Born on the Trail

Born on the Trail

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Why You Should Not (Blindly) Trust Science
From false positives to shrinking effects, this article explores why many sports science findings don’t replicate - and what that means for training.
 • Niki Micallef
Why You Should Not Strength Train in 2026
A deep dive into the research on strength training, performance, and injury risk - and why added gym work may distract from what actually improves race…
 • Niki Micallef
1:14:14
Neal Palles on How Mental Health Impacts Athletic Performance
Neal Palles, a psychotherapist and ultrarunning coach, discusses how good mental health, a deep 'why' and strong motivation are key for everyday…
 • Niki Micallef
Is Ultra Running Actually Bad for You?
Investigating the link between high-volume training and physiological maladaptation, while asking ourselves where does the line between health and…
 • Niki Micallef
How Elite Coaches Structure Winter Training
Is it time to build your base or focus on speed? We review the literature and coaching practices to define the optimal approach for your winter months.
 • Niki Micallef

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Scott Johnston on What Athletes and Coaches Get Wrong About Muscular Endurance
Coach Scott Johnston explains muscular endurance training while addressing the confusion and coaches who say that muscular endurance training is a waste…
 • Niki Micallef
1:08:23
Why Backyard Ultra Runners Quit (And How Not To)
Why do runners quit when their bodies are still capable to move forward? This article discusses the role of cognitive fatigue and the "motivation…
 • Niki Micallef
Are Pain and Fatigue Physical or Mental?
Your perception of effort may be more important than your physiology. We compare the two leading scientific models to find out what truly limits your…
 • Niki Micallef
Analysing the Limiters of Ultra Marathon Performance
An evidence-based guide to what really holds you back in an ultra, focusing on the interplay between perceived exertion, the brain, and physical…
 • Niki Micallef
The Performance Impact of Excess Body Weight on Runners
How much does an extra kilo slow you down? This data-driven article explores the performance impact of weight on performance and the dangers of low…
 • Niki Micallef
Should We All Be Doing "Muscular Endurance" Training Now?
After dominant UTMB wins, everyone is talking about muscular endurance, but does the science back the hype? We analyse the research to see what it is…
 • Niki Micallef
Can Run Clubs Make You a Better Runner?
A deep dive into studies on run clubs, motivation and training quality, showing how group runs can help or hinder long-term success.
 • Niki Micallef
Born on the Trail
Born on the Trail
Born on the Trail explores trail and ultra running together - learning from science, research and experience to help you and me understand and improve our training.
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