524. Beyond the Run with Allie Ostrander

"I really felt strongly that sharing online would not only help hold me accountable to sticking with my goals and my values, but also would help other people to see that it's really normal to struggle, and it's OK to seek treatment, it's OK to seek help. And that even people who have had success don't necessarily have everything figured out."

The past year hasn't been easy for professional runner Allie Ostrander. After a career that started out with a series of highs — like signing with Brooks, making her first world championships team, and getting to represent Team USA in Doha in 2019 — life lately has been challenging. In this candid conversation, Allie talks about the tough times and how she has gotten through them. She talks about living and dealing with an eating disorder, and about pursuing a treatment program last year before returning to competition at the U.S. Olympic Track & Field Trials, where she made it to the 3000m steeplechase final and ran a personal best. She talks about what life in the recovery program was like, about dealing with recurring injuries, and about how she handles her nerves on and off the track. Plus, how she's fallen back in love with running, racing, and the running community.

SPONSOR: New Balance — Go to newbalance.com/beyondtherun to learn more about how New Balance is supporting conversations around mental wellness in running. (And check out my current favorite pullover, crop top, half-zip top, quilted pullover, and jacket.)

What you'll get on this episode:

• What's making Allie happy today (4:05)
• How Allie got the role of pacer for the Trials of Miles steeplechase and 5K (5:45)
• On dealing with race day nerves, and why Allie gets nervous for everyday workouts (14:30)
• How Allie recently rediscovered her love for running, racing, and the running community (20:50)
• What life looked like last summer for Allie: injuries, eating disorder recovery, and the decision to share it all (23:50)
• What it was like leaving the treatment center to compete at the Olympic Track & Field Trials (31:00)
• The power of a quick cry in the bathroom (43:00)
• Allie's decision to end her contract with Brooks at the end of last year (45:00)
• What Allie's relationship with her body is like right now (53:00)
• What's next on the racing and coaching front (56:20)
• Allie's advice for people dealing with eating disorders, or people who know someone going through a difficult time (1:02:00)

For more, check out:

Allie Ostrander on Episode 170 of the Ali on the Run Show

Allie Ostrander on Episode 162 of the Ali on the Run Show

Trials of Miles Track Night NYC

"Dear Body, I Love You," by Allie Ostrander for MileSplit

Follow Allie:

• Instagram @allie_ostrander
• Twitter @allie_ostrander
• YouTube

Follow Ali:

• Instagram @aliontherun1
• Join the Facebook group
• Twitter @aliontherun1
• Support on Patreon
• Blog
• Strava

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