Breathing, the Day, and Setting 427 Records: Ultrarunner William Sichel

By Jae Gruenke | Interviews

Nov 23

I first got to know multiple record-setting ultramarathoner William Sichel when he signed up for my online running technique camp last year. At the time I had no idea who he was. But as I got to know his accomplishments and his approach I realized that all the runners I work with–not just the ultrarunners–could benefit from learning how he does what he does.

So a few days ago I interviewed William about how he became an ultrarunner, how he stays healthy, and how he copes with the physical and mental stresses of the very long races he runs.

We also talked about his work as a coach and how he brings his approach to all the different kinds of runners.

Although his accomplishments are extraordinary, the cornerstones of his approach can work for any runner, so take some time to watch or listen in!

William Sichel interview | The Balanced Runner™ from Jae Gruenke on Vimeo.

Here are links to a couple of the things we talked about:

Wim Hof Method

Buteyko

Eckhart Tolle

And here’s how you can find William:

williamsichel.co.uk

William’s coaching services

Twitter.com/williamsichel

Facebook.com/WilliamSichelAthlete

Like what you just read? Then please vote for The Balanced Runner™ as best running blog in the Running Awards. Vote here in the Publications and Online category. Thank you very much!

I’d intended to do a Facebook Live on this post and your questions in general on Friday 1 December 2017. Unfortunately I won’t be able to do that, but stay tuned for the next FB live on Friday 8 December on The Balanced Runner™ Facebook Page.

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About the Author

Jae Gruenke, GCFP, is a running technique expert and Feldenkrais Practitioner. Known as a “running form guru,” she is the Founder and CEO of The Balanced Runner™ in New York City and The Balanced Runner UK. She has helped runners from beginner to Olympian improve their form to become pain-free, economical, and fast.

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(3) comments

Michael Sharp November 26, 2017

Fantastic interview… Hearing William Sichel describe his exploration of the possibly more esoteric / mental aspects running was enlightening.

What was special for me was his description of his own experience and strategies of putting awareness on ‘now’ in the context of running. This was done in such a simple, practical and clear way. Inspiring!

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Tom Williamson November 26, 2017

Great discussion with William. A couple of things really seem important. 1. Control of awareness, he is talking mental awareness, and Feldenkrais is Awareness Through Movement, it seems shifting between mental and physical awareness would be a valuable skill in long distance racing. 2. He talked about shifting from Zen to Competitive modes during running, I need to work on this aspect also. Between Zen, Competitive, Mental awareness and Physical awareness, I’ll have lots to consider during running. 3. Skill of running slowly is another aspect that I had not considered, but seems like something I need to improve. 4. Writing down the “Why’s” will be interesting also.

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Ruth Jaeger December 16, 2017

Great interview: Wonderful insights on longevity as a runner, the need for awareness, shifts of state of mind.

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