In this Marathon Handbook Podcast episode, Michael Doyle, Katelyn Tocci, and Alex Cyr unpack what actually defines a long run—and how long is “long” for different goals (00:07). After some pre-run chaos (Patriots/Boston accent talk) (01:14), Alex breaks down his Houston Half Marathon PR and the wild sub-elite start experience (07:03), including pacing strategy and the trio finish (21:17). Then the crew goes deep on long-run philosophy: how to structure it across a training block, when to add quality like fast finishes or marathon-pace intervals, and why many runners cap the long run around three hours (30:13) (53:10). They also cover fueling basics—carbs per hour, gels, gut training, and modern trends like hydrogels (1:15:16) (1:23:23), before Coach Katelyn lists common long run mistakes (too fast, skipping fueling, skipping deload weeks, poor recovery, and more) (1:30:22). Mailbag submissions are open at podcast@marathonhandbook.com (1:48:55), and Katelyn teases a 10-mile race update for next week (1:51:46).
This episode is presented by Lagoon Sleep – Adjustable, breathable pillows designed to improve sleep and recovery. Take the 2-minute sleep quiz and get 15% off with code MARATHON.👉 https://lagoonsleep.com/marathonhandbook Wahoo KICKR RUN – A smart treadmill that adapts to your pace with RunFree Mode and lateral tilt. Get a FREE Headwind fan with code MHRUN.👉 https://www.wahoofitness.com Momentous – NSF-certified supplements trusted by elite athletes. Get up to 35% off your first order with code MARATHON.👉 https://www.livemomentous.com
📩 Questions about training, race previews, or to send us your hot takes? Email us at podcast@marathonhandbook.com.
🎤 Leave us a voice memo for our mailbag episodes: marathonhandbook.com/podcast
📸 Instagram: @marathon.handbook
📘 Facebook: @marathonhandbook
📰 Join 265,000+ runners getting our daily newsletter: marathonhandbook.com/newsletter
👍 Like, subscribe, and drop your questions in the comments.🎧 Audio version available wherever you get podcasts + watch the video version on Spotify.
📺 Subscribe on YouTube for weekly running deep dives.
#running #marathontraining #longrun #halfmarathon #10ktraining #5ktraining #runners #runningtips #endurance #fueling
