In this solo episode, I dive into one of the most important but overlooked aspects of ultramarathon training: the difference between meaningful challenge and pointless suffering.

Inspired by the Excellence, Actually podcast episode “The Art of Doing Hard Things”, this show explores how we can train smarter—not just harder—by avoiding “Zombie Burnout,” reframing our approach to stress, and aligning our effort with purpose.

I also break down what this looks like inside a 12–16 week ultramarathon training block, and the biggest mistakes I see runners make when chasing big goals.

• Why “hard” doesn’t always mean “helpful” in endurance training
• How to recognise and avoid Zombie Burnout
• A breakdown of a realistic and purposeful ultra training cycle
• Common traps runners fall into (comparison, overtraining, under-recovering)
• How to build a long-term mindset that supports both performance and joy

1. Training with Purpose, Not Just Pain
2. Ask better questions. Train with intent. Stop following hype.
3. Avoiding Zombie Burnout
4. How to recognise when you’ve lost the emotional connection to your training—and how to reset.
5. Applying the Excellence Framework in Your Training Plan
6. A step-by-step look at what a meaningful 12–16 week ultra plan should actually look like.
7. Common Pitfalls to Watch For
8. Mistakes I’ve made—and you can avoid—to stay healthy, consistent, and motivated.
9. Coaching & Community
10. Details on my 1:1 run coaching and how to get in touch.

Instagram: @davidultrarunner

1:1 Coaching Enquiries:

👉 David Taylor – Glasgow Running Coach | Team RunRun

If you’re working toward a big ultra or need help avoiding burnout while still pushing your limits, I’d love to work with you.

If this episode hit home for you:

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Next week, I’ll be back to the usual interview format with a previous guest and friend of the show that's just smashed a long standing FKT so stay tuned and keep those legs—and your mindset—moving forward.

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