Marathon Handbook Podcast

With the 2025 marathon season just around the corner, our editors Alex, Katelyn and Michael ask: who (if anyone) will finally break the two-hour barrier on a legal marathon course? They explore the science behind running a sub-two marathon, the evolution of shoe technology, Eliud Kipchoge's Breaking2 and INEOS 1:59 Challenge events, and the haunting spectre of the world record holder, late Kelvin Kiptum. They then get into where, when and who could finally break this elusive barrier in distance running.Come see our live podcast at the Boston Run Show! March 1-2. Get tickets here:https://thebostonrunshow.seetickets.com/event/the-boston-run-show-the-boston-outdoor-expo/boston-hynes-convention-center/3110358Further Reading:The Haunting “What If…” Of Kelvin Kiptumhttps://marathonhandbook.com/the-haunting-what-if-of-kelvin-kiptum/Watch our video "Why Is the Marathon 26.2 Miles?"https://youtu.be/cLMdmp1K4sMWhat Is Lactate Threshold Training For Athletes?https://marathonhandbook.com/lactate-threshold-training/What Is VO2 Max? + How To Measure And Improve Your VO2 Maxhttps://marathonhandbook.com/what-is-vo2-max/Running Economy: How To Become A More Efficient Runnerhttps://marathonhandbook.com/running-economy/Marathon Pacers Explained: The Pros And Cons Of Running With A Pacerhttps://marathonhandbook.com/marathon-pacers/What Is Drafting? + How This Controversial Tactic Can Win You Back Seconds (Or Minutes!)https://marathonhandbook.com/what-is-drafting/How To Run Negative Splits: The Key To A Faster Race Timehttps://marathonhandbook.com/negative-splits/Nike’s Alphafly Vs Vaporfly: What Separates The Shoe Giant’s Two Flagship Supershoes?https://marathonhandbook.com/alphafly-vs-vaporfly/------------------------------------------------------Our free marathon training plans:https://marathonhandbook.com/trainingplans/marathon-training-plans/Over 210,000 runners read our newsletter. Sign up here and get our free book The 26 Golden Rules Of Running: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter/Follow us on IG: https://instagram.com/marathon.handbookFollow us on Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marathon.handbookLike us on FB: https://facebook.com/marathonhandbookFollow us on X: https://x.com/MarathonHB

On this week's episode, Alex, Katelyn and Michael first discuss the wild and bizarre outcome of the Strava x Chipotle Challenge. Then, the play a game of "Is it true that..." They look at the science (or lack thereof) behind:Does running on soft surfaces actually make you less injury prone than running on pavement?Should you try to run a negative split in the marathon to achieve the best outcome?Are there runners who just don't respond to the performance bump from super shoes?And is it true that beet juice can improve your running performances? And what about taking caffeine during a race?Further reading:Two Ultrarunners took the Strava x Chipotle Segment Challenge to the Extreme:https://marathonhandbook.com/2025-strava-x-chipotle-challenge/The 6 Health Benefits Of Beet Juice To Boost Your Athletic Performance:https://marathonhandbook.com/health-benefits-of-beet-juice/Coffee Before Running? Performance Benefits + How Much To Drink:https://marathonhandbook.com/coffee-before-running/What Is The Best Surface To Run On To Avoid Injury?https://marathonhandbook.com/best-surface-to-run-on/The Fastest Marathon Shoes Right Now:https://marathonhandbook.com/the-fastest-marathon-super-shoes-of-2024/Come see our live podcast at the Boston Run Show! March 1-2. Get tickets here:https://thebostonrunshow.seetickets.com/event/the-boston-run-show-the-boston-outdoor-expo/boston-hynes-convention-center/3110358Our free marathon training plans:https://marathonhandbook.com/trainingplans/marathon-training-plans/Over 210,000 runners read our newsletter. Sign up here and get our free book The 26 Golden Rules Of Running: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter/Follow us on IG: https://instagram.com/marathon.handbookFollow us on Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marathon.handbookLike us on FB: https://facebook.com/marathonhandbookFollow us on X: https://x.com/MarathonHB

