In this captivating episode of the Business of Endurance podcast, listeners are treated to an in-depth conversation with Ben Rosario, the executive director of the Hoka Northern Arizona Elite running team. Ben’s journey from an elite athlete to a transformative coach is both inspiring and insightful, offering valuable lessons for anyone involved in the world of endurance sports. The episode delves into various aspects of coaching, from setting process-oriented goals to the impact of advanced shoe technology on competitive running.
The episode begins with Ben recounting his journey from being an elite athlete to becoming a transformative coach. One of the most touching moments in his career was receiving a phone call from a former middle school athlete who thanked him for sparking his passion for running. This call underscored the profound impact that coaches can have beyond just producing Olympic champions. Ben also highlights the influence of his high school coach, Jim Linares, who played a significant role in shaping his coaching philosophy. The discussion then transitions to the comprehensive nature of the US high school and college running systems, emphasizing their role in providing valuable life experiences for young athletes.
A key focus of the episode is on strategic coaching and goal setting. Ben shares insights from coaching experiences with both amateur and professional athletes, highlighting the importance of training at current fitness levels. This approach, as demonstrated by Matt Fitzgerald’s journey with Northern Arizona Elite, allows for sustainable improvement and prevents overtraining. Ben emphasizes the significance of setting flexible, process-oriented goals rather than rigid outcome goals. This philosophy has proven effective in various scenarios, from high school teams to marathon training for media members, reinforcing the importance of adaptable and consistent training.
The episode also explores the cultural and business dynamics within a successful running team. Ben discusses the critical role of athlete sponsorships in sports marketing and how a supportive environment is cultivated within a diverse team. The evolution of nutrition and shoe technology is another significant topic, with Ben reflecting on the challenges and advancements in these areas. The discussion highlights the impact of advanced shoe technology on performance and the importance of fair regulations to maintain an even playing field.
Ben’s insights into belief, structure, and mutual trust between coaches and athletes offer valuable lessons for anyone looking to elevate their endurance game. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining a balanced diet, including enjoying occasional treats, and the role of mental resilience in competitive sports. The episode also touches on the necessity for coaches to motivate and instill confidence in athletes while deferring true mental health issues to professional specialists.
The conversation takes a deeper dive into the significant impact of shoe technology on competitive marathon running. Ben recounts how Nike’s Alpha Fly shoes created disparities during the 2020 Olympic Trials Marathon, affecting race outcomes and highlighting the need for fair regulations. The discussion also addresses the role of other technologies, such as wearable devices and lactate threshold testing, in training and performance. However, Ben emphasizes that the critical factors remain the intuition of coaches and athletes and the strategic use of available technology.
The episode concludes with reflections on the rejuvenating effects of being around young athletes and the challenges of maintaining personal health while coaching. Ben shares his thoughts on Team USA’s track and field success and the business model behind running teams, particularly the influence of shoe sponsorships on athletic performance. The episode also highlights the impactful work of Big Moose Charity in providing mental health support and preventing suicide, encouraging listeners to support their mission through corporate partnerships.
Overall, this episode is packed with practical advice, inspiring stories, and expert insights into the world of endurance running. Whether you’re an aspiring runner, a seasoned athlete, or a coach, Ben Rosario’s experiences and wisdom offer invaluable guidance to help you reach new heights in your endurance journey.