Alex Hutchinson: Exploring The Limits Of Human Athletic Performance

Welcome to a fast-moving and interesting conversation with Alex Hutchinson, author of the book Endure. Alex is a popular columnist for Outside Magazine , covering topics related to sweat science, and is an expert on the scientific aspects of peak performance and human limitations, especially relating to endurance. He recounts his extraordinary story at the start of the show, sharing the amazing breakthroughs he’s made in his career as a middle distance runner in college, and you won’t believe some of the memorable insights he presents, many of which I’m still thinking about today. In this episode, we get into all kinds of topics like the popular Central Governor Theory, promoted by Dr. Timothy Noakes, who proposed that the brain is the true limiter of peak performance, not fatigue, talk about the ultimate limits of human performance, and much more! TIMESTAMPS: The brain is the true limiter of peak performance, not fatigue. [00:46] Alex has an amazing story of how he became a 4-minute distance runner. [03:59] His progress was at an unheard-of pace. [15:56] It is hard for endurance athletes to buy into the idea that our mindset is holding us back. [20:06] What is the ideal competitive disposition? The cocky “I can win” and the “I don’t belong here” are at both ends of the spectrum. [24:38] Alex thinks genetics had very little to do with his ability as a runner. [35:45] Is there such a thing as fear of success in these athletes? What you say to yourself makes a big impact. [40:55] It is difficult to distinguish between the discomfort or pain of effort and the discomfort of an injury. [48:14] Do the coaches need to do something different when an athlete gets injured? [51:58] No one is going to break records by large amounts. [58:43] Alex is moderately optimistic on doping. [01:02:34] LINKS: Brad Kearns.com Brad’s Shopping page Endure SweatScience Join Brad for more fun on: Instagram: @bradkearns1 Facebook: @bradkearnsjumphigh Twitter: @bradleykearns YouTube: @brad.kearns TikTok: @bradkearns We appreciate all feedback, and questions for Q&A shows, emailed to podcast@bradventures.com . If you have a moment, please share an episode you like with a quick text message, or leave a review on your podcast app. Thank you! Check out each of these companies because they are absolutely awesome or they wouldn’t occupy this revered space. Seriously, Brad won’t promote anything he doesn’t absolutely love and use in daily life. Mito Red Light: Photobiomodulation light panels to enhance cellular energy production, improve recovery, and optimize circadian rhythm. Email me for special B.rad 10% discount and 60-day free trial! NutriSense: Continuous glucose monitor and 1:1 expert support to help optimize diet choices and lifestyle behaviors. $30 B.rad discount! Marek Health: Comprehensive lab testing and expert tele-health support for peak performance. Use code “BRAD” for 10% discount! LMNT Electrolyte Drink Mix: Tasty, sugar-free, scientifically formulated electrolyte drink mix with everything you need and nothing you don’t. Free sample pack, just click the link! B.rad Whey + Creatine Superfuel : Premium quality, all-natural supplement for peak performance, recovery, and longevity Male Optimization Formula with Organs (MOFO): Optimize testosterone naturally with 100% grassfed animal organ supplement Brad’s Macadamia Masterpiece: Mind-blowing, life-changing nut butter blend Online educational courses: Numerous great offerings for an immersive home-study educational experience Check out the my Favorites page for discounts on other great products! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.