The ZenRUN Podcast

Episode 513 - From Boat Harbour to Gone Nuts: Tom Lewis on Trail Running, Longevity, and Raisin Bread Revelations


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In this episode, we’re joined by Tasmanian adventurer-turned-runner Tom Lewis. From a childhood spent sailing and fishing on the northwest coast of Tasmania to hiking under glaciers in Canada, Tom has always loved moving through the world. But it wasn’t until later in life—after stepping back from full-time work—that he truly embraced trail running.

Tom shares how the Gone Nuts trail event rekindled his connection with places from his youth and how training for it (with the help of Hanny Allston’s plans and some local coffee chats) gave him a new lease on life. He talks about:

•The joy of running for longevity—not speed

•Why his Alexander Technique-trained wife has been his secret strength coach

•The surprising power of jelly beans and raisin bread during ultras 🍞

•What spreadsheets, sweat tests, and sandwich mishaps taught him about hydration and fuelling

•How walking counts—especially on the days when running feels too hard

This chat is full of wisdom, curiosity, and gentle humour—just like Tom himself.

Tom’s Top Tips:

•On low-energy days: Do the time, even if it’s just a walk.

•Stay curious: Track your body, learn from your patterns, adjust along the way.

•Nutrition matters: Never try a new sandwich mid-race.

•Longevity is the goal: Focus on staying healthy enough to keep exploring.

 

Whether you’re running Gone Nuts or just trying to get out the door, this one’s a gem.

 

A couple of links from this episode:—

  • Alexander Technique guide - https://alexandertechnique.com/ 
  • Hanny Allston’s training plans - https://www.hannyallston.com.au/trailrunningplanners.html
  • A couple of BIG favours:

    1) please like and review this podcast so more people will discover it :)
    2) come on the podcast and talk about your running journey and/or refer someone you’d love me to interview (whether you know them or not :) )  Lets not keep the power of running a secret any more!  Hit me up on Facebook/Instagram (FitMIND FitBODY) or send me an email - Michelle @ FitMINDFitBODY .co 

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    💛 Looking for more running motivation?

    Check out ZenRUN Club (https://zenrun.club/) —a low-pressure space for runners of all levels. With simple training plans, guided runs, and monthly challenges, it’s all about stress-free progress and community support. Come join us when you’re ready!

     

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    The ZenRUN PodcastBy Michelle Frost