In this episode of The Albon Way, Henriette and Jon share how to follow a trail running training plan without losing the joy and freedom that make the sport so addictive. From recovery and basebuilding weeks to group runs and spontaneous sunrise sessions, they unpack how a flexible approach keeps motivation high, prevents burnout, and makes training more sustainable. The duo also dive into the science of awe, those powerful moments that remind you why you run, and how reconnecting with them can transform your mindset and performance. Plus, they introduce a new segment, Moment of Joy, celebrating the small wins that keep every trail season fresh and fun.
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What exactly is the Norwegian method? In this episode of The Albon Way, Henriette and Jon unpack the training philosophy behind Norway’s rise in endurance sports. From traditional periodisation and high-volume aerobic work to intensity control, double-threshold days, and environmental adaptations like heat and altitude training...they explore what makes this approach so effective, and how its principles can be adapted for long-distance trail and ultra running.
Olympiatoppen's intensity scale: https://olt-skala.nif.no/en
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In this episode, Henriette catches up with Jon for a full debrief of his recent Ultra Pirineu adventure. From chaotic drop bags to picture-perfect pacing, they break down the race’s highs, lows, and lessons learned along the way. Jon shares how he managed heart rate, fueling, and hydration across long hours on the trails and what he’d tweak next time. Expect honest reflections, a few laughs, and plenty of insight into what it really takes to go the distance in the mountains.
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The sun is out, the season’s winding down, and Jon isheading into Ultra Pirineu 100k with more questions than answers. Can built-up fitness from UTMB carry him through Meanwhile, Henriette debates what an “off-season” really means and whether to share her training again on Strava. Expect honesty, a few laughs, and plenty of trail-running truths about motivation, recovery, and racing at the tail end of the year.
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In this episode, we dive into the myths that shape how we think about trail running. Do carbon shoes really make you faster? Do you always need to train on trails to be ready for races? Can you race yourself into shape, or is that a recipe for burnout? Is walking a sign of weakness, or actually one of the smartest tools in an ultrarunner’s kit? We also unpack whether intervals are truly necessary, whether trail races are still wilderness experiences or have become big festivals, and finally - whether ultras are ultimately about suffering.
We share our own experiences from years of training and racing, and talk about where the truth usually lies in the grey area between. Expect honest reflections, practical insights, and a few friendly disagreements along the way.
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Jon breaks down his stormy UTMB: from an solid start and early lead to brutal rain/snow, frozen hands, fueling woes, and sharp knee pain that forced a DNF at Champex-Lac. We talk kit mistakes (layers, gloves, insoles), getting sucked into racing, the emotional call to stop, and what he’d change next time. Plus a quick recovery update and thoughts on what’s next.
Henriette and Jon Albon catch up on their final weeks of training ahead of UTMB before diving into the bigger question: what does it actually mean to be “race ready” as a trail runner Beyond VO₂ max or interval splits, they break down the key dimensions of trail race fitness. They also share practical tools, including the AlbonApp’s Fitness Profile, to help runners gauge readiness and train smarter. Whether your goal is simply to survive or to truly excel, this episode offers honest insights into preparing for the unique demands of trail racing.
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On this episode of The Albon Way, Jon and Henriette answer trail running questions from the community. They talk about balancing road and trail training, managing vert in training plans, preventing foot issues, and handling heart rate drift in hot weather. Packed with insights and real-world tips for trail and ultra runners.
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After a month-long pause, Henriette and Jon are back to share where they’ve been, how training has gone lately, and what’s ahead as they shift into UTMB prep mode with seven weeks to go. They talk through their “low mileage, high intentionality” training philosophy, why you don’t need ultra-long runs to race really far, and how they’re using smart planning to build fitness while staying healthy.
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Henriette recaps her race at Trail du Saint Jacques by UTMB – breaking down heat prep, fueling, and pacing – then dives into the weird world of tapering. From hormonal curveballs to taper panic, she and Jon explore why rest before a race can feel so wrong, and how to manage it.
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In this episode of The Albon Way, Henriette and Jon dive into the sweaty side of race prep, namely heat training. From DIY heat caves and sauna sessions to layering up for treadmill hikes, they break down the difference between active and passive heat exposure, when and how to use each, and why it’s not just for hot races. They share real-world insights from their own training (and missteps), plus essential tips on hydration, nutrition, recovery, and monitoring your body's response. Whether you're prepping for heat, altitude, or just want a fitness boost from sweating your arse off, this one's for you.
