In this episode of the Pyllon Ultra Pod, host Paul delves into the often-overlooked topic of resistance and its impact on ultra-running. Rather than focusing on conventional training tips, Paul explores the deeper, more existential aspects of why we run and how resistance shapes our journey. Drawing inspiration from Steven Pressfield's "The War of Art," this episode discusses the dissonance between our desire to train hard and race well and the actual actions we take. Paul shares personal anecdotes, research insights, and practical advice on how to recognise and overcome resistance to find true passion in ultra-running.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Understanding the concept of resistance and its forms: procrastination, self-doubt, fear, and distraction.
• The importance of acknowledging resistance as a natural part of any endeavour.
• Insights from "The War of Art" by Steven Pressfield.
• Practical tips for finding joy in the struggle, seeking passion over perfection, and being present in your runs.

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your friends. Follow us on social media @pyllon for more updates and join the discussion. Don't forget about Pyllon XP happening in September in the Highlands. It's a weekend filled with running, learning, and laughter. Join us for the best weekend of the year!

Contact Information:

• Social Media: @pyllon
• Website: Pyllon Ultra

In this episode of the Pyllon Ultra Pod, host Paul dives into the importance of celebrating individuality in ultrarunning and endurance sports. Reflecting on recent races and personal experiences, Paul discusses why athletes often strive to conform and how embracing one’s unique preferences can lead to greater joy and success. This short episode encourages listeners to find their own path and highlights the benefits of authenticity.

Highlights:

• Discussion on the tendency to mimic others in ultrarunning and the value of individuality.
• Quote from Oscar Wilde: “Be yourself; everyone else is already taken.”
• Insights into human instincts to fit in and the importance of personal journeys in sports.
• Personal stories about runners who improved by embracing their unique preferences.
• Study from the "Journal of Sports Sciences" showing better performance and satisfaction when training is tailored to individual strengths.
• Practical tips for embracing uniqueness:
  • Identify your preferences.
  • Tailor your training.
  • Celebrate small wins.
  • Ignore the noise.
  • Seek inspiration, not imitation.

Call to Action:

• Please subscribe, leave a review, and share the podcast.
• Join the next Pyllon Experience event in September in Glenshee.

Social Media:

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• Join our community discussions and share your unique running stories

If you'd like to spend a weekend with Paul and some of the other Pyllon coaches you can sign up to our next Pyllon Experience event - Friday 20th September. Find out more.

You can connect with the Pyllon Ultra team on twitter and instagram @pyllonultra or check out the website at www.pyllonultra.com

Pyllon is at @pyllonultra

Paul is on X and instagram @Pyllon

A follow-on chat from last week! Quick update from the West Highland Way Race (and special guest appearance)!

Paul returns to a past episode and the problem for athletes of not fuelling properly. Despite all the planning, so many struggle to adhere to their nutrition plan as the race progresses.

Paul believes that this is more than just a bad stomach. There is a psychological resistance to eating.

After some additional research Paul provides a summary of his finding / theories.

- Sensory fatigue

- Mental fatigue

- Emotional and Motivational Factors

- Perceived Effort and Discomfort

If you'd like to spend a weekend with Paul and some of the other Pyllon coaches you can sign up to our next Pyllon Experience event - Friday 20th September. Find out more. Discount code: PODCASTXP

You can connect with the Pyllon Ultra team on twitter and instagram @pyllonultra or check out the website at www.pyllonultra.com

Pyllon is at @pyllonultra

Paul is on Twitter and instagram @Pyllon