The FitMIND FitBODY Podcast

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

This week's mindful moment offers a gentle way to weave awareness into your daily routine: set a mindful marker for your day. Choose one regular activity—like brushing your teeth, making a cup of tea, or starting your car—and let it become a cue to pause. Each time that moment arrives, take a deep breath, check in with your body, and ask yourself: What do I need right now? 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.

Under 8 weeks to go. Garmin reminders pinging daily. And Gabe Alves? Calm. Calculated. Slightly obsessed with vert… and now ketones

#4 Sym Mercer checks in this month… live from a 47-degree audit site, in high-vis, somewhere in outback Queensland

This week's mindful moment focuses on the everyday actions we usually rush through: open or close something with full awareness. Whether it's a door, a drawer, your laptop, or a cupboard—pause and bring your full attention to the motion. Notice how your hand moves, the sound it makes, the effort your body uses, and the breath that moves with it.   Let this tiny moment become a check-in, a grounding cue that reminds you: you're present, you're alive, you're here. Even the smallest movement can become a doorway to mindfulness.  

In this Delirious WEST 2026 – Check-In 3 episode of the ZenRUN Podcast, we're catching up with Eve Knudson to see how things are really tracking as training starts to gently ramp up. Eve shares how she's mixing running, strength training, swimming and trail time – without locking herself into a rigid weekly plan. Instead, she's leaning into flexibility, planning ahead just enough, and fitting training around work deadlines, family life, and the occasional much-needed sleep-in ☕️ We chat about: • Starting strength training again (and those early “is-this-an-injury?” niggles

In this Delirious WEST 2026 – Check-In 3 episode, I catch up with Kylie Bell to see how training is tracking as the race starts to feel very real. Kylie shares how she's juggling busy shift work, limited time, and long-term ultra prep – including running to work, doing a full shift, then running home again (yes, really). We chat about training on tired legs, getting night running dialled in, and why consistency beats perfection right now. We also talk through: • Strength work coming back into focus • Testing packs, poles, shoes, and backup gear (including zip ties and hair ties!) • Nutrition learnings from Kosciuszko and keeping things simple • Travelling to Japan mid-build and why hiking + moving still counts • Heat worries, weather roulette, and hoping April behaves itself • Crew planning, laminated cheat sheets, and why support crews deserve medals • The fine line between experience and complacency   Kylie brings her trademark calm confidence – not stressed, not panicking, just quietly getting the work done. A great listen if you're balancing life, work, and big endurance goals… or if you've ever thought, “Am I doing enough?”   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 finally sit down with the wonderful Melissa (Mel) Clark — local legend, registered nurse, mum of twins, blueberry farmer, triathlete, ultra runner, and one of the most refreshingly honest humans you'll ever hear on a run chat.   Mel and I wander through her life (as we do), from growing up with a twin, to juggling nursing shifts, farming, family life, triathlon training, and running — often late at night with a head torch once everyone else was in bed. This is a real, unpolished conversation about what it actually looks like to keep moving through busy seasons, hormonal chaos, mum guilt, fatigue, and self-doubt.   We talk triathlons, backyard ultras, farm strength, gym hesitations (and finally joining one!), why women are tougher than we give ourselves credit for, and how learning to be kind to yourself might just be the most important training tool of all.   If you've ever felt like you should be doing more… or wondered how “everyone else” fits it all in — this episode will feel like a deep exhale.  

This week's mindful moment invites you to connect with the world around you in a grounded, tangible way: place your hand on a tree, fence, or wall. Wherever you are—at home, outdoors, or even in a public space—pause and rest your hand gently on a surface nearby. Feel its texture, notice its temperature, and let your breath slow as you stay in contact for a few deep inhales and exhales. This simple act brings you out of your head and into your body. It reminds you that you're supported, you're grounded, and you're here—held by the moment and the world around you.  

