Here is my latest adventure...The Art Loeb Out-n-Back run. Enjoy the episode! The Art Loeb Trail Route - https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/north-carolina/art-loeb-trail--2 Rab Phantom Raincoat - https://rab.equipment/us/mens-phantom-waterproof-jacket?srsltid=AfmBOoquXxrCehdVKIVRaGs5PTeFawcbJMQjQuJoeUP_minYcnAO3qh8 Book - Comfort Crisis by Michael Easter - https://eastermichael.com/book/ Science In Sport (SIS) Double Espresso Gels - https://thefeed.com/products/sis-go-energy-caffeine-gels?varian...
Aug 08, 2025•56 min•Ep. 262
Hi everyone! Thanks to your questions & comments, there is a lot in this episode! So many topics and things to discuss. From summer training reminders, to the new discussion on the merit of zone 2 training, to talk about Tor de Geants and gear reviews. I hope you learn something and enjoy! Resources: 1. My episode on HRV - https://runningislifepodcast.podbean.com/e/should-we-use-hrv-as-a-predictor-episode-239/ 2. The book "Feed Zone Portables" I mentioned - https://www.skratchlabs.com/produc...
Aug 01, 2025•1 hr 6 min•Ep. 261
Hi everyone! I missed this! It feels liberating to record again; even if it's on a tough subject. In this episode, I discuss my build and race at Western States. As always, it's emotional, so forgive me for being open and honest! I look forward to sharing again. If you have anything you want to hear about, please, let me know! Enjoy! Aaron's information: My Socials, Channels, & Newsletter: https://www.facebook.com/MRRUNNINGPAINSCOACHING https://www.instagram.com/runningislifecoaching/ https:...
Jul 25, 2025•44 min•Ep. 260
I am going to step away from podcasting. Is it permanent? I don’t know for sure. I continue to want to share things I learn and give back to the community that has given me so much. I will continue to do so through my coaching. Both High School and adults. I’m always here if you need me! Thank you for being a part of this journey! Running is Life! -Coach Aaron Saft Aaron's information: My Socials & Channels: https://www.facebook.com/MRRUNNINGPAINSCOACHING https://www.instagram.com/runningisl...
Jan 23, 2025•7 min•Ep. 259
What does your music playlist do for you? Does it move you, motivate you, calm you? It should do all of these and more. This episode dives into my thoughts behind a powerful music playlist. Resources: Book - "States The Places We Run" eBook - https://historyexp.org/states-the-places-we-run-ebook/ Video - Seven Nation Army / Rockin'1000 That's Live Official - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xaEsni-OgUs&list=RDxaEsni-OgUs&start_radio=1 Aaron's information: If you'd like to learn more about...
Jan 16, 2025•37 min•Ep. 258
What a great book. "The Norwegian Method" by Brad Culp is not an instruction manual. It does not having training plans. It describes how the Norwegian's are using science to better their training. To understand the principles of what they are doing to make them such great athletes. In this episode, I will discuss some of my takeaways. Resources: Strength Running Podcast w/ Brad Culp - https://strengthrunning.com/2024/11/brad-culp/ The Norwegian Method Podcast - Found on many major streaming plat...
Jan 09, 2025•36 min•Ep. 257
Can you do workouts? Can you run lots of miles? Should you do either? We'll discuss in this episode. Books I refer to: The Norwegian Method by Brad Culp Training Lactate Pulse-Rate by Peter G.J.M. Janssen Scientific Training for Endurance Athletes by Philip Friere Skiba DO, PHD States - The Places We Run by Bob Crowley, Hal Hall, & Tim Twietmeyer The Examined Run by Sabrina B. Little The Essential Wooden by John Wooden & Steve Jamison Aaron's information: If you'd like to learn more abou...
Jan 02, 2025•40 min•Ep. 256
I've learned a lot this year, and from reading and observation, there's one thing I'd like to share and that's making sure your workout intervals are long enough to provide the stimulus to help your fitness. Have a listen to hear more... Resources: 1. Alex Hutchison article on VO2 max Testing - When VO2 Max isn't max - https://sweatscience.com/when-vo2max-isnt-max/ 2. Runner Rising Podcast w/ me as the guest - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aaron-saft-behind-of-the-scenes-of-coaching-100/...
