose. Why You'll Love This Episode • The unexpected story of how Rick first got into endurance sport • What led him from cycling and kinesiology to founding UESCA • Why the early years of building a business were so tough • Thoughts on why ultra and endurance sport keep growing • Why trail and off-road sports feel so appealing right now • The power of community in endurance sport • A very honest look at motivation, injuries, stubbornness and burnout • Why sometimes the best thing you can do is leave the data behind and just go Tips from Rick • Have a goal - but it doesn't have to be a competitive one.  • Keep things fresh by trying new events, trails, or even different types of training.  • Don't assume feeling stale means something is wrong - sometimes it just means you need variety.  • You do not need to be rigid all the time.  • Every run or ride does not need to be about metrics.  • Sometimes the most powerful thing you can do is go out there, unplug, and do it for the fun of it.  Next Big Adventures Rick shares that UESCA is continuing to expand internationally, including translated certifications, and is also developing new specialist courses around self-defence and trail self-autonomy. He's also launching a new fitness education business, the Academy of Integrated Human Performance, focused on the fitness industry. ⸻

This week's mindful moment invites you to slow down with something beautifully simple: watch a candle flicker. Light a candle and sit quietly for a few minutes, letting your attention rest on the gentle movement of the flame. Notice how it responds to the air, how it dances and steadies. You can let your breath soften to match its rhythm, or simply observe without trying to control anything. If your mind wanders, gently bring it back to the flame. There's something almost hypnotic about this practice—it draws you into the present moment without effort. No complicated meditation technique required. Just a flame, a breath, and your willingness to pause. This small habit can become a quiet anchor in your day — a moment to pause, breathe, and return to the present without needing to stop everything you're doing. Little moments like this add up. And often they're the beginning of something bigger.

In this episode of the ZenRUN Podcast, I chat with the wonderful Faith Raymond - ultra runner, coach, lifelong animal lover, and the trainer who played such a big role in my own UESCA ultra running coach certification journey. Faith shares her fascinating path from growing up in a tiny town in Massachusetts, to working with horses and veterinarians, to starting college later in life, earning a master's in oceanography, and then unexpectedly finding running after a tornado devastated her hometown and inspired a community fundraising 5K. That one event changed everything.  We talk about how Faith started running later in life, why trail running felt like a natural extension of the freedom she once found riding horses, and how her marathon journey eventually turned into ultra running when she decided that if she couldn't get faster, she may as well go longer. That path led her to the iconic Vermont 100, a race that means even more to Faith because it combines the worlds of horses and runners in one unforgettable event. She shares the highs, the DNFs, the redemption, and why she's now approaching the Vermont 100K with a completely different mindset - not just to survive it, but to truly race it.  We also get into Faith's coaching philosophy, especially for women who come to running later in life. She talks honestly about how many runners are still trained like they're 20, why that often doesn't work, and how that gap is part of what pushed her into coaching. She shares some brilliant, practical insights around treadmill training, training load, and what really trips people up when preparing for ultras - usually doing too little or far too much. Her Goldilocks-style view of training is one I think so many runners will relate to. There's also plenty of fun in this one - from coyotes, alligators and snowy Vermont trails, to the realities of training through mud season, and the idea that maybe the best thing a coach can sometimes do is tell you to learn boxing or Taekwondo for a while. But underneath all of it is a beautiful reminder that running doesn't have to look a certain way to count. Faith's biggest message is simple and powerful: find the joy. If running feels like punishment, pressure, or a box you think you should tick, it might be time to change the way you're doing it - or even give yourself permission to do something else for a while. A few great tips Faith shared: • If you're using a treadmill, start a little slower than you think you should, because the belt controls the pace and you don't naturally ease off the way you would outside. • One of the best ways to use a treadmill is incline work - for tempo efforts, threshold sessions, and power hiking. • Ultra training is a real commitment. You can't just wing it, but you also don't need to go to the other extreme and train like a maniac. • Success in coaching often comes from trusting the process, adjusting expectations when life happens, and learning from the races that go wrong. • To stay motivated, find the joy. Running should add to your life, not feel like another job. You can get more details about Faith's Run Coaching here - runlongrunstrong.com Here is the link to the UESCA website if you want to explore a coaching certification - https://uesca.com/ ⸻