Today, we're checking back in with my daughter (and fellow Delirious 2026 athlete), Nikki Frost - and let's just say… it's been a week for her.   From finally getting on top of months of gut issues (goodbye mid-run vomiting

In this third check-in with Karin Ridley, we get a very real look at what the final stretch doesn't always look like when you're training for Delirious WEST 2026. After a nasty fall during a Christmas run, Karin has been dealing with a stubborn hip issue that's limited her running and forced a big mindset shift. Instead of panicking, she's doing what experienced ultra runners do best – managing what she can control. We chat about physio visits (finally

Warren Page is one of those runners who makes you feel instantly calmer about your own running journey. Growing up in country Western Australia, Warren's love for movement started early - bikes, bush, freedom, and plenty of mischief. These days, he's a personal trainer, runner, ocean swimmer, and deep thinker who's gradually found his way into trail running and now, ultra-distance goals (including a 100-miler at Delirious). In this episode, we chat about Warren's transition from strength and powerlifting into endurance running, the hard lessons learned from doing too much, too soon, and why walking hills, running tired, and strength training properly have become non-negotiables for him. Warren is refreshingly honest about injuries, shin splints, ego traps, and why slowing down — especially with a walk-run approach — completely changed his relationship with running. This is a grounded, practical, and very human conversation about building durability, staying curious, and learning to listen to your body. If you've ever felt like you're “not built like a runner,” struggled with recurring niggles, or wondered how everyday runners actually prepare for long events — you'll love this one.

This week's mindful moment is a gentle reminder of the power in repetition: do one simple movement repeatedly. Choose a movement—like raising your arms, stretching side to side, or rolling your shoulders—and repeat it slowly and intentionally for a few minutes. Let your breath guide the rhythm: inhale as you move, exhale as you return. The repetition becomes a moving meditation, easing your body and calming your mind without needing to overthink. It's the perfect practice for shifting stuck energy, settling your nervous system, and coming back to yourself—one gentle movement at a time.

In this third check-in with Matthew Farrand, we dive into the real middle phase of Delirious WEST 2026 prep – where learning, adapting, and listening to your body matters more than ticking perfect boxes. Matthew shares a big post-Christmas training milestone: completing a tough 43-mile ultra in the UK winter, with frozen mud, canal paths, head-torch running, and a very honest “this was harder than I expected” reflection. It was proper endurance training – finishing empty, but healthy – and that's a win. We talk through: • What that ultra revealed about fatigue, recovery, and strength gaps • Why quad strength and upper-back conditioning suddenly matter a lot • The surprisingly brilliant idea of switching from trail shoes to road shoes mid-race • Carrying shoes in your vest – pros, cons, and shoulder soreness lessons • Gaiters, poles, packs, and why now is the time to test gear (not race week!) • Fuel experiments – from jelly babies and Kendal mint cake to quesadillas and squash-proof pastries • Why Delirious is basically a moving picnic, not a gel-fest • Letting go of data obsession and trusting feel, experience, and common sense • The shift from “more running” to more walking as specific Delirious prep • Juggling family life, work changes, and fewer weekly runs – without losing momentum • Matthew's grounded philosophy: healthy beats perfectly fit, every time This episode is a great reminder that endurance success isn't about heroic training weeks – it's about consistency, adaptability, and arriving at the start line ready to go. If you're training for something big (or just trying to keep running part of your life), you'll get a lot from this one.   Delirious WEST event Website – https://deliriouswest200miler.com.au/ Event Facebook Page – https://www.facebook.com/groups/1428304207182387  

In this third Delirious WEST 2026 check-in, I catch up with Bianca O'Neill after a huge few weeks of running, learning, and life shifts – and honestly, it's one of my favourite updates so far. We chat about a jam-packed summer of long runs, including the Six Inch Ultra Christmas Party, a New Year's Eve ultra adventure, and Bianca's annual birthday run tradition. The big theme? Confidence is back. After a quieter patch late last year, Bianca's been stacking solid kilometres, testing nutrition properly, and remembering why she loves this stuff. She also shares what didn't quite go to plan on her birthday run (hello sore hip and toilet logistics

This week's mindful moment invites you to reconnect with the ground beneath you—walk barefoot across different textures. If it's safe and comfortable, take off your shoes and explore the surfaces around you: kitchen tiles, carpet, floorboards, grass, concrete. Notice the temperature, the texture, the way your feet adjust with each step.   Your gait will shift, your awareness will heighten, and your body will subtly respond. It's a simple practice that awakens the senses and nourishes your nervous system. Barefoot time is grounding, calming, and a beautiful way to return to the present—one step at a time.  