Dec 26, 2024•30 min•Ep. 255
Here are the things that have me excited to try/use in 2025: FlipBelt & Light - https://flipbelt.com/products/running-light Petzl Swift RL reactive lighting (update) - https://www.petzl.com/US/en/Sport/Headlamps/SWIFT-RL Adidas Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra Trail - https://www.adidas.com/us/terrex-agravic-speed-ultra-trail-running-shoes/IF6594.html Rab Phantom Waterproof Pull-On Jacket - https://rab.equipment/us/phantom-pull-on?srsltid=AfmBOoqju21FEPEGERkOHgVbgGvO74deMuOyFolOpC1VnMvtXxxU2bnL Sa...
Dec 19, 2024•28 min•Ep. 254
With 2 tickets in the lottery, I was shocked to hav my name pulled to race Western States in June of 2025. But a plan is beginning to formulate. This episode describes the outline. Aaron's information: If you'd like to learn more about Patreon or to donate, please visit https://www.patreon.com/RunningIsLife My Socials, Channels, & Newsletter: https://www.facebook.com/MRRUNNINGPAINSCOACHING https://www.instagram.com/runningislifecoaching/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQ6J512qA34z_N0KJSU4j...
Dec 12, 2024•51 min•Ep. 253
In this episode, I reflect on my coaching philosophy and how I coach. Is my philosophy still in line with my values & principles? How have I changed my coaching? And how do I hope to move forward. Here are my written thoughts - https://docs.google.com/document/d/1_DRGhm_JSC4KYShIp2JDBe02JCQkeOR3lWa_j2_U4FU/edit?usp=sharing Here is the Year End Evaluation Form - https://docs.google.com/document/d/1ev4khSmR_iVcUH325eIeQqxp1n5VX6F_Mdk8Ql5zruo/edit?usp=sharing Let me know if you'd like to discus...
Dec 05, 2024•36 min•Ep. 252
In this episode, I go through my long term plan, execution, & analysis of the the 2024 West Henderson High School Cross Country Season. Here is a link to the YouTube video I reference - https://youtu.be/_PIQixt0cng Here is the link to the overview sheet I reference throughout the video - https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1_WaDbbiqxcUiJDYTOsoZrX5fIlWuinPUq6Y26l26Jqs/edit?usp=sharing Please feel free to contact me with questions! Aaron's information: If you'd like to learn more about Patr...
Nov 28, 2024•1 hr 1 min•Ep. 251
In this episode, I share things I've learned about Super Shoes, Nutrition, Poles, & I share some reminders about the upcoming Holidays. Resources: Single Track Podcast - The State Of Ultrarunning Nutrition with Vic Johnson (Part 1) - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-state-of-ultrarunning-nutrition-with-vic-johnson-part-1/id1572382413?i=1000677053867 Single Track Podcast - The State of Ultrarunning Nutrition with Vic johnson (Part 2) - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-state-...
Nov 21, 2024•39 min•Ep. 250
Ryne Anderson is my coach. We discuss how to form a long term plan by examining my 2025 running schedule. There's a lot more to this conversation, so I hope you gain many takeaways. Please let either of us know if you have any questions. Our contact information is below. Long Term Plan doc - https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1Be6-2wKtPci8oz9Gl3UR3_qMVqMsgjYMIehXZYQWr1o/edit?usp=sharing Connect with Ryne through his email - randerson@trainright.com Follow him on Instagram - @ryne1anderson Aa...
Nov 14, 2024•1 hr 3 min•Ep. 249
Recently David Roche had amazing results at Leadville 100 & Javelina 100-mile races! This episode focuses on lessons we can apply to our own running from David's historical runs. Aaron's information: If you'd like to learn more about Patreon or to donate, please visit https://www.patreon.com/RunningIsLife My Socials, Channels, & Newsletter: https://www.facebook.com/MRRUNNINGPAINSCOACHING https://www.instagram.com/runningislifecoaching/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQ6J512qA34z_N0KJSU...
