KoopCast

We reveal how Koop AI turns 25 years of coaching into an adaptive, terrain-aware training system for trail and ultra runners. We share why we built it, what it does today, where it falls short, and how we’re improving it with real race data. • why serious runners wanted expert validation without elite pricing • the three pillars of coaching we modeled: prescribe, analyze, communicate • onboarding that pulls real history, constraints, and race demands • dynamic plan changes for travel, missed runs, and time budget shifts • NGP-based feedback for trail intensity instead of raw pace • race specificity: course demands, heat, altitude and future prompts • features live now: chatbot tied to Koop’s content, calendar, swaps, block moves, cross-training, volume trends • limits we own: early-stage feedback, UI/UX, depth of “why,” and NGP-driven plan adjustments still shipping • how we validate against coach standards and major races like UTMB • long-term mission to make top coaching accessible to everyone Sign up: https://www.koopai-endurance.com/app/

Dr. Scott H. Frey is an internationally renowned neuroscientist and psychologist, accomplished endurance athlete, author, and teacher. Scott helps individuals and groups identify and realize their aspirations. He can be reached at: Scott@CerebralPerformance.com Want to become a better coach? Check out UESCA’s Ultramarathon Coach Certification. - https://uesca.com/courses/uesca-ultrarunning-coach-certification/ Sign up for CTS Coaching- https://trainright.com/coaching/ultrarunning/ Subscribe to Research Essentials for Ultrarunning- https://www.jasonkoop.com/research-essentials-for-ultrarunning Information on coaching- https://www.trainright.com Koop’s Social Media Twitter/Instagram- @jasonkoop Buy Training Essentials for Ultrarunning: Amazon- https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09MYVR8P6 Audible- https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09MYVR8P6 #ultrarunning #trailrunning #running #sports #sportsperformance #sportsscience

Baptiste Morel-Prieur is a author on a recent paper titled Submaximal force-velocity relationships during mountain ultramarathon: Data from the field Research from the 2023 UTMB offers ground-breaking insights into trail running performance by analyzing how runners handle different gradients throughout a race. Batiste Moral shares his data-driven approach that identifies specific areas where athletes can improve from year to year. • Analyzing Strava data from 600 UTMB participants reveals distinct "force" (uphill ability) and "velocity" (flat ground speed) components of performance • These components have no correlation with each other, meaning they represent different physiological abilities requiring targeted training • Case study of Jim Walmsley shows 76% of his time difference behind Kilian Jornet in 2022 occurred on gradients steeper than 20% • After focused training in the Alps, Walmsley specifically improved his steep climbing ability before winning UTMB 2023 • Durability analysis suggests flat terrain speed deteriorates more than uphill capability during ultras, indicating flat-ground training after fatigue might be more valuable • Western States vs. UTMB comparison shows dramatically different terrain profiles despite both being 100-mile races<br>• Simple heart rate-based test can help identify your personal gradient-specific weaknesses Papers discussed- Decoding Ultramarathon: Muscle Damage as the Main Impediment to Performance Sign up for CTS Coaching- https://trainright.com/coaching/ultrarunning/ Subscribe to Research Essentials for Ultrarunning- https://www.jasonkoop.com/research-essentials-for-ultrarunning Information on coaching- https://www.trainright.com Koop’s Social Media Twitter/Instagram- @jasonkoop Buy Training Essentials for Ultrarunning: Amazon- https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09MYVR8P6 Audible- https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09MYVR8P6 #ultrarunning #trailrunning #running #sports #sportsperformance

Sophie Herzog is the Owner and Co-founder and primary performance analyst at the MRYA center for athlete development. MYRA institute: https://www.myracad.com/ Koopcast on HRV https://www.myracad.com/articles/the-athletes-career-insurance-implementation-of-monit oring-tools-to-prevent-underperformance-in-sports Sign up for CTS Coaching- https://trainright.com/coaching/ultrarunning/ Subscribe to Research Essentials for Ultrarunning- https://www.jasonkoop.com/research-essentials-for-ultrarunning Information on coaching- https://www.trainright.com Koop’s Social Media Twitter/Instagram- @jasonkoop Buy Training Essentials for Ultrarunning: Amazon- https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09MYVR8P6 Audible- https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09MYVR8P6 #ultrarunning #trailrunning #running #sports #sportsperformance

