Tread Lightly Running Podcast
The Tread Lightly Running Podcast provides data-driven, evidence-based running advice in a practical and inclusive way. Topics include running faster, marathon training, fueling science, and injury prevention. Co-hosted by Amanda Brooks and Laura Norris, who have over 20 years of coaching experience and have been featured in Runner's World, SELF, NPR, and Outside.
Episodes
GLP-1s, Nomio, UCAN Gels, and Other Trendy Supplements with Dietitian Alex Larsen
Are broccoli sprout shots the secret to your next PR? Will U-Can gels help you manage weight? And are greens powders a scam or magic bullet? We sit down with registered dietitian Alex Larson, the founder of Alex Larson Nutrition. She answers all our questions on GLP-1s, cortisol-reducing supplements, lactate gels, if Laura can make her own Nomio at home, and more.In this episode, you’ll learn:✅ Th
Is Zone 2 Running Overrated? Understanding the Backlash Against and Science of Easy Running
Zone 2 is the magic bullet for improved health and endurance fitness - or it is overrated and spikes your cortisol. You have likely encountered both claims on social media, and neither are correct. In this episode, we dive into the science of zone 2 for runners. We discuss how to set your zone 2 correctly, who should use it, who should ignore their heart rate zones, and what happens if you run slo
Does Summer Running Really Make You Faster in the Fall?
Slower summer runs lead to fast fall races - so you have heard. But as you slog through another humid, hot long run, you may be wondering: is there truth to this adage? In this episode, we discuss ideal fall racing temperatures, all the variables that contribute to fall race performances, and how long heat adaptations actually last.Thank you to our sponsors:✨ Tailwind: Complete sport nutrition mad
What to Do The Week After a Half Marathon or Marathon: A Science-based Post Race Recovery Guide
Post-race recovery is not the avoidance of training. Rather, it is a crucial component of a well-periodized training plan, especially for a marathon or half marathon. In this episode, we first examine the physiological impact of racing a marathon or half marathon on the body. Then, we detail how to approach a recovery phase, including what can enhance or impair recovery after a race.In this episod
Do You Need High Mileage? The Science of High Volume Running
You have likely encountered the advice that all you need to do to run better is to run more. Is training really that simple? In this episode, we discuss high volume running: why people do it, who it works for, and who should skip it. We examine the research and assess unique situations such as busy athletes, beginners, masters athletes, and injury-prone runners. You will also learn how to safely i
Tune Up Race Formula: Timing, Recovery, and What the Training Theory Says
Tune-up races are a common piece of many training plans. Are they necessary? Why should you bother racing in the middle of training?In this episode, we discuss all you need to know about how to run an effective tune-up race (and whether to run one at all). We draw from years of coaching experience and an understanding of various training theories to guide you through how to incorporate non-goal ra
The Psychology Behind Peak Running Performance with Dr. Trent Claypool
“Performance is your potential minus interference - and the brain often interferes with how well we want to do.” Many runners struggle to translate their training to racing, because of race day nerves, negative self-talk, or fear of discomfort. In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Trent Claypool of Summit Sport Psychology to learn how to embrace discomfort, use positive self-talk, and train your
Pilates as Strength Training, Can You Overfuel on Long Runs, If Max Cushion Shoes are Harmful and More: Our Hot (Science-based) Takes
In this episode, we bring a nuanced, science-based approach to many hot topics in running right now. What causes muscle cramps? Does Pilates count as strength training? Should slower runners wear carbon plated shoes? Is it possible to overfuel on long runs? Our goal is to provide individualized guidance, rather than click-baity universalized proclamations. In this episode, we provide our informed
Sweat, Sodium, and Running Performance: What the Science Actually Says
You likely have heard both sides of the debate, as one side argues that sodium supplementation is overrated, while the other side shills sports drinks with a full gram of sodium. In this episode, we dive into the research to present you with a nuanced, science-backed discussion on the widely varying sodium needs of runners. You will learn how to determine your sweat rate and sodium needs, if sodiu
The Science of the Long Run: Why It Matters More Than You Think
