Trail Society

Latest Episodes:

Episode 78: New Research Updates on the Impact of the Menstrual Cycle on Performance and Return to Sport After Periods of Low Energy Availability Jul 18, 2024

Show notes

In this episode, Keely, Corrine, and Hillary discuss various life events and races before delving into recent research. First, they explore the current state of menstrual cycle research, highlighting areas of improvement and those that still have a way to go. They then discuss the impact of menstrual-related symptoms on mental health and spatial performance. As coaches, they share their approaches to addressing the menstrual cycle for athletes who menstruate, including tracking the cycle and adapting training to meet individual athletes' specific needs. Finally, they touch on Low Energy Availability (LEA) and RED-S, highlighting recent research showing that LEA can manifest in as little as 3 days. They also discuss coaching strategies for helping athletes recover from short-term and long-term LEA periods. Disclaimer: This podcast does not provide medical advice, but rather shares recent information in these two areas. Listeners are advised to always discuss their unique needs with a licensed professional.

Sponsors:

This episode is brought to you by Freetrail @runfreetrail

www.freetrail.com - subscribe and JOIN US IN SLACK

Our Title Sponsor is The Feed!!! Follow the link to get $20 to spend every quarter ($80 every year!): https://thefeed.com/trailsociety + a cool Trail Society water bottle!

Articles Referenced:

Menstrual Cycle and Performance:

Smith ES, Weakley J, McKay AKA, McCormick R, Tee N, Kuikman MA, Harris R, Minahan C, Buxton S, Skinner J, Ackerman KE, Elliott-Sale KJ, Stellingwerff T, Burke LM. Minimal influence of the menstrual cycle or hormonal contraceptives on performance in female rugby league athletes. Eur J Sport Sci. 2024 Jun 15. doi:10.1002/ejsc.12151. PMID: 38877892.

Menstrual Cycle and Birth Control

Nolan, David, et al. "The Effect of Hormonal Contraceptive Use on Skeletal Muscle Hypertrophy, Power and Strength Adaptations to Resistance Exercise Training: A Systematic Review and Multilevel Meta-Analysis." Sports Medicine (Auckland, N.Z.), 27 Sept. 2023, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37755666/, https://doi.org/10.1007/s40279-023-01911-3. Accessed 15 Oct. 2023.

Ihalainen, Johanna K., et al. "Self-Reported Performance and Hormonal-Cycle-Related Symptoms in Competitive Female Athletes." Women in Sport and Physical Activity Journal, vol. 32, no. 1, 2 July 2024, journals.humankinetics.com/view/journals/wspaj/32/1/article-wspaj.2023-0102.xml, https://doi.org/10.1123/wspaj.2023-0102.

Menstrual Cycle, Behavioral, and Cognitive Parameters

Ronca,F., et al. Attentional, anticipatory and spatial cognition fluctuate throughout the menstrual cycle: Potential implications for female sport. In- Press. Neuropsychologia

17 May 2024. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0028393224001246?via%3Dihub

Kullik, Lisa, et al. "The Prevalence of Menstrual Cycle Symptoms and Their Association with Mental Health and Sleep in German Exercising Women and Athletes." Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport, 1 Feb. 2024, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jsams.2024.02.008.

LEA, return to sport, impacts of short-term LEA, and menstrual dysfunction

De Souza, Mary Jane, et al. "Randomised Controlled Trial of the Effects of Increased Energy Intake on Menstrual Recovery in Exercising Women with Menstrual Disturbances: The "REFUEL" Study." Human Reproduction, vol. 36, no. 8, 24 June 2021, pp. 2285–2297, https://doi.org/10.1093/humrep/deab149. Accessed 25 Nov. 2021.

Hutson, Mark J, et al. "High‐Impact Jumping Mitigates the Short‐Term Effects of Low Energy Availability on Bone Resorption but Not Formation in Regularly Menstruating Females: A Randomized Control Trial." Scandinavian Journal of Medicine & Science in Sports, vol. 33, no. 9, 26 June 2023, pp. 1690–1702, https://doi.org/10.1111/sms.14437. Accessed 7 Dec. 2023.

Hutson, Mark J., et al. "Effects of Low Energy Availability on Bone Health in Endurance Athletes and High-Impact Exercise as a Potential Countermeasure: A Narrative Review." Sports Medicine, vol. 51, no. 3, 21 Dec. 2020, pp. 391–403, https://doi.org/10.1007/s40279-020-01396-4.

