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Tread Lightly Running Podcast

Tread Lightly Running Podcast

Amanda Brooks and Laura Norris 169 Episodes Aug 22, 2026

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

Do You Need High Mileage? The Science of High Volume Running
Do You Need High Mileage? The Science of High Volume Running Aug 22, 2026 00:34:43 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 Race Formula: Timing, Recovery, and What the Training Theory Says Aug 15, 2026 00:36:31 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
The Psychology Behind Peak Running Performance with Dr. Trent Claypool Aug 8, 2026 00:41:31 “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
Pilates as Strength Training, Can You Overfuel on Long Runs, If Max Cushion Shoes are Harmful and More: Our Hot (Science-based) Takes Aug 1, 2026 00:32:02 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
Sweat, Sodium, and Running Performance: What the Science Actually Says Jul 25, 2026 00:35:46 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 Science of the Long Run: Why It Matters More Than You Think Jul 18, 2026 00:44:09 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
Gut Training for Runners: How to Fuel Without Stomach Problems with Claire Shorenstein, MS CSSD Jul 11, 2026 00:38:43 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
What Research Actually Says About Ferritin, Iron Deficiency, and Running Jul 4, 2026 00:36:04 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)
Why Your Half Marathon Has Plateaued (And How to Train for a Breakthrough) Jun 27, 2026 00:38:27 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
Thinking About a 50K? 50 Miler? How to Run Your First Ultra Marathon, According to Science Jun 20, 2026 00:41:47 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?
Understanding Foot Strike: Does It Impact Injury or Performance? Jun 13, 2026 00:32:16 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
What Does "Wake Up Your Glutes" Actually Mean? Dr. Gaby Go, DPT Explains Glute Activation Jun 6, 2026 00:35:34 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

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