The long run is a staple of training plans from the 5K to ultra - but why? In this episode, we discuss the science of long runs, including the physiological adaptations, progressions, specificity and more. Plus, we answer your questions about why sleep is difficult after a long run, if walk breaks are okay, and if you treadmill long runs at a lower heart rate are better than outdoors.Thank you to
Gut Training for Runners: How to Fuel Without Stomach Problems with Claire Shorenstein, MS CSSD
Most runners have experienced sloshy stomach, nausea, urgency, or other GI issues during a race or run. However, GI problems do not have to be a part of running! We discuss gut training with board-certified sports dietitian Claire Shorenstein. You will learn protocols for gut training, if gut training reverses during your taper, and how to pick the fuel that sits best with you.Thank you to our spo
What Research Actually Says About Ferritin, Iron Deficiency, and Running
Are you noticing that you are tired all the time and cannot seem to hit your paces in training? Those are not symptoms to ignore. Sometimes, these are signs of low ferritin levels that warrant bloodwork and a doctor visit. In this episode, we examine the research on low ferritin and running, including the causes, how to treat, and how to prevent low ferritin.Thank you to our sponsors:✨ Mizuno: Sho
Why Your Half Marathon Has Plateaued (And How to Train for a Breakthrough)
Repeatedly missing your running goals is a frustrating experience, especially if you are training hard for a race. In this episode, we discuss what causes a half marathon plateau and solutions to break through to the next performance level. You will learn how to know if you need more speed, goal pace training, endurance, or strength when training for a half marathon. Even if your races have not pl
Thinking About a 50K? 50 Miler? How to Run Your First Ultra Marathon, According to Science
You have loved our episodes on how to run your first half marathon and marathon - so today, we have an episode for those of you who feel ready to go further. We discuss how to train for your first ultra marathon, whether you are doing a 50K, 50 miler, or 100mile. You will learn how to structure workouts and long runs, how to prepare for elevation gain, how to fuel, and more! Thank you to our spons
Understanding Foot Strike: Does It Impact Injury or Performance?
Pronation can be misunderstood as a scary, dangerous risk for injury - and people use that to sell you something. In reality, a certain degree of pronation is a normal part of the running gait. However, excessive or limited pronation can be problematic for some runners. So how do you know if you need to worry about overpronation or buy stability shoes? In episode 171, we take an evidence-based app
What Does "Wake Up Your Glutes" Actually Mean? Dr. Gaby Go, DPT Explains Glute Activation
You have probably encountered claims that your “glutes aren’t firing” or that you have “sleepy glutes,” and that lazy glutes are hurting your running. This approach misses a lot of nuance: if you can stand, your glutes work; but weak glutes can impact running injury risk and running economy. We are joined by Dr. Gaby Go, DPT and run coach, who explains the nuances of glute activation and why stron
Heat Acclimation Strategies and Science-Backed Cooling Techniques for Summer Running
In our last episode, we discussed the physiology of running in the heat, including why you run slower. However, you are not doomed to suffer through slow slogs all summer long. In part two of our summer running series, we discuss heat acclimation strategies and cooling techniques to make summer running a little less miserable.Thank you to our sponsors:✨Title Nine: Comfortable sports bras that actu
The Science of Running in Heat & Humidity (and How to Handle It)
It doesn’t have to be a cruel summer of slogging through hot, humid runs. You can adjust your training so that summer running is productive and enjoyable. In part 1 of our summer running episodes, we discuss the physiological impacts of running in the heat and humidity, and how to adjust your training based on those responses.Thank you to our sponsors:✨ Good Ranchers: American-grown meat, delivere
The Neuroscience of Pain (And How to Use It) with Kruse Elite
Pain is not just tissue damage - but it’s also just not in your brain. In this episode, we’re joined by Taylor Kruse of Kruse Elite. We discuss the neuroscience of pain and movement, including how the brain processes pain, the role of the vestibular system, and how we can think about non-injury pain for runners. Bonus: you will also learn why motion sickness happens!Thank you to our sponsors:✨Titl
Race Banditing, AI Coaching Apps, If Downhill Races are PRs, and Other Grey Areas of Running Culture
Is bib-sharing wrong? Should downhill races count as a PR? Are AI running apps the future of the sport, or setting up runners for injury? In this episode, we have a nuanced discussion on many of the gray areas of sportsmanship and running culture.✨Title Nine: Comfortable sports bras that actually fit, from a women-owned company. Use code RUNTOTHEFINISH for free shipping at https://runtothefinish.c
