“Going into Ultraman, it was making it to the starting line healthy and proving to myself that I could do big things healthy. I did that and I succeeded,” says Ultraman athlete Katie Solbo. In this episode, the seasoned triathlete discusses the extreme challenges of competing in one of the world's most grueling endurance races.

Recently securing the second female spot in an Ultraman event—just minutes behind the leader—Katie delves into her meticulous preparation and race performance. She shares details of her specialized training regimen for the Ultraman. After overcoming multiple foot surgeries, Katie adopted a training approach focused on low-intensity, high-volume workouts, advised by her coach. This strategy incorporated the use of the Lever to minimize impact and aid recovery crucial for building endurance and managing fatigue in such a demanding race.

Katie also explores broader strategies for tackling extreme physical challenges, discussing sustainable training methods and the mental toughness required for ultra-endurance events. Her insights are valuable for athletes considering an Ultraman race, emphasizing the importance of consistent, gentle training and thorough mental preparation for formidable competitions.

Quotes

• “I got into this sport just by the allure of fitness itself. And then I was like, ‘Oh, I wonder what it looks like to do all three together.’ And so I fell face first in the triathlon. And my why has been geared towards achieving bigger and greater things for me. So whether that was a world championship or a PR and like an everyday role out of bed, it’s like I want to be faster, better, stronger. That’s my ultimate goal.” (03:09 | Katie Solbo)

• “Going into Ultraman, it was making it to the starting line healthy and proving to myself that I could do big things healthy. I did that and I succeeded.” (03:38 | Katie Solbo)

• “The biggest lesson I learned—and I definitely took that into the Ultraman Florida training—was that the lever is my best friend. For my body, for the way my muscles recover, for my propensity of injury, I needed to put much more emphasis on staying on the lever than having outdoor miles. The importance was just there for me.” (12:28 | Katie Solbo)

• “I don’t think Ultraman is unattainable for anyone. If you are dedicated and you have a couple years of just consistent training under your belt. Because when it comes down to it, I look back, I relied so heavily on years of consistent training to allow me to get to the finish line. And that’s what it takes.” (30:31 | Katie Solbo)

Links

Connect with Katie Solbo:

https://www.instagram.com/tri_kat23/

https://www.instagram.com/levermovement/

https://www.instagram.com/bradmiles/

https://levermovement.com/

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