Episode 266 - Journeys of Endurance: Exploring the Peaks and Valleys with Iestyn Lewis

Welcome to another exciting episode of FitMIND FitBODY, where we dive into the intertwined worlds of physical fitness and mental clarity. Today, we're joined by Iestyn Lewis, a remarkable individual whose life journey is as diverse as it is inspiring.

Iestyn's running story is anything but ordinary. From his early days in the UK, where running was a challenge, to discovering his prowess in middle-distance running, Iestyn's evolution as a runner is a tale of growth, change, and self-discovery. His journey takes us from the rugged landscapes of Cumbria to the vibrant city of Sheffield and across continents to New Zealand and Australia.

But running isn't his only passion. Iestyn shares his love for rock climbing, revealing how both climbing and running have played tag in his life. He brings us into his world of adventurous sports, where each day is a new discovery and each run a journey in itself.

Iestyn's life beyond the trails is equally fascinating. He's not only an avid runner and climber but also a dedicated emergency physician with specialties in hyperbaric and diving medicine, and chronic and complex wound management. His work-life balance is a testament to his commitment to both his profession and his passion for running.

The conversation takes a turn towards family, with Iestyn sharing heartwarming stories of his sisters and how one of them, despite not being athletic, took on ultra-running challenges, creating unforgettable memories.

Michelle and Iestyn delve into the essence of adventure running, discussing the mental and physical joys and challenges it presents. They explore the concept of mindful running and how it helps in problem-solving and maintaining balance in life.

Iestyn opens up about his favourite runs, including the iconic Bob Graham round and the Dragonsback Race. These are not just races; they're narratives of endurance, camaraderie, and the human spirit.

The episode wraps up with Iestyn's insights into fitting running into a busy life, striking a balance between personal goals, professional commitments, and family life. His approach to training, his motivation for running, and his ability to find joy in every step are lessons for us all.

Join us in this episode for a journey through the life of a man who runs not just for the finish line but for the sheer joy of the journey.

Running tips from Iestyn -
Here's a list of running tips shared by Iestyn Lewis in your podcast:

1. Start with Trail Running: Iestyn suggests beginners start with trail running, as it's enjoyable and less daunting than road running. He advises having proper running shoes for better movement and safety​​.
2. Efficiency in Running: He emphasizes the efficiency of running as a form of exercise. Running can be fit into a busy schedule, as it requires less time compared to activities like cycling or climbing​​.
3. Bush Jogging: Iestyn introduces the concept of 'bush jogging' - a mix of jogging and walking, especially on trails. This approach makes trail running more accessible and enjoyable for people of various fitness levels​​.
4. The 20K Threshold: He believes that being able to run 20 kilometers opens up a lot of adventurous possibilities, especially for fast packing in places like Tasmania. This highlights the importance of building endurance​​.
5. Variety in Stride and Terrain: Iestyn notes the benefits of trail running in providing a variety of stride lengths and foot movements, as opposed to the repetitive nature of road running. This can help in reducing injury risk and improving overall running ability​​.
6. Enjoying the Process: He advises enjoying the training process and the company of fellow runners. As runners age, it's important to adjust training to accommodate changes in recovery and injury risk
   
   **A couple of BIG favours:
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   2) come on the podcast and talk about your running journey and/or refer someone you’d love me to interview (whether you know them or not :) )  Lets not keep the power of running a secret any more!  Hit me up on Facebook/Instagram (FitMIND FitBODY) or send me an email - Michelle @ FitMINDFitBODY .co 

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