In this third check-in, I catch up with Ben Pyman as the Delirious WEST 2026 countdown slips into double digits – and the Adelaide heat turns things up a notch. Ben shares how December really went (spoiler: life was busy, but consistency still won), why he's happy with his mileage despite a few missed runs, and how he's thinking about training smarter this year – not just harder. We talk openly about heat management, why long flat road runs can be more fatiguing than trails, and the importance of not trying to “catch up” missed sessions (a lesson learned the hard way last year). This episode also dives deep into gear – from pack changes and shoe upgrades to battery stress, phone charging drama, and why small logistics can quietly drain energy during a multi-day event. Ben reflects on what worked at Delirious last year, what he's simplifying this time around, and how a few thoughtful upgrades can remove unnecessary mental load. There's also plenty of banter – park run competitiveness, age-group honesty, finishing-line fantasies, and a shared appreciation for keeping things simple as race day gets closer. A grounded, practical, and very real check-in from an athlete who knows exactly what matters at this stage of the journey.   ⸻  

In this Check-In 3 episode of the Delirious WEST 2026 series, I catch up with the wonderfully tough and straight-talking Sym Mercer – who is deep in the messy middle of training… with a not-so-cooperative hip. Since we last spoke, Sym's training took an unexpected turn after a big block led to a hospital visit, scans, bursitis, and a cyst that might be masking a stress fracture. Not ideal – especially with 13 weeks to the start line  (less now!). But if there's one thing Sym brings in spades, it's attitude. We talk about adjusting training on the fly – swapping running for gym, swimming, riding, paddling, and carefully reintroducing runs without blowing things up. There's also a big focus on mindset: staying in motion when rest messes with your head, trusting the long game, and accepting that sometimes the goal is simply to get to the start line in one piece. Sym also shares a behind-the-scenes look at planning the epic drive to WA, crew logistics, border biosecurity dramas (goodbye tomatoes and avocados

This week's mindful moment invites you to slow down a simple transition: put on something slowly and deliberately. Whether it's your socks, a jacket, or your favourite jumper—take your time. Notice the texture of the fabric, the way your body moves into it, and the moment your skin meets cloth.   We move through these everyday moments on autopilot, but they're full of opportunities to reconnect. Let this become a full-body check-in—a pause where breath and movement come together. Even the act of getting dressed can become a quiet ritual of awareness.  

In this third check-in with Delirious WEST 2026 athlete Craig Jeffrey, we dive deep into what long-term ultra preparation really looks like – not just the kilometres, but the thinking behind them. Craig shares stories from icy Christmas runs along the Hudson River (including borrowed shoes and a reminder to always carry your runners on flights), back-to-back 50km days on the Yarra, and why those tired-leg weekends actually build confidence rather than break it. We talk about block-style training, mixing intervals and tempo with long efforts, and why repeating huge long runs every weekend doesn't work for everyone. We also unpack poles strategy, pack setup for uncrewed runners, HRV trends after big races, and the strange mental states that can show up deep into a 200-miler – including Craig's unforgettable four-hour memory gap from last year's Delirious. As always, it's an honest, thoughtful conversation about training smarter, adapting with age, and embracing the adventure of Delirious WEST – uncertainty and all. In this episode we cover: • Running through winter in New York and training through travel • Achilles niggles, shoe choices, and why carrying your runners matters • Back-to-back long runs and confidence on tired legs • Block training vs weekly long runs • Tempo, intervals, and staying efficient over long distances • Poles strategy and arm fatigue • HRV, recovery, and what Delirious does to the body • Sleep deprivation, hallucinations, and altered brain states • Why Delirious is as much mental as it is physical

In this Delirious WEST 2026 Check-In 3, I catch up with Gabe Alves as the countdown suddenly drops into the “oh wow… this is actually close” zone – 13 weeks to go

This week's mindful moment invites you to tune into something often overlooked: listen for the silence between the sounds. Whether you're inside or out, begin by noticing the sounds around you—traffic, birds, voices, footsteps. Then shift your attention to the pauses between them. The stillness between notes. The breath between words.   Silence isn't empty—it has a presence of its own, and learning to hear it can gently quiet your mind and ground your body.   It's a simple way to reconnect with the deeper rhythm of your environment—the one beneath the noise.   Spend just five minutes with this practice, and see how it can bring calm and clarity to your day.   For more mindfulness ideas, head over to our ebook with 24 Simple Mindfulness strategies: https://fitmindfitbody.co/books/   Help us spread the mindfulness: 1️⃣ If you're enjoying our podcast, please leave a like and review. Your support helps others discover the joy of mindful running. 2️⃣ Have a story or know a runner who'd be perfect for our podcast? Reach out to us on Facebook/Instagram  or email (hello@zenrun.club ).

