To mark Men’s Health Week, we sat down with IKU ambassador and elite ultramarathon runner Tom Batrouney to talk about mindset, wellbeing, and the importance of speaking up. Known for running 100km races and promoting environmental change through movement, Tom’s perspective reminds us that strength isn’t just about how far you can run - it’s also about how openly you can share.

Mental health is part of the whole picture

When we think of health, many of us picture the physical first. For Tom, the mental is just as - if not more - important.

“The mental always manifests in the physical. You can actually control how your body performs and feels with your mind. Even just smiling can change your entire experience.”

In his world of extreme endurance, the connection between mind and body isn’t a theory - it’s a daily reality. And for Tom, sharing openly about mental health is not only brave, it’s essential.
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It’s strong to ask for help

Despite being someone who thrives on challenge, Tom doesn’t equate strength with silence.

“To tackle every hurdle in life solo is to miss out on the magic of working with others on better outcomes. Sharing isn’t weakness - it’s self-love, and it’s also a way to show love to someone else.”

When life gets overwhelming, Tom approaches it the same way he would a physical injury: clearly, directly, and with a mindset that help is not only needed - but welcome.

Endurance as a mental teacher

If running 100km sounds intense, that’s because it is. But for Tom, those hours on the trail are more than a physical feat - they’re a condensed version of life itself.

“You feel everything: joy, doubt, pain, clarity. You troubleshoot, you seek support, you evolve. By the end, you’re not the same person who started.”

In the emotional rollercoaster of ultra-distance running, Tom has found not just resilience but perspective - and it’s shaped how he navigates all of life’s highs and lows. 
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The simple things are the powerful ones

When it comes to staying mentally well, Tom brings it back to basics.

“I always think of the simple fundamentals: nutrition, hydration, fresh air, movement. When I focus on those, there’s not much I can’t solve.”

That simplicity extends to how he connects with others too - working through life’s challenges collaboratively, and keeping space for joy and curiosity.

Performance means nothing without recovery

As someone who runs upwards of 100km per week, Tom has learnt the hard way that you can’t push endlessly without pausing.

“Performance and recovery aren’t separate - they’re one. If I don’t recover, I fall apart. Building rest into my schedule is how I stay consistent.”

And for Tom, consistency is key. Because true strength, both mental and physical, is built slowly, deliberately, and with a mindset that evolves over time.
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Fuel for the mind

Tom credits his focus on clean, nourishing food as a source of happiness, confidence and clarity.

“Good food equals good happiness and confidence - and they’re powerful emotions for anyone. Especially when you’re pushing your limits.”

While food might seem like a physical input, for Tom, it’s also deeply connected to how he feels emotionally and mentally, giving him the foundation to take on whatever life throws his way.

His message to other men this week?

“It ain’t weak to speak. A problem shared is a problem halved. And life’s a garden - dig it!”

If this conversation reminded you to check in on a friend - or yourself - consider that a powerful first step. Because just like running an ultramarathon, mental health is a journey best navigated with honesty, support and a good dose of courage.

If you’re going through a tough time, there’s always someone ready to listen. Reaching out is a sign of strength, not weakness. Whether you need someone to talk to or just want to explore mental health resources, these organisations are here for you:

• Lifeline – 13 11 14 | lifeline.org.au
  24/7 crisis support and suicide prevention services.
• Beyond Blue – 1300 22 4636 | beyondblue.org.au
  Support for anxiety, depression and mental wellbeing.
  
• MensLine Australia – 1300 78 99 78 | mensline.org.au
  Free, confidential counselling and support for men.
  
• Headspace – headspace.org.au
  Mental health support for young people aged 12–25.

You are worthy of support, just as you are. Don’t wait for a breaking point - start the conversation today.
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