Paul Watkins is back for his first Delirious West 2027 check-in, and he’s currently sitting in that very special part of a training block where the early enthusiasm has worn off and taper week still feels a very long way away. 😂With Coast to Kosci coming up first, the training is getting done, although Paul is feeling the miles and wondering what it might be like to wake up without feeling tired and sore.

We chat about how he fits training around family and life, and why he’s become much less interested in having the perfect training week. Sometimes the long run happens on Thursday. Sometimes life says, “not this week, my friend”. Apparently the world keeps turning.

There’s also some discussion about gear, Paul’s reluctance to retire running shoes that still technically resemble shoes, and his slightly unconventional approach to strength training.

And with Coast to Kosci getting close, we discover something else.

Despite everything Paul has done, he still hasn’t figured out how to taper properly.

Which should make the rest of us feel considerably better. 😂

Thinking about taking on Delirious West yourself?

If the stories in this series are giving you that little itch to be part of it, have a look at the event details and see whether 2027 might be your year.


💛 Running used to clear your head. Now it’s another thing weighing on it. Let’s change that.

If you’re tired of dragging yourself out the door, feeling guilty when you don’t, or comparing every run to what you used to do – Feel Like a Runner Again is for you.

This practical program helps you quiet the mental noise, drop the pressure, and rediscover running as time for yourself.

Less “I should go for a run.” More “I’ve missed this.”

👉 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


🎧 Don’t miss an episode

Subscribe to the ZenRUN Podcast in your favourite podcast app so new conversations land straight in your ears.