Host: Ash
Guest: Elena (https://www.instagram.com/determinedtotri/)

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Episode Description:

In this episode, we sit down with Elena to dive deep into her incredible running journey! From what sparked her passion for marathons to how she’s refined her training and racing strategies over time, Elena shares valuable insights for runners of all levels.

We discuss her approach to marathon training, the importance of balancing speed work, long runs, and recovery, and how she manages injuries and burnout. Elena also reveals her race day routine, mental tricks to stay focused, and the biggest mistakes runners make in marathon prep.

Plus, we get into the fun side of running, her most memorable races, go-to gear, and the funniest things she’s seen on race day. Whether you're training for your first marathon or chasing a new PR, this episode is packed with inspiration and expert advice.

Episode Timeline & Questions

⏳ Intro (0:00 - 3:48)

• Welcome to the episode!
• Quick introduction to Elena.

🏃‍♀️ Segment 1: The Running Journey (3:48 - 11:48)

• What got you into running, and when did you decide to take on marathons?
• Can you tell us about your first marathon experience? How did it go, and what did you learn from it?
• How has your approach to training and racing changed over time?

📅 Segment 2: Training & Preparation (11:48 - 29:31)

• What does a typical training block look like for you when preparing for a marathon?
• How do you balance speed work, long runs, and recovery?
• Do you follow a specific nutrition plan during training?
• Have you ever had to adjust your training due to injury or burnout? How did you manage it?
• What’s the biggest mistake runners make in marathon training?

🏁 Segment 3: Race Day Strategies (29:31 - 49:08)

• What’s your race day routine like—from waking up to the starting line?
• Do you have a specific pacing strategy, or do you go by feel?
• How do you handle the inevitable tough moments during a marathon, especially after 30K?
• What’s the most memorable race you’ve run and why?

🧠 Segment 4: Mental Game & Motivation (49:08 - 55:10)

• What keeps you motivated to train and race, even when it gets tough?
• How do you push through the mental barriers during long runs and races?
• Have you ever had a race where things completely fell apart? How did you recover?
• Do you have any mantras or mental tricks that help you stay focused?

👟 Segment 5: Gear & Tech (55:10 - 1:02:22)

• What’s your go-to race day shoe, and why?
• Are there any gadgets or apps you swear by for training?
• How do you feel about the impact of super shoes on marathon times?

🎯 Segment 6: Future Goals & Advice (1:02:22 - 1:09:04)

• Do you have a dream marathon or race you haven’t run yet?
• What’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone training for their first marathon?
• If you could go back and give advice to yourself before your first marathon, what would you say?
• What’s next for you in your running journey?

🎉 Segment 7: Fun & Personal Touch (1:09:04 - 1:14:50)

• Funniest or weirdest thing you’ve ever seen during a race?
• If you could run a marathon with any historical or fictional character, who would it be?
• What’s the best post-marathon meal or drink you’ve ever had?

🎙️ Closing Remarks (1:16:05 - 1:16:19)

• Final thoughts and reflections