Isabel Martinez is a Research Sports Dietitian In the Department of Nutrition, Dietetics and Food at Monash University. She is the author of several studies on gut training as well as consults with athletes in this area. The Effect of Gut-Training and Feeding-Challenge on Markers of Gastrointestinal Status in Response to Endurance Exercise: A Systematic Literature Review https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37061651/ Development of a low-fructose carbohydrate gel for exercise application https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2405844024095288 Additional resources: https://www.cerebralperformance.com/ Sign up for CTS Coaching- https://trainright.com/coaching/ultrarunning/ Subscribe to Research Essentials for Ultrarunning- https://www.jasonkoop.com/research-essentials-for-ultrarunning Information on coaching- https://www.trainright.com Koop’s Social Media Twitter/Instagram- @jasonkoop Buy Training Essentials for Ultrarunning: Amazon- https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09MYVR8P6 Audible- https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09MYVR8P6 #ultrarunning #trailrunning #running #sports #sportsperformance

Dr. Scott H. Frey is an internationally renowned neuroscientist and psychologist, accomplished endurance athlete, author, and teacher. Scott helps individuals and groups identify and realize their aspirations. He can be reached at: Scott@CerebralPerformance.com Additional resources: https://www.cerebralperformance.com/ Sign up for CTS Coaching- https://trainright.com/coaching/ultrarunning/ Subscribe to Research Essentials for Ultrarunning- https://www.jasonkoop.com/research-essentials-for-ultrarunning Information on coaching- https://www.trainright.com Koop’s Social Media Twitter/Instagram- @jasonkoop Buy Training Essentials for Ultrarunning: Amazon- https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09MYVR8P6 Audible- https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09MYVR8P6 #ultrarunning #trailrunning #running #sports #sportsperformance

Michele Zanini is a PhD candidate at Loughborough University as well as the head of Strength and Conditioning for the Italian Triathlon Federation. During this podcast we ddiscuss the concept of durability as it relates to ultramarathon performance. Papers discussed- Durability of Running Economy: Differences between Quantification Methods and Performance Status in Male Runners Sign up for CTS Coaching- https://trainright.com/coaching/ultrarunning/ Subscribe to Research Essentials for Ultrarunning- https://www.jasonkoop.com/research-essentials-for-ultrarunning Information on coaching- https://www.trainright.com Koop’s Social Media Twitter/Instagram- @jasonkoop Buy Training Essentials for Ultrarunning: Amazon- https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09MYVR8P6 Audible- https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09MYVR8P6 #ultrarunning #trailrunning #running #sports #sportsperformance

Michael Rosenblat comes back on the podcast to discuss his new paper exploring what types of interval workouts are most effective for Ultrarunners. Which Training Intensity Distribution Intervention will Produce the Greatest Improvements in Maximal Oxygen Update and Time-Trial Performance in Endurance Athletes? A Systematic Review and Network Meta-analysis of Individual Participant Data. Michael’s website- https://www.evidencebasedcoaching.ca/ Koop’s article on interval training- https://trainright.com/decoding-ultramarathon-interval-workouts/ Sign up for CTS Coaching- https://trainright.com/coaching/ultrarunning/ Subscribe to Research Essentials for Ultrarunning- https://www.jasonkoop.com/research-essentials-for-ultrarunning Information on coaching- https://www.trainright.com Koop’s Social Media Twitter/Instagram- @jasonkoop Buy Training Essentials for Ultrarunning: Amazon- https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09MYVR8P6 Audible- https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09MYVR8P6 #ultrarunning #trailrunning #running #sports #sportsperformance

Aitor Virbay is a Researcher in Exercise Physiologist and Metabolism and the Head of the nutrition and physiology department for the WT INEOS Grenadiers cycling team. He is also a scientific advisor to elite athletes and various companies as well as the Founder and Director of Glut4Science , a platform for scientific outreach. Glut4Science: https://glut4science.com Aitor’s X Account: https://x.com/mvaitor SUBSCRIBE to Research Essentials for Ultrarunning Additional resources: Buy Training Essentials for Ultrarunning on Amazon or Audible . Information on coaching- www.trainright.com Koop’s Social Media Twitter/Instagram- @jasonkoop

Curious about the secrets behind elite athlete contract negotiations? Get ready to master the art of securing powerful deals as we sit down with Kelly Newland, an expert who has transitioned from catering to top athletes to advising them on contract strategies. Inspired by her popular Instagram series, Kelly shares invaluable tips and tactics for athletes preparing to reCoach Jason Koop sits down with Kelly Newlon to discuss the state of elite ultramarathon contracts and best practices for athletes when negotiating. Kelly's IG and pro tips https://www.instagram.com/radboulder/ Ultrarunning Magazine-What do Professional Trail and Ultrarunners Earn? https://ultrarunning.com/featured/what-do-professional-trail-and-ultrarunners-earn/ SUBSCRIBE to Research Essentials for Ultrarunning Additional resources: Buy Training Essentials for Ultrarunning on Amazon or Audible . Information on coaching- www.trainright.com Koop’s Social Media Twitter/Instagram- @jasonkoop