This week's mindful moment is beautifully simple and deeply grounding: trace your hand with your breath. Place one hand palm-up and slowly trace the outline of each finger with the index finger of your other hand. Inhale as you move up a finger, exhale as you move down. Continue around your whole hand, then switch sides. This tactile practice gently links breath and body, giving your mind something steady to focus on. It's especially helpful when your thoughts feel busy or scattered. In just a few slow breaths, you can come back to centre—using nothing more than your own two hands. This small habit can become a quiet anchor in your day — a moment to pause, breathe, and return to the present without needing to stop everything you're doing. Little moments like this add up. And often they're the beginning of something bigger.

In this Check-In 6 episode of the Delirious WEST 2026 series, I chat with Eve Knudson just two weeks out from the big event. Eve shares how her final training block has gone - including a tough 32km end-to-end where water ran out before the cafe stop, a slow and steady heritage marathon effort, and the deep fatigue that seems to arrive right on cue when taper begins. She talks about testing her full race pack, finding a vest that finally feels like a second skin, and learning that some of the hardest training days are often the most valuable.     We also get into the real stuff that happens this close to race day - tired bodies, overworked brains, little niggles, race planning spreadsheets, drop bags, wet wipes, socks, crew logistics and all the tiny details that suddenly feel very important. Eve shares how training with Brian has helped them learn how to support each other when one of them is low, and why that gives her so much confidence heading into race day.     What I loved most about this chat was Eve's honesty. She's tired, she's ready, and she knows Delirious is going to be hard - but she also knows exactly why she keeps coming back. Community, nature, shared suffering, those magical aid stations, and the joy of seeing people do big brave things all come up in this conversation. And yes… we also talk about the after party, showers, foot washing, and the dream of actually staying awake long enough to enjoy the celebration this time.     This one is such a lovely mix of practical prep, race nerves, humour and heart. If you're deep in your own taper, or just love hearing how ultra runners think in the final stretch before an event, you'll really enjoy this chat. Delirious WEST event Website – https://deliriouswest200miler.com.au/ Event Facebook Page – https://www.facebook.com/groups/1428304207182387 ⸻

We are getting very close to the Delirious WEST 2026 start line, and in this check-in Ben Pyman is sounding calm, thoughtful and ready to get on with it. We chat about his biggest theme this year - consistency - and how a solid stretch of steady training has given him confidence heading into race day. Ben shares how his taper is unfolding, what he's learned from last year, and how he's keeping things simple with self-crewed drop bags, careful caffeine planning and a very practical approach to race prep. There's also plenty of classic ultra chat - nipple band-aids, aid station strategy, maths failing mid-race, near misses on technical trails, shoe choices, socks, and the strange little details that suddenly feel very important when you're about to run through the wild for a very long time. What I loved about this conversation was Ben's perspective. He's thoughtful without overcomplicating things, grounded in experience, and genuinely excited to get back to Walpole and see his people. We also talk about how lucky we are to do these events at all - to be supported enough, healthy enough, and slightly mad enough to disappear into the trails for a few days and just keep moving forward. If you're heading to Delirious, or even just love hearing how runners prepare for big adventures, this one is full of little gems, laughs, and those very real pre-race feelings we all know so well. Delirious WEST event Website – https://deliriouswest200miler.com.au/ Event Facebook Page – https://www.facebook.com/groups/1428304207182387 ⸻

