#28 - Bethwell Rutto - The Secrets Behind Why Kenyans Are So Good At Running

I just want to say a massive thank you to Bethwell for agreeing to come on and do this episode in his non-native language. There were some parts of the conversation that we had to go over a couple of times to fully understand one another, but I wanted to express my gratitude to Bethwell for doing the full episode in english.


In this episode of the Abnormal podcast, I welcome marathon champion Bethwell Rutto, who shares his inspiring journey from Kenya to winning the Hong Kong Standard Chartered Marathon. The conversation delves into the challenges of marathon running, the unique culture of athletics in Kenya, and the rigorous training regimen that has shaped Rutto into a champion. Gain insights into the mindset of a professional athlete and the importance of perseverance and dedication in achieving extraordinary feats.


Chapters


00:00 Introduction to Rutto Bethwell

03:35 Challenges of the Hong Kong Marathon

08:16 Growing Up in Kenya: The Running Culture

12:20 Building an Aerobic Base

16:01 Training Regimen of a Champion

20:53 Morning Run Routine

24:55 Evening Run Dynamics

28:18 Training Regimen and Strength Training

34:29 Injury Management and Prevention

36:27 Advice for New Runners

37:52 Shoe Preferences and Performance

39:10 The Impact of Weight on Performance

40:18 Experiences in Hong Kong and the Marathon Scene

42:44 Training Conditions: Hot vs. Cold

44:26 Upcoming Races and Pacing Strategies

46:19 The Influence of Crowds in Marathons

47:49 Kipchoge's Legacy and Its Impact

49:58 The Talent Pool in Kenya

51:23 Selection Process for Team Kenya

53:20 Living Outside of Kenya: Aspirations and Experiences


Produced by ‪@MUNDAY_STUDIOS‬

Munday.live/studios


Get in touch:

Instagram: / petelaverick

YouTube: / @pete.laverick

Facebook: / pete.laverick.5

Email: petelaverickpro@gmail.com

Om Podcasten

The podcast for normal people who want to do abnormal things.

Hey, I am Pete Laverick, an Ex-professional athlete living a pretty normal life in Hong Kong. I talk to people who many of us view as 'abnormal', or having achieved abnormal things. 

I want to know if these 'abnormal' people are that much different from the rest of us, what was it that made them go from being normal people, living normal lives, to wanting to do something completely different and make that first step outside of their comfort zone.