Nov 07, 2024•39 min•Ep. 248
After reading the following article - https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/12-ted-lasso-leadership-lessons-transform-your-marcin-klinkosz/ - I'd thought I would share how we can apply these 12 lessons to our running & lives! Enjoy! Aaron's information: If you'd like to learn more about Patreon or to donate, please visit https://www.patreon.com/RunningIsLife My Socials, Channels, & Newsletter: https://www.facebook.com/MRRUNNINGPAINSCOACHING https://www.instagram.com/runningislifecoaching/ https...
Oct 31, 2024•36 min•Ep. 247
Things we don’t want to change too rapidly and without proper supervision/understanding: Form Foot strike Drills Strength training Cadence Footwear Big changes in training patterns # of days Volume Vert Workouts Race distance Dietary habits Supplements I hope you enjoy this episode. Please let me know if you have any suggestions for future episodes or questions you'd like me to answer! Aaron's information: If you'd like to learn more about Patreon or to donate, please visit https://www.patreon.c...
Oct 24, 2024•36 min•Ep. 246
If you're not gaining in fitness, I examine some things to look for in this episode. Resources: Fitness Absorption vs Expression Podcast https://runningislifepodcast.podbean.com/?s=fitness HRV Podcast https://runningislifepodcast.podbean.com/e/should-we-use-hrv-as-a-predictor-episode-239/ Old Fort Strong Endurance Event - https://www.tanawhaadventures.com/oldfortstrongendurancefest?utm_campaign=7f4b6d8b-6187-4f05-a38a-dd8a1cb8d720&utm_source=so&utm_medium=mail&cid=84426f69-193a-4abc-...
Oct 17, 2024•34 min•Ep. 245
What happens when the Universe conspires against your best laid plans to complete your goal race or event? That's what I'll get into in this episode. Resources: Book - "Puke & Rally" by Dr Rob Bell Podcast - KoopCast -Thoughts on DNF with Coaches AJW and Neal Palles #235 https://podcasts.apple.com/no/podcast/thoughts-on-dnf-with-coaches-ajw-and-neal-palles-235/id1489494447?i=1000670230512 Aaron's information: If you'd like to learn more about Patreon or to donate, please visit https://www.pa...
Oct 10, 2024•36 min•Ep. 244
Still here & ok! Thank you all for checking in on me! I hope everyone and their loved ones is safe! Reach out if you need anything! Love to all! -Aaron Saft Resources - Wahoo Trackr - https://www.wahoofitness.com/devices/heart-rate-monitors/trackr-heart-rate-buy Aaron's information: If you'd like to learn more about Patreon or to donate, please visit https://www.patreon.com/RunningIsLife My Socials, Channels, & Newsletter: https://www.facebook.com/MRRUNNINGPAINSCOACHING https://www.insta...
Oct 03, 2024•23 min•Ep. 243
Travis Macy & I finally coordinated and recorded the following podcast on running & coaching. I thoroughly enjoyed this conversation, & I hope you do as well! Learn more about Travis, his podcast, and his books at his website - www.travismacy.com Aaron's information: If you'd like to learn more about Patreon or to donate, please visit https://www.patreon.com/RunningIsLife My Socials, Channels, & Newsletter: https://www.facebook.com/MRRUNNINGPAINSCOACHING https://www.instagram.com...
Sep 26, 2024•1 hr 13 min•Ep. 242
Mental skills are so important to train to assist us in our races, but often times we leave it out. Included in this episode are some things you can work on to help you in your daily runs/life. My notes: Mentally preparing for a race Goals A B C Write them down and share them. Revisit them from time to time. Realistic? Extrinsic & Intrinsic Why’s These are yours. You decide if you want to share depending on how personal. If strong enough, may want to share with crew & pacers Revisit &...