In this Delirious 2026 athlete check-in, I catch up with Matthew Farrand as the start line gets very, very close. And wow - life is definitely not slowing down for him. Between peak training, a knee niggle, putting the house on the market, solo parenting part of the week, and all the chaos that comes with normal life, Matthew has had plenty going on. But as we know… sometimes all the messy, challenging stuff is just part of the training too.  We chat about the injury that forced him to back off at the right time, how he handled it sensibly with strength work and cross-training, and how he's now feeling much more confident again. We also dive into the practical side of getting to Delirious from London - flights, packing, race prep, food plans, crew logistics, and the very important matter of British treats in a race vest. Think Cadbury Creme Eggs, Eccles cakes, Kendal mint cake… Matthew may end up being the most popular runner on course.  What I really loved in this chat was hearing what Matthew is most looking forward to - the landscape, the beauty of the course, the forests, the beach sections, and hopefully some memorable conversations out on the trail. He also shares a great tip about using the UltraPacer planning tool to map out crew access, sleep strategy, and pacing possibilities, especially when you're trying to coordinate a big point-to-point race from the other side of the world. This one is a lovely mix of real-life juggling, practical prep, and that growing excitement that comes when something huge is suddenly just around the corner. Delirious WEST event Website – https://deliriouswest200miler.com.au/ Event Facebook Page – https://www.facebook.com/groups/1428304207182387 ⸻

This week's mindful moment is a gentle reset for modern life: take a mindful micro-break from your screen. If you're spending hours at a computer or on your phone, set a simple cue to pause every hour. Look away from the screen. Stand up. Stretch your arms, roll your shoulders, and take three long, steady breaths. It only takes 30–60 seconds, but it gives your nervous system a chance to recalibrate. This isn't slacking off—it's smart self-regulation. Presence fuels productivity far more than pressure ever will. A tiny pause can bring you back to clarity, energy, and calm. This small habit can become a quiet anchor in your day — a moment to pause, breathe, and return to the present without needing to stop everything you're doing. Little moments like this add up. And often they're the beginning of something bigger.

Karin Ridley is just 3 weeks out from the Delirious start line, and this check-in has a bit of everything - red dirt, FIFO life, physio wins, date nights, beer laps, and a whole lot of determination. Karin shares what it's been like starting a new job in the Pilbara while still trying to train, including 2:30am wake-ups, hot evening walk-runs in 38 degrees, and finding a routine that actually works. She also gives a great update on her injury recovery, with the exciting news that her physio has basically “broken up” with her because she's doing so well.  This chat is full of the real stuff that goes into preparing for a 200-mile race - not just the kilometres, but the food, sleep, planning, mindset, and the people around you who help make it possible. Karin talks about losing 5.7kg through better fuelling and cutting out alcohol, how that's helped her body heal, and why her main goal now is simple: keep moving forward and get to the finish line. She and Ben have been fine-tuning their race plan, including aid station time limits, sleep stops, and how to avoid getting stuck chatting when it's time to get moving again.  There are also some beautiful reminders in this episode about what makes ultra running so special. Karin talks about the Delirious community, the volunteers, the crew, the shared madness of it all, and why this sport really is for everybody. One of my favourite lines from this chat? Ultra running is basically a moving picnic. And honestly… she's not wrong. If you love hearing how everyday runners pull big dreams together around work, life, injury, family and a lot of laughs, you'll love this one.  A few standout takeaways from Karin: •If you really want something, you find a way to make it work •Doing the rehab properly really does pay off •Better fuelling can change everything •Aid stations are wonderful… but also dangerous if you love a chat •In ultra running, finishing is always a brilliant goal •We're very lucky to be part of a sport with such a generous community Delirious WEST event Website – https://deliriouswest200miler.com.au/ Event Facebook Page – https://www.facebook.com/groups/1428304207182387 ⸻

In this Delirious 2026 athlete check-in, I catch up with Gabe Alves with just four weeks to go until the big dance - and as always, Gabe brings the perfect mix of thoughtful insight, calm perspective and delightfully nerdy stats. This time we dive into his fascinating experiment with continuous glucose and ketone monitoring, where he shares what he learned about food, focus, fatigue, exercise and even how mentally demanding work can create a response similar to a hard run. It's a brilliant reminder that no two bodies are the same, and that understanding your own body might just be one of the most powerful tools you can take into an ultra.       We also talk about Gabe's big back-to-back training weekend, how the numbers helped him tell the difference between a real physical problem and his brain just having a little wobble, and why building your own personal “toolkit” matters so much in an event like Delirious. There's plenty here for runners who love the detail, but also for anyone who knows that ultras are never just physical - they're mental, emotional and wildly personal too. Gabe shares how he's using data to guide recovery, stay healthy, and keep showing up consistently without tipping over the edge.       Of course, we also get into the ever-changing Delirious course, crew planning, pacing possibilities, campervan logistics, sleep strategy, taper plans, and the strange but comforting truth that almost everything in life somehow becomes “Delirious training” at this stage. It's a fun, honest chat about preparation, problem-solving and doing your best to arrive at the start line healthy, steady and ready for whatever unfolds. Gabe is in a strong place, but he's also realistic - which is probably exactly where you want to be this close to a 200-mile race. Delirious WEST event Website – https://deliriouswest200miler.com.au/ Event Facebook Page – https://www.facebook.com/groups/1428304207182387 ⸻

