#2 Bicarb, The Norwegian Method, Pre Classic & Comrades

Is bicarbonate supplementation the next breakthrough in endurance performance—or are we overlooking the long-term health implications?In Episode 2 of the Hardloop Endurance Podcast, coaches Kirk Elias and Cal Neff continue their deep dive into The Norwegian Method, discussing why precision, recovery, and patience may be replacing the traditional "harder is better" approach to training.The conversation begins with the latest debate surrounding sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) supplementation. With more elite marathoners and track athletes using products like Maurten Bicarb, Cal and Kirk discuss the evidence, potential performance benefits, and whether there may be unintended consequences of consuming massive sodium loads in pursuit of marginal gains.The discussion then returns to The Norwegian Method, exploring why threshold training, cumulative recovery, muscle tone, double threshold sessions, and learning to truly run easy may be some of the biggest takeaways for everyday runners—not just Olympic athletes.The coaches also break down a busy week in the running world, including:Highlights from the Prefontaine Classic Tactical lessons from the men's and women's 800m and Bowerman MileWhy running the shortest distance isn't always the fastest way to raceTravel fatigue and international competitionThe incredible history and atmosphere of Comrades Marathon, the world's largest and oldest ultramarathon, including the story behind the name HardloopWhether elite marathoners could dominate Western States—or if trail running demands an entirely different skill setTo wrap up, Kirk shares one of his most memorable coaching moments from more than 50 years in the sport, while both coaches discuss the psychology of racing, pre-race nerves, helping athletes perform under pressure, and why having fun may still be one of the greatest performance enhancers.Whether you're chasing a marathon PR, preparing for your next trail race, or simply love learning about the science and art of endurance training, this episode is packed with practical coaching insights and thoughtful discussion.Have a question or topic you'd like us to cover in a future episode?Leave a comment or reach out to us on Instagram:@hardlooprunHosted by:Cal Neff and Kirk EliasEpisode Links:Storm II: https://youtu.be/x6_mbnsh6VU?si=L1ijhsFs8fueWCuj&t=255This is America: https://youtu.be/VYOjWnS4cMY?si=YUyFqx-pLDa11r_6 Fika w/Will Gadd: https://youtu.be/jHnZn02U1vY?si=YVbWWcsPbRN5AMc2