At Run Tri Mag, we’re dedicated to helping endurance athletes find inspiration grow a community of everyday athletes. In this podcast, we share the key topics discussed in the latest episode of Caffeinated Coaching with Lori Hauck, featuring runner and coach Becky Croft. From representation and life transitions to trail running and tailored coaching, this episode is packed with insights for every athlete. There is something for everyone looking to elevate their running journey today and into the future.
Honoring Indigenous Representation in Running
Becky Croft, who is Cherokee and Yakima, sheds light on the importance of recognizing indigenous history in the running community. She shares how Thanksgiving, a day of mourning for many indigenous people, is a time to reflect and advocate for inclusivity. Becky emphasizes creating spaces where indigenous runners feel seen, supported, and celebrated. These efforts foster meaningful connections and elevate the running community as a whole.
Navigating Menopause as an Athlete
For many athletes, menopause presents unique challenges, including hormonal shifts and energy fluctuations. Becky discusses her personal journey with surgical menopause, highlighting the scarcity of resources available to athletes in similar situations. She advocates for open conversations about menopause in sports and shares her mission to build support networks. Her insights remind us that athletic excellence is possible at every stage of life with the right tools and encouragement.
Training Adjustments for Masters Athletes
As endurance athletes age, training routines must evolve to meet their bodies’ changing needs. Becky highlights the importance of incorporating strength, mobility, and recovery into workouts for athletes over 40. She emphasizes the need to listen to your body, adjust training loads, and prioritize nutrition to maintain peak performance and motivation. Her actionable advice ensures that athletes can continue to push boundaries well into their masters years.
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The Mindset Shift: Trail Running vs. Road Running
Trail running is more than just a change in terrain—it’s a complete shift in mindset. Becky shares how trails bring a sense of adventure, unpredictability, and camaraderie that differs from road running’s structured precision. She recounts her experiences navigating elevation and technical paths, highlighting how trail running fosters a sense of connection with nature and the running community.
The Power of Training Periodization
Periodization is a powerful tool for avoiding burnout and achieving consistent growth. Becky explains how breaking training into focused cycles helps runners balance intensity and recovery while preventing injury. She encourages athletes to incorporate strength work and shorter distances into their plans for well-rounded development. Her advice empowers runners to train smarter, not just harder.
Coaching: Elevating Your Running Confidence
Becky’s coaching philosophy emphasizes meeting athletes where they are and helping them unlock their potential. Through tailored strategies and personalized support, she inspires runners to embrace challenges and celebrate victories, big and small. Her approach underscores the value of having a coach to guide and motivate you every step of the way.
Caffeine and Connection
No Caffeinated Coaching episode is complete without coffee talk! Lori and Becky bond over their favorite caffeinated drinks, proving that little rituals can fuel big ambitions.
From fostering inclusivity to embracing life transitions, this conversation offers practical advice and encouragement for every runner. Ready to take elevate your running journey today? Tune in to the full episode and let Becky and Lori inspire your next run!
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