Running Ultramarathons with Ankylosing Spondylitis | Lewis Askew & Runnah

What does it look like to train for ultramarathons while living with a chronic inflammatory disease that affects your spine, joints, recovery, and daily life?In this episode of Runnah, I sit down with Lewis Askew, an ultramarathon runner based in Hong Kong who was originally raised in the United Kingdom and is also living with Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS).As two runners navigating the realities of AS, we have an honest conversation about diagnosis, treatment, setbacks, training adaptations, and the extra work required to pursue big endurance goals while managing a chronic illness.We discuss:What Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) actually isThe diagnosis journey and challenges of getting answersTreatment options and managing symptomsTraining for ultramarathons with ASRecovery, mobility, and strength workCommon misconceptions about athletes with chronic illnessThe mental side of endurance sports and chronic diseaseWhy living with AS has ultimately made us stronger, more resilient runnersWhether you're living with Ankylosing Spondylitis, another chronic illness, or simply love hearing stories of perseverance and endurance, this episode is packed with insight, honesty, and encouragement.Because sometimes the strongest runners aren't the ones with the easiest path. They're the ones who keep showing up anyway.Follow Lewis Askew Instagram: @the_as_athleteThe AS Athlete InstagramConnect with RunnahEmail: [email protected]: @runnahpod