The Vespa Everyday Athlete Series - Joe & Caitlin

Series Background

As a Vespa ambassador for over 3 years now, I am constantly amazed at both the people and sports where they find success. You don't have to be an elite or world-class athlete to achieve the benefits of Vespa or an optimized fat metabolism (OFM) lifestyle.

This series is meant to highlight 'every day' athletes that have had success achieving their goals using Vespa. Meaning, you don't just have to take my word for it!

As a Vespa ambassador (and coach), I love sharing and living vicariously through the success of others! Please use my code (RunRovertRun15) if you're interested in trying out Vespa products!

Enjoy!

A Few Words About Joe & Caitlin

I freely admit that I don't know Joe and Caitlin as well as I would like to! We've bumped into each other at various races and group runs. They've consulted with me on local trails, training, nutrition tips and other random running topics but it's obvious to me that they truly love being outdoors and immersing themselves in LIFE!

They have been popular figures in our running community over the last 2 years simply because they are both engagingly positive people, transparent, friendly, honest and enthusiastic about running. You will not find two more authentic people! Not to mention, they're both achieving great things (personally and athletically) through perseverance, hard work and positivity.

It's hard to find one without the other which is why I decided to feature them together. They support and lift eachother up in so many ways that I hope it's equally as inspirational for you to meet them and learn more.

If you're interested in working with Caitlin for trauma release and nervous system healing I'd encourage you to schedule time with her at My Lucid Life.

*PS, using Vespa does not guarantee you will have abs like Joe 😆 lol

In Their Own Words

Tell us a little bit about your personal and professional lives

Caitlin (43): I am the wife of Apache Joe and mother to 3 kids. I am an energy worker specializing in trauma release and nervous system healing. In my spare time you can find me running the trails with my husband.

Joe (42): "AKA, Apache Joe" is husband to Caitlin - who is like a modern Dr Quinn - and father to 3 kiddos ranging from age 13 to 7. I ran track in college 25 years ago and hung up the spikes for depression medications…until 5 years ago. Wife changed my diet and my life became something beautiful.

Why did you start using Vespa?

Caitlin: Almost a year ago I became fat adapted and needed a good fueling option for long runs and races.

Joe: I was scared to death of my first 100 miler (Javelina). I had never run that distance before and was unsure if it was possible.

How strictly do you follow OFM (Optimized Fat Metabolism) protocols in your daily life?

Caitlin: I cycle through ketosis and carbs. I typically eat very low to no carb 4 days per week and add carbs in for 3 days. My goal is to always be able to go back into ketosis with my next meal and to wake up that way each morning.

Joe: I usually try to fast a couple days while sticking in ketosis for the most part, with clean carbs on a few of the other days. 

What is your favorite running distance?

Caitlin: I’m still too new to running to know. I’ve been playing with every distance from 5k's to 50k's and as long as I’m on a trail, I’m happy!

Joe: The one where there is someone next to me pushing my limits. I love putting on the spikes for the 400m but also like hunkering down for a long 100 mile race. I love competing…I love running fast.

What big goal(s) have you set for yourself this year?

Caitlin: I’m running Copper Corridor 50k in February. It is the most gorgeous run! Last year I placed second to last so I’m looking forward to seeing where a year of training has gotten me. I will also be running my very first 50 miler in the fall. So that feels a little insane and exciting!

Joe: I was invited to run for Team USA at the Worlds Masters track meet in FL this March for the 800m. I’m currently 12th in the US but hope to get even higher. I’m also running the Lost Dutchman Marathon with a mouthful of water to promote nose breathing. This will be the 2nd year I’ve done this.

How do you see Vespa helping you reach your goal(s)?

Caitlin: I call Vespa rocket fuel. I have always struggled with fueling during runs. I don't feel good choking down a lot of the gels. Vespa is the first product that I noticed a huge return on energy. My runs could go so much longer and I feel so much stronger.

Joe: If it is anything like it helped at Javelina, it’s my secret weapon. I was not a fan of fueling on my long runs, especially races. The last thing I want to do is eat when there’s a finish line to cross. But with Vespa, I can empty a packet and a minute later I’m back to buzzing along on the trail. It feels like an extra life playing video games…it’s that great!

What are the top 3 benefits you see while using Vespa?

Caitlin: (1) Increased Energy (2) Increased strength (3) Increased distance without falling over dead.

Joe: (1) Insane energy (2) Easy to run with (3) Meeting other amazing athletes in the endurance community.

What advice would you give others looking to adopt OFM and/or Vespa into their (endurance) training?

Caitlin: The first month feels rotten. Your body feels like it has no power. But if you stick with it, it might be the best you have ever felt! I honestly can't imagine going back and think everyone could benefit from a flexible metabolism. Vespa has been a game changer for leveling up my runs! 

Joe: Stick with it, at first it can be difficult making the OFM [keto] switch. Once you do, it’ll be worth it…and once you get on the other side, Vespa is waiting to help. Rocket fuel!!!