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// TRAIL ANALYTICS & PLANNING
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In this episode of The Albon Way, Henriette and Jon kick things off with an update on Jon’s recovery after the Ultra-Trail Snowdonia (UTS), unpacking the physical and mental reset that follows a big race. They also get into their current approach to supplements before the conversation shifts to the core topic: gut training for trail running. They share practical strategies for building a fueling routine that supports race day performance, including how to gradually increase carb intake, experiment with gels and solids, and mimic race-day conditions in training. From understanding how hydration impacts fuel absorption to avoiding common aid station pitfalls, this episode offers plenty of takeaways for any trail runner looking to fuel smarter and run stronger.
//DISCOUNT CODES
25% off 226ers Norway: ALBON25
$40 annual credit + bottle: THE FEED (click on link)
15% off Moonvalley: ALBON15
// TRAIL ANALYTICS & PLANNING
Check out AlbonApp for trail specific data insights and bespoke trail training plans. Use referral code thealbonway2 for 2 weeks for free when you first subscribe.
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In this episode of The Albon Way, Henriette talks to Jon about his recent win at the Ultra-Trail Snowdonia by UTMB 100K. They dive into how the race unfolded from Jon’s perspective, his strategic approach to training and tapering, and the challenges he faced on the rugged Welsh trails. Jon also shares insights into the competitive landscape, including how he managed to stay ahead of his rivals to secure the victory. Tune in for an inspiring and insightful race recap!
// TRAIL ANALYTICS & PLANNING
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What really gets you through long trail races? In this episode, Henriette and Jon break down fatigue resistance – how well you can hold form, focus, and performance deep into a race. They explore why it matters more than flashy speed, how to build it through smart training, and how nutrition, gear, and mindset all play a role. Tune in for real talk, personal stories, and actionable tips to remain strong when it matters.
// TRAIL ANALYTICS & PLANNING
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In this episode, Henriette and Jon dive into top tips for race day – from modern carb loading strategies to pacing uphills (and downhills) and fueling right. They also chat about their Easter traditions, how weather seems to impact training, and bust a few trail racing myths along the way. Whether you're gearing up for your first ultra or chasing a PB, this one's packed with practical advice to help you nail your next trail race.
// TRAIL ANALYTICS & PLANNING
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In this episode of The Albon Way, Henriette and Jon share takeaways from their recent training for Ultra Trail Snowdonia and discuss the role of bold goals in shaping both mindset and performance. They talk about the value of visualisation, handling setbacks, and how training—not just racing—is where belief is built. It's a conversation about preparing well, aiming high, and staying grounded in the process.
// TRAIL ANALYTICS & PLANNING
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In this episode, Henriette and Jon Albon dive into their return to training after racing, focusing on the importance of progressive overload and what this can look like for trail runners. Along the way, there’s the usual banter, an update on how their HRV is developing, and a glimpse into Jon’s latest recovery tactics, including listening to Gamma waves on his runs and his recent purchase of a bathtub of sorts — for both relaxation and some sneaky heat training!
// TRAIL ANALYTICS & PLANNING
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In this conversation, Henriette and Jon Albon discuss their experiences with recovery after an ultra trail race, the importance of easing back into training gradually, and the strategies they will employ to prepare for upcoming races. They introduce the concept of 'playing the game' in training, where different training stimuli are likened to cards that can be played strategically to optimise performance. The discussion covers various training cards, including general training load, running impact load, higher intensity training, strength training, and heat training, emphasising the need for balance and careful planning to avoid injury and ensure effective training leading up to races.
Tune in to discover what their next race is and why Jon got disqualified from the Winter Fan Dance back in 2014, and why Earthing and Wim Hof breathing is on their 'to-do list' these days.
// TRAIL ANALYTICS & PLANNING
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In this episode, Henriette and Jon discuss their recent ultra trail race experience at Transgrancanaria. They reflect on their journey from tapering to race day, including injury management, race preparation, and the emotional challenges. The conversation highlights the importance of mental resilience, race day strategies, and the dynamics of racing as a couple.
// TRAIL ANALYTICS & PLANNING
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In this episode, The Albons share insights into their training journey for Transgrancanaria Classic 126K, offering an honest discussion about balancing emotions and metrics. They highlight the importance of gradual load increases to build fitness while emphasising recovery to avoid injury. The conversation delves into the risks of emotion-driven decisions, such as panic training, and the psychological challenges that come with trusting the process. Whether you're self-coaching or following a plan, discipline, motivation, and a clear focus on long-term goals are essential. This episode is packed with practical advice and tips to help you manage training stress, stay motivated, and prepare effectively for your race goals.
// TRAIL ANALYTICS & PLANNING
Check out AlbonApp for trail specific data insights and bespoke training plans. Use referral code thealbonway2 for 2 weeks for free when you subscribe.
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