In this episode of the ZenRUN Podcast, I catch up with Delirious WEST athlete Kylie Bell as the countdown to the start line gets very real.
Kylie has just returned from an incredible two-week holiday in Japan — complete with runs around Lake Fuji, cooking classes, and some very adventurous food choices (including puffer fish… which she only realised after eating it!).
With around a month to go until the race, Kylie is shifting from holiday mode back into race mode. The training might not have been perfect over the last couple of weeks, but like many of us preparing for big adventures, she’s focusing on consistency, preparation, and trusting the experience she already has.
We also chat about gear choices, sleep strategies, the mental challenge of running past the finish before actually finishing, and why sometimes the best race strategy is simply sticking with what already works.
Kylie has completed the Delirious event before and brings a calm, practical mindset to the start line — including a plan to run the 100-mile event without sleeping, something she’s successfully done before in other ultras.
As always, these conversations give a real behind-the-scenes look at what it’s like preparing for one of Australia’s toughest trail ultras.
And with the race now just weeks away… the adventure is about to begin.
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Why You’ll Love This Episode
• Kylie’s Japan holiday stories (including the accidental puffer fish dinner!)
• Running around Lake Fuji with Mount Fuji as the backdrop
• How “tourist training” (20,000 steps a day) might still count
• Why experience makes race preparation simpler over time
• Gear choices and sticking with what works
• Thoughts on sleep strategies for the 100-mile race
• The mental challenge of running past the finish before actually finishing
• Why sometimes the best preparation is simply consistency
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Tips from the Kylie
1. Stick with what works
If your shoes, socks, and gear worked in the last race… don’t overthink it.
2. Experience reduces the stress
The more ultras you do, the more you learn what really matters — and what doesn’t.
3. Consistency beats perfection
Even if training gets disrupted (hello holidays!), getting back into a simple rhythm can make all the difference.
4. Preparation can calm your crew too
Kylie uses spreadsheets for aid stations so her husband knows exactly where to be.
5. Stay flexible
Plans change during ultras — being adaptable is one of the most important skills.
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Next Big Adventure
Kylie is lining up for the Delirious W.E.S.T 100-mile race in Western Australia — one of Australia’s most challenging trail ultras.
With about a month to go, the focus now is simple: consistent training, gear checks, and getting ready for an unforgettable adventure.
Delirious WEST event Website – https://deliriouswest200miler.com.au/
Event Facebook Page – https://www.facebook.com/groups/1428304207182387
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💛 Want your running to feel lighter again?
If this conversation resonated, you might enjoy The Running Reset – a simple bundle of guided runs and practical tools to help you reset your rhythm, clear your head, and reconnect with why you run.
👉 https://www.zenrun.app/courses/the-running-reset
If you’re looking for a little more support with your running, I also offer personalised ZenRUN coaching – simple weekly structure, guidance, and encouragement to help you stay consistent and enjoy your running again.
👉 https://www.zenrun.app/courses/zenrun-personalised-run-coaching/buy
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🙏 A couple of big favours
1️⃣ If you enjoyed this episode, please follow, rate, and review the podcast – it helps more runners discover these conversations.
2️⃣ I’m always looking for runners to interview. If you (or someone you know) has a running story to share, I’d love to hear from you.
Find me on Facebook or Instagram @ZenRUN.club
or email hello@zenrun.club
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