Just like the rest of us, ultrarunner Kilian Jornet is currently on lockdown as we all wait out the global pandemic. For him, that means spending time at his remote mountain cabin in Norway, while still finding ways to train and stay active, while maintaining social distancing. Recently however, the team at Sidetracked caught up with the mountain athlete to find out how things are going and what is plans look like for the now-scrambled year ahead. That conversation resulted in quite an interesting interview.
Kilian tells Sidetracked that in the beginning of the lockdown, he was forced to stay home and continue to train on his treadmill and conduct indoor workouts. But over time, he was able to get out of the house and go for some training runs in the mountains. As Kilian says, "We continue to practise social distancing, but - speaking personally here - it's actually pretty easy when the thing you enjoy the most is being alone in the mountains!"
Throughout the interview, Kilian discusses what he's doing with the extra free time on his hands (creating fresh content!), whether or not he's learning new things, and sharing how having a tough mindset is helpful during lockdown. He also touches on how he balances being a father while leading his adventurous lifestyle, where is plans will take him next, and the challenges he has faced as an outdoor athlete who has had to stay close to home for the past two months.
Whenever I read or watch an interview with Kilian, I'm always struck by what a down-to-earth kind of guy he is. That is the case here as well, as he comes across as someone who is just like the rest of us, trying to make it through the COVID-19 crisis as best as he can. If you're reading this blog, chances are you love the outdoors and the adventure hat comes along with it. That probably also means you're ready to get back to that lifestyle, which won't be easy considering the current circumstances. But with some patience, social distancing, and a tolerant outlook, we'll weather this storm and get back on the trail again soon.
