Welcome to Vivsvibe! I'm Vivian Camille, or Coach Viv, helping you slow down to run fast toward joy, peace and true contentment in running and racing.
I’m a UESCA-certified ultra coach and have been running and racing for over 12 years. I love sharing what I’ve learned with y’all through a science-backed lens and keeping things REEEEAAALL honest. This is ultrarunning; the highs are high and the lows can be really low (that’s why we love it). I bring you with me for all of it!!
Beautiful video, and beautiful message. Having worked 2-3 jobs since I was 16, trying to build the life of my dreams, I’m so used to the hectic exhaustion, it’s a constant battle to put self care first. I’ve finally got the life I’ve worked so hard for… but I also have decades of missed time with friends and family, skipped trips and get togethers, high blood pressure, and now a rare heart condition. Ultra running has become my me time… I do it for fun, and it’s my time away from the grind. I wish you all the best, you’re a beautiful soul, and a huge inspiration!
I’m so very glad you have built your dream life. So many folks don’t even know how to dream anymore, much less pursue it. Wishing all your ultra dreams the best too!!
I dunno ... I love ultrarunning and trail running too - but I never listen to running podcasts, read running books, download running apps ... nothing like that. I just have no interest in any of that. I cannot name a single running celebrity except a youtuber named Viv C, and years ago there was Dean Karnazakiopolis or whatever the heck his name was. I guess I have gotten good at separating my hobbies and not letting them turn into obsessions. Mostly anyway. And your channel is one of the few I watch on this topic of running. I certainly do not belong to some kind of running 'community'. I just tie my laces, drive out to the desert and just go. The Franklin Mountain trail run is in January and looking at the insane route they have planned for this year and I am like ... nah, I think I can skip this one. But going out in the desert, all alone, miles from the truck, listening to nothing but my labored breathing, my own footfalls, and the coyotes yipping behind that creosote IS my way of turning the noise off and listening to my own thoughts. Thank you for the video.
You’ve got a good thing going!! That’s how running started for me. I look forward to getting back to the root of it and finding the silence again. I’ve loved being a student of the sport but I’ve learned enough from the noise. Time to bow out! You’re a luck one to have the ability to separate your hobbies from obsession. That’s a talent!!
I can totally relate to brainwashing ourselves with running content and then feeling like a 50k isn't enough. It's really good to realize this is happening and then the negative thoughts just stop! Thank you Viv!
david goggins would be very upset with you camille. I kid, tho I suspect he doesnt even like nature. The older trail running crowd is much more appreciative that it's an adventure first. Also, there's not a whole lot of dough in trail running, not like road running.
It’s always an adventure first! Not a whole lot of dough at all which hopefully keeps the good vibes going and the post race shenanigans alive and well. That’s one of the best parts of this sport for sure!
@@VIVSVIBE i like the Midpacker podcast with troy meadows, which gives a much broader view of the trail running community. It isnt focused almost solely on "elites" and races like DBo's and Corrine Malcolm's respective podcasts.
@ricodelavega4511 That kind of diversity is great!! My favorite parts of the livestreams are when the back of the pack is highlighted and those storylines surface. Thanks for sharing, I’ll have to check those out!
Wow, from your video you still have passion and energy! I recently developed contact dermatitis from COROS watch (nickel), and had to take it off. I missed it for a few wks (looking at empty wrist, and phantom hitting start/stop), but now happy to not have it. Otherwise, I can't relate to the pressure you are placing on yourself. You look like you are doing fine, and being kind to your self (and recovering well in this sport) is good. Take care
I started running with a watch that only timed how long my run was, not the distance or pace. I wasn’t on Strava for most of my running years. I think going back to the “good ole days” is the way to go for a bit. Bummer to hear about the contact dermatitis but I’m happy it led to some fun new discoveries!!
I worked in emergency dispatch for over a decade, and they did extensive training on spotting/ dealing with burnout. They said one of the first signs of burnout is the need for silence. For instance, if you normally commute with the radio on, but suddenly find you're choosing silence instead, your body/ mind is under too much long term stress, and is instinctively trying to cut back on input. That is a big sign you're headed towards true burnout- a catastrophic issue that can't be fixed with a weekend off. So basically, self care is the only way to ward off burnout, in whatever form that looks like for each person. I loved what you said about making sure your actions and choices match your priorities. So many of us have goals that are really important to us, but we struggle to achieve them because we haven't actually made them a priority. Health/fitness and financial security are big ones. I need to refocus on this. I wish you a wonderful new journey on this path. I'm looking forward to learning from you as you go, and improving myself and my life along with you!
That is fascinating! I really thought a weekend and a couple solid nights of sleep would fix it, but I realize now (thank goodness) it was a far bigger issue than that could ever remedy. I didn't realize it was something that could be quantified/identified with signs like that. Very neat! I'm very thankful to be on the path toward rest and rejuvenation so I can return to running with pizzazz! I'm glad we can pursue our priorities together and learn from each other. I think writing things down gave me a clear picture and made it easy to see where my time was going. I can't argue with that and it sure helps me be more honest with myself.
Another great video, as always! Thank you! I identified with 2 messages in this video, first, I am now doing my rides without music. For years it was an automatic for me to have the headphones in for every ride. This year I have started to ride without them and it is bliss! For me, my rides are my 'moving meditation', if I can trying to connect to myself and let go, I find that I cannot do that with the constant noise blasting into my head. Riding without music is like when you wake from the most restful perfect night of sleep while riding with music is now like waking then you have tossed and turned all night. Second, the most important first step in making any meaningful achievement is to let go. It is impossible to grab and hold-on to what you truly want if your hands are always full juggling everything that is not important and not a priority.
I love what you call moving meditation! I’ve heard distance sports called meditation but I’m a sucker for alliteration… as well as a good analogy (restful sleep vs restless) I might just have to use it! I love that you bring a biking perspective as well, you’re full of wisdom and a fresh way to look at things.
As a sophomore who won't be doing cross-country next year due to injury, this really inspired me to keep moving forward. I will be trying the swim team for the first time instead, and I am terrified, but I hope that I can learn new skills and use it as cross training in the future. You were awesome in the pool, And I hope to have my own running reboot soon!
Howdy from north of the border. I'm a Captain with WestJet on the 737NG/MAX and I am new to trail running (2 months). I've done 21K trail races and a backyard ultra (all here in British Columbia). I have a 50k trail race in 3 weeks. I"m happy I found your channel. Off I go to do a tempo run. PS, my Garmin watch thinks I have poor sleep history. How is your sleep on the road and at home? Cheers, John
Very neat! Good luck with the 50k, that sounds like fun. My sleep score is usually pretty bad on the road. That’s probably the hardest part about training on the road.
Oh wow… I felt this SO much. I’ve been working since I was 9, with 2-3 jobs at a time since I was 17. I’ve always focused on physical adventures, broadening my mind through self study, and planning… always planning my dream farm. At 41 I was finally able to quit the rat race, and open my farm- while training for my first ultra. Years of working nights, weekends, and holidays, with a terrible sleep schedule, gave me high blood pressure, which led to a heart attack at 42. Fit and healthy, but I’d worked myself into a rare condition called MINOCA, likely caused by chronic sleep issues. I sacrificed my health and longevity, and though I’m also blessed with an incredible husband I try to treat like he deserves, I’m the worst aunt and sister ever, sacrificed in the pursuit of achievement. I’ve given up on perfection, and the guilt game, and I’m still overworked, but so much happier. (Especially with my cardiologists approving my ultra running. They’d prefer I train for and race a slow 50k than a fast 5k.) I’m glad you’ve come to the realization 15 years before I did! Hard work is important… but balance, especially for ultra runners, while a struggle, should always be part of the goal. I’m looking forward to your refreshing takes on how to achieve it!
