The Strength Running Podcast

Bestselling Author Matt Fitzgerald: How to Perfect the Craft of Running

Mar 27, 2025

Matt Fitzgerald, bestselling author and expert in endurance sports, shares his insights on mastering the art of running. He emphasizes the importance of being process-oriented rather than solely focusing on speed or competition. The conversation covers making effective decisions as a runner, the journey of athletic mastery, and balancing data with intuition. Fitzgerald also highlights the significance of mental and psychological growth in training, encouraging runners to embrace independence and learn from their experiences.

57:51

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Episode guests

Matt Fitzgerald

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Quick takeaways

Mastery in running emphasizes personal growth and self-improvement rather than merely chasing faster finishing times or professional status.

Adopting a process-oriented mindset allows runners to focus on execution and decision-making, fostering resilience and long-term athletic development.

Maintaining a supportive network, including coaches and training partners, significantly enhances a runner's journey towards mastery and accountability.

Deep dives

Understanding Mastery in Running

Mastery in running is not solely defined by achieving fast times; instead, it focuses on fulfilling one's personal potential within the sport. This perspective shifts the emphasis from outcome-oriented goals to the process of self-improvement and adaptability. For instance, a runner may complete a marathon under challenging conditions, finding satisfaction in how well they executed their pacing and hydration, regardless of their finishing time. This definition encourages runners to concentrate on what they can control rather than external factors like innate talent or race day conditions.

Intro

2min

Enhancing Performance with Effective Supplements and Gear

2min

Exploring Mastery in Endurance Sports

2min

Mastery in Running: The Continuous Journey

20min

The Balanced Approach to Recreational Runner Development

3min

Navigating Psychological Development in Athletic Training

4min

Fostering Independence and Growth in Runners

21min

Balancing Data and Intuition in Running Mastery

4min

Bestselling author, running coach, nutritionist, and 2:39 marathoner Matt Fitzgerald is back on the podcast!

Today, we're answering the big question: How do you master the sport of running?

We're not talking about getting fast or turning pro. Instead, we're talking about mastering the craft of running: becoming process-oriented and in-tune with yourself so that you can achieve your potential in the sport.

Matt's new book, Chasing Mastery, addresses this topic. He's also authored 30+ other endurance books, including some of my favorites:

Brain Training
Run Faster (with Brad Hudson)
Diet Cults

In this episode, we talk about how to make good decisions as a runner, athletic development, what being "process-oriented" really means, and other high level topics that will help you achieve your ultimate potential as a runner.

For more resources, don't miss Strength Running's training program library.

Thank you 2Before!

We are supported by 2Before, a powerful sports supplement made from New Zealand Blackcurrant berries designed to increase endurance, manage inflammation, support immunity, and promote adaptation. 2Before helps to boost performance by increasing blood flow (vasodilation), making it more efficient for the body to pump oxygenated nutrient-rich blood into the muscles.

So, if you want to try to boost your performance and immune system, use code JASON for 30% off 20 packs and multi-serve packs at 2Before.com.

Pro tip: get the caffeinated version. You’ll get the vasodilatory benefits of blackcurrant berries with the powerful performance and mental benefits of caffeine.

Thank you to 2Before for supporting Strength Running!

Thank you to 2XU!

If you haven’t tried 2XU technical compression gear, you’re missing out. 2XU has been the world leader in performance compression for 20 years, helping runners feel better and recover faster with compression gear that’s backed by scientific evidence. Their graduated compression gear is engineered to improve blood flow and performance while speeding recovery.

Knowing that their gear is engineered for runners by runners and backed by research makes me absolutely love 2XU. Go to 2xu.com and use code “JASON” in all caps to get 20% off sitewide, except clearance items or wetsuits.