Brian's Run Pod

From Reluctant Runner to Ultra-Marathoner: Merili Freear's Inspiring Journey


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What if the very activity you dreaded in school could one day become your sanctuary? Join us as we uncover Merili Freear's incredible transformation from an exercise-averse student in Estonia to a passionate runner in England. Merili opens up about her early disdain for physical education, her reluctant beginnings in walking and running with her sister, and the moment in April 2020 that sparked a profound change in her life. Discover how she shifted her focus from chaotic, weight-loss-driven workouts to a mindful, joyous running routine that enhanced her mental clarity and overall well-being.
 
 The COVID-19 lockdowns were challenging for everyone, but Merili found an unexpected silver lining. Confined at home, she turned to running as a form of mental and physical relief. Listen to her touching reflections on the mixed emotions of navigating loss and growth during a global pandemic, and how her new running routine led to unexpected benefits like improved fitness, personal empowerment, and a deeper appreciation of local nature. We'll also touch on the early stages of Merili's training for longer distances, including the hurdles she faced and overcame.
 
 Running isn't always smooth; it comes with its share of setbacks, especially injuries. In this episode, Merili shares her insights on the crucial balance between physical and mental resilience in the face of running-related injuries. Drawing from key books and her own experiences, she emphasizes the importance of small wins, a positive mindset, and cross-training. Hear her inspiring story of running an ultra-marathon with insufficient preparation, and how these challenges led her to reinvent herself and refine her training methods. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to find strength and growth in the face of physical and mental obstacles.

Just Run by Merili Freear

Running Free of Injuries


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Brian's Run PodBy Brian Patterson