Trail Running Tips for Beginners | Caffeinated Coaching Guest: Brittany Olson
In this episode of Caffeinated Coaching, host Lori Hauck sits down with Brittany Olson, founder of Sunrise Trail Coaching, to explore the transformative power of intentional coaching, trail running, and strength training. This conversation is great for those that are veterans to trail running but also provides tips for beginners.
Brittany Olson has created the ‘Get Your Shit Together’ program to help individuals regain control and prioritize what truly matters. This 60- or 90-day structured coaching program combines intentional work and accountability to ensure you make time for the activities you love. With three personalized coaching calls, participants are guided to create meaningful change and stay focused on their goals.
Trail Running: Community Over Competition
Brittany shares her passion for trail running, emphasizing how the trail running community can enhance the experience. Unlike traditional running, trail running fosters camaraderie and mutual support among participants. A standout takeaway is Brittany’s advice to use Rate of Perceived Exertion (RPE) rather than pace as a measure of effort. This method allows runners to train effectively on diverse terrains without the pressure of hitting specific metrics.
Build Strength and Recover Right
Strength training is essential for trail runners, and Brittany breaks it down into practical, achievable steps. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned athlete, incorporating foot, ankle, and upper body exercises into your routine can enhance performance and reduce injury risk. She recommends starting with 2-4 strength sessions per week based on your experience level. Post-run recovery is equally vital, with a focus on nutrition and mobility work to ensure your body stays strong and balanced.
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>Actionable Training Tips for All Levels
No gym? No problem! Brittany highlights the accessibility of bodyweight exercises and resistance bands as great options for runners without gym access. Free resources, like YouTube, offer excellent guides for learning new exercises and improving your form. Start where you’re comfortable and build gradually, knowing that consistency is key to progress.
Balance Training with Fun
Endurance sports are not just about hard work; they’re also about joy and balance. Brittany and host Lori Hauck share lighthearted moments discussing their favorite caffeinated drinks, Phoenix’s local coffee scene, and Brittany’s weekly beer night tradition. These anecdotes remind us to enjoy the journey while pursuing our goals.
Why This Matters
Trail running and strength training offer more than just physical benefits—they build mental resilience, confidence, and community. Brittany’s coaching approach aligns with the philosophy of Run Tri Mag: empowering everyday athletes to achieve their goals without the need for constant data comparisons or self-doubt.
Ready to take your trail running and training to the next level? Dive into this inspiring conversation with Lori and Brittany, and discover trail running tips for beginners and veterans that can transform your endurance journey.
Check out more episodes of Caffeinated Coaching here.
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