249. Ultramarathoner Krissy Moehl on the Value of Adventures, Training Logs, and Reflection

Training Logs

Krissy Moehl emphasizes the significance of training logs in fostering personal reflection and tracking progress for runners. She believes that these logs are not just about recording miles or times but about capturing the essence of each run, including how it felt and the conditions affecting it 1. Jason Fitzgerald supports this view, highlighting that reflection is crucial for learning and growth, allowing runners to connect past experiences with future training plans 2.

It's like the purposeful slowing down of your running, not in terms of pace, but in terms of that reflection that happens afterward.

--- Jason Fitzgerald

Training logs serve as a tool for both athletes and coaches to understand the interplay of various factors like sleep, diet, and stress on performance, ultimately aiding in more informed training decisions.

   

Analog vs Digital

The debate between analog and digital methods of tracking training is explored, with Krissy advocating for the reflective benefits of analog logs. She notes that while digital platforms like Strava offer convenience, they often lack the depth of reflection that comes from manually writing down experiences 3. Jason agrees, suggesting that the act of writing can enhance the learning process by making connections between different aspects of training 2.

There's a lot missed anymore because everything's so easy and we need to make it easy on our phones, right?

--- Krissy Moehl

Despite the fast-paced digital world, taking time to reflect on training in a more deliberate manner can lead to greater insights and personal growth.

   

Reflection Benefits

Reflective practices in running offer significant mental growth and confidence-building benefits. Krissy highlights how focusing on positive aspects of training can create a more encouraging narrative, akin to a gratitude journal, which can enhance motivation and performance 4. Jason adds that understanding the subjective side of training, such as how a run felt, is often more impactful than just the objective metrics 5.

I think the older I get, the more I value the subjective side of things.

--- Jason Fitzgerald

This reflective approach not only helps in building confidence but also ensures that athletes are better prepared mentally and emotionally for their races.