This week's mindful moment is beautifully simple and surprisingly powerful: speak one sentence slowly. Choose a sentence—like “I have time to breathe”- and say it aloud with intention. Pause between each word. Feel how the sound vibrates in your body and how your breath naturally steadies as you slow down. We often rush our words when our minds are racing, but your voice can become a tool to calm your nervous system. Whether you try it before a meeting, in the car, or while doing the dishes, this small practice can shift your whole state. Slowing your speech gently reminds your body that there is space… and there is time. This small habit can become a quiet anchor in your day — a moment to pause, breathe, and return to the present without needing to stop everything you're doing. Little moments like this add up. And often they're the beginning of something bigger.

In this fifth Delirious 2026 check-in, Sym Mercer joins me fresh off a very eventful few days - including flood-affected roads, an unexpected overnight stop, and arriving home just in time for our chat. As always, Sym takes it all in her stride. We talk about her latest training block, racing at Hell of the West, dealing with heat, humidity, and a lingering injury that thankfully isn't stopping her moving forward. There's also plenty of classic Sym humour in this one - from her poor damaged bike, to retirement from swimming, to practical race wisdom like not overthinking the packing and remembering that if you forget something… Western Australia does, in fact, have shops.

With Delirious WEST 2026 getting very close, Bianca O'Neill is back for Check-In 4 - and while she says she “hasn't done much,” that turns out to be very untrue

This week's mindful moment invites you to slow down during an everyday transition: dry yourself mindfully. After your next shower or bath, take an extra minute to truly notice the experience. Feel the towel against your skin, the contrast between cool air and warmth, and the gentle movements of your body as you reach different areas. Instead of rushing through, let this be a full-body check-in. There's something deeply grounding about caring for your body in this fresh, in-between state—clean, awake, renewed. When you bring presence to this simple ritual, it can shift from routine to something quietly sacred. This small habit can become a quiet anchor in your day — a moment to pause, breathe, and return to the present without needing to stop everything you're doing. Little moments like this add up. And often they're the beginning of something bigger. ⸻

In this episode of the ZenRUN Podcast, I catch up again with Delirious WEST 2026 athlete Nikki Frost as we enter the final stretch before the start line. And as you'll hear… the last few weeks haven't exactly gone to plan. Nikki has been managing a stubborn ITB injury, juggling moving house, searching for a new gym in Melbourne, and figuring out how to keep training without making things worse. The good news? The injury is improving — but it has meant missing events like Gone Nuts 75K, which brought a fair bit of FOMO along with it.  We also talk about the realities of preparing for a huge race when you're still learning the ropes of ultra running — including nutrition experiments, gear that hasn't quite been organised yet (much to my amusement), and the importance of practicing crew support with her sister Natasha before race day.  One of the more interesting ideas Nikki shares is “sleep banking” — deliberately maximizing sleep in the days leading up to the race to prepare for the inevitable sleep deprivation during the event.  There's also discussion about: • Managing an injury while still building confidence • The mental challenge of skipping races when the bigger goal matters • Practicing aid-station teamwork before race day • The chaos of last-minute gear planning (or lack of it!) • Training runs, including a planned practice 50K • Nutrition ideas — including Nutella, Ferrero Rocher and pancakes • Why sleep might be one of the most important race strategies With just a month to go before Delirious WEST, the excitement is building — and like many athletes heading into their first big ultra, Nikki is balancing preparation, patience, and a healthy sense of humour. And if you enjoy a bit of mother-daughter banter… this episode definitely delivers. ⸻ Why You'll Love This Episode • Honest talk about training through injury • The emotional side of missing races (FOMO is real!) • Practical ultra preparation ideas like sleep banking • A behind-the-scenes look at crew planning • A fun and very real conversation between mother and daughter preparing for the same race ⸻ Next Big Adventure Nikki will be lining up at Delirious WEST 2026 in just a few weeks — one of Australia's toughest trail ultra adventures through the forests of Western Australia. We'll be checking back in after the race to hear how it all unfolded. Delirious WEST event Website – https://deliriouswest200miler.com.au/ Event Facebook Page – https://www.facebook.com/groups/1428304207182387 ⸻

