Ever wonder how much your running form really matters? In this episode, ultra runner and coach Sam Stow joins me for a deep, honest, and slightly nerdy conversation about the underrated importance of movement efficiency, body awareness, and technique. We dig into why how you move matters just as much as how far or how fast you go—and how the right tweaks to your movement patterns can unlock more enjoyable, injury-resistant, and sustainable running.

We also get into:

Why there’s no one right way to run
The common mistakes many runners make (hello, overstriding 👀)
Why glute activation matters way more than you think
How barefoot running can actually help you feel your body better
What “mindful movement” actually means in training
And why balancing performance goals with fun is the long game

Sam’s got a fascinating story—including a world record barefoot marathon on a non-motorized treadmill!—and a coaching philosophy that’s equal parts grounded and empowering. If you're ready to run smarter, feel better, and actually enjoy the process? This one’s for you!

Learn more about Sam & work with him:

www.thefunctionalstep.com

www.poprunning.com.au

www.instagram.com/sam.poprunning

Research & production assistance by Sophie van Leeuwen

5 fitness and mental health tips for men

Life Kit

Research-Backed Tools for Managing Depression

The AI-powered Podcast Player