In this episode of Trail Runner Nation, cognitive neuroscientist and endurance athlete Dr. Scott Frey reveals how brain training can unlock new levels of performance for trail and ultrarunners. He explains that while most athletes focus on the physical, it’s often the brain that sets the limits—through perceived effort, cognitive fatigue, and pain signals. Dr. Frey introduces his Brain Endurance System Training (BEST), a method that combines cognitive and physical training to build mental strength and resilience. We talk about managing cognitive load, how the brain predicts fatigue, and why a mental taper can be just as important as a physical one. Listeners will learn how to train smarter, race longer, and enjoy the sport deeper by understanding the true power of the brain.

Find out more about BEST and Dr. Frey at Cerebral Performance

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What does it mean to be a trail runner in your 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s—or even your 70s? How do years of pounding dirt, chasing summits, and chasing goals shape our bodies, minds, and identities?

Welcome to The Aging Athlete, a new Trail Runner Nation mini-series co-hosted by ultrarunning icon Krissy Moehl. Every 5 to 6 weeks, we’ll dive into what it looks like to grow older in this sport we love—exploring how to train smarter, fuel better, recover more intentionally, and stay motivated through the decades.

In this second episode of the Aging Athlete Series, we speak with Dr. Scott Drum, an exercise physiologist and lifelong endurance athlete. We explore how training, VO₂ max, heart health, sleep, and social connection evolve as we age—and how understanding these changes can help runners continue performing and thriving for decades. Dr. Drum explains how we can maintain (and even improve) cardiovascular fitness into our 50s and beyond, and shares his personal experience with AFib as a cautionary but hopeful tale. The conversation blends science, personal insight, and practical strategies to help runners of all ages stay motivated, train smart, and run for life.

Check out Krissy's book in it's second edition, Running Your First Ultra

Episode Sponsors:

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• Tifosi Optics 20% off with code TRN
• Amazfit - T-Rex 3: Get 15% off
• Oikos Triple Zero
• Get our new "1 > 0" technical running hat

Can you get too much AJW? This episode might answer that question. After last week's Western States 100 Preview and Prognostication, Andy rejoins us for Audio Magazine to discuss a pouperi of topics related to trail running.

AJW brings his trademark passion and perspective. We swap stories, debate hot takes, and share trifling and inconsequential topics we have found on the interwebs. Whether you’re grinding out a long run or just need a midweek pick-me-up, this episode delivers variety, laughs, and a whole lot of trail love.

• Hire AJW as a coach! And read his weekly article in the AJW's Taproom Or tune into the "Crack a Brew with AJW"podcast.

Episode Sponsors:

• Janji, Use code TRAILRUNNER for 10% off
• Peluva, 15% off with code TRAILRUNNER
• Bear Mattress, get 40% off your first order with code TRAIL
• Wonderful Pistachios
• Oikos Triple Zero
• Get our new "1 > 0" technical running hat