Episode 95: Training Insights from Elena's UTMB Prep and Katie's First Half of Pregnancy

This week's episode features a deep dive on the training principles and philosophy between two very different endurance projects: Elena's multi-year prep to race in the elite field at Ultra Trail du Mont Blanc (UTMB) and the first half of Katie's journey through pregnancy as an endurance athlete. We cover insights that with a surprising amount of overlap between the two experiences, including the importance of flexibility, fueling, and mindset, as well as lots of tips for listeners who are interested in elements of either journey. Whatever endurance adventure is on your radar next, this episode has something for you. Check it out!

UTMB Tracking Link: https://live.utmb.world/utmb/2025/utmb

A listener’s message on pregnancy that we loved:

As always, loved the podcast yesterday. And just felt compelled to send you a message saying keep doing your thing. I remember with both of my pregnancies running up until seven or eight months, and working out until the day I went into the hospital. I remember doing a really long workout on the elliptical the morning I was supposed to go in for a doctors appointment, and actually was surprised they wanted to check me in early and induce me… I was feeling so good. I didn’t see that coming. (Sidenote, make sure you pack a bag early… I was highly unprepared!)

I know every person is different, and you gotta go by how you feel… But I am a firm believer that staying active as much as I did during my pregnancy really helped my delivery, and my ability to bounce back afterwards. So ignore the questions and the naysayers… Keep trusting your gut and your body.

Oh, and it is OK to feel really weird in your own body as your turnip continues to grow! It was not all sunshine and rainbows. It can be a real identity struggle for someone who’s been fit their whole life to start to see weight gain in weird places that you don’t really have control over… No matter how good the reason is. So be gentle with yourself, it’s OK to feel like pregnancy is a really uncomfortable and foreign experience. I had many breakdowns when I couldn’t button my pants, and it never helped me when people would say, but it’s all for a really good reason! It still feels weird.

So love yourself, keep surrounding yourself with the right people, keep all the amazing mindfulness stuff going that you have been so consistent with… I am loving following this journey for you!

Challenge of the week:

  • Katie: write down some things you love about yourself or are proud of!

  • Elena: Go to bed 30 mins earlier than you usually do

Gear pick of the week: