The Summer That Made Me a PRO RUNNER

[@NickSymmondsToo]

If you want something bad enough, GO GET IT! (***quick correction in the video, this was the summer of 2005. 2001 was the summer between junior and senior years of HS and my old man brain mixed them up!***)

[@yoyosquad5717]

I Will. You will see

[@stacysmith7176]

Ok no problem if you mixed it up

[@דולבקרני-ר6ש]

If you can make vid about how to get better in short distance running it will be awesome

[@josipmajdak2001]

Great motivation for just about anything in life. This story reminded me of the success of Janica and Ivica Kostelić, and the way they made it possible. Congrats to your vision and determination!

[@dansugardude2655]

Would you recommend "going all-in" for a regular 9 to 5 job? At a company that a person simply works for, but does not own even slightly.

[@carterjerome5685]

This channel is becoming my favorite of the two

[@Mr._Reborn]

Yeah the profile picture really sells it (and maybe his race breakdowns)

[@fatbastard7346]

Yeah I prefer it since it seems more helpful.

[@osseftw12]

Same here

[@mangss9602]

Same! His other channel is more for viral videos and these are more informative.

[@Shevock]

Same. I love that he's a great video-storyteller, but these stories and experiences are something nobody else can share.

[@Aronmedhane98]

Altitude + Run Gum = UNSTOPPABLE

[@NickSymmondsToo]

you know this!!! :D

[@jeff09_]

Whenever I’m in the middle of a big training block, I always find myself watching this video. Even if I know in my heart I want to be the greatest athlete in the world, it helps to have a reminder of how the journey takes dedication and patience. Hopefully I’ll come back to this comment when I accomplish this goal

[@matthewcordova1974]

This channel feels sm more authentic then the other one

[@karthiksivalasetti2561]

This.

[@roro_81]

Channel.

[@JosiahProvan]

Feels.

[@agginssawols6861]

Sm.

[@sashaallan855]

More.

[@mariosalazar4404]

I live in Toluca! Altitude is no joke here, so cool hearing this story! Keep the great work Nick :)

[@NickSymmondsToo]

I miss Toluca! And Mexico in general. Gorgeous country, great people + great food!

[@claytoneftink1662]

Hey Mario, I discussed the topic of doing the exact same thing Nick did with my mom, and she was concerned about like the safety go of the town, people, etc. What is it like in Toluca?

[@mariosalazar4404]

@@claytoneftink1662 To be completely honest with you, Mexico has had a really bad perception on insecurity lately, wich mostly is exaggerated, even tough we clearly have a problem with insecurity, most of it is condensed near the border, I could say Toluca is pretty good, there is a "Town" wich is really near Toluca, called "Metepec" wich has awesome conditions to Train and live in, as well as "Zinacantepec", these 2 are about 15 minutes away, both have awesome tracks, if you want any more info hit my DM's on Instagram, I'd gladly help with what I can :) I think there are no DM on KZbin "mario.salazar.pollo"

[@luisolivares9405]

Jajajaja nmms en que escuela vas?

[@albertoaguilar9773]

​@@claytoneftink1662 Life in general terms is peaceful and most people are good. Just be concerned with the combis (taxi trucks) that go between Mexico city and the state (lots of armed robberies)

[@pabblogarrido]

You don’t understand how much I really needed this video Nick!! I’ve been struggling with the ALL IN concept! Got straight up goosebumps when you said “if you go ALL IN on something it is simply impossible to fail!!” LET’S GET IT!!

[@imafork4526]

You're always a pro runner when you have some RUN GUM

[@Zteam1Brawlstars]

Run gum has the property of runner and gum

[@judahweesner2651]

My current 5k time is 18:03, my 1500 is 4:35, and my 800 is 2:12, Im a junior and hoping to run 16s this xc season and sub 4:20 in the 15 and at least low 2s in the 8 before I graduate. This is really motivating thank you

[@blinkbabe3684]

4:35?? what the hell

[@aaronharman5431]

That’s his 1,500 not mile

[@pranavanand9818]

@@aaronharman5431 still good

[@averageytwatcher2060]

@@aaronharman5431 that’s still on pace for sub-5 which is faster than you would guess for an 18:03. Mine are 17:35 and 4:56. Maybe he’s better at the mile than 5K

[@jonahmays]

I just ended freshman year so my times still aren’t proportional. 5:22 mile and 2:14 800 lol

[@finnboyle2912]

Nick, do you think you could make a video of the nitty gritty details regarding the daily grind in Toluca? - food, runs, naps, lol anything honestly. I think that would be super interesting

[@alancantu2557]

My family is from Mexico and my uncles have trained in the city of Toluca for years. This story was truly inspiring, thank you for all your insight Nick!

[@alexg815]

Somehow, you always want to make me go for a run every time I watch your videos.

[@NickSymmondsToo]

that's the goal! :D

[@s1mon8ratt96]

Same for me, I always get so inspired

[@thefleet1554]

Truely inspirational story. One year youre a d3 college runner next year pro contract after a spur of the moment trip. While I may not be capable of pro running, this story shows how new life paths can open up.

[@folanhunter]

Nick, I know I'm late to the party but I know I had to comment. Even though I do not aspire to be a pro runner, the advice you gave feels so relevant to my life. While I am running 60+ miles a week and ran my first ever race last December, a 50k, running will never be something I am going to make money in. However, it was a catalyst to change in my life. It made me realize my dream of enlisting in the Navy and gave me a basic foundation of discipline. Going all in and betting on myself is something that running has taught me. Nick, thank you for the video and thank you for sharing such a powerful message. This can seriously change someones life in a positive way, cheers!

[@kkouz45]

Amazing life story! How did I not know this? My take away is the dream comes 1st, then set the goal and make the plan, and finally implement the plan to reach the goal to live the dream.

[@nick5422]

Great to see another video nick, I was just watching your vid about letsrun haters😂 Don't let em get you down!

[@cletus3078]

My goal for 2021 is to train for track season and hopefully drop my mile from 5:32 to 4:26

[@420jettt2]

Run high mileage at a very easy pace. 70-80mpw would be ideal. Now that may sound high but to even have a shot at dropping all that time you would have to truly commit.

[@EVW.G]

That would be nearly impossible dropping that time down to that 4:26 in a *year*. Be more realistic imo, my original mile time last season was 5:29 and worked my ass off to get 4:58 by the end of season, and that was running 50 mile weeks. My goal is 4:15 by my senior year (right now I'm in my sophomore year), and it's gonna take a lot of commitment and hard work to get that goal. I believe that you'll get 4:26 one day, but dropping over 1 minute in the *mile* in just a one year span, especially a time that's already in the mid-5 minute range, is a bit too unrealistic. I think you should go for sub-5 or 4:50 :) *JUST MY OPINION THO*

[@420jettt2]

@@EVW.G this is true but hey you never know

[@AllBubbledUpp]

Nothing’s impossible man 👌🏼👌🏼 go kill it big dawg 🔥

[@adamsmith3838]

@@420jettt2 i dont understand, could you please explain how running easy pace will help with the speed involved

[@Ak-ig8os]

Watching this again 1 year after still learning thanks Nick

[@Ak-ig8os]

Still learning

[@backofen7768]

Hey Nick, I really really love this video! I´ve been struggling with my results in cross country skiing the past few years, but realised that if I dont change anything my career would have to come to an end, because I was leaving school in 2 years. I didnt change the fundamental training since that was up to the high profile coaches at the sports school, but rather added and changed everything revolving around the training. Now I havent been eating sweets for half a year and been working on my weaknesses in xc-skiing, these changes led to a quite successful season and motivation and hope to become professional in the next. Why I am writing this isnt to brag that I have become better, but rather to compliment this video and show athletes that it is actually possible to be successful if you really want it. For me the point of realisation came through a number of things, firstly the frustration of being bad, secondly the fact I only had two more years to change and thirdly getting injured. I tore my Meniskus and couldnt train properly for about 8 weeks, so I started changing everything that I could change and do better to that time, I continued with these changes to this day and this video reminded me to keep on going until I make it!

[@curtismaliksquash7071]

Absolutely brilliant video Nick! Those tips apply to any sport! Thanks a lot 🔥

[@joseramonlopez1113]

What a great advices. Bet on yourself and go all in. This channel is really really good.

[@DantheDonut369]

Just curious, what happened to your two friends that went down to Mexico with you that summer? Did they see massive improvements too?

[@4Dangert]

I was wondering exact same thing.

[@zaparlante]

I think he answered when he said that not everyone improves :(

[@THUNDERCAT37c]

@@zaparlante >:D

[@timowthie]

@@aaronhollingshead3736 and the other guy?

[@albertoaguilar9773]

​@@zaparlante Yeah, maybe they took a different path, which isn't bad, some people just want to do something different.

[@10klp]

I’ve had this video in my watch later for a little now and I’m glad; at 11:50 at night on what I now live is these early mornings in the military am glad I clicked on this and watched the whole 11 minutes. When I get done with deployment I’m moving to Oregon to chase my dream and work Nike corporate. I promise nothing will stop me

[@jesusjordan1574]

Yeah, Nick!! I'm so happy you're where you are because you worked hard!! Hard work pays off and thanks for showing us!!

[@TheSecondWitness]

Great advice! You’re the best, and love your videos. Thanks for sharing and helping. I don’t have Instagram, so here’s my goal: WR 800 m Masters M55 (first sub 2:00 that division).

[@TRACKHEADZTV]

Major is Key is to ALWAYS bet on yourself, Quality Video Champ. Keep dropping Gems.

[@sebasborreto2786]

Every time I watch your videos I get super motivated to train more for my next track meet in the 800m! Your owesome nick best wishes!

[@infinitegaming1015]

I’m 23 and this is something I’m shooting for. Lots of people are taking time off because of COVID but that’s not my mentality. This was definitely I wanted to hear. Hard work will pay off 💪

[@JohnnyRunsForFun]

Inspirational

[@cindygirlification]

I ran 800m to 10 km events most weekends from 10 to 19 in Australia during the ‘80’s. I never thought running was anything other than fun even though I was very competitive. I wish I could’ve gotten advice like this.

[@economicinfo823]

I would love to see a podcast. With you just talking about your journey and maybe interviewing other pro athletes

[@runzization]

Great message! Nick, that was a solid 100mile ride you had! You've got a good series of challenges for RG, now make that next goal/YT series a Gravel Bike race! The Bike, Coach, training, and thoughts All In!

[@jackdrahota6887]

The fact that you came from a D3 school and went on to be as successful as you were inspires me. For a while I thought I had a shot at a big time D1 program but ended up not working out and now I’m just trying to do my best in division 2. Thank you! Keep making these cool videos.

[@alexdelamaza1635]

I was born in Toluca. It's a great place!!!!

[@Boluggg]

This video gets me so hyped. Invest in yourself. All in.

[@BRANDONDLSS]

U r the most expert now !!!

[@manashbarman3490]

Wow what a wonderful story ..... Hope to see you achieving more in life ....

[@edat9348]

Please post more videos like this I love the knowledge that you share with us

[@apwr]

Nick, thank you for this!! I’m about to make a jump to becoming a professional runner and the first spot I thought about…. Toluca 🇲🇽

[@fduhart]

Hello from Mexico!! Please share the trails you ran in Toluca I'd love to train there :D

[@ParkerMax]

I remember reading about this back in Life Outside the Oval Office! 🔥

[@NickSymmondsToo]

Thanks for reading the book Parker!! And congrats on the continued growth on your own channel!!

[@robinvanonna2509]

Amazing how just one video can be so life changing. Thank you Nick for showing me what I can achieve when I really want to go for it👍😄

[@stephenallison5003]

Great video. I wish this existed when I was 21. Really inspirational.

[@pocuiriz]

I loved this video, resonated so much with each of your words, thanks Nick

[@angelacollins6757]

This is a great motivational speech. You do an excellent job of telling your story and breaking down the points to a small number.

[@jonathanbower7081]

Amazing video and story, thank you for sharing about this formative time!

[@AdamCort11]

You have an unimaginable amount of talent in running, but I think your biggest talent is your ability to speak so eloquently of the top of your head.

[@VicProductions]

Ohio XC here. Loved the video! Very cool story. Thanks Nick. 👍

[@valeriemartin7834]

I always get so encouraged when I watch these videos!

[@FactHunters940]

Thank you Nick I’m going to college next year and trying to a become a runner and this has motivated me

[@steveruppel]

I love your channel, it’s so nice to see how passionate you are about running and making videos!

[@sam-wv2ds]

So inspiring... wow.

[@souravchattopadhyay542]

Wow man!!! i was waiting for this one!! what a journey...

[@foreignkidroyals9756]

thanks nick your words heard.

[@boopuspoopus4205]

Awesome video! I like this channel even better than your main one!

[@iicane7936]

I’m aspiring to break the state swimming record in the 200 breaststroke. Thanks, this video really motivated me to try and become the best I can possibly be

[@joekipper1531]

This is one of the best videos I’ve seen from you! Please keep up this great content, I’d love to hear about how your friends did after that summer.

[@danburby7936]

ANOTHER GREAT VIDEO NICK,LOVE TO HEAR YOU ON PODCAST

[@joseftessema4273]

Thank you so much for the advice Nick. All in is the only way

[@komorebi_5549]

Thanks for these tips, Nick! It's cool how you mentioned you were focused on biochemistry in college as that's also what I'm interested in taking in college. Hopefully, I can also go past that to medical school while also becoming a better runner 😅

[@wnJhntn]

Just awesome

[@trtrr5ry6]

i needed to see this and i didnt know, thanks nick !! admire you, im all in :))

[@lowedi]

New subscriber. Could you do a show about traveling during the season? How do you manage the travel, hotel, meals and workouts? I am especially interested how you are able to workout consistently if you are peaking later for a championship.

[@lorenzoventuri1694]

This is truely motivational! Thank you !

[@teresaparadise5162]

Thank you

[@ikesweitzer9815]

Hey Nick, any tips on how to carry fitness from XC to Track? Like a lot of runners, I got in great shape for XC but now I’m pretty banged up injury-wise. Should I try to keep my fitness up or should I give my body some rest before I start building up my base? Thanks for the great vids!

[@pokemoncollectibles2192]

Thanks for sharing Nick! Always look forward to your videos but this one truly hit the spot! Thanks for sharing a piece of your life and motivating others (:

[@ianclarito]

Thanks nick for the insights!

[@rinksquad7347]

Nick you are the coolest person ever keep up the amazing work!

[@georgeblaha7586]

Love this channel

[@abanjo123]

Great video! Entertaining n inspiring at the same time.

[@addyjones1882]

Such an inspiration, cheers nick your the best 👍

[@leebyrnetrack7782]

Great Video Nick as always ! Relatable, thank you! 🏃🏻‍♂️

[@Ethankoren]

Such a great video, amazing insight and knowledge! Thanks Nick.

[@rodrigonieto4950]

awesome i live in Toluca, you should come again and train together!

[@robertfitzpatty]

This video was very inspiring, thanks Nick!

[@treshanfernando7162]

Amazing video Nick 🙌🏽

[@jadestarbird6155]

This is an awesome and informative channel!!

[@edgarfemat6258]

8:36 We are learning from you Nick :)

[@coolvibrations8817]

this reminds me a lot of the book 'Once a Runner' when cassidy gets kicked outta school and goes to live in the woods and train

[@Everythingyouneed010]

So inspiring!!

[@necto1879]

Thx for the inspiration man

[@djp3525]

This is a good story. I did exactly the same thing Nick did (the 3 tenets) in something I loved. I ended up failing. Just saying it doesn’t always work out.

[@ziminhe2859]

Nick is my favorite youtuberrrrrrr

[@erickhan6349]

last point was the most important putting away my phone now bc its a big distraction

[@luisolivares9405]

Hey, I am from Mexico and lived there in Toluca, me caes de huevos bro💪

[@jtorres3779]

You and seth de moore are my always go to videos

[@teagonjewkes8506]

Hey Nick, I'm a big fan and I love watching all your vids. Its great to listen to you talk and add to my running knowledge. I run middle distance track and XC for my High School. I was just wondering what workout/training routines do you suggest that I should follow.

[@patrickgomes8865]

Can u make a video of how to become a better 800 runner (workouts, strategy, lifting) ?

[@ihealmyself]

Well done.

[@shapejustanormaltriangle7659]

If only it were warmer in Pennsylvania

[@davidlyubarskiy4594]

Great video nick

[@Ak-ig8os]

Now i am 3300m for 9 and half weeks its super amazing lets what's going to happen when i returns to sea level in just 4 days a big race coming in next month watch this video 2 back

[@jillyjuniper]

Awesome video!!!! ✨

[@thrasher4ever928]

Nick- do you have any tips for doing this? I really want to go to mexico to train before I start collegiate athletics next fall. thank you so much for making this video

[@torlando1553]

i needed this i just got injured and i need the hope

[@humbertoestrada4215]

Hell yeah!! Mexican Community is here waiting for you! If you come someday to México to introduce RunGum, let us know! :D

[@Kenno_Platonov]

watching this video 4th time... i love it lol

[@lanethompson976]

Blue collar work at its best

[@keithkline5977]

I’m a little late, but I’m a bigger 800 runner who’s a junior in college. In highschool I ran 2:00 in the 800 at 190 pounds. I decided not to run in college initially, but I came back because i felt like I was missing something in life. I was 230 in January, now i’m down to 200. Do you have any advice?