Sep 19, 2024•35 min•Ep. 241
I had a great discussion with the athlete's I coach about using HRV as a predictor for recovery, and that is what spurred this Episode. That original discussion was inspired by the following podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/trainingpeaks-coachcast/id1435395422?i=1000664573776 with Marco Altini https://www.marcoaltini.com/ and the following article by Alex Hutchison https://www.outsideonline.com/health/training-performance/machine-learning-predict-workout-recovery/ I hope this provid...
Sep 12, 2024•41 min•Ep. 240
So we built "Saft's Trail". A lot went into this trail, and here's how we did it. Thanks to the Carolina Mountain Club - https://carolinamountainclub.org/ - for all their help! Thanks to Rugby Middle School for allowing us to build this. Thanks to both the Rugby and West Henderson athletes and parents for their work hours. We did it! Now come enjoy it on Sept. 28th at The Truly Tough XC Classic 5k - https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=118288 Please reach out to me if you can donate to the ...
Sep 05, 2024•46 min•Ep. 239
There are many different types of coaches out there. Here I describe all sides of each type. The good and the bad. Then I talk about qualities I try to use as a coach myself. If you'd like to speak with me about coaching, please reach out! Truly Tough XC Classic 5K - Sept. 28 - complete details & registration here - https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=118288 Aaron's information: If you'd like to learn more about Patreon or to donate, please visit https://www.patreon.com/RunningIsLife M...
Aug 29, 2024•43 min•Ep. 238
Racing is hard enough. After a poor performance or DNF, it makes the next race even tougher to mentally and physically prepare for. Here are my thoughts for moving forward! Podcast on Analyzing your race/event: https://runningislifepodcast.podbean.com/e/so-you-had-a-bad-race-here-s-the-next-steps-w-personal-notes-episode-95/ Books: "Puke & Rally" by Rob Bell "Do Hard Things" by Steve Magness Truly Tough XC Classic 5k - Sept. 28 - https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=118288 My notes: 1. ...
Aug 22, 2024•52 min•Ep. 237
Stream of consciousness (Outline of the episode): House Keeping Truly Tough XC Classic info - https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=118288 Tsali Frosty Foot - https://runsignup.com/Race/NC/Almond/TsaliUltra Podcast with Travis update - His Book "Ultra Mindset" I appreciate the road shoe suggestions - haven’t had a chance to try any on COROS arm band update - https://coros.com/heart-rate-monitor Suicide prevention - call or text to 988 - talk to someone - talk to your kids Trail building/main...
Aug 15, 2024•43 min•Ep. 236
Justin Walker was one of the lucky "Never Runs" to be selected in the Hardrock 100 Lottery to run in 2024. This is his story. Connect with Justin on Strava as Justin Walker or on Instagram @runjwalkrun Aaron's information: If you'd like to learn more about Patreon or to donate, please visit https://www.patreon.com/RunningIsLife My Socials, Channels, & Newsletter: https://www.facebook.com/MRRUNNINGPAINSCOACHING https://www.instagram.com/runningislifecoaching/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/U...
Aug 08, 2024•1 hr 35 min•Ep. 235
Julie Jordan is already an amazing person! Then she goes and finishes the Vol State 500k, and what a story she has from the event! Buckle up! This is AWESOME! Connect with Julie on Facebook @Julia Jordan & on Instagram @AndIMustGo55 Tsali Ultra (50k, 30k, & 8k) will take place Jan. 18, 2025 at Fontana Lake. No longer under my direction, but I'm glad it's still happening. Register at https://runsignup.com/Race/NC/Almond/TsaliUltra Get 10% off your entry fee by using the code SAFT at check...
Aug 01, 2024•1 hr 43 min•Ep. 234
Here it is, my emotional recap of the High Lonesome 100 finish! Resources - Running is Life Podcast - High Lonesome 100 Plan (Episode 231) - https://runningislifepodcast.podbean.com/e/high-lonesome-100-mile-plan-episode-231/ High Lonesome 100 Website - https://www.highlonesome100.com/ Weird Al "Foil" - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=urglg3WimHA Aaron's information: If you'd like to learn more about Patreon or to donate, please visit https://www.patreon.com/RunningIsLife My Socials, Channels, &a...
Jul 25, 2024•1 hr 15 min•Ep. 233