On this week's episode of the Marathon Handbook Podcast, our editors Alex, Katelyn and Michael first do a mini preview of the 2025 Tokyo Marathon, which released its elite fields this week, including one intriguing starter, Joshua Cheptegei. Then they talk about three super weird footwear stories: the release of the first "super sandals" (or is it "super flip flops"?), yet another Crocs marathon world record, and Hoka's "speed loafer," which may be the most ridiculous shoe in history.Then, they are joined by Marathon Handbook founder, Thomas Watson, to discuss his most recent column for the site, entitled "Super Shoes Don't Make You Faster, It Turns Out." He explains how he's never run a race in super shoes, and now faces a personal ethical dilemma: does he taint his pre-super shoe PRs this coming year? And is running in super shoes... wrong?Read Thomas Watson's op-ed "Super Shoes Don’t Make You Any Faster, It Turns Out":https://marathonhandbook.com/supershoes-dont-make-you-any-faster/Our coverage of the 2025 Tokyo Marathon:https://marathonhandbook.com/2025-tokyo-marathon-announces-star-studded-lineup-of-defending-champions/Kenyan Runner Wins Marathon Wearing Carbon-Plated Sandals:https://marathonhandbook.com/kenyan-runner-wins-marathon-wearing-carbon-plated-sandals/Hoka's "Speed Loafer" Is... A Sight to Behold:https://marathonhandbook.com/need-to-run-to-a-meeting-introducing-the-hoka-speed-loafer/Come see our live podcast at the Boston Run Show! March 1-2. Get tickets here:https://thebostonrunshow.seetickets.com/event/the-boston-run-show-the-boston-outdoor-expo/boston-hynes-convention-center/3110358Our free marathon training plans:https://marathonhandbook.com/trainingplans/marathon-training-plans/Over 210,000 runners read our newsletter. Sign up here and get our free book The 26 Golden Rules Of Running: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter/Follow us on IG: https://instagram.com/marathon.handbookFollow us on Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marathon.handbookLike us on FB: https://facebook.com/marathonhandbookFollow us on X: https://x.com/MarathonHB

Alex, Katelyn and Michael start by talking all about Alex's big half marathon personal best last weekend in Houston (1:39). Then, they share their strategies for making winter running on the treadmill not suck. In fact, they have share how the gamify their easy runs, workouts and long runs on the treadmill so they are, dare we say, fun? (11:10)Then, Alex and Michael discuss the massive new American record in the half marathon, set in Houston by Conner Mantz. They break down his run, and what Mantz could do in the marathon over the next few years. They also explore what Mantz should choose to do with his career (1:05:53).Come see our live podcast at the Boston Run Show! March 1-2. Get tickets here:https://thebostonrunshow.seetickets.com/event/the-boston-run-show-the-boston-outdoor-expo/boston-hynes-convention-center/3110358Further Reading:11 Tips To Nail Your Long Run On A Treadmill:https://marathonhandbook.com/long-run-on-a-treadmill/How To Run On A Treadmill: Basics, Benefits + 5 Fun Workouts To Tryhttps://marathonhandbook.com/how-to-run-on-a-treadmill/Marathon Training On A Treadmill: Our Expert Coach’s Top Tipshttps://marathonhandbook.com/marathon-training-on-a-treadmill/The Best Treadmill Workouts For Runnershttps://marathonhandbook.com/treadmill-workouts/HIIT Treadmill Workouts To Get Fasterhttps://marathonhandbook.com/hiit-treadmill-workout/Here’s Our Pick Of The 13 Best Running Documentarieshttps://marathonhandbook.com/the-14-best-running-documentaries/The 70 All-Time Best Running Songs To Get You Pumped Uphttps://marathonhandbook.com/the-70-all-time-best-running-songs-to-get-you-pumped-up/Run To The Beat: High BPM Songs To Improve Your Running Performancehttps://marathonhandbook.com/high-bpm-songs/Our free marathon training plans:https://marathonhandbook.com/trainingplans/marathon-training-plans/Over 160,000 runners read our newsletter. Sign up here and get our free book The 26 Golden Rules Of Running: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter/Follow us on IG: https://instagram.com/marathon.handbookFollow us on Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marathon.handbookLike us on FB: https://facebook.com/marathonhandbookFollow us on X: https://x.com/MarathonHB

In this episode, we demystify every running trend that's trending on socials in 2025.But first, Michael and news editor Jessy Carveth discuss the exciting breaking news that three of the greatest marathoners of all-time will race each other at this year's London Marathon. They explain why this could be a legendary and record-breaking marathon (02:05).Then, Alex, Katelyn and Michael break down the top trends and fads in running and fitness, including: What is the (insane) "75 Hard Challenge" (23:08)?Are Run Streaks Wise (33:49)?Is Zone 2 Training Still King? (45:35)Is HIIT Training Still Worthwhile? (52:16)Are Double Threshold Workouts Safe? (56:42)Is Strava Healthy or Evil? (1:02:46)Should You "Run Naked"? (1:11:28) Beware of Over-Optimization and Orthosomnia (1:16:07)Do Cold Plunges Work? (1:19:19)The Barefoot Running Fad won't go away (1:20:29)Fasted Running: brilliant or unhealthy? (1:22:12)Is Strava Segment Sniping OK? (1:25:12) Must I do Lactate Threshold Training? (1:27:09)Why Run Clubs Are Awesome (1:27:24)Should You Drink Chocolate Milk Post-Run? (1:28:53)Rapid Fire Round: Silly Fad or Legit Trend (1:29:37) They discuss what each of these trends is, if there's any science to back them up, if they've ever tried them. They also provide advice on how best to approach a running trend or fad ( (1:35:33).Show Notes:In 2025, It’s Time To De-Optimize Our Exercise Routineshttps://marathonhandbook.com/in-2025-its-time-to-de-optimize-our-exercise-routines/Zone 2 Training, Explained: How To Unlock Endurance And Speedhttps://marathonhandbook.com/zone-2-training-the-science-benefits/What Is Rucking? 4 Steps To Get Started Rucking Today!https://marathonhandbook.com/rucking/6 Ice Bath Benefits + What Is The Optimal Time To Stay In?https://marathonhandbook.com/ice-bath-benefits/Barefoot And Minimalist Running: The Ultimate Guidehttps://marathonhandbook.com/barefoot-and-minimalist-running/World’s Longest Running Streak Ends After 55 Years (Or 20,309 Runs)https://marathonhandbook.com/jon-sutherland-running-streak/What Is A Running Streak + How To Join The Run Streak Community!https://marathonhandbook.com/what-is-a-running-streak/Going Strava Segment Hunting In Front Of Drake’s Househttps://marathonhandbook.com/going-strava-segment-hunting-in-front-of-drakes-house/HIIT Treadmill Workouts To Get Fasterhttps://marathonhandbook.com/hiit-treadmill-workout/Double Threshold Training: The Complete Guide For Runnershttps://marathonhandbook.com/double-threshold-training/Fasted Running: How To, Benefits, + Drawbackshttps://marathonhandbook.com/fasted-running/Should You Drink Chocolate Milk After A Workout For Fast Recovery?https://marathonhandbook.com/chocolate-milk-after-a-workout/Quitting Strava: The Surprising Benefits Of A Social Media Breakhttps://marathonhandbook.com/quitting-strava/Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/marathon-handbook-podcast/id1687070922Subscribe on Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/7o72muiWY6TSNrwfzirqH6?si=3522f6812e5f4d55Our free marathon training plans:https://marathonhandbook.com/trainingplans/marathon-training-plans/Over 160,000 runners read our newsletter. Sign up here and get our free book The 26 Golden Rules Of Running: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter/Follow us on IG:

Each week, the editors at marathonhandbook.com, one of the largest running focused websites in the world, discuss what's going on in the running world, as well training advice for every distance from the 5K to ultramarathons. 

Discover essential tips for beginners looking to dive into running or return after a break. The speakers share personal journeys, emphasizing gradual progress and community support. Learn about choosing the right gear, especially running shoes, and the importance of structured training programs to prevent injuries. They also discuss integrating strength training with cardio for a balanced routine, plus the benefits of running in groups for motivation. Embrace the fun and nostalgic moments of running as you embark on your own journey!

Alex, Katelyn and Michael get out their crystal balls and peer into the future of running. But first, they discuss their holiday experiences (00:00), along with the reboot of The Marathon Project, a fascinating COVID-era event that is making its return in 2025 (16:26).Then, they get into their predictions. Marathon Handbook's staff members each produced one bold running-related prediction for 2025. Now, they unpack theirs, explaining why truly custom running shoe technologies will finally become the norm (20:57), big changes with running races and the running scene (30:40), and whether or not the sub-two hour marathon will finally be broken on a legal course in 2025 (47:29).Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/marathon-handbook-podcast/id1687070922Subscribe on Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/7o72muiWY6TSNrwfzirqH6?si=3522f6812e5f4d55Further reading:The Marathon Project Is Back in 2025:https://marathonhandbook.com/the-marathon-project/Our Bold Predictions For The Running World In 2025:https://marathonhandbook.com/our-bold-predictions-for-the-running-world-in-2025/Our free marathon training plans:https://marathonhandbook.com/trainingplans/marathon-training-plans/Over 160,000 runners read our newsletter. Sign up here and get our free book The 26 Golden Rules Of Running: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter/Follow us on IG: https://instagram.com/marathon.handbookFollow us on Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marathon.handbookLike us on FB: https://facebook.com/marathonhandbookFollow us on X: https://x.com/MarathonHB

Marathon Handbook's editors Alex, Michael and Katelyn discuss the merits and peril of giving and receiving running themed gifts (00:00). Then, they get into how to set and stick to your 2025 running-related New Year's Resolutions (18:24). Finally, they reveal their own personal running resolutions and goals for the new year (48:07).Watch the video version of this podcast on YouTube:https://youtu.be/ugptQqL4OZISubscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/marathon-handbook-podcast/id1687070922Subscribe on Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/7o72muiWY6TSNrwfzirqH6?si=3522f6812e5f4d55Further reading:Watch our episode on how to set marathon goals:https://youtu.be/HT3fQi7wooI?feature=sharedRunning Goals: 96 Exciting Goal Ideas For