Endurance Edge Masterclass: Performance Psychology and Altitude Training
The Endurance Edge Conference brought together some of Australia's brightest endurance stars and high-performance experts for an evening of inspiration and practical insights. Held at the Victorian Institute of Sport at Lakeside Stadium, the event highlighted strategies for athletic success and fostered connections between elite athletes, coaches, and attendees.
Replay
Couldn’t make it to the event? You’re in luck! Watch a replay of sections of the evening below.
Key Messages from the Conference
The Power of Mindset
Laura Cosgrove, sport psychologist at the VIS, emphasised that psychology isn't a silver bullet but a tool to refine existing experiences. She encouraged athletes to focus on reframing challenges as opportunities and building resilience through self-awareness and small, actionable mental shifts.
Physiological Insights for Endurance Training
Avish Sharma shared the latest on integrating altitude training into endurance programs. He underscored the importance of individualised approaches, stressing that timing, duration, and recovery - especially nutrition - are critical to maximizing performance gains.
Athlete Stories: Real-Life Role Models
The athlete panel—featuring Linden Hall, Jess Stenson, Jemima Montag, Jaryd Clifford, and Abbey Caldwell—offered candid insights into their training routines, overcoming setbacks, and the support systems that drive their success. Their journeys highlighted the balance of discipline, adaptability, and community.
Practical Takeaways for Coaches
Coaches were encouraged to foster open communication with their athletes, enabling a deeper understanding of individual needs. The speakers also recommended leveraging technology for performance analysis and adopting a holistic approach to athlete development.
Key Quotes from the Experts
Laura Cosgrove: "Psychology isn’t a silver bullet; it’s about understanding what’s happening and making small adjustments to make it more useful."
Application: Encourage athletes to reflect on their mental strategies and identify one small area to improve—whether it’s self-talk during races or managing nerves before competition.
Avish Sharma: "Altitude training is effective when personalized; what works for one athlete might not work for another."
Application: Before implementing altitude training, assess individual baselines and collaborate with sports scientists to tailor the program to your athlete’s needs.
Linden Hall: "Your best performances often come after the hardest setbacks; it’s about trusting the process."
Application: Share this perspective with athletes who are recovering from injury or tough races. Use it as a reminder that growth often stems from adversity.
Jess Stenson: "Running is about community—the people you surround yourself with can make or break your journey."
Application: Encourage athletes to build a supportive network, including training partners, mentors, and friends, to sustain motivation and accountability.