In this sixth check-in, Gabe Alves takes us through his biggest training test yet—a 90K race simulation that included heat training, night running, and an important lesson in mid-race recovery. From hitting a massive energy crash at 30K to bouncing back with chocolate milk and lemonade, this was an invaluable test of physical and mental endurance.

Gabe also shares how he’s tackling pre-race niggles, shifting his mindset from high mileage to injury prevention, and finalising crew plans and race-day logistics with his wife, Belinda. With blister prevention strategies, foot care routines, and a fresh new race pack setup, he’s making sure nothing is left to chance.

With just weeks to go, Gabe is reframing his taper, trusting the training, and getting his mind ready for the adventure ahead!

Key Highlights: •90K ultra simulation—practicing sleep deprivation, night running & aid station stops. •Bouncing back from a total energy crash—why patience & fueling saved the day. •Managing a hamstring niggle and adjusting the final weeks of training. •Blister prevention & foot care routines—the importance of pre-race foot prep. •Finalising crew logistics & race strategy with the Delirious Race Bible. •Mindset shift—why he’s focusing on getting to the start line healthy over logging last-minute miles.

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In this sixth check-in, Andy and Del Thompson reflect on their biggest training test yet—the Tarawera Ultra 100K in New Zealand! From navigating a packed race field to experiencing stunning volcanic landscapes (and some serious humidity), this adventure was the perfect lead-up to Delirious West.

They share lessons on hydration, nutrition, and fatigue management, including a tough moment of dehydration that led to some unexpected race-day challenges. Back home, they’ve jumped straight into a “shock weekend” of long runs, balancing recovery and final big-mileage efforts before the taper kicks in.

With their crew plan coming together, an offline navigation strategy locked in, and even a menu of aid station food to look forward to, Andy and Del are gearing up for another epic 200-mile journey.

Key Highlights: •Running the Tarawera 100K—an unforgettable race experience in New Zealand. •Dealing with dehydration mid-race and key takeaways for Delirious West. •Final peak training weekend—hiking, sand running, and night training. •Crew logistics and race planning, including hydration and nutrition strategies. •Excitement vs. nerves—getting mentally ready for the big race ahead.

Connect with Us: Subscribe for more athlete updates and ultra-running insights! Have a race-day prep tip or hydration hack? Drop it in the comments—we’d love to hear it!

Check out the Delirious WEST event - https://deliriouswest200miler.com.au/ Event Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/groups/1428304207182387

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This week’s mindful moment is mindful stair climbing, a simple way to bring awareness to an everyday movement. As you walk up or down stairs, focus on each step—how your foot makes contact, the push-off, and the rhythm of your movement. Sync your breath with your steps, inhaling as you lift your leg and exhaling as you step down.

Feel the strength in your legs and the support beneath you.

This practice turns a routine activity into a moment of presence and gratitude for your body’s capabilities.

Spend just five minutes with this practice, and see how it can bring calm and clarity to your day.

For more mindfulness ideas, head over to our ebook with 24 Simple Mindfulness strategies: https://fitmindfitbody.co/books/Help us spread the mindfulness:

1️⃣ If you're enjoying our podcast, please leave a like and review. Your support helps others discover the joy of mindful running.

2️⃣ Have a story or know a runner who'd be perfect for our podcast? Reach out to us on Facebook/Instagram or email (Michelle @ FitMINDFitBODY .co ).

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