Episode 77: Here for the Women's Race, Running versus Hiking Uphill, and Recapping the Western States 100 and Lavaredo Jul 03, 2024

Show notes

In this episode, Keely, Corrine, and Hillary discuss their experiences at both the Western States 100 and Lavaredo trail races from last weekend. They kick off the episode by talking about the "Here for the Women's Race" movement at the Western States 100 and then dive into a viewer question about hiking versus running on steep terrain and how to determine when one is more efficient than the other.

The Western States 100 produced the fastest times in history, with Katie Schide and Jim Walmsley winning the women's and men's race, respectively, in the second fastest times in course history. They talk about the rest of the field, fun storylines, and Keely talks through her experience pacing Rachel Drake to a top 10 finish. Disclaimer: they got skunked!

Sponsors:

This episode is brought to you by Freetrail @runfreetrail

www.freetrail.com - subscribe and JOIN US IN SLACK

Our Title Sponsor is The Feed!!! Follow the link to get $20 to spend every quarter ($80 every year!): https://thefeed.com/trailsociety + a cool Trail Society water bottle!

Articles:

Running versus hiking on steep terrain:

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26607247/

https://freetrail.com/climb-the-mountain-when-to-run-hike-or-pole/

WS 100 results: https://www.irunfar.com/2024-western-states-100-results#:~:text=And%20in%20the%20end%2C%20after,dramatic%202024%20Western%20States%20100.

Episode 76: Western States Women's Elite field preview, sports bras and breathing mechanics, and the role of short, hard efforts in ultramarathon training Jun 18, 2024

Show notes

In this episode, Corrine and Keely delve deep into the women's elite field at the Western States 2024. But first, they discuss the importance of running shorter, harder races and workouts in ultra and trail running. They also talk about some new research on sports bras and the impact of improper fit on breathing mechanics. Then, they delve into how athletes who are mothers, first-timers, and masters athletes may impact the race this year for the infamous cougar in Auburn.

Sports bras and breathing mechanics:https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38350462/

Sports bras and running mechanics: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19401901/

Sponsors!

This episode is brought to you by Freetrail @runfreetrail

www.freetrail.com - subscribe and JOIN US IN SLACK

Our Title Sponsor is The Feed!!! Follow the link to get $20 to spend every quarter ($80 every year!): https://thefeed.com/trailsociety + a cool Trail Society water bottle!

Episode 75: Understanding UTMB's Drug Testing Policy, Why Having Enough Iron is Important for Performance, and Allocating Recovery All Season Long Jun 04, 2024

Show notes

In this episode, Corrine, Keely, and Hillary cover some fascinating topics. They start off by discussing the recent UTMB press release about their new drug testing policy and the involvement of WADA. Then, they dive into the importance of maintaining iron stores in athletes for optimal recovery and performance. Finally, they explore the significance of prioritizing recovery after races and how this can vary based on factors such as race effort, season placement, and race result. They also share some uplifting stories about the positive impact of effective post-race recovery, highlighting its essential role in an athlete's success.

Links:

UTMB Drug Testing: https://andorra.utmb.world/races-runners/runners/anti-doping-resources

Iron Overview in Athletes: Sim M, Garvican-Lewis LA, Cox GR, et al. Iron considerations for the athlete: a narrative review. Eur J Appl Physiol. 2019;119(7):1463-1478. doi:10.1007/s00421-019-04157-y

Oura Perimenopause study:

https://ouraring.com/blog/clue-berkeley-perimenopause-study/?utm_source=substack&utm_medium=email

Sponsors!

This episode is brought to you by Freetrail @runfreetrail

www.freetrail.com - subscribe and JOIN US IN SLACK

Our Title Sponsor is The Feed!!! Follow the link to get $20 to spend every quarter ($80 every year!): https://thefeed.com/trailsociety + a cool Trail Society water bottle!

Ep 74: Mastering the Highs and Lows: Navigating the Transvulcania Race Experience May 21, 2024

Show notes

We are officially in trail racing season! This episode contains a lot of valuable information. Keely discusses a couple of recent studies. The first study focuses on master's level trail runners and body image, while the second covers the performance detriments associated with Low Energy Availability in female athletes. Then Corrine and Hillary delve into race results, covering the Cocodona 250, Tillamook Burn weekend, Transvulcania, and some UTMB races. After that, they all reflect on their respective races at Transvulcania, discussing the highs and lows, mental health going into the race, and fueling wins and losses. Finally, they end with some society slams and advice for female athletes navigating health challenges.