How To Race On A Budget (Because Running is Not Cheap)
Running for exercise can be cheap, but running for performance and participating in races can be expensive. Maybe you are also weary of the wastefulness of influencer culture and want to know how to purchase fewer things and make your gear last longer. In this episode, we share our advice on how to race on a budget, from gear to fuel and more. Thank you to our sponsors:✨ Good Ranchers: American-gr
What to Eat Before a Race, from the 5K to Marathon
Carbohydrates, caffeine, and water (sometimes with electrolytes): these seem so simple, but they all improve performance when taken before a race. In this episode, we discuss how to structure your pre-race meal before a 5K to marathon, including what to eat, how to time it, and how to avoid GI upset.Thank you to our sponsors:✨Wahoo KICKR RUN: A treadmill that feels like running outdoors. Shop here
Strava Anxiety: When Data Makes You Slower
Data can be useful (when it’s valid and reliable) - but excessive data, especially when mixed with comparison against others, can negatively impact your training and relationship with running. In this episode, we discuss Strava anxiety, the comparison trap, and when data can actually make you slower.Thank you to our sponsors:✨Wahoo KICKR RUN: A treadmill that feels like running outdoors. Shop here
What the Rise of Women in Sports Means for Everyone with Ashley Mateo
Women account for a majority of the growth in the sport of running over the past few years - and media is catching up with this shift. We sit down with runher magazine’s founder Ashley Mateo to discuss trends and media representation of women in running.Thank you to our sponsors:✨Title Nine: Comfortable sports bras that actually fit, from a women-owned company. Use code RUNTOTHEFINISH for free shi
Track Intimidation: How to Show Up and What Workouts to Do
Are you curious about running your speed workouts at the track, but feeling intimidated by it? This episode will guide you through how to confidently run at the track: the proper etiquette, terminology, popular workouts, and more. Plus, you’ll learn about smart approaches for running speedwork, whether you are on the roads or the track.Thank you to our sponsors:✨ Amazfit: User-friendly simple runn
Half Marathon Taper: It’s Not Just Less Running
The taper is not solely reserved for the marathon. When you are racing a half marathon as your goal race, a gradual and deliberate taper will prepare you to run your strongest, fastest race. In this episode, we discuss how to taper for a half marathon, including common taper mistakes and more. Thank you to our sponsors:✨Title Nine: Comfortable sports bras that actually fit, from a women-owned comp
Running Through Allergies, Illness Or Asthma
You are experiencing itchy eyes, nasal congestion, and sneezing on your runs. Are these allergy symptoms or illness? Is it okay to run through these symptoms, and if so, will these slow you down? In this episode, we discuss seasonal allergies, illness, and exercise-induced asthma in relationship to running and racing.(Disclaimer: this episode does not serve as medical advice. Please consult a medi
Dry Needling, Cupping, and Lasers: What Your PT is Actually Doing to You with Dr. Logan Dockery PT, DPT, PhD
We received your questions about TENS units, dry needling, muscle scraping, and other physical therapy treatments. To give you the most evidence-based advice, we brought on Dr. Logan Dockery, physical therapist and running biomechanics specialist. In this episode, Dr. Logan Dockery answers all your questions about dry needling, kinesiology tape, e-stim, and more! Thank you to our sponsors:✨Title N
Why Most Supplements are Worthless (And Which Five are Worth the Cost)
There are hundreds of supplements on the market - all with promising claims for faster finish times, quicker recovery, and better health. But are all supplements worth the cost? We analyze the most recent research to divide popular supplements into three categories: not worth the cost, maybe useful for some, and highly recommended. (Disclaimer: this episode does not serve as medical advice. Please
The Science of Speed vs Endurance at Different Running Distances
A 5K and a marathon are objectively different distances - but they are also more similar than you think. If you’ve ever wondered why the 5K is technically a long-distance race, or what the difference between training for a mile and a marathon is, this episode is for you! We’ll discuss the metabolic and mechanical differences of the short, middle, and long distances, plus how those theoretical diff
Navigating Social Media Fitness Advice as an Athlete with Ben Carpenter