What drives an ultra marathoner to push through the final miles, or decide to DNF (Did Not Finish)? This episode tackles this profound question head-on, drawing from recent high-profile races like UTMB, Run Rabbit Run, and Leadville Trail 100. We explore the mental frameworks and pre-race preparations that can make or break an athlete's performance. By sharing personal stories and expert insights, we aim to provide guidance that helps athletes make confident decisions during and after a race, all while acknowledging the vital role coaches play in offering emotional support. Coaches face a delicate balance of celebrating successes and owning failures, especially in the high-stakes world of elite races like Western States and UTMB. Through candid discussions and reflections on personal experiences, we highlight the importance of empathy, self-reflection, and continuous improvement in coaching. We delve into public perceptions of coaching effectiveness, the individualized support athletes need post-race, and the role of feedback in fostering a growth mindset. Decision-making in ultra marathons is fraught with complexities, often involving more than just physical readiness. Using data from events like the Western States 100, we explore common issues such as nausea and mental fatigue, and how these can be mitigated through training and mental resilience. With insight from coaches AJW and Neal, we discuss lessons learned from DNFs, the integration of sports psychology into training, and the emotional journey of ultra runners. This episode offers a comprehensive look at the intricate dance of mind and body in the quest to cross the finish line. SUBSCRIBE to Research Essentials for Ultrarunning Additional resources: Buy Training Essentials for Ultrarunning on Amazon or Audible . Information on coaching- www.trainright.com Koop’s Social Media Twitter/Instagram- @jasonkoop

Coach Jason Koop discusses the merits of double threshold workouts with Rune Talsnes. Comparison of acute physiological responses between one long and two short sessions of moderate-intensity training in endurance athletes. SUBSCRIBE to Research Essentials for Ultrarunning Additional resources: Buy Training Essentials for Ultrarunning on Amazon or Audible . Information on coaching- www.trainright.com Koop’s Social Media Twitter/Instagram- @jasonkoop

Coach Jason Koop sits down with Stephanie Howe PhD, Nicole Rasmussen and Sarah Scozzaro to discuss the development and launch of our High Performance Coaching service for elite ultra runners. Info on the High Performance Coaching Program Subscribe to Research Essentials for Ultrarunning Additional resources: SUBSCRIBE to Research Essentials for Ultrarunning Buy Training Essentials for Ultrarunning on Amazon or Audible . Information on coaching- www.trainright.com Koop’s Social Media Twitter/Instagram- @jasonkoop

Ever wondered how elite trail and ultra runners manage to stay competitive throughout a jam-packed racing calendar? Join us as CTS coaches Neal Pallas and Adam Ferdinandson unlock the secrets to mastering the race recovery cycle. From developing tailored recovery plans to navigating the intricacies of transitioning between different race categories, this episode is loaded with actionable strategies to keep you performing at your peak while steering clear of injury and burnout. What happens when you need to balance high-intensity training with essential recovery? Addison lays out a comprehensive framework for categorizing race sequences, helping athletes pinpoint the critical phases of their training regimen. Whether transitioning from B races to A races or tackling back-to-back A races like Western States and UTMB, you'll gain clarity on how to optimize your training peaks and recovery intervals. And let's not forget the psychological aspects—physical healing isn't complete without addressing your mental well-being. Discover how maintaining supportive relationships and engaging in enjoyable activities can help you stay mentally sharp and avoid burnout. Finally, we dive into the practicalities of tapering and reintroducing intense workouts post-recovery. Neil and Adam share their expertise on individualized tapering strategies, emphasizing the importance of choosing races that align with your personal interests and values. Plus, get insider tips on monitoring your progress and knowing when to push the intensity. From determining appropriate recovery times to the benefits of community engagement at races, this episode offers a holistic approach to sustaining peak performance throughout the racing season. Don’t miss our invitation to join us at the Javelina 100 and explore how being part of the CTS family can elevate your running game. Additional resources: SUBSCRIBE to Research Essentials for Ultrarunning Buy Training Essentials for Ultrarunning on Amazon or Audible . Information on coaching- www.trainright.com Koop’s Social Media Twitter/Instagram- @jasonkoop

Coaches Stephanie Howe, PhD and Ryne Anderson discuss what athletes should and should not be doing in the several days leading up to UTMB. Timeshifter app Additional resources: SUBSCRIBE to Research Essentials for Ultrarunning Buy Training Essentials for Ultrarunning on Amazon or Audible . Information on coaching- www.trainright.com Koop’s Social Media Twitter/Instagram- @jasonkoop

