Feeling overwhelmed by all the options for intra-run fueling? You're not alone. In this episode, we’re diving into how to build a personalized fueling strategy that supports your performance and keeps your gut happy—no matter what the weather throws at you on race day.

Many runners stick to the same products and approach for every race, but your fueling needs can change depending on temperature, duration, sweat rate, and even personal taste preferences. I’m walking you through the three essential components of an intra-run fueling plan—fluids, fuel, and electrolytes—so you can go into race day fully prepared and avoid hitting the wall.

Whether you’re training for your first half marathon or chasing a PR, this episode will give you the tools to fuel smarter and run stronger.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

✅ Why using the same fueling strategy for every race can backfire
✅ How fluid intake needs can change depending on race-day weather
✅ The difference between drinking for thirst vs. drinking to meet fueling goals
✅ Tools for estimating your sweat and electrolyte losses
✅ How to hit your hourly carb targets without overloading your gut
✅ When to separate fuel and hydration—and when combining them makes sense
✅ Tips for customizing your plan based on your taste, texture, and gut preferences
✅ Practical strategies for testing and training with your fueling plan

Need Help Creating Your Race-Day Plan?
Whether you’re not sure where to start or need help dialing in the details, I’d love to help you build a strategy that works for your body and your goals. Work with me 1:1 or join The Fuel Train Recover Club for access to coaching, customizable plans, and more.

⁠⁠⁠⁠Get your free fueling and strength training guide for runners here⁠⁠⁠⁠

This week on The Fuel Run Recover Podcast, I'm joined by Deanna Rempel, a Registered Respiratory Therapist and passionate trail runner from Manitoba, for a timely and informative conversation about air quality and how it affects runners.

Deanna brings her unique perspective from working in ICUs, emergency rooms, and on the trails. As wildfires and smoke become more common, understanding the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) and its impact on our performance and long-term health is more important than ever.

In this episode, we cover:
What the AQHI is and how to interpret it
Why the numbers don’t always match what you see or smell outside
Short-term vs. long-term health risks of running in poor air quality
Whether a few smoky runs can really do lasting damage
How to adapt your training when living in areas with regular air quality issues
Practical tips to protect your lungs and make smart running choices when air quality dips

Whether you're a road runner, trail lover, or ultra enthusiast, this episode will help you make informed decisions to protect your respiratory health without sacrificing your training.
Follow @manitoba_trail_runners to keep up with Deanna’s adventures and Manitoba’s amazing trail running community.

Looking for the resources mentioned in today's episode?

⁠⁠⁠⁠Get your free fueling and strength training guide for runners here⁠⁠⁠⁠

And, learn more about working with me inside the ⁠Fuel Train Recover Club here!⁠

In this inspiring episode of The Fuel Run Recover Podcast, I sat down with runner, community builder, and FTR Club member Maria Cefali to talk about rediscovering the joy of running after time away—and what it means to connect with the best version of yourself through movement.

Maria began running 18 years ago, driven by a simple curiosity: What would happen if I just showed up? Since then, she’s completed 11 half marathons and turned her love of running into a community experience and charitable effort, raising over $12,000 for Sleep in Heavenly Peace Winnipeg.

After a few quieter seasons, Maria made the decision to return to running with renewed purpose—and this time, with support. She shares what led her to join The Fuel Train Recover Club, how nutrition changed her relationship with training, and the surprising mindset shifts that helped her line up with confidence at the 2024 BMO Half Marathon.

We chat about:
✅ What inspired Maria to return to running after time away
✅ Why she decided to invest in coaching and nutrition support
✅ The most impactful and surprising lessons she learned
✅ How this training cycle felt different—mentally and physically
✅ Her advice for runners trying to find their rhythm again

Whether you’re a seasoned runner or trying to get back into a groove, Maria’s story is a reminder that it’s never too late to show up for yourself.

Looking for the resources mentioned in today's episode?

⁠⁠⁠⁠Get your free fueling and strength training guide for runners here⁠⁠⁠⁠

And, learn more about working with me inside the ⁠Fuel Train Recover Club here!⁠