You’re BACK!! Actually scratch that, I missed your last 2 videos! As a self employed farmer who works in a warehouse part time, I average 60 hour weeks on my feet, pushing, pulling, lifting. I have to just look at that as time on feet, not beat myself up when I cut a run short or skip a strength workout… and treat this like the fun hobby it’s supposed to be. Skipping tacos/margs with friends is NEVER an option! 😂 I’m so excited to catch back up. I’m attempting the east coast’s toughest 50k again in a month, Jay Peak, and I am on the sofa siiick. 😢
I’m so glad to have your uplifting comments back in the chat! What a neat occupation and a great way to train AND get paid. That’s another way I like to look at things!! Stoked for you at another attempt at Jay Peak, you’ll rock it. Heal up quick!! 🤗
Just found your channel, I'm so happy to see some fellow service workers out here! I've been a bartender for the past 8 years and within these past 2 I've picked up running again. I always felt discouraged to train the way I wanted to because of the toll of being on my feet all day /late nights/tough eating opportunities. But once I started thinking of my life as "training" even when I'm not running it felt way more fun and doable. I remember when i decided to do my first 50k i was literally just like, this is basically just going to work for 6 hours and that's a really short day! I think the biggest thing is just learning to listen to your body and be dynamic about your needs.... Like your triaging! You're inspiring , thanks for making content!
The dynamic and flexible part is key I’ve found as well. If I can hold my training a bit lighter, it’s usually way more fun and I get more!! Glad you’re here and we can work and train through it together 💪
My work is also very busy and at the end of the day I am exhausted, mentally and physically. But I still try to get out for a run. Sometimes I feel like all other ultra runners don't have jobs and get to run all day in the mountains. Which is why I really enjoy your videos and sharing of your busy schedule.
I just did the incline in Saturday and it destroyed my right knee, a week before a 50k I've been training for diligently 😢 I hope the inflammation clears up and I'll be able to race without causing damage. Just wondering if you have any tips. Thank you!
Shoot that’s a big fat bummer but with a solid taper week, hopefully it’ll be good to go! Ice ice baby is what I would do and maybe walk instead of run most of the week leading up to the 50k. Hope it heals up quickly!!
Really enjoyed this video! My waves aren't as rough as yours, but sometimes I catch myself thinking how I haven't had one of those days where I just sit in silence with myself (oh, was that my cringe moment? lol) And I have always needed those days of quiet. Thank you thank you for this! At the beginning when you spoke of the well, I immediately thought, "oh, Viv, Jesus is that well!" and then you went on to speak of God in your life it made me so happy!!
Here’s to the cringe moments!! 😂 Those days of quiet have been so life giving for me lately. God is the only way to true peace in my life. I’m thankful you know it well too!
What you shared here was *exactly* what I needed to hear in my training right now. Thank you for sharing your journey with openness and vulnerability. You are appreciated!
I’m so glad I could provide the words right now for your training! Keep committing to putting those shoes on and getting out the door, even if it means cutting the run short. Stay strong and listen to your body, you’ve got this!!! 💪
Awesome video!! So cool to see a glimpse into your life- I can’t imagine being a flight attendant, runner, coach, and making these videos?! Cool to see how you’re still able to follow your passions and chase your dreams, but at a sustainable pace. You’re awesome Viv!!
It’s not always seamless and I certainly question myself sometimes but it usually ends up making great memories and leads me to fun experiences. Thank you for your kind words and encouragement! I love that we get to go after dreams together!! ✨
Sorry about your phone and lost digital content! When I trip, I feel I am the only one that fall, so good of you to share this (and heal well). Take care-you have so many friends!
Falling is absolutely a part of this sport. When I rode dirt bikes we’d say, if you’re not falling, you’re not going fast enough. I’ve brought that into trail racing as well! Thanks for the love, happy trails 💕
You're one of the reasons I got a running coach and made myself believe I can not only get into Western States, but finish under 24 hrs, you're dedication and discipline is inspirational. Running in AZ heat lets me feel like well if I can run in that, I can pretty much do anything. Just bought my registration for Black Canyon 100k next year! Keep it up Queen.