Luca Filipas is a coach, researcher and exercise physiologist based out of Milan Italy. He is the coach of TotalEnergies Pro Cycling Team, Owner and Coach of Endurance Academy and Researcher at the University of Milan. Paper discussed-Beyond the classical periodization: the new frontier of micro-periodization for endurance disciplines Previous podcast with Luca The use case for HRV in ultrarunning with Marco Altini Additional resources: SUBSCRIBE to Research Essentials for Ultrarunning Buy Training Essentials for Ultrarunning on Amazon or Audible . Information on coaching- www.trainright.com Koop’s Social Media Twitter/Instagram- @jasonkoop

Uncover the secrets to excelling in extreme heat with Julian Perriard, a leading expert in environmental physiology. As the Western States Endurance Run approaches, Julian provides cutting-edge strategies for heat mitigation, including ice baths, slurries, and menthol gels. With rising global temperatures impacting athletic performance, we delve into crucial safety measures for endurance athletes. Learn how to maximize your performance while staying safe, regardless of the weather conditions. Julian also shares his expertise on heat acclimation strategies tailored for athletes. From exercising in environmental chambers to passive methods like hot baths, we explore how to incorporate heat acclimation into your training without compromising performance. Discover the physiological benefits of thJulien Périard is a Research Professor and Deputy Director of the University of Canberra Research Institute for Sport and Exercise (UCRISE), where he also leads the Environmental Physiology Research Laboratory. His integrative research examines the physiological mechanisms that mediate health and performance during exercise in adverse environments (heat and altitude) and the adaptations that stem from chronic exposure. He has worked with both amateur and professional athletes from various disciplines, along with National (Australian Institute of Sport) and International Federations (FIFA, World Athletics and World Triathlon). His work also examines how regular exercise can build resilience against rising global temperatures. He has authored over 125 research papers and book chapters, including a textbook on Heat Stress in Sport and Exercise and an invited review in Physiol Rev (which we will be discussing today!). EXERCISE UNDER HEAT STRESS:THERMOREGULATION, HYDRATION,PERFORMANCE IMPLICATIONS, AND MITIGATION STRATEGIES Heat Acclimatization Strategies Podcast- Koopcast 97 Additional resources: SUBSCRIBE to Research Essentials for Ultrarunning Buy Training Essentials for Ultrarunning on Amazon or Audible . Information on coaching- www.trainright.com Koop’s Social Media Twitter/Instagram- @jasonkoop

Coach AJW discuss all things Western States 100 including how to manage before and during race. This podcast is a must have for any athlete and crew preparing for the Western States 100. Crack a Brew with AJW Heat Acclimation Strategies with Julién Periard Additional resources: SUBSCRIBE to Research Essentials for Ultrarunning Buy Training Essentials for Ultrarunning on Amazon or Audible . Information on coaching- www.trainright.com Koop’s Social Media Twitter/Instagram- @jasonkoop

Doug Brown is the founder and CEO of Untapped. In this discussion we review how nutrition labels are created and what the quality control process looks like for a nutrition product that is derived from natural components. Additional resources: SUBSCRIBE to Research Essentials for Ultrarunning Buy Training Essentials for Ultrarunning on Amazon or Audible . Information on coaching- www.trainright.com Koop’s Social Media Twitter/Instagram- @jasonkoop

Our Research for Essentials for Ultrarunning team discuss the recent Spring Energy debacle. Access the Spring reports Stephanie Howe- https://trainright.com/coaches/stephanie-howe/ Nick Tiller- https://skepticalinquirer.org Jim Rutberg- https://trainright.com/coaches/jim-rutberg/ Join Coach Jason Koop, Stephanie Howe, Nick Tiller, and Jim Rutberg on this episode of the KoopCast as they discuss lab results that reveal significant nutritional discrepancies in Spring Energy products, the implications for consumers and retailers, and the company's widely criticized response. Covering detailed product assessments and broader ethical discussions in sports nutrition, this episode offers valuable insights into product development, crisis communication, and the importance of transparency and accurate nutrition labeling. Introduction to the Controversy The Nutrition Lab Analysis Initial Findings and Reactions Spring Energy's Statement Reactions from the Running Community Broader Implications and Discussion The Path Forward Additional resources: SUBSCRIBE to Research Essentials for Ultrarunning Buy Training Essentials for Ultrarunning on Amazon or Audible . Information on coaching- www.trainright.com Koop’s Social Media Twitter/Instagram- @jasonkoop