In this episode of the ZenRUN Podcast, I catch up with Delirious WEST athlete Kylie Bell as the countdown to the start line gets very real. Kylie has just returned from an incredible two-week holiday in Japan — complete with runs around Lake Fuji, cooking classes, and some very adventurous food choices (including puffer fish… which she only realised after eating it!).  With around a month to go until the race, Kylie is shifting from holiday mode back into race mode. The training might not have been perfect over the last couple of weeks, but like many of us preparing for big adventures, she's focusing on consistency, preparation, and trusting the experience she already has.  We also chat about gear choices, sleep strategies, the mental challenge of running past the finish before actually finishing, and why sometimes the best race strategy is simply sticking with what already works. Kylie has completed the Delirious event before and brings a calm, practical mindset to the start line — including a plan to run the 100-mile event without sleeping, something she's successfully done before in other ultras.  As always, these conversations give a real behind-the-scenes look at what it's like preparing for one of Australia's toughest trail ultras. And with the race now just weeks away… the adventure is about to begin. ⸻ Why You'll Love This Episode • Kylie's Japan holiday stories (including the accidental puffer fish dinner!) • Running around Lake Fuji with Mount Fuji as the backdrop • How “tourist training” (20,000 steps a day) might still count • Why experience makes race preparation simpler over time • Gear choices and sticking with what works • Thoughts on sleep strategies for the 100-mile race • The mental challenge of running past the finish before actually finishing • Why sometimes the best preparation is simply consistency ⸻ Tips from the Kylie 1. Stick with what works If your shoes, socks, and gear worked in the last race… don't overthink it. 2. Experience reduces the stress The more ultras you do, the more you learn what really matters — and what doesn't. 3. Consistency beats perfection Even if training gets disrupted (hello holidays!), getting back into a simple rhythm can make all the difference. 4. Preparation can calm your crew too Kylie uses spreadsheets for aid stations so her husband knows exactly where to be. 5. Stay flexible Plans change during ultras — being adaptable is one of the most important skills. ⸻ Next Big Adventure Kylie is lining up for the Delirious W.E.S.T 100-mile race in Western Australia — one of Australia's most challenging trail ultras. With about a month to go, the focus now is simple: consistent training, gear checks, and getting ready for an unforgettable adventure. Delirious WEST event Website – https://deliriouswest200miler.com.au/ Event Facebook Page – https://www.facebook.com/groups/1428304207182387 ⸻

