The Outdoor Muscle Show
Endurance training isn’t just about logging miles or hitting the gym—it’s a mental game as much as a physical one. When the fatigue sets in, when the weather turns brutal, or when race-day nerves start creeping in, your mindset can be the difference between pushing through and pulling back.
In today’s episode of The Outdoor Muscle Show, we’re diving into the mental side of endurance sports. My guest is a mental performance specialist who works with athletes to develop the focus, confidence, and resilience needed to perform at their best. Whether you’re training for a marathon, an ultra, or just trying to stay consistent with your workouts, mastering your mindset is a game-changer.
This episode isn’t just about motivation—it’s about real, actionable mental training techniques that you can apply to your training and racing. Get ready for five expert-backed strategies to strengthen your mental game and take your endurance to the next level.
Sierra Morris I ShatteredRunner
Today, I’m joined by Sierra, a mental performance coach and lifelong endurance athlete who knows firsthand the power of mindset in sport. As a marathon runner, she’s constantly pushing her own limits—over the past year alone, she’s raced 12 road and trail events, shaving her marathon PR from 3:20 to 3:06 using the very mental skills she teaches.
With a Master’s degree in Sport and Performance Psychology and training as a Master Resilience Trainer, Sierra has worked with athletes and soldiers in the U.S. Army, helping them build the mental toughness and focus needed for peak performance. She also holds a Corporate Wellness Specialist Certification and currently supports faculty and staff at the University of Alabama as a Wellness and Work-Life Coordinator.
In our conversation, Sierra shares five game-changing mental training techniques that endurance athletes can apply to their training and racing. From overcoming negative self-talk to building resilience in the face of setbacks, this episode is packed with actionable strategies to help you strengthen your mind and take your performance to the next level.
Show Highlights
- How Sierra got started with running
- Sierra’s background in mental performance
- Understanding the importance of goal setting
- Managing breath work
- Conserving energy
- Real time resilience
- Mental games
- The importance of optimism, data-driven evidence, and perspective
Connect with Sierra
Episode 2
Thank you for tuning in to this episode of The Outdoor Muscle Show! If you enjoyed today’s conversation with Sierra and want to hear more inspiring stories and actionable tips to fuel your endurance journey, please support the show by subscribing to our YouTube channel and leaving a positive review on your favorite podcast platform. Your support helps us reach more adventure seekers and athletes just like you!
If you’re ready to take your training to the next level, I’d love to help you reach your goals. Whether you’re gearing up for your first 5k, tackling a Spartan Race, or dreaming of crossing the finish line of a trail race, my personalized coaching programs combine strength and endurance training to get you there. Visit the Coaching page to book a free consultation and start your journey today!
Keep pushing your limits, and I’ll see you on the next episode of The Outdoor Muscle Show.
Buck is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS), Personal Trainer (NSCA-CPT), & UESCA Run Coach. He is the founder of Outdoor Muscle, a veteran-owned company dedicated to providing endurance athletes and adventure seekers the resources they need to achieve their fitness goals.
