169: From Runner to Researcher with Jessica Piasecki

🎙️ From Olympic Marathoner to Physiology Researcher: Jess Piasecki on Female Health and Performance

In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Jess Piasecki — Olympic marathon runner and associate professor specialising in female physiology. Jess shares her unique journey from elite athlete to academic, reflecting on the transition from shorter races to the marathon distance, overcoming injury setbacks, and staying motivated throughout her career.

We dive deep into the science of female athletic performance, covering crucial topics like menstrual health, low energy availability, and amenorrhea, and how they impact training, recovery, and long-term health. Jess also highlights the benefits of cross-training, the importance of nutrition, and how athletes can maintain both mental resilience and physical well-being in high-performance environments.

Whether you're a competitive athlete, a coach, or simply passionate about sports science and women's health, this conversation is packed with practical insights and evidence-based advice.

🔑 Topics Covered: • The realities of being a female endurance athlete • Navigating injuries and maintaining motivation • The role of cross-training in recovery • Understanding energy availability and menstrual health • Why regular cycles matter in sports performance • Mental health, body image, and athlete well-being • Research-backed advice for long-term health in sport

📍 Chapters: 00:00 – Intro & Jess Piasecki’s Background 05:10 – From University Running to the Olympic Stage 08:16 – Injury Setbacks and Staying Motivated 14:05 – Cross-Training: A Vital Recovery Tool 17:17 – Female Physiology: What Every Athlete Should Know 31:08 – Bone Health, Hormones & Long-Term Well-being 42:35 – Nutrition, Energy & Performance 51:56 – Understanding Menstrual Health in Athletics 01:03:23 – Empowering Female Athletes Through Knowledge

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#FemalePhysiology #MarathonRunning #SportsScience #AthleticPerformance