Today’s guest is one of our favorite social media personalities, Ben Carpenter. Ben is a personal trainer who regularly debunks fitness myths on his popular social media page, @bdccarpenter. He’s also the author of “Everything Fat Loss: The Definitive No Bullsh*t Guide” and “Fat Loss Habits: The No Bullsh*t Guide to Losing Weight.”In part two of our interview with Ben, we discuss how to navigate s
Why Most Diets Fail and What Science Tells Us About Fat Loss with Ben Carpenter
Today’s guest is one of our favorite social media personalities, Ben Carpenter. Ben is a personal trainer who regularly debunks fitness myths on his popular social media page, @bdccarpenter. He’s also the author of “Everything Fat Loss: The Definitive No Bullsh*t Guide” and “Fat Loss Habits: The No Bullsh*t Guide to Losing Weight.”In part one of our interview with Ben, we discuss fat loss myths. Y
What Does Training Like an Elite Runner Actually Look Like?
Unlike most of our episodes, this episode isn’t filled with practical tips that we want you to implement in your training. Instead, we’re taking you into the science and practice of elite runner training. You’ll learn about how they structure their training volume and intensity, the crucial training components they don’t skip, and more!Thank you to our sponsors:✨ Amazfit: User-friendly simple runn
The Science of Hitting the Wall (And How to Avoid It)
Hitting the wall is dreaded amongst all marathoners – but it doesn’t have to be an inevitable experience. This episode delves into the research and statistics of hitting the wall in the marathon. Then, we provide you with a clear, practical guide of how to train, pace, and fuel so you can avoid hitting the wall.✨Join us on Patreon.com/treadlightlyrunning or subscribe on Apple Podcasts starting in
Cutting through the Running Shoe BS - Carbon vs Nylon Plates, Heel Drop, and What All the Jargon Means
There are more running shoe brands and models than ever - and all the jargon can feel confusing. In this episode, we help you navigate what features of a running shoe actually matter - and what’s just good marketing. You’ll learn about supershoes vs supertrainers, why heel to toe drop matters, what the different foams do, and more.Thank you to our sponsors:✨ Amazfit: User-friendly simple running w
The Pep Talk You Need for Managing Parenthood with Training Goals With Danielle Pascente
Parenthood brings so many new joys and new challenges alike. Of those challenges, it can feel so difficult to find the time and energy to exercise. In this episode, we’re joined by Danielle Pascente as she discusses how to manage your athletic goals in early parentood.Danielle Pascente is a personal trainer/fitness expert in Los Angeles and the creator of the DPFIT APP & Danielle Pascente Trai
Winter Running 101: Everything You Need to Know (Ep. 150)
Love it or hate it, winter running poses several unique challenges, from speed workouts on icy roads to low motivation from seasonal affective disorder. In this episode, we discuss training modifications, running gear, and nutrition approaches for training in the cold and snow.✨Join us on Patreon.com/treadlightlyrunning or subscribe on Apple Podcasts starting in December, when we’ll be releasing s
Base Building Blueprint To Set Yourself Up for a Year of Running Success
Base building is not very exciting – but it is highly effective, whether your goal is to run a faster marathon or 5K. While often conflated with an off-season, a base building phase is a distinct and crucial training phase. This phase of lots of easy miles develops both aerobic fitness and tissue tolerance, so that you can later build race-specific fitness with lower risk of injury and greater ada
What is Zone 3 Really Doing to Your Running Fitness? [Remastered]
Will running in the “grey zone” cause you to flounder - or appropriately dosed amounts let your fitness flourish? This remastered episode, originally from January 2024, provides a nuanced discussion on how moderate intensity running can be beneficial in the correct doses - but why you don’t want to train every day in this zone.✨Join us on Patreon.com/treadlightlyrunning or subscribe on Apple Podca
Running Through Exhaustion: Why You're Tired All the Time and How to Fix It
Are you tired all the time, both during runs and during the rest of the day? This remastered episode from 2024 examines training fatigue, abnormal fatigue, vitamin deficiencies, low energy availability, training load management, and more!Thank you to our sponsors:✨ FlipBelt: Sleek storage options, including no-bounce running belts and shorts. Use code TLF20 at flipbelt.com for 20% off your purchas
Why 80/20 Doesn’t Work for Every Runner with Jonah Rosner
You have likely seen the term 80-20 running: a training approach where 80% of runs are easy, and 20% are hard. But is this an infallible rule as people present it on social media, or are there times when you may run more hard workouts - or more easy runs? We discuss the nuance of training intensity distribution with sport scientist Jonah Rosner.Thank you to our sponsors:✨ Amazfit: User-friendly si
You Finished Couch to 5K: Now What?
