This week, Jeff Horowitz, a former attorney turned running coach and author of 'Think Like a Runner,' shares his remarkable journey with over 200 marathons under his belt. He discusses the mental challenges many runners face, the importance of trusting your body, and rethinking what it means to be a serious runner, regardless of pace. Jeff opens up about his recovery from a femur fracture, the joy of embracing one’s running journey, and how success should transcend mere speed. A truly enlightening and inspiring conversation!
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Jeff's Femur Fracture Recovery
Jeff Horowitz suffered a severe femur fracture during a run before the Chicago Marathon.
He documented the mental and physical journey of recovery, showcasing the importance of mental strength post-injury.
insights INSIGHT
Redefining Race Success
Race success is not about finish times but about giving your best effort in challenging conditions.
Overcoming adversity during races often feels more rewarding than running a personal best.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Balance Discipline with Body Trust
Practice disciplined pacing and listen to your body to avoid injury and burnout.
Be smarter than you are brave; don't push through pain that risks long-term harm.
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Jeff Horowitz's 'Think Like a Runner' delves into the mental and emotional aspects of running, offering insights beyond physical training. The book explores how runners can cultivate a resilient mindset, build trust in their bodies, and redefine success beyond finish times. It emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, discipline, and making informed decisions in training and racing. The author shares personal anecdotes and practical advice on navigating injuries, setting realistic goals, and maintaining a positive relationship with running throughout life's various stages. By addressing the psychological challenges runners face, this book empowers athletes to unlock their full potential and find lasting fulfillment in the sport.
my first 100 marathons
my first 100 marathons
Jeff Horowitz
Born to Run
Cathy Freeman
This book recounts Cathy Freeman's journey from a little girl who loved to run to a world champion athlete. It includes her experiences growing up in a loving family, her relationship with her severely disabled sister who inspired her, and her rise to the top in athletics. The book also touches on the challenges she faced, including racism and personal losses, and how she overcame them through hard work, self-belief, and the support of her family. The narrative is honest and simple, making it relatable to young readers. The book is accompanied by black and white photos, some of which are family shots, adding a personal touch to the story[2][4].
This week I’m joined by Jeff Horowitz—"recovering attorney" turned running coach, author of Think Like a Runner, and someone who’s run over 200 marathons (yes, really!). Jeff shares stories from his global racing adventures (including an ultramarathon in Cairo where he was chased by wild dog s), his journey back from a devastating femur fracture, and why he thinks every runner—no matter their pace—deserves to take themselves seriously.
We get into:
Why so many runners struggle to call themselves runners
How your relationship with running evolves over time
What it means to truly trust your body again after injury
How to define success beyond speed or finish times
Why you do deserve good gear, a coach, and the “serious runner” stuff, no matter your pace
This was one of those conversations that just felt like a long exhale. If you’ve ever questioned whether you’re a “real” runner, or wrestled with how to stay in love with this sport as things shift and change, this episode is for you
👟 The Running Explained Podcast is here to help you train smarter, run better, and understand the why behind what you’re doing. Whether you’re chasing a PR or just trying to make sense of your training plan, we’re here for the long run.