In this third Delirious WEST 2026 check-in, I catch up with the ever-thoughtful Eve Knudson, and honestly… this is one of those conversations that reminds you why we run. Fresh off the Three Inch race, Eve shares how a day that “wasn't meant to be a big deal” turned into one of those magic runs where everything just clicks — the legs feel good, the pacing makes sense, the fueling works, and suddenly you realise… maybe the training is actually working. We talk about the power of simple consistency, why Eve has stopped getting caught up in Strava comparison, and how doing less (but regularly) is often more than enough when your goal isn't to win — it's to keep showing up and enjoying the process. There's also plenty of real-life honesty: summer heat in WA, holiday routines, mental fatigue, getting lost on trails, strength training avoidance (very relatable), and the logic gymnastics of spending $18 on coffee but hesitating over a gym membership

In this third Delirious 2026 check-in, I'm sitting down in person with Nikki Frost while she's home in Tasmania for Christmas — which means plenty of giggles, real talk, and a very honest training update. Since we last spoke, Nikki tackled the Mount Buller Skyrun 46km and, while her fitness and strength are clearly trending in the right direction, nutrition is still the big question mark. She shares what happened when the throwing up kicked in again, how close she came to a DNF, and why having her brother Ben crewing made all the difference in getting her to the finish line. We talk elevation, effort, gastric reflux, experimenting with sports nutrition (hello maple syrup gels), and why speed isn't actually the trigger everyone assumes it is. Nikki also reflects on what this means for her Delirious W.E.S.T. journey — spoiler: the distance doesn't scare her, but fuelling over multiple days absolutely matters. There's also a first test of brand-new running poles on the Walls of Jerusalem trails, some upcoming race plans on the horizon, and an unexpected star of the episode: Cocoa Pops as a pre-run fuel strategy (Santa-approved

This week's mindful moment is an invitation to meet yourself with gentle presence: mirror yourself with kindness. Stand in front of a mirror - not to critique, but to see. Notice your posture, your expression, and the quiet strength behind your eyes. Then soften. Smile. And offer yourself a kind thought - something as simple as, “I'm here. I'm trying. And that's enough.” This is not about appearance - it's about acknowledging the person looking back at you. Your story. Your resilience. Your softness. Let the mirror become a moment of connection - not judgement. Spend just five minutes with this practice, and see how it can bring calm and clarity to your day. For more mindfulness ideas, head over to our ebook with 24 Simple Mindfulness strategies: https://fitmindfitbody.co/books/   Help us spread the mindfulness: 1️⃣ If you're enjoying our podcast, please leave a like and review. Your support helps others discover the joy of mindful running. 2️⃣ Have a story or know a runner who'd be perfect for our podcast? Reach out to us on Facebook/Instagram  or email (hello@zenrun.club ).

In this second Delirious WEST 2026 check-in, I sit down with Kylie Bell just weeks after she finished the Ultra-Trail Kosciuszko 100-miler — and wow… this one was an adventure. Kylie shares what it was really like out on the course as conditions went from sunny to savage: extreme winds strong enough to blow runners off walkways, sideways hail, snow crossings in running shoes, relentless rain, and a final climb where safety became the only priority. At one point, runners were literally holding onto each other just to stay upright. We talk about moving through fear and panic when things feel out of control, including a moment where Kylie — still recovering from pneumonia — had to calm herself mid-race and keep going. There's also a powerful reminder here of how important preparation, mandatory gear, and smart decisions are when conditions turn. Despite everything, Kylie finished strong, placed 4th in her age group, avoided blisters entirely (even in snow!), and came out of the race feeling surprisingly good — a testament to experience, patience, and listening to your body. We also chat recovery, Christmas with no rigid training plan (on purpose), gear that actually lasts, simple trail fixes (hello cable ties), and what really matters when you're this deep into an ultra journey. This is a brilliant, honest conversation about resilience, adaptability, and why Delirious WEST will feel very different after what Kylie has already faced. Delirious WEST event Website – https://deliriouswest200miler.com.au/ Event Facebook Page – https://www.facebook.com/groups/1428304207182387 A couple of BIG favours: 1) please like and review this podcast so more people will discover it :) 2) come on the podcast and talk about your running journey and/or refer someone you'd love me to interview (whether you know them or not :) )  Lets not keep the power of running a secret any more!  Hit me up on Facebook/Instagram (ZenRUN.club) or send me an email - Hello @ zenrun.club Don't miss an episode of the ZenRUN Podcast. Subscribe to the podcast on your podcast player :)