In this episode of the ZenRUN Podcast, I chat with Jason Phillips – a runner whose journey into endurance running has been shaped by resilience, adventure, and some deeply personal challenges. Jason grew up in a sailing family near Newcastle in New South Wales. Boats, windsurfing, and life around the water were a huge part of his childhood. Running, on the other hand… not so much. In fact, as a kid he was a sprinter and absolutely hated cross-country running. Fast forward a few decades and Jason has found himself drawn to longer distances and big adventures. But his running journey hasn't been straightforward. In 2024 Jason was diagnosed with prostate cancer, which led to surgery and a long road back to fitness. During that time he lost a lot of the speed and conditioning he'd built over the years, and had to start again almost from scratch. Instead of giving up, Jason decided to channel his energy into something meaningful. He organised a run of the Cape to Cape Track in Western Australia, finishing on Anzac Day, raising funds and awareness for the Prostate Cancer Foundation. And now he's preparing for an even bigger challenge – the Delirious WEST 100 miler. This race carries a deeply personal reason. Jason is running it to raise funds and awareness for the Liver Foundation, after his father Brian passed away suddenly last year from liver cancer. It's a powerful reminder of how running can become more than just a sport. Sometimes it becomes a way to process grief, honour loved ones, and do something positive in the face of life's hardest moments. Jason also shares what it's really like to rebuild fitness after illness – including starting again with very simple training and learning to trust the slow process of base building. This conversation is honest, raw, and incredibly inspiring. Why You'll Love This Episode • Growing up in a sailing family and discovering running later in life • Why Jason hated cross-country running as a kid (and how that changed) • His prostate cancer diagnosis and the long road back to running • Running the Cape to Cape Track to raise awareness for prostate cancer • Training again from scratch after surgery • Why he's running the Delirious WEST 100 miler to honour his father Tips from Jason • Start small and build gradually. Even experienced runners sometimes need to go right back to basics. • Don't rush fitness after illness or injury. The body needs time to rebuild. • Slow training builds the foundation. Jason spent months running very slowly to rebuild his aerobic base. • Trust the process. Progress can feel frustratingly slow – until one day it suddenly starts to click. Jason's story is a beautiful reminder that running isn't just about races or times. Sometimes it's about healing, honouring people we love, and simply putting one foot in front of the other. Jason's fund raising page - https://www.mycause.com.au/page/388321/running-for-bryan-100-miles-for-the-liver-foundation  The MAF Method mentioned - https://philmaffetone.com/method/ ⸻

This week's mindful moment is beautifully simple: fold something slowly. Whether it's a towel, a t-shirt, or even a napkin, take your time. Notice how your hands move across the fabric, the texture beneath your fingers, and the neat lines forming as you fold. Let the task become your anchor. As you slow the movement, notice how your breath softens and your thoughts settle. You're not just tidying up—you're creating a moving meditation. When we choose to slow down on purpose, we give our nervous system space to breathe. And that, in itself, is a quiet gift. This simple habit acts as an anchor - a grounding point in your day that brings you back to presence without needing to stop everything. Small, consistent mindfulness adds up - and this is a beautiful place to begin.  

This week on the ZenRUN Podcast, I'm checking back in with Delirious 2026 athlete Karin Ridley — and wow… this one is full of grit, humour, and real-life curveballs. Since our last chat, Karin discovered that her “niggly hip” wasn't just tendinopathy — it was a 4.8–9cm tear in her TFL

This week on the ZenRUN Podcast, I catch up with Delirious 2026 athlete Eve Knudson — and wow… real life has been LIFE-ing.  New high schooler. 12th birthday celebrations. A $40–50 million work submission. Midnight finishes. And almost no running for a week. Sound familiar?

This week's mindful moment is a simple invitation to shift your perspective—literally: sit in a different chair. Choose a seat you wouldn't normally use—the other end of the couch, a chair in another room, or even the floor—and settle in. As you sit, notice how your posture changes, how your breath feels, and what sounds or sensations stand out from this new vantage point. It's amazing how a small physical shift can gently nudge your mental state as well. This practice is mindfulness through subtle disruption—a reminder that even tiny changes can refresh your awareness and help you reset.

There's something beautiful about “boring” training. In this fourth check-in with Matthew, nothing dramatic has happened - no injuries, no big breakthroughs, no chaos. And honestly? That's exactly what we want. After completing an ultra just over a month ago, Matthew has dialled things back sensibly. He's sticking to a three-hour long-run ceiling, building strength through consistent back-to-backs, and focusing on staying healthy rather than chasing ego mileage. We dive into: •Why he caps long runs at three hours (and the research he's been listening to) •The power of repeated back-to-backs instead of one massive weekend •Running in London vs running in proper countryside darkness •Training in relentless mud and fully saturated trails •Road-to-trail shoe choices for Delirious •His detailed blister prevention strategy (including toe sleeves, taping methods and lessons from Fixing Your Feet) •Why treadmill hill reps have entered the chat •The culture shock of going from minus one degree to Western Australian heat •And the wisdom of NOT skateboarding two days before a 200-mile race

Ben is back… and the countdown is officially getting real. In this fourth check-in, we talk training adjustments, sand miles, gear lists (in spreadsheet form