Taper Up

Episode 9: Running - Joy vs. Performance

In Episode 9,  we’re exploring a question that every runner—especially those of us over 50—eventually faces: Am I still running for performance... or have I started running for joy? And can we do both?”
Ultimately, running over 50 isn’t about giving up goals. It’s about redefining them. Whether you’re chasing a PR or chasing peace—you’re still running forward.
A Challenge to you: This week, try one run without metrics. Just run for joy. Let your body—not your watch—set the pace.
Make sure to comment or send us your thoughts!
As always, leave a comment or review and share us with your friends!
 
Show Notes:
Launch Date: 5/19/25
Is there a shift?
The Joy vs. Performance Spectrum
Tools to the into Joy
We want to hear your thoughts!
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Episode 8: Grab Bag - Nutrition Update, Beaverhead 100k and more...

In Episode 8, we talk about our Nutrition updates- what's working and what we learned and we discuss our upcoming 100k trail race in July, the Beaverhead 100k. If you hang on long enough we even have some trail shoe updates....hey- we're shoe guys!
As always, leave a comment or review and share us with your friends!
 
Show Notes:
Launch Date: 4/8/25
Aric & Joel Nutrition Update
Beaverhead 100k
Trail shoes
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Episode 7: Sleep - Snooze to Win.

Sleep isn't just a break from reality - it's your body's nightly pit crew. While you're dreaming of that perfect single track, your brain and muscles are getting a tune-up. For those of us over 50, sleep becomes even more critical.
Have a listen and share your thoughts. 
Show Notes:
Launch Date: 4/1/25
Why Sleep Matters
How Sleep Changes with Age
The Science of Poor Sleep
How to Optimize Sleep
Proven Sleep Interventions
Supplement Support
The Big Picture
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Episode 6: Recovery Part 2

Welcome back to Taper Up, your favorite podcast for trail runners thriving after 50! Today we're doubling down on recovery—sharing powerful, science-backed modalities like cupping, red light therapy, heat training, sports massage, and the invigorating cold plunge. Whether you're logging weekend miles or preparing for your next ultra, we’ve got the recovery secrets to keep you unstoppable. Let’s dive in!
 
Show Notes:
Launch Date: 3/24/25
Episode 5 Recap
Heat Training
Red Light Therapy (RLT)
Cold Plunge
Cupping
Sports Massage
Scraping
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Episode 5: Recovery

It's time to crack open Recovery! Recovery is often overlooked but should be a priority especially as we age. We will explore some recovery strategies that will keep you energized and loving what you do even more.
Stay tuned for more episodes on recovery and we did even deeper.
Check out our website for more articles and information and please share us with your friends!
 
Show Notes:
Launch Date: 3/18/2025
Recap Episode 4 with Julie Hansen
Recovery Planning
Protein
Mobility
Sleep
Strength Training
Hydration
Supplements
 
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Episode 4: Nutrition Principles with Julie Hansen

We’re thrilled to welcome Julie Hansen—a true expert in nutrition and exercise science to the Taper Up Podcast. Julie is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, an Exercise Physiologist, and a Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor with over 30 years of experience helping everyone from elite athletes to everyday individuals achieve their wellness goals. Currently, she serves as the Registered Dietitian on the FitBliss Fitness team, a Utah-based coaching company founded by women for women, where she contributes her expertise to their mission of delivering sustainable, evidence-based nutrition and fitness programs.
In this episode, Julie will guide us through nutritional principles tailored for endurance athletes over 50—focusing less on race-day specifics and more on building a foundation of overall health and vitality as we age. Whether you’re an endurance enthusiast or simply want to feel stronger and more balanced, Julie’s insights are practical, grounded, and inspiring. 
Check out the show notes below and make sure you hit the link to explore more about Fit BlissFitness!
Show Notes:
Launch Date: 3/11/2025
What happens as we get older
How nutrition plays into aging
Aric & Joel - Guinea Pigs
Tracking & Logging food
Food Prepping
fitblissfitness.com
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Episode 3: How to Build and Maintain Strong Running Foundation with Ty Draney

Welcome to Episode 3 of the Taper Up Podcast with guest Ty Draney!  In this episode we go over how to build and maintain a strong running foundation for trail runners 50+. 
We cover and break down of some important components like strength training, recovery, frequency, mobility and much more. 
Ty brings over 30 years of trail running experience as a athlete, coach, RD and is a true legend in our sport. 
Stay tuned for more Taper Up podcasts as we go in a breakdown each of these topics individually. You can also head over to our website for articles and more.
 
Show Notes:
Launch Date: March 5, 2025
Guest: Ty Draney
Run Training
Strength Training
Mobility
Mindfulness
Recovery
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Episode 2: Fitness Foundation

In this episode of the Taper Up Podcast, we talk Fitness Foundation. We hit the big topics with a broad stroke but don’t worry we plan on coming back to dissect each topic in later episodes and articles. 
If you have a question or a topic you want covered- hit the email in the links below and send us a message.
Please share us with all your friends…the journey is just beginning.
 
Show Notes:
Launch Date: March 4, 2025
The Foundation of Strong Running
Cardio & VO2 Max
Balance
Recovery and Sleep
Nutrition 
The Mental Game
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