81. Rob Krar, Ultra Runner & Mental Health Advocate

Published: July 5, 2018, 1:54 a.m.

\u201cI said, \u2018No way am I running Western States! That\u2019s 100 miles!\u2019\u201d \u2014 Rob Krar, Western States Endurance Run winner 2014

Rob Krar is one of the kings of ultra running. He was a middle-distance runner through college, but then threw his running shoes in the trash, insisting he was done with running forever. Famous last words: Though Rob did take a break from running (during which time he worked grueling 12-hour graveyard shifts as a pharmacist), he eventually returned to the sport in a big way \u2014 as an ultramarathoner. He has won the most prestigious and competitive ultras, including Western States, Leadville, Run Rabbit Run, and a handful of North Face Endurance Challenge races, to name just a few. Rob is also a vocal advocate for mental health, and on this episode he opens up about his struggles with depression. Rob lives in Flagstaff, AZ, with his wife and fellow ultra runner, Christina.

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What you\u2019ll get on this episode:

  • How and why Rob transitioned from the track to ultra running (4:15)
  • How Rob met his wife, Christina, and the role running plays in their relationship (12:10)
  • How Rob says he found his purpose through running after a difficult time in his life, and why he became drawn to ultras (18:45)
  • What Rob\u2019s relationship with pain is like (26:45)
  • How Rob, who is self-coached, plans his training schedule and goal races (33:50)
  • Rob\u2019s advice for dealing with injuries, both physically and emotionally (41:10)
  • What Rob tells people who are interested in getting into ultra running (43:50)
  • Rob opens up about his mental health struggles and experience with depression (45:45)

What we mention on this episode:

Butler University

Western States Endurance Run

Boston Marathon

TransRockies Run

Moab Red Hot 33K

Hardrock 100

Emily Halnon on Episode 1 of the Ali on the Run Show

Dave Mackey

Leadman Series

Depressions short film

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