Episode 568 - 2026 Delirious Series - Matthew Farrand: When “Average” Training Is Actually Going Brilliantly

In this second check-in with Delirious WEST 2026 athlete Matthew Farrand, we catch up just a week out from Christmas — and honestly, things are ticking along beautifully. Matthew describes his last month as “average”… which quickly turns out to mean consistent, strong, and quietly confidence-building. He’s stacking weeks in the high-70km range, ticking off strength, hills, speed work and long runs, and feeling his endurance come together without feeling trashed. We chat early-morning running routines, managing training around family life, and why getting runs done before the day begins just works. Matthew also shares his thinking around breaking long builds into blocks, using a January ultra as a smart training milestone rather than grinding nonstop all the way to April. There’s plenty of runner-nerd goodness in here too — from blister management kits and pole practice (urban runners, you’ll relate), to destination long runs along the Thames, running through foot tunnels under the river, and soaking up the history that comes with exploring London on foot. This is a calm, grounded check-in that shows what sustainable ultra prep really looks like: patience, planning, curiosity, and enjoying the journey. 🎧 A great listen if you’re building quietly, trusting the process, and learning to enjoy where training can take you — literally and mentally. Delirious WEST event Website – https://deliriouswest200miler.com.au/ Event Facebook Page – https://www.facebook.com/groups/1428304207182387 A couple of BIG favours: 1) please like and review this podcast so more people will discover it :) 2) come on the podcast and talk about your running journey and/or refer someone you’d love me to interview (whether you know them or not :) )  Lets not keep the power of running a secret any more!  Hit me up on Facebook/Instagram (ZenRUN.club) or send me an email - Hello @ zenrun.club   Don't miss an episode of the ZenRUN Podcast. Subscribe to the podcast on your podcast player :)   💛 Want running to feel lighter again? Join the ZenRUN Club — a chill space where progress happens without pressure. Get simple plans (coming soon), guided runs, and a crew who actually gets it. 👉 zenrun.club — come run happy.   https://fitmindfitbody.co/podcast/