Ali on the Run Show Episode 81: Rob Krar, Ultra Runner & Mental Health Advocate

“I said, ‘No way am I running Western States! That’s 100 miles!’” — Rob Krar, Western States Endurance Run winner 2014

Rob Krar is one of the kings of ultra running. He was a middle-distance runner through college, but then threw his running shoes in the trash, insisting he was done with running forever. Famous last words: Though Rob did take a break from running (during which time he worked grueling 12-hour graveyard shifts as a pharmacist), he eventually returned to the sport in a big way — as an ultramarathoner. He has won the most prestigious and competitive ultras, including Western States, Leadville, Run Rabbit Run, and a handful of North Face Endurance Challenge races, to name just a few. Rob is also a vocal advocate for mental health, and on this episode he opens up about his struggles with depression. Rob lives in Flagstaff, AZ, with his wife and fellow ultra runner, Christina.

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What you’ll get on this episode:

• How and why Rob transitioned from the track to ultra running (4:15)
• How Rob met his wife, Christina, and the role running plays in their relationship (12:10)
• How Rob says he found his purpose through running after a difficult time in his life, and why he became drawn to ultras (18:45)
• What Rob’s relationship with pain is like (26:45)
• How Rob, who is self-coached, plans his training schedule and goal races (33:50)
• Rob’s advice for dealing with injuries, both physically and emotionally (41:10)
• What Rob tells people who are interested in getting into ultra running (43:50)
• Rob opens up about his mental health struggles and experience with depression (45:45)

What we mention on this episode:

Butler University

Western States Endurance Run

Boston Marathon

TransRockies Run

Moab Red Hot 33K

Hardrock 100

Emily Halnon on Episode 1 of the Ali on the Run Show

Dave Mackey

Leadman Series

Depressions short film

Follow Rob:

• Instagram @robkrar
• Facebook
• Twitter @robkrar
• Website

Follow Ali:

• Instagram @aliontherun1
• Facebook
• Twitter @aliontherun1
• Blog
• Strava

Listen & Subscribe:

• Apple Podcasts
• Spotify
• SoundCloud
• Overcast
• Stitcher
• Google Play

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