Episode 113: An Anecdote on REDs and Holistic Health as an Athlete

In this week’s episode, we share an honest, nuanced conversation about REDs (Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport) and holistic athlete health. Katie opens with some reflections on navigating the decision to take a step back from running late in pregnancy, using purpose, trends, and body awareness to guide her training. From there, Elena shares her full health story for the first time: the perfect storm that led to REDs, the crash, a long and messy recovery, and what ultimately helped her heal. We talk through warning signs, blood work, compounding life stress, weight gain nuance, mental health, and why performance and health are not the same thing. This episode is an anecdote—not a diagnosis—but it’s meant to offer language, context, and hope to athletes who may recognize pieces of themselves in the story. If you’re navigating burnout, underfueling, hormonal disruption, or questioning whether your body is asking for something different, this is a deeply important listen. Check it out!Link to episode outreach form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfurpk5exg6eYh-0KBxGMoZZvEKb_UA440EGlX9ypfn7mK0mw/viewformTo view extended show notes for this episode, visit: theendurancedrive.com/podcast To share feedback or ask questions to be featured on a future episode, please use ⁠this form⁠ or email: [email protected].