This week I talked through the essentials in my training and coaching philosophy for mountain running and ultra running. I think there is so much information out there, quick hacks, new research, supplements, etc. that it is hard to know what to focus on and what is worth it. But I truly believe that endurance training fundamentals along with unwavering consistency is where all the gains are actually made. I talk through everything and give personal insights on how I've used it myself to become stronger in the mountains. If you don’t believe me, here’s what one of my close buddies has to say about it:
“Reality is that 99% of our capacity comes from the BASIC and INDIVIDUAL boring and unexciting training.” - Kilian Jornet, January 2026, Trail Running 2026, where are we, where are we going.
Also, one resource that really helped me when I started seriously training 4 or 5 years ago was the book Training for the Uphill Athlete by Scott Johnston. For anyone looking to train themselves I highly recommend reading it through and then building from there with more recent research and strategies. For a long time I slept with it on my tote box nightstand lol.
Lastly, maybe I am delusional about my own goals, but one thing that I think a lot of people underestimate is their own potential. I think the best of the best have just been working WAY harder and WAY longer than the rest. How many YEARS are you willing to put in to achieve your goals? (Running, hiking or other goals).
Over the years I have refined my ideal kit and gear for the mountains. Below are some of my favorite pieces of running and hiking gear. By using the affiliate links below, I may earn a small commission if you decide to make a purchase (at no extra cost to you). Thank you for supporting the channel! 🙏
⛰️ESSENTIAL TRAIL RUNNING GEAR:
GPS Watch: https://amzn.to/4wT0bQq
In my experience, Garmin has the best GPS accuracy in thick, dense forest in the Northeast. I trust the mileage and vert data from Garmin over any other watch.
Summer Running Vest: https://amzn.to/4feeEzr
Salomon has been the gold standard for trail running vests. I have always worn Salomon vests and still have all my original packs. In the summer, I use a 5L because I am usually bringing less gear.
Lightweight Water Filter: https://amzn.to/4vErYTK
A water filter top for a soft flask is one of the most essential pieces of gear for trail running. I always bring the least amount of water possible and fill up at any stream.
Winter Running Vest: https://amzn.to/4aVAoP7
Solomon has been the gold standard for trail running vests. I have always worn Solomon vests and still have all my original packs. In the winter, I use a 12L because I am bringing extra gear and it all fits fine.
👟FAVORITE TRAIL RUNNING SHOES:
Hoka Speedgoat 7: https://amzn.to/3RdDZRS
The shoe I have worn for the most miles in the White Mountains. It's a higher stack height but I like that for running fast down steep descents. The Speedgoat 7 is lighter, and slightly reduced stack from the old version and I have been loving it.
La Sportiva Prodigio Pro: https://amzn.to/3T1u0Qi
My top pick for a super shoe in technical terrain. Light, fast, and has really good grip. Mid tier stack is pretty stable but also has some cushion to absorb downhill impact. These shoes want to go.
Saucony Endorphin Speed 5: https://amzn.to/4wGHWh5
One of my favorite pair of road trainers. An uptempo, fast shoe which I use on my road runs to work on turnover and speed.