Exploring the Power of Ultra Running with Lydia Oldham

In Episode #165 of the Nutritional Revolution podcast, host Kyla Channell sits down with Lydia Oldham, an ultra runner and adventure seeker, to delve into her incredible journey through the world of ultra running. Lydia has achieved remarkable feats, including a solo 650-kilometer Fastest Known Time (FKT) on the Camino Portuguese and a grueling 500-kilometer trek from Los Angeles to Las Vegas for the Speed Project.

A Journey of Discovery and Resilience

Lydia’s journey into ultra running began with a simple desire to improve her health during the lockdown. Initially, she dabbled in 5Ks and half-marathons, but it wasn’t until she ventured into trail and ultra running that she truly found her passion. Her addictive personality, which once led her to collect tattoos, now fuels her love for pushing boundaries in the world of running.

Fueling the Adventure

Nutrition plays a pivotal role in Lydia’s ultra running success. She candidly shares her evolution from avoiding carbs and gels to embracing them as essential fuel sources. Her journey from stress fractures to injury-free running for three years underscores the importance of proper nutrition. Lydia’s experience highlights the significance of training the stomach to handle solid foods during long runs, a lesson she learned the hard way during the Speed Project.

The Mental and Physical Challenges

Lydia’s adventures are not without their challenges. She recounts the mental and physical hurdles she faced during the Speed Project, including hallucinations of aliens in the sky. Her ability to push through these moments, supported by a dedicated crew, showcases the resilience required in ultra running. Lydia’s story is a testament to the power of determination and the importance of listening to one’s body.

Upcoming Adventures and Goals

This year (2025), Lydia tackled the Berlin Marathon, running it both backwards and forwards, to raise awareness for gender equality in the sport. Additionally, embarked on a 500-kilometer journey from London to Cornwall, a mental challenge that will test her limits, all while raising money for MTA (Mastectomy Tattooing Alliance).

Lydia Oldham’s journey through the world of ultra running is a testament to the power of passion, resilience, and proper nutrition. Her story inspires us to push our limits and embrace the challenges that come our way. As Lydia continues to explore new horizons, her adventures serve as a reminder that the impossible is always worth chasing.

Be sure to subscribe to stay up-to-date on the Nutritional Revolution podcast for more insights from leading experts and professional athletes. Episodes are available on our website, Apple, Spotify (and most streaming platforms), and the full video is up on YouTube.