How Elite Western States Ultrarunners Train Without Gimmicks

When people look at elite Western States athletes, they often assume they're doing something fundamentally different. The reality is much simpler. In this episode, CTS Coaching Director Cliff Pittman breaks down the universal training principles that guide every successful Western States build and explains why elite athletes aren't following different rules, they're simply applying the same rules at a different scale. We discuss specificity, progressive overload, periodization, individuality, durability, heat adaptation, fueling, terrain preparation, and night running. Whether you're racing for the podium or chasing a silver buckle, the framework is the same. **HOST** Cliff Pittman is the Coaching Development Director at CTS, leading the Ultrarunning and Cycling Coaching staff with a specialty in guiding athletes from first-time ultrarunners to elite competitors at races like Western States 100, Leadville 100, and the Triple Crown of 200s. A competitive trail and ultra athlete himself, Cliff brings firsthand experience and a rare ability to turn complex training science into simple, actionable coaching. **​​Free Ultrarunning Training Assessment:** https://trainright.com/ultrarunning-training-assessment-welcome/ **Interested in working with a coach? Schedule a free consult:** https://trainright.com/coaching/ultrarunning/ **Self-coached athlete? Check out our TrainRight Membership:** https://trainright.com/membership/ **Find more free resources here:** https://trainright.com/blog/