Ever feel like you’re doing everything right—but your body has other plans? In this raw and relatable episode, Louise, one of the world's leading experts for perimenopausal runners and runners with a history of hormone-related concerns, opens up about her latest race day experience that was hijacked by perimenopause symptoms, mindset struggles, and hormonal chaos. From early wakeups and surprise cramps to hydration mishaps and mental battles, she shares it all—the good, the bad, and the hilarious. But this isn’t just a story; it’s packed with practical tips for runners in perimenopause: why symptoms occur, how to fuel before and after a race, why pre-hydration matters more than ever, what to do when anxiety creeps in, and how to adjust your training goals with compassion.

If you’ve ever questioned whether it’s your period, perimenopause, or just being undertrained—this episode will make you feel seen, understood, and better prepared for your next run. Ready to finally understand why your body is talking to you and exact strategies to do something about it so you can look, feel and run your best for life? Learn, laugh and level up with Louise today!

Link to check out our multi award-winning Badass Breakthrough 1:1 Academy to thrive through perimenopause with less stress: https://www.breakingthroughwellness.com/

Link to our Fullscript to save 20% off supplements mentioned, such as Trace Minerals, Maca & more under “Favorites”: https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/breakingthroughwellness/store-start  Heads up: A small portion of all sales goes back to support us. Thank you in advance!

Link to my blog article, “Long Run Fueling Strategies That Change The Game Age 35 & Beyond”: https://www.breakingthroughwellness.com/blog/long-run-fueling-strategies-that-change-the-game-age-35-beyond

Take advantage of our podcast listener discount and save 20% off all of Kion’s science-backed clean products: https://www.getkion.com/pages/maximizing

Episode Highlights:
(0:00) Intro
(5:45) How life stress impacted training
(7:26) Setting race goals post-hiatus
(9:36) Overcoming "you're not built to run" messaging
(11:07) Nervous system expansion through discomfort
(12:51) Red flags from HRV and cycle timing
(15:19) Nutrition missteps and sleep disruption
(18:00) Caffeine, urination, and hydration lessons
(20:08) Pee pants and hydration check-in
(21:44) Fueling right 2 hours before the race
(24:09) Cramping, panic, and hormonal self-talk
(25:54) Hydration adjustments for perimenopause
(28:39) Race pacing and emotional rollercoaster
(30:38) A powerful moment of self-recognition
(33:09) Race-week mindset rituals and meditations
(34:22) Finding belonging through community
(37:21) The truth about post-race recovery
(39:11) Easy tips to optimize protein intake
(42:42) Adjusting race pace for health first
(44:50) Outro

Tune in weekly to "Maximizing Hormones, Physique, and Running Through Perimenopause" for our simple female-specific science-based revolution. Let's unlock our best with less stress!

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