If you are a new runner or returning to the sport after a hiatus, you likely started with Couch to 5K program. But what comes next after those initial weeks? In this episode, we discuss the different approaches of how to build your endurance and speed after finishing Couch to the 5K. ✨ Amazfit: User-friendly simple running watches with advanced features, at an affordable price point. Use link http
What You Really Need to Know about Fueling Your Runs
If a supplement offered to make you run faster and lower your risk of injury, you think it’s too good to be true. But with carbohydrates during your run, it is true! Fueling with 60-90 grams of carbs per hour on long runs and races will improve your performance and reduce injury risk. We delve deep into the science around gels and sports drinks during your runs. After listening, you’ll feel more c
Timelines for Getting Faster, Handling Slow Progress, and Other Q&As
How long would it take to get from a 4:30 marathon to a BQ times? When should you change your training paces - or your training approach in general? We answer these and other listeners' questions in this episode! Thank you to our sponsors:✨ Tailwind: Complete sport nutrition made simple, including hydration mixes, high-carb sport drinks, endurance fuel, and recovery mixes. Use code TREADLIGHTL
Running for Health vs. Running for Performance: Can You Have Both?
Is running always health-promoting - or is there a point where running can be unhealthy? In this episode, we discuss the health benefits of running, examine claims that running increases risk of certain diseases, and explore how training for performance may be different than training for health. Thank you to our sponsors:✨ Previnex: Previnex creates clinically effective, third-party tested supplem
The Burnout Episode Every Runner Needs to Hear
Burnout can happen to any runner, regardless of fitness or experience. That lack of any desire to run is nothing to be ashamed of - but it’s also not something to ignore. In this episode, we discuss the causes of running burnout and how to navigate burnout and build back. Thank you to our sponsors:✨ FlipBelt: Sleek storage options, including no-bounce running belts and shorts. Use code TLF20 at fl
What Running Economy Really Means for Your Performance with Dr Shalaya Kipp
Running economy is one of the top performance determinants for long distance runners - but what exactly is it? Can your watch measure it? How do you improve it? We sit down with exercise scientist Dr. Shalaya Kipp to learn about running economy and what it really means for running performance.Thank you to our sponsors:✨ Previnex: Previnex creates clinically effective, third-party tested supplement
Which Side of the Road? (And Other Safety Questions Every Runner Should Ask)
While running is a health-promoting activity, running can come with risks: animal encounters, dangerous weather, cars, and other concerns. In this episode, we take a pragmatic approach to navigating different potentially risky situations you may encounter on runs, including how to prepare and how to respond. Thank you to our sponsors:✨ Tailwind: Complete sport nutrition made simple, including hydr
The Benefits of Using the Run-Walk Method
Run-walk is an under-rated training approach for many runners. It’s not just reserved for new runners: you can use it during the summer heat, when returning from injury or having a baby, in ultra distances, as you age, and more. This episode focuses on run-walk, including when to use it, how to structure it, how to pace it, and more.Thank you to our sponsors:✨ Upstep: Custom orthotics, molded from
Can You Run Through Plantar Fasciitis? Treating Foot Pain with Dr. Lisa Mitro, DPT
If you’ve had it before, you know that nagging pain in the arch of your foot all too well. We sit down with Dr. Lisa Mitro, DPT, to discuss how to treat one of the most common running injuries - plantar fasciitis. She describes the symptoms of plantar fasciitis, how to treat it acutely and long-term, and answers your biggest question - how you can keep running. Thank you to our sponsors:✨ Tailwind
How Much Does VO2max Actually Matter?
VO2max is trendy right now - but is training for VO2max legit or grift? We dive into the science of VO2max, how to improve it, and if it actually matters for long-distance runners. Thank you to our sponsors:✨ Upstep: Custom orthotics, molded from the comfort of your home. Use code RUNTOTHEFINISH at https://www.upstep.com/?ref=cajmuang for $20 off your purchase. ✨ FlipBelt: Sleek storage options, i
Behind the Scenes: Getting to Know Us a Bit More
As we approach our 1 MILLION plays marker, we wanted to take you on a peek behind the scenes! Get to know us a little bit more in this special episode where we discuss the podcast, take you behind the scenes on content and production, and share a bit more about ourselves.Thank you to our sponsors:✨ Upstep: Custom orthotics, molded from the comfort of your home. Use code RUNTOTHEFINISH at https://w
What You Need to Know for Running the World Marathon Majors
The World Marathon Majors (New York, Chicago, Boston, Sydney, London, Tokyo, and Berlin) are the most popular races in the world. However, with their popularity come some unique logistical challenges: international travel, jet lag, large crowds, and more. We’ve coached dozens (if not hundreds) of runners through the world majors and bring you our best advice for setting yourself up for an enjoyabl
Running for Weight Loss: What an Dietitian Wants You to Know with Lydia Nader-Urdiales
After receiving many questions about weight loss for runners, we decided to bring on a performance dietitian to discuss this delicate topic. Lydia Nader-Urdiales is a registered dietitian who has worked with runners on their performance and body composition goals - and is a runner herself. She discusses how weight loss can be achieved without spiking your injury risk or sacrificing your performanc
How to Troubleshoot Common Race Day Problems
Race day seldom goes as planned. Whether you forget to pack something, the forecast isn’t favorable, or you encounter some challenging miles, race day problems can happen to even the fittest of runners. We draw on our years of coaching hundreds of runners to guide you through how to creatively problem-solve various race-day issues. Even when the race doesn’t go your way, you can still come away wi
Why You Need All Training Zones to Improve as a Runner
Zone 2 is the most popular training zone - but is it the only training zone you need? We delve into all five training zones and their unique benefits. You’ll learn how to determine each zone by heart rate, rate of perceived exertion (RPE), and talk test, plus how to use them in training. *Laura misspoke around minute 23. The Cori cycle converts lactate into glucose, not glycogen, to then be shuttl
Do AI Coaching, Cycle Syncing, Weighted Vests Actually Work? Our Hot Takes On Running Trends
What happens if ChatGPT makes you a training plan? Will wearing a weighted vest protect you from the symptoms of perimenopause? Are continuous glucose monitors the tool for improving your nutrition? We tackle several social media trends and give our unfiltered, evidence-based hot takes.Thank you to our sponsors:✨ Tailwind: Complete sport nutrition made simple, including hydration mixes, high-carb
Do You Really Need to Change Your Running Form?
You can’t scroll social media without seeing someone tell you how you have to hit a 180 spm cadence, stop overstriking, or do these exercises for better running form. But do you really need to change your running form? We dive into the science and discuss whether or not changing form is beneficial - plus offer some practical tips if you do want to improve your own natural running form. Thank you t
What Your Running Gel Label Actually Means - with Kylee Van Horn
Isotonic, real food, maltodextrin, sugar-free, and high-sodium: if you have recently shopped for running gels, you likely have seen these terms and more on the labels. We sit down with sports dietitian Kylee Van Horn to understand the labelling on your sports nutrition products and how to pick the best running gel for you. Thank you to our sponsors:✨Tailwind: Complete sport nutrition made simple,
Avoid These Peak Week Training Mistakes
Peak weeks are often discussed in the context of the marathon; however, whether you are training for a short distance like a 5K/10K, a half, marathon, or even an ultra, your training will include a peak week - the week of the highest volume and/or hardest workouts. Peak week is not a magical week - but it does matter in a training build. In this episode, we guide you through what a peak week is, m
Heart Rate Variability and Resting Heart Rate: Do These Metrics Matter for Runners?
More than likely, your watch reports your resting heart rate (RHR) and heart rate variability (HRV) - but what do these numbers actually mean? We look at the science behind these metrics and discuss whether or not runners should use HRV and RHR to adjust their training. You will learn:✅ Why does resting heart rate matter for runners?✅ Should you use HRV to inform your training?✅ Does these metrics
How to Build an Annual Race Calendar
In this episode, we’re talking about how to plan out your race calendar! Most races now require signing up months, if not almost a year, in advance. We’ll guide you through how to plan out goal races, how often to race, and more. You will learn:✅ How to pick races based on your goals✅ Why racing a variety of distances can be beneficial✅ How to approach several races in one season✅ Racing frequency
How Enneagram Type Can Help You Understand Your Motivation in Running
Enneagram is a model of understanding your personality and motivations. While its scientific validity is mixed, some research indicates it may be helpful for understanding personal growth. Whether or not it is psychometrically valid, Enneagram is a popular way to help understand your motivations - which can help you through the psychological aspects of running. In this episode, we take a less scie
Stop Making These Half Marathon Mistakes!
The half marathon is one of the most popular race distances - but it is also one that runners can dismiss because it’s not a marathon. However, all-out racing a half marathon can be a very rewarding challenge if you approach it correctly. In this episode, we discuss some of the most common half marathon training mistakes and how you can avoid them. You’ll learn how to train for a half marathon PR,
How to Train for Downhill and Hilly Races When You Don’t Have Hills
If you are preparing for a hilly race, such as the New York City Marathon, or a downhill race such as a REVEL marathon, your training will look different from what it would for a flat marathon. We guide you through an evidence-based, practical approach for training for a hilly race - including creative interventions if you live in a flat area. You will learn:✅ The different energetic and mechanica
Do You Need to Cool Down After a Run?
As many runners know, a run takes more time than just the miles themselves. You have a pre-run warm-up and recovery nutrition - and so you may wonder if you really need a cooldown after your run, or if you can save some time there. In this episode, we answer a common listener question about what a cooldown after runs actually does - and if you need to do them. We break this discussion into a physi
Does Zone 2 Actually Matter for Runners? Debunking Myths and Answering Your Top Zone 2 Running Questions
Are you confused about all the zone 2 chatter on social media? Do you experience frustration when you try to run and your watch tells you running in zone 3 despite it feeling easy? There is so much information about zone 2 and running - and some of it is correct, some of it is over-simplified, and some is over-exaggerated. In this episode, you will learn what exactly zone 2 is - and how much it ac
The Best Running Books and Our Summer Reading List
Are you looking for a good audiobook to listen to as you start logging more miles this summer? We have a whole list of audiobook recommendations for your long runs, plus our current favorite running books. Our recommendations include:Up to Speed by Christine YuPeak Performance by Steve Magness and Brad StulburgRun to the Finish by Amanda BrooksOut of Thin Air by Michael CrawleyGood for a Girl by L
How to Embrace New Things During Long Running Breaks with Mirna Valerio
In this episode, we are joined by the wonderful Mirna Valerio, a best-selling author, content creator, and accomplished ultra runner and multisport athlete. Mirna discusses how she learned to embrace new sports and hobbies during a long break from running. Whether you take an intentional or forced break from running, you’ll learn a lot from her discussion on identity, the mental side of a break fr
How to Run Your Fastest 10K
Whether you are aiming for a 1-hour 10K, want to run a sub-50 min 10K, or even a sub-40 min 10K, this episode is for you! We discuss how to run PR in the 10K, no matter your pace. This episode is for intermediate to experienced runners. If you are looking for more information on your first 10K, tune into episode 38! In this episode, you will learn:The benefits of including a 10K in your race sched
How to Set Realistic Time Goals in Running
One of the most common running questions, from the 5K to the marathon, is about how to set goals. You have big, exciting time goals and you want to achieve them - but are they realistic? How much progress can you expect in a training cycle? How do you set goal pace? This discussion brings you practical guidance for setting time goals in running, whether you are a beginner or an experienced runner.
Why Running Fasted Won't Make You Run Faster
Morning runners will skip a pre-run snack for many reasons: gut comfort, time constraints, or the belief that running fasted will make them faster. For years, fasted running was trendy and even recommended. However, science and training theory evolve, and so we’re here to tell you in 2025: fed is fastest, and that includes during training. We address some common misconceptions around fasted runnin
How to Keep Running Fun While Chasing Your Goals with Laura Green
Many runners find it difficult to balance their enjoyment of the sport with their goals. We sit down with Laura Green (@lauramcgreen), who has created her brand around the fun side (and poking fun at) running. She chats about finding the balance of fun and competition in your running. This episode is sponsored by:BodyBio: If you are searching for a flavorless electrolyte, consider BodyBio E-lyte!
Fatigue Resistance: How to Not Slow Down at the End of Your Next Race
Fatigue resistance - also called durability or physiological resilience - is the ability to not slow down when physiological fatigue sets in. Fatigue resistance is what part of what keeps you from slowing down at the end of your half marathon, marathon, or ultra. We dive into the science of durability, as well as providing practical tips for how to improve your fatigue resistance. In this episode,
How to Run Your Fastest 5K
Many episodes back, we provided some guidance on how to run a 5K as a newer or intermediate runner. This episode is for our more experienced runners who are coming to the 5K and want to run fast. Whether you are aiming for sub-20 and or sub-30, this episode will guide you through how to structure your training for your fastest 5K yet. In this episode, you will learn:If you need long runs during 5K
How to Run a 5 Hour Marathon
With record numbers of lottery entrants to the majors, we are seeing marathon participation boom! More runners are finishing the marathon now than ever. The average women’s marathon finish time is now approximately 4:50 - which means many runners finish in the five to six hour range. This episode provides a guide for 5-6 hour marathoners, whether you are running your first marathon or aiming for a
Strength Training for Performance Is Different than Training for Aesthetics, with Coach Montana Depasquale
We speak often on this podcast about strength training for runners - which is drastically different than lifting for aesthetics. We are joined by running and strength coach Montana Depasquale for a discussion on how to pick a strength training plan that will actually improve your running performance - not just change your appearance. In this episode, you’ll learn:What to look for in a strength tra
Blisters, Lost Toenails, Cramps, and More: How to Deal with Common Running Problems
Most runners inevitably deal with these minor issues - blisters, black toenails, chafing, and more. They aren’t full injuries, but they certainly are inconvenient and uncomfortable. We guide you through how to prevent these, how to treat them, and if you can run through them when they happen. In this episode, you’ll learn how to deal with:Calf crampsBlistersChafingBlack toenailsNumb toes during a
Can Plyometrics Help You Run Faster?
If a 10-15 minute investment each week helped you run faster, would you do it? In this episode, we explore plyometrics for runners and how they can help you run faster with just a few minutes per week - when done correctly. In this episode, you’ll learn:What are plyometric exercises?How runners can benefit from plyometricsHow to incorporate plyometrics into your routineWho should NOT do plyometric
Ketones, Sodium Bicarb, and Other Supplements for Runners
Ketones, bicarb, creatine, and more - there are more supplements for runners on the market now more than ever. We discuss some of the most popular supplements for runners, including the research, potential benefits, risks, and more. In this episode, you’ll learn about:Branched chain amino acids (BCAAs)Ketone monoester supplementationSodium bicarbonate (“bicarb”) supplementsBlack currant supplement
