Episode 116: Reflecting on 2025, ReFUEL study updates, and Looking Ahead

Episode 116 is a year end reflection with Corrine Malcolm, Keely Henninger, and Hillary Allen, released just ahead of the New Year. The conversation opens with lighthearted check ins on holiday routines, winter training, and how each host plans to ring in 2026. From there, the episode moves into results, news, and science, including a detailed discussion of new findings from the ReFUEL study examining menstrual recovery, estrogen exposure, and ovulation in endurance athletes with functional hypothalamic amenorrhea and oligomenorrhea. The hosts unpack what it actually means for cycles to return, why multiple consecutive cycles matter, and how this research informs coaching, athlete health, and family planning conversations.

The second half of the episode is a wide ranging reflection on the year that was. Corrine, Keely, and Hillary look back on major themes from Trail Society in 2025, including athlete contracts, travel and racing highlights, fertility, resilience, fatigue, recovery, and women's sports milestones. They reflect on favorite conversations and guests, moments that surprised them, trends they are ready to leave behind, and ideas they hope shape the future of the sport. The episode closes with personal roses and thorns from the year, Society Slam listener questions, and an exciting announcement about what's coming next: a short break, a new weekly format in 2026, and even more long run listening ahead.

Sponsors

This episode is brought to you by rabbit. If you're looking to treat yourself after the holidays or upgrade your winter running kit, head to www.runinrabbit.com and use code HOPPYHOLIDAYS in December for 10% off.

Citations

Mallinson, R. J., et al. (2025). Multiple eumenorrheic cycles are necessary to observe a significant increase in estrogen exposure and ovulation in exercising women with functional hypothalamic oligo/amenorrhea undergoing a nutritional intervention: Insights from the REFUEL study. PM & R: The Journal of Injury, Function, and Rehabilitation. https://doi.org/10.1002/pmrj.70024