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When a Nordic Combined athlete transitions to mountain running, the results can be remarkable. Adam Loomis brings unique insights from his years as a national team ski jumper and cross-country skier to the challenging world of technical mountain races and ultramarathons. Having recently won the Telluride Mountain Run 40-mile race with a course record, Loomis opens up about how his specialized background has shaped his approach to trail running.

"Training for Nordic Combined, you're combining very, very different sports," Loomis explains, describing how balancing the power and technique of ski jumping with cross-country skiing's endurance demands created an ideal foundation for mountain running. This versatility shows in his impressive range – from placing top five at the technical Speed Goat 50K to taking podium positions at the 100-mile Run Rabbit Run.

The conversation explores life in Park City, where Loomis enjoys unparalleled mountain access while working at the Utah Olympic Park. He shares vivid details of racing experiences, including debilitating hamstring cramps during Speed Goat and the unique challenges of Run Rabbit Run ("way harder than it looks on paper"). Loomis offers thoughtful perspectives on the growing Salt Lake running scene and his friendly rivalry with fellow Wasatch runner Grant Barnett.

As the sport evolves, Loomis maintains a balanced view on professionalization while hoping the grassroots elements of trail running remain intact. His focus now turns to The Rut 50K and future international races like CCC, where his proficiency with poles (a skill transferred directly from Nordic skiing) should serve him well. For anyone fascinated by athletic versatility and the mental aspects of endurance sports, Loomis provides a compelling blueprint of how diverse athletic backgrounds create exceptional mountain runners.

Ready to improve your own mountain adventures? Use code STEEPSTUFFPOD for 25% off at Ultimate Direction, and join us for more conversations with elite mountain athletes.

Follow Adam on IG - @skiloomis

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Follow James on IG - @jameslauriello

Follow the Steep Stuff Podcast on IG - @steepstuff_pod

Use code steepstuffpod for 25% off your cart at UltimateDirection.com!