FASTR Study for females >18 years old running the 2024 Western States: email fastrprogram@stanford.edu

Cycling study: Dr. Shaundre Jacobs (Sport Scientist and athlete manager at Department of cultural affairs and sport at Stellenbauch University) is doing research on elite women road cyclists. Contact her here if you are interested: sdjacobs@sun.ac.za

Sponsors!

This episode is brought to you by Freetrail @runfreetrail

www.freetrail.com - subscribe and JOIN US IN SLACK

Our Title Sponsor is The Feed!!! Follow the link to get $20 to spend every quarter ($80 every year!): https://www.thefeed.com/trailsociety + a cool Trail Society water bottle!

And our newest sponsor is For The Long Run Podcast! Head on over to their page and give them a listen! They deep dive into the mental side of running and have a ton of great interviews!

Episode 73: Canyons 100k, believing in yourself, and going all in with Katie Schide May 07, 2024

Show notes

Corrine and Keely recently had a conversation with Katie Schide, a professional runner for The North Face. They discussed Katie's journey into running, which started in New Hampshire's Black Mountains. They also talked about her transition to life as a full-time athlete and how she balances the newfound pressure to perform in a sport she loves. Katie shared her experiences of winning the Canyons 100k race in an impressive manner and also winning UTMB, a 100-mile race, while finishing second at the Western States 100-mile race last year. She also discussed her relationship with a fellow professional athlete and how they balance and support each other's goals. Additionally, they got an explanation about her "Cool Dad" nickname and asked her some rapid-fire questions to get to know her better, including her carbohydrate intake, favorite shoes, geomorphic features, and snacks. You don't want to miss this!

Follow Katie here: @katieschide

Sponsors!

This episode is brought to you by Freetrail @runfreetrail

www.freetrail.com - subscribe and JOIN US IN SLACK

Our Title Sponsor is The Feed!!! Follow the link to get $20 to spend every quarter ($80 every year!): https://thefeed.com/trailsociety + a cool Trail Society water bottle!

And our newest sponsor is For The Long Run Podcast! Head on over to their page and give them a listen! They deep dive into the mental side of running and have a ton of great interviews!

Episode 72: Breaking Barriers in Female Athlete Health: A Conversation with Dr. Emily Kraus Apr 23, 2024

Show notes

In Episode 72, we are joined by Dr. Emily Kraus, a Clinical Assistant Professor at Stanford Children's Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Center. She is trained in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R) sports medicine and is also the director of the FASTR program. FASTR stands for Female Athlete Science and Translational Research, which is dedicated to closing the gender gap in sports science research. The program emphasizes early identification and interventions to prevent injury and optimize performance in female athletes.

During the episode, we discuss Dr. Kraus's journey to becoming a physician who focuses on female athlete health. We also talk about how the lack of female representation in sports medicine motivated her to pursue this career. We explore how increasing female representation in sports medicine can positively impact athletes.

Dr. Kraus shares how working as both a clinician and scientist allows her to better understand female athletes and apply findings in the clinic. We delve into coaching female athletes to return to sport from low energy availability and bone stress injuries and how to balance volume and load while also ensuring the athlete's health and safety.

Articles:

Opil and WNBA partner up: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/opill-and-wnba-team-up-for-groundbreaking-partnership-302111916.html

Updated IOC Consensus statement on RED-S :

https://bjsm.bmj.com/content/58/3/e4

Increasing female representation in sports medicine: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/366536603_Female_Representation_in_Orthopaedic_Surgery_and_Primary_Care_Sports_Medicine_Subspecialties_Where_We_Were_Where_We_Are_and_Where_We_Are_Going?_tp=eyJjb250ZXh0Ijp7ImZpcnN0UGFnZSI6InByb2ZpbGUiLCJwYWdlIjoicHJvZmlsZSJ9fQ

Sponsors!

This episode is brought to you by Freetrail @runfreetrail

www.freetrail.com - subscribe and JOIN US IN SLACK

Our Title Sponsor is The Feed!!! Follow the link to get $20 to spend every quarter ($80 every year!): https://thefeed.com/trailsociety + a cool Trail Society water bottle!

And our newest sponsor is For The Long Run Podcast! Head on over to their page and give them a listen! They deep dive into the mental side of running and have a ton of great interviews!

Episode 71: Adventures, Mishaps, and Lessons Learned on the Trail Apr 09, 2024

Show notes

Join Keely, Corrine, and Hillary as they dive into the March Madness that surrounds the women's NCAA basketball tournament this year. Then they discuss retirement from professional sport and how that may impact mental health, their experience with sport and identity, and how to cope with this loss.

Then they dive into mistakes and mishaps they have made on the trails fueled by inspiring stories from the audience. They talk about international travel woes, improper apparel and fueling choices, the comparison trap, and close calls in the wild.

Articles:

Considerations for the Post Partum Athlete:

Journal Article: https://bjsm.bmj.com/content/early/2024/03/06/bjsports-2023-107624.long

Fun summary by bjsm on instagram:: https://www.instagram.com/p/C4XXaZEP4dm/?igsh=MXhsNWg2ZzQxOXM0Mg==

Sponsors!

This episode is brought to you by Freetrail @runfreetrail

www.freetrail.com - subscribe and JOIN US IN SLACK

Our Title Sponsor is The Feed!!! Follow the link to get $20 to spend every quarter ($80 every year!): https://thefeed.com/trailsociety + a cool Trail Society water bottle!

And our newest sponsor is For The Long Run Podcast! Head on over to their page and give them a listen! They deep dive into the mental side of running and have a ton of great interviews!

Episode 70: Chuckanut 50k Race Insights: The Importance of Mental Flexibility in Tackling Early-Season Races, and Competing at a High Level. Mar 26, 2024

Show notes

Join Keely, Corrine, and Hillary for an intriguing discussion on how minor changes can create a significant impact on female athletes. They will also discuss the importance of investing in women's sports and how an increase in viewership often follows.

Moreover, they will delve into a new infographic from the British Journal of Sports Medicine that focuses on post-partum athletes. They will be discussing various aspects such as monitoring mental health and bone health, training load, energy balance, cardiac health, iron status, and seeking help from a pelvic floor PT.

Lastly, they will be sharing the inside scoop on Keely's recent race at the Chuckanut 50k. You will learn about the significance of mental flexibility during a race, how to tackle early-season races and the pressure of competing at a high level. Trust us, you wouldn't want to miss it

Articles:

Considerations for the Post Partum Athlete:

Journal Article: https://bjsm.bmj.com/content/early/2024/03/06/bjsports-2023-107624.long

Fun summary by bjsm on instagram:: https://www.instagram.com/p/C4XXaZEP4dm/?igsh=MXhsNWg2ZzQxOXM0Mg==

Sponsors!

This episode is brought to you by Freetrail @runfreetrail

www.freetrail.com - subscribe and JOIN US IN SLACK

Our Title Sponsor is The Feed!!! Follow the link to get $20 to spend every quarter ($80 every year!): https://www.thefeed.com/trailsociety + a cool Trail Society water bottle!

And our newest sponsor is For The Long Run Podcast! Head on over to their page and give them a listen! They deep dive into the mental side of running and have a ton of great interviews!

Episode 69: Trailblazing with Carolina Rubio-MacWright: A Journey of Coaching, Mentorship, and Advocacy Mar 12, 2024

Show notes

Join Keely, Corrine, and Hillary on an inspiring journey of coaching, mentorship, and advocacy with Carolina Rubio-MacWright! She is an artist, immigration lawyer and activist who fights for immigrant and humanitarian rights. Growing up in Bogota Colombia and then becoming an attorney has opened her eyes to inequities in our laws and racial power struggles and how the two intersect. Carolina has combined her passion for art, legal rights, and running into several projects including teaching about human rights through running and ceramics. Carolina will be running WSER in June with help from HOKA and Gu. Discover how this trailblazer is breaking barriers and paving the way for others in her field. Get ready for an exciting ride filled with insights, learnings, and valuable takeaways. Let's explore together the power of coaching, the importance of mentorship, and the impact of advocacy in creating positive change. Get ready to be inspired!

Follow Carolina @carustol on instagram

You can send shoes to the border here:

CC Respite Center of the Rio Grande Valley 111 S. 15th Street, McAllen 78501

This episode is brought to you by Freetrail https://www.instagram.com/runfreetrail/

www.freetrail.com - subscribe and JOIN US IN SLACK

Our Title Sponsor is The Feed!!! Follow the link to get $15 to spend every quarter: https://thefeed.com/trailsociety + a cool water bottle!