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“We’re not putting you in textbook normal, we’re putting you in your normal.”

In this episode of the MidPacker Pod, Jeff Hammond, owner and head doctor at Hammond Foot & Ankle, returns to the show with a whole new perspective. What started as crewing at Cocodona has turned into a full dive into trail running, with Jeff now preparing to toe the line at the Cocodona 250 himself.

Jeff shares what it’s like to balance life as a medical professional and an everyday runner chasing big goals. From building his training with coach Alyssa Clark to navigating injury scares and dialing in race logistics, his journey is one many mid-packers will recognize.

Jeff’s Links

IG: @jeff.r.hammond

@hammondfootandankle

Website

https://hammondfootandankle.com/

Athlete Spotlight

Jeff went from trail running “newbie” to training for a 250-mile race in under a year
Finished top 10 in his first 50K while just “having fun” and learning the sport
Attempted a 100-miler that didn’t go to plan, reminding listeners that setbacks are part of the process
Now deep in Cocodona prep with structured coaching, detailed planning, and full crew support

Takeaways:

You don’t need to be elite to chase big goals
Progress isn’t linear, and failures often fuel growth
Consistency and patience beat chasing big mileage

Key Topics & Takeaways

Why taper injuries happen and why you shouldn’t panic
The importance of stretching, especially calves, for foot health
Plantar fasciitis explained in simple terms
Why runners shouldn’t always run through pain
Staying active during injury using bike, swim, or elliptical
Finding practitioners who understand endurance athletes

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Jeff Hammond, Cocodona 250, trail running, plantar fasciitis, ultrarunning, injury prevention, endurance training, foot health, running injuries, taper, coaching, midpack runners