In this second check-in with Delirious WEST 2026 athlete Matthew Farrand, we catch up just a week out from Christmas — and honestly, things are ticking along beautifully. Matthew describes his last month as “average”… which quickly turns out to mean consistent, strong, and quietly confidence-building. He's stacking weeks in the high-70km range, ticking off strength, hills, speed work and long runs, and feeling his endurance come together without feeling trashed. We chat early-morning running routines, managing training around family life, and why getting runs done before the day begins just works. Matthew also shares his thinking around breaking long builds into blocks, using a January ultra as a smart training milestone rather than grinding nonstop all the way to April. There's plenty of runner-nerd goodness in here too — from blister management kits and pole practice (urban runners, you'll relate), to destination long runs along the Thames, running through foot tunnels under the river, and soaking up the history that comes with exploring London on foot. This is a calm, grounded check-in that shows what sustainable ultra prep really looks like: patience, planning, curiosity, and enjoying the journey.

This week's mindful moment brings you back to centre - shift your weight side to side. Stand barefoot if you can, feet hip-width apart, and gently sway from left to right. Feel the subtle adjustments in your body as you transfer your weight - how your feet respond, how your core engages, and what muscles quietly support you. There's no need for rhythm or pace—just let your body explore the feeling of balance in motion. This simple movement grounds you, calms scattered energy, and reconnects you with the physical sensation of being here. It's a quiet, centring practice you can return to anytime you need to feel steady again. Spend just five minutes with this practice, and see how it can bring calm and clarity to your day.   For more mindfulness ideas, head over to our ebook with 24 Simple Mindfulness strategies: https://fitmindfitbody.co/books/   Help us spread the mindfulness: 1️⃣ If you're enjoying our podcast, please leave a like and review. Your support helps others discover the joy of mindful running. 2️⃣ Have a story or know a runner who'd be perfect for our podcast? Reach out to us on Facebook/Instagram  or email (hello@zenrun.club ).

In this second check-in with Delirious WEST 2026 athlete Craig Jeffrey, we dive straight into one of Australia's toughest mountain races — the Kosciuszko 100 miler — and unpack what it really takes to keep moving forward when conditions (and your body) aren't playing nice    Craig shares a raw, honest race debrief covering brutal alpine winds, unexpected snow crossings, stomach battles, sore knees, smashed toenails… and still finding moments of flow late in the race.   This is a conversation about experience, self-trust, and learning to race yourself — not the clock, not the field.   Get ready for: •

In this episode we catch up with Ben Pyman to see how training, mindset, and life are shaping up as he builds towards the 100-mile start line. Ben shares how Movember became a powerful reset month — shaving off a decade-long beard, running 200+ kilometres, and using the challenge to open honest conversations around mental health and wellbeing. What started as fundraising quickly turned into something much deeper. We also dig into the nuts and bolts of Ben's training: •What consistency really looks like for him •How structure (without perfection) has changed his running •Using ChatGPT to build an 18-week training framework •Why breaking big plans into small chunks matters •His goals for Delirious WEST (and why finishing in daylight is a BIG motivator) Plus, we get delightfully nerdy about: •Shoes (road vs trail, Tarkines, beach sections) •Blisters, gaiters, and keeping sand out of shoes •Gear overthinking vs simple problem-solving •Why the last finisher deserves just as much respect as the first This is a relaxed, honest, very real conversation about doing the work, staying flexible, and remembering why we run in the first place.

This week's mindful moment invites a playful shift in awareness: watch how your shadow moves. As you walk, run, or go about your day, take a moment to notice your shadow - how it swings, stretches, and shifts with your body. It's a subtle mirror of your posture, alignment, and rhythm, offering gentle feedback on how you're showing up in each moment. You can even play with it - exaggerate your steps or sway your arms and see how your shadow responds.   Beyond movement, it's a reminder that you're here, walking in the light, moving through your day with presence. Let your shadow become a quiet companion that reflects your aliveness and unique rhythm in the world.   Spend just five minutes with this practice, and see how it can bring calm and clarity to your day.   For more mindfulness ideas, head over to our ebook with 24 Simple Mindfulness strategies: https://fitmindfitbody.co/books/   Help us spread the mindfulness: 1️⃣ If you're enjoying our podcast, please leave a like and review. Your support helps others discover the joy of mindful running. 2️⃣ Have a story or know a runner who'd be perfect for our podcast? Reach out to us on Facebook/Instagram  or email (hello@zenrun.club ).

