Welcome to the Purple Patch podcast. This week, we aim to inspire, instill hope, and create opportunities. Many people watch others doing amazing things and think, "That's not for me. I couldn't do that." But the truth is, you can do it if you apply a smart and patient approach that builds incrementally over time. Before you know it, you can look back and marvel at what you have accomplished, regardless of the challenge or goal, whether in sport or life.

In this week's episode, IRONMAN Master Coach Matt Dixon focuses on marathon and half marathon races. Half marathons are a great starting point for many people and can serve as a bridge to longer distances. Whether you've struggled with injuries or don't consider yourself a runner, Matt offers insight and tips to help you break through those barriers.

Drawing from two case studies, Matt explores the common challenges faced by athletes training for long-distance runs and offers simple solutions to maximize their potential. The first case study features an athlete who initially believed completing a race was impossible, but ultimately discovered untapped capabilities. The second case study showcases an athlete who overcame injuries by adjusting their approach and achieved significant success. We believe you’ll find these stories informative, helpful, and inspiring and we hope they motivate you to take on your challenges.

Matt also shares his five-point plan to help you refocus your approach and mindset, to get you started on your first or next long-distance race. Check out our free live webinar, Strategies to Nail Your Marathon & Half Marathon, where Matt offers a more in-depth analysis of these points.