#116 [Guest] Dr Chris Gunn - Sport Phycologist debunks “toughness” for ultra runners

Dr Chris Gunn is a Sport Psychologist who’s built his career on understanding why some athletes reach their potential and others don’t. He’s a Chartered Psychologist with the British Psychological Society, a Senior Lecturer in Psychology and a published researcher on self-control and motivation in endurance sport. His PhD focused on the “desire-goal conflict”, and he now works with runners, triathletes and cyclists across the UK. In this episode, Tommy and Chris take apart the idea of “toughness” in ultra running. Chris explains why ignoring pain, thinking positive and gritting your teeth aren’t the answer, and why psychological flexibility is: noticing uncomfortable thoughts and feelings without letting them decide what you do next. They also cover living out your values in hard moments, tracking your “brain macros” in training, alter egos (meet Tough Knuckles), and how small wins build real confidence. Chris’s new book, a week-by-week guide to the psychology of endurance, is out 1st December. Find out more at chrisgunnpsychology.com . Today’s Sponsor: INOV8: Follow this link to get 15% OFF your next pair of trail shoes! 38% OFF THAT’S RUNNABLE COACHING HUB for 3 MONTHS! Build sustainable running habits that last a lifetime! ➡️ JOIN NOW ! ⬅️ New intake every month! SUBMIT A QUESTION : Want to be featured in a future episode of That's Runnable? If you want to submit your own burning question, or a topic you think would be interesting to discuss on a future episode, record a short voice note. We would love to hear from you :) Wobble : if you’re struggling with something personal right now but don’t want to go through the difficulty of therapy quite yet, why not try Wobble? Go to getwobble.co.uk/thatsrunnable for a discount and get a personalised video from a qualified Therapist within minutes. FREE STUFF: ➡️ 5 KEY PRINCIPLES OF RUNNING SUSTAINABLY ⬅️ - A PDF on the most important fundamental principles of running in a way that prioritised longevity. Can you guess what they are? ➡️ FREE HOME WORKOUT ⬅️ - You won’t always have access to a gym. So, dedicating some time to do a bit of strength at home is a good idea. ➡️ INTRODUCTION TO STRENGTH TRAINING ⬅️ - A foundational introduction to strength training for runners. Normally reserved for Coaching Hub members. Sign up to the That's Runnable Newsletter Find out more about Tommy’s work here Follow That's Runnable on Instagram: @thatsrunnable Follow Tommy on Instagram: @tommyrunpt SUBMIT A QUESTION : Want to be featured in a future episode of That's Runnable? If you want to submit your own burning question, or a topic y