Karin is back… and wow, she's packed a LOT into this check-in. Since we last spoke, Karin has been adventuring her way through Spain, France and the UK — hiking 20–30km a day, tackling a seriously brutal mountain race in Spain, and discovering just how different real mountains are compared to “hills” back home in WA

In this latest Delirious WEST 2026 athlete check-in, I'm catching up with Bianca O'Neill — and wow… a LOT has happened since we last spoke. In this honest and very relatable catch-up, Bianca shares what it was really like racing Feral (yes… that heat, those flies, those cut-offs

This week's mindful moment marks a beautiful milestone—tip 200—and brings us back to the centre of it all: place your hand on your heart. Right now, just pause. Gently rest your hand on your chest and feel the warmth, the rhythm of your breath, and maybe even your heartbeat beneath your palm. It's a quiet moment of connection—simple, still, and grounding. You don't need to say anything, but if a word like calm, gratitude, or presence comes to mind, let it land gently in your awareness. This practice is perfect for starting or ending the day, pausing between tasks, or comforting yourself when life feels heavy. It's a soft, powerful reminder: I'm here. I'm okay. And maybe… thank you, heart, for showing up—every single day. Spend just five minutes with this practice, and see how it can bring calm and clarity to your day. For more mindfulness ideas, head over to our ebook with 24 Simple Mindfulness strategies: https://fitmindfitbody.co/books/ Help us spread the mindfulness: 1️⃣ If you're enjoying our podcast, please leave a like and review. Your support helps others discover the joy of mindful running. 2️⃣ Have a story or know a runner who'd be perfect for our podcast? Reach out to us on Facebook/Instagram  or email (hello@zenrun.club ).

This month's chat with Eve honestly felt like a big exhale. December energy is real, and Eve is right in the middle of it—balancing kids, work deadlines, Christmas chaos, end-of-year functions, tired mornings, and still somehow squeezing in her runs… or gentle walks… or naps… or the occasional lunchtime wine

In this episode, I catch up with my daughter and fellow Delirious W.E.S.T. 2026 runner, Nikki Frost, who's had a very… colourful four to six weeks of training. And by colourful, I mean she left half her stomach contents scattered across the Dandenongs.

This week, I'm so excited to introduce you to my friend and fellow UESCA-qualified ultra coach… Valerie Wong! Val's story is a brilliant mix of determination, adventure, and laugh-out-loud honesty — from growing up in Hong Kong, boarding school in the UK, studying atmospheric science (yes, weather patterns! ☁️), running her first Boston loops, to discovering ultras during the pandemic. She's now an ultra-runner, triathlete, mountain lover, channel swimmer (!!), mum of two, and one of the funniest people I've met in our coaching cohort. This episode is full of real talk, wisdom, and some truly excellent running tips. ⸻ ✨ What You'll Hear in This Episode • Running beginnings in Hong Kong & Boston Val first ran because “everyone in Boston runs!” — her first 1km nearly killed her, but a 5K made her feel unstoppable. • From marathons to Ironman to ultras She completed an Ironman in Austria (“like swimming in Evian water!”) before kids, then rediscovered running during COVID when everything else shut. • How ultras became her ‘freedom sport' during lockdown With races cancelled, she signed up for the distances still allowed — 50K, 70K, then her first 100K. • The magic of mountain running (and how to survive 38°C valleys!) Val shares hilarious and heartfelt stories from Mozart 100, CCC, Snowdon 50K, and Lavaredo — including the moment she burst into tears at an aid station while her crew patched her up like a Formula 1 pit team. • Why introverts often love running Running is where Val recharges, thinks, plans, and escapes the noise. “Everyone go away… it's just me and my thoughts.” • The importance of crew, community & the surprising friendships on the trail Val's stories about crewing, crying, and downhill “controlled falling” are gold. • Training insights from a scientist-runner She talks about RPE, running hills on purpose, and why she increased from 4 to 5–6 days of running to build time on feet. • Identity, motherhood & normalising movement We chat about role-modelling consistency for kids and building a life where movement is normal, not optional. ⸻

Spend just five minutes with this practice, and see how it can bring calm and clarity to your day. For more mindfulness ideas, head over to our ebook with 24 Simple Mindfulness strategies: https://fitmindfitbody.co/books/ Help us spread the mindfulness: 1️⃣ If you're enjoying our podcast, please leave a like and review. Your support helps others discover the joy of mindful running. 2️⃣ Have a story or know a runner who'd be perfect for our podcast? Reach out to us on Facebook/Instagram  or email (hello@zenrun.club ).