Hi vivsvibe! Good run! I have a long run tommarow 17-18 miler and I’m trying run my longest ever long run in summer time. The long runs I normally do winter I’m gonna try it tommarow. So u think I need to do my long run at slower pace lower heart rate? I’m training for my next full marathon in March and last year my marathon went bad again I think I’m starting out to fast. If my marathon goal pace is 8-830 pace u think I need do my 17-18 miler at 10 30 to 10 min paces? And maybe start really slow and work down to negative split? I heard your suppose do your long runs easier build aerobic power. I also live in myrtle beach sc area where it’s super humid and warm morning. I gotta start pacing my long runs better, should I take them lower heart rate you think? Thanks Trey keep up the good work!
Lower HR and slower pace through the summer months is a good place to start. What that pace will be in the heat is hard to say. I usually recommend basing your pace LESS on the number on your watch and more on rate of perceived effort (RPE). Through the summer, aim to keep the long runs easy (low RPE) and as it gets closer to March (your marathon) and the weather starts to cool down, you can start integrating some negative split/tempo workouts into the training! Good luck with your next marathon and if you ever want more structure and direction for training, I’d love to work with you one on one!!
Thank you Vivian! i really appreciate your help! yea i been trying run my long runs slower this time of year as later this week in myrtle beach we will have 3 days that are gonna be 90 degrees with 82 percent humidity and 81 degrees at 5 am in morning 100 percent humidity. Im running tommarow morning its gonna be cooler 75 degrees i will be so glad when fall gets here. The frustrating thing about the myrtle beach marathon is you train all winter in cold weather and when March rolls around we seem get heat spell. Last 4 races i have done have been 60-70 degrees with 95 percent humidity, all my faster times have been in the cold in my training lol. My marathon PR is 4 hours and 1 min done in march 2019, before i started using garmin gps i was using fitbit and not worrying about pace and gps. I have not come close to 4 hours since. My half pr is 1 hr 44 min done in 2021, havent come close since. I feel like ever since i got my garmin watch 2021 my running has went down and i stress and worry about pace and gps to much. Maybe i need do most my runs 10 -10 30 min paces and fast stuff only once week. I also strength train 5 sets 5 reps heavy bench pressing and squats barbell. Do you think heavy bench pressing can slow u down also as runner? I enjoy lifting weights also but i wonder if its hurting my running also lifting heavy upper body. Thank you again Vivian! for the tips and offering to help me for my marathon training because it has been frustrating last 4-5 years and no PR even though im putting in the work.
@SuperTreybo The heavy sets in strength training are usually helpful when done 2-3 times a week. Consider taping you watch or putting it in your pack where you can see it but can still track your stats. Run by feel, mixing in 1-2 speedier days, and see if that improves things.
Every day is a good day to have a Viv day!!! Thanks for sharing the glimpse behind the curtain of your life and work. Not only was this very interesting, it was also very helpful. It helps to put in perspective what all of us have to do with our work, sport, family, circumstances, priorities and choices. This was a fantastic video!
I’m glad it could be helpful as well as entertaining! Life will always be in the way of training if it’s not a priority but knowing how to balance it all can get out of wack sometimes too. After years of this I’m learning I was a bit on the overdoing it side of the spectrum trying to fit it all in. Now I see I can say no to a few more things, train and still live life… just a bit more rested😂
My whole definition of rest has changed since this video!! It’s made a huge difference. Funny how I THOUGHT I was resting. Learning what that looks like for me now and it’s awesome!
This is a great video, and I loved hearing your thoughts on running during frequent travel. I am a frequent business traveler, (~60% of the year on the road), and one of the great advantages is finding new places to run during travel. Even new people to go out running with! But oh my gosh you are right - it takes so much planning and energy squeezing training time in where you can, believe me I understand trying to train while looking forward to those 0200 wake up calls.
Yes it can be tough! Glad there are others that agree. After years of it, it starts to add up. I have enjoyed getting to run in so many interesting places over the years though. It’s been a blast exploring with my feet!
