The Value of Challenges: Sally McRae on Seeking Out Adversity & Scary Goals

The Strength Running Podcast

Sally McRae is known worldwide for her mental fortitude and ability to push through extreme discomfort.

As a professional mountain and ultra runner for Nike, Sally is a two-time Top 10 Western States finisher, the Badwater 135 Champion, Tarawera 100 Champion, Mozart 100 Champion and Moab 240 Champion. Sally is also an author, podcast host, business owner, and a strength and running coach.

In this episode, Sally and I talk about:

• The pros of using a treadmill for distance training
• The whole body needs to be strong for endurance races, not just the muscles
• How Sally structures strength training depending on the race season to build muscle and endurance
• Mobility, stretching, and hip and glute work to combat the weakening effects of sedentary lifestyles
• Training for 200-mile races, including eating and sleeping strategies, gear, and mental prep
• The mental aspect of long distances can make or break a runner's performance
• Power hiking and weight training for 200-mile ultra preparation
• Mental muscles, believing in your potential, and focusing on the story you want to tell yourself
• Sally's first experience with foot and heel blisters during the Cocodona 250
• Training for the Western States Endurance Run

Listen to this episode to hear from one of the most hardcore and kindest runners you'll ever meet.

Links & Resources from the Show:

• Sally McRae on Instagram
• The Choose Strong Podcast
• Sally on YouTube
• Sally's mobile app
• Sally's book, "CHOOSE STRONG: The Choice That Changes Everything"
• Access the free course to help you master your mindset during training and races.

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