Episode 74: WHAT ARE WE TRAINING FOR? TRAINING TO FLOURISH: THE JOURNEY OF HEALTHY AGING

Episode 74: What Are We Training For? | Training to Flourish: The Journey of Healthy Aging with the Founder of The Endurance Edge, Chris Newport, MS, RDNWhat are we really training for?A faster race?A longer life?Better health?Or something much deeper?In Episode 74 of The PhD Journey Unplugged, Dr. Sarah Gordon welcomes Chris Newport, MS, RDN, Founder of The Endurance Edge, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, Exercise Physiologist, Certified Sports Nutritionist, and Endurance Coach, for a thoughtful conversation exploring the intersection of performance, longevity, motivation, and healthy aging.Together, they move beyond traditional conversations about nutrition and endurance performance to ask a larger question:What does it truly mean to flourish throughout an entire lifetime?Drawing upon decades of experience helping athletes and active adults optimize their health, Chris shares practical insights into personalized nutrition, recovery, lifelong fitness, and the science of healthy aging. The conversation explores how understanding our unique physiology empowers us to make informed decisions that support not only today's goals but the life we hope to live for years to come.As someone who recently presented her doctoral research at the 9th International Self-Determination Theory Conference in Geneva, Switzerland, Dr. Gordon also reflects on how our motivations evolve over time. Through the lens of Self-Determination Theory, they discuss how autonomy, competence, and meaningful relationships help us build sustainable habits that extend far beyond the finish line.This episode invites listeners to consider a different perspective on success—not simply measured by performance, but by our capacity to continue growing, contributing, connecting, and flourishing throughout life.Whether you are an endurance athlete, health professional, coach, researcher, or simply someone striving to live your healthiest life, this conversation offers practical wisdom and thoughtful reflection on the journey of healthy aging.As you listen, consider one question:What are YOU training for?Topics Discussed• Healthy aging and longevity• Personalized nutrition and exercise science• Sustainable health habits• Performance versus purpose• Self-Determination Theory (Autonomy, Competence & Relatedness)• Lifelong movement and flourishing• Endurance athletics and wellness• Building a meaningful life through healthIf you enjoyed this conversation, please subscribe to The PhD Journey Unplugged, where we explore authentic conversations that inspire growth, connection, purpose, and human flourishing.Strength for the Journey Within.All information shared on The PhD Journey Unplugged podcast by Dr. Sarah Gordon and her guests is for general informational purposes only and should not be deemed professional advice.