Archive - Born on the Trail

Are You a Better Judge of Effort Than Technology?

Technology measures training load, but the data often doesn't match how you feel. This evidence-based guide explores how to combine objective metrics…

Aug 16 •

GUEST POST: A Guide to Mental Training for Endurance Athletes and Coaches

We unpack the science of mental interventions. Learn which skills have the most impact and how to apply principles like periodisation to your mind.

Published on Endurance Mastery • Aug 9

Quantifying The Performance Benefits of Mental Training

We all believe mental training works, but what does the data say? This article provides a deep-dive into the research on how mental skills measurably…

Aug 2 •

July 2025

What Happens to Your Body When You Stop Training?

Understanding how detraining impacts your VO2 max, endurance, and key body systems, along with actionable ways to protect your athletic gains.

Jul 19 •

Crafting your Personalised Ultra Marathon Training Plan

Ready to design your own ultra training? This article helps you craft a personalised plan that adapts to your life while targeting your race day…

Jul 5 •

June 2025

Reviewing Breathing Sensors as a Tool for Workload Monitoring

This article explores if breathing sensors and respiratory metrics improve training workload monitoring compared to heart rate. We examine their link to…

Jun 21 •

Is the Future of Backyard Ultras Niche or Global?

Trail running is on the cusp of becoming mainstream. Will the Backyard Ultra follow suit or fade away?

Jun 7 •

May 2025

Are Women Better Ultra Runners Than Men?

Mainstream media claims that women are superior ultra runners to men, but does the data hold up? What does the science reveal about sex differences in…

May 24 •

How To Train for a Backyard Ultra

No finish line or mountainous terrain - just you and the loop. Here's how you train for the mental grind, the flat monotony, and the art of the hourly…

May 10 •

April 2025

Why Do Ultra Endurance Athletes Get Better With Age?

Ultra-endurance athletes peak in their late 30s, yet physiological gains plateau much earlier. In this article, we review the science in an effort to…

Apr 26 •

You've heard of Goals, but have you heard of Anti-Goals?

Anti-goals, when paired with goal setting, help you push your limits without losing yourself in the process.

Apr 12 •

March 2025

The Demands-Resources Model Will Change The Way You Approach Training

The Demands-Resources model balances the demands of the event with your resources, helping you train smarter and build confidence ahead of your big…

Mar 29 •

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