Iain Best | Balancing Training and Family, Uphill Racing, The Future of Trail & Mountain Running

Iain Best is back, and a lot has changed since we last spoke. He is now a dad of two, still racing hard, and still finding ways to train with purpose when sleep is broken and life is full.In this episode, James and Iain go deep on what “real” consistency looks like, how Iain shifted from ultras into the world of mountain and skyrunning, and why uphill racing became the thing he could not stop chasing. It’s an honest chat about identity, ambition, and keeping the love of the sport alive while the sport itself keeps changing.They also zoom out on trail running in Australia, from the volunteer roots that built the scene to the more commercial era we are in now. And to finish, Iain shares what is coming next: a stack of races at home, then a big move to France mid-year with a massive European calendar on the horizon.In this episode: Training and racing as a new parent, without pretending it’s easy Why uphill became Iain’s weapon, and what it changed in his running Skyrunning, VKs, and the pathway from ultras to the mountains Lessons from the Army, injury rehab culture, and discipline that actually holds up Where trail running is heading, and what we do not want to lose along the way The plan for 2026, including a mid-year move to France and a packed racing schedule***Don’t forget, use code PEAK at Bix’s website for 20% off Bix products, exclusive to PPP listeners!***Thanks for tuning in to Peak Pursuits! Connect with us on Instagram @peakpursuits.pod to share your thoughts, questions, and trail stories. Until next time, keep hitting the trails and chasing those peak pursuits!Follow James: Instagram | Strava | WebsiteFollow Iain: StravaMusic from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/mood-maze/trendsetterLicense code: K08PMQ3RATCE215R