The Real Science of Sport Podcast MARATHON SPECIAL: London & Boston Round-Up / Pacesetters or Not? / We Test What is Claimed to be the World's Fastest Shoe
Apr 29, 2025
The performance of elite athletes in the Boston and London marathons takes center stage alongside a debate on the use of pacesetters. An exciting comparison reveals how technological advancements in footwear, particularly the much-anticipated Puma Fast R3, impact running economy and overall performance. Discussions around women's marathon running highlight record-breaking runs and the evolving dynamics of competition. The hosts explore the science of shoe weight and energy efficiency, questioning what truly makes a running shoe the 'fastest'.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Tactical vs Paced Marathons
- Major marathons differ in race dynamics based on pace setters being used or not.
- Boston's tactical, unsettled style offers more interesting racing than London's paced, fast-time focus.
Pacemakers Affect Marathon Tactics
- Marathon races with pacemakers prioritize fast times but can diminish tactical intrigue.
- Boston and New York offer more compelling racing due to course difficulty and lack of pacemakers.
Puma Fast R3 Running Economy
- Puma's Fast R3 shoe improves running economy by over 3% compared to its predecessor.
- Testing shows increased efficiency for runners at varying speeds and levels.