In this episode of the ZenRUN Podcast, I chat with trail and ultra runner Nida Collins.
Nida grew up in Bangkok, where heading out the door for a run definitely wasn’t part of everyday life.
In fact, her own running journey didn’t really begin until years later in Australia, thanks in part to a Kelpie Labrador called Arnold.
Since then, running has taken Nida a very long way from those early jogs.
She’s discovered a love of trails and ultras, taken on some seriously challenging terrain, run in some beautiful places around the world and, more recently, completed 24 yards and 162km at Melbourne Front Yard Ultra.
But what I really enjoyed about this conversation is Nida’s approach to running.
We talk about fear and what happens when you keep going back to something that scares you. We chat about the strange mental game of backyard ultras, dealing with the moments when a race isn’t going the way you hoped, and why sometimes the best strategy for getting yourself out for a run is simply not to think about it too much!
We also talk about running as a way to explore when you travel, why Nida always packs her running gear, and some rather impressive Thai trail race aid stations. Let’s just say Australian aid stations may have some catching up to do. 😂
There are plenty of simple, practical little lessons in this conversation too, particularly if you’re someone who thinks you’re “not a runner” or that running longer distances is something other people do.
And Nida shares one lesson running has taught her about life that has stuck with her well beyond the trails:
Nothing lasts. The good or the bad.
Plus, of course, there’s our Pass the Baton question for the next guest.
You’ll have to listen to find out what Nida asks them. 😉
💛 Want to feel like a runner again?
If this conversation resonated, Feel Like a Runner Again is a simple, practical program designed to help you rediscover the joy of running. You’ll learn how to quiet the mental noise, let go of the pressure, and make running feel like your escape again, not another thing on your to-do list.
👉 https://www.zenrun.app/courses/feel-like-a-runner-again
🙏 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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