Episode 117: Winter Marathon Training Tips, Parallels between Racing and Labor/Delivery, and Initial Postpartum Thoughts

In this week’s episode, we start with insights on winter run training, including when to prioritize treadmill versus outdoor running, how to plan safe routes in snow and ice, what to wear, how to fuel, and other key considerations for durability in the cold, ice, snow, and wind. We then spend most of the episode with Katie’s reflections on the parallels—and important differences—between labor & delivery and endurance racing, including managing uncertainty, focusing on process goals, building a flexible plan, and identifying what you actually need from your support team. Katie also shares early postpartum reflections on physical healing, sleep deprivation, motivation shifts, and how she’s thinking about movement, systems, and self-compassion in this new phase of life. Throughout, we explore how endurance training mindsets translate to major life transitions, honoring different seasons, and redefining what “enough” looks like. Check it out!

Challenge of the week

Katie: Ask for help with what you need! 

Elena: Journal on what your ideal system is, and how can you make progress on building that system for yourself

Gear pick of the week

Katie: An OG classic - Glacier Cherry Gatorade. Honestly great breastfeeding hydration. Bonus pick = cheap Amazon bike bottles for easy access to one-handed bedside hydration.

Elena: Phosphatidylserine for the supplement nerds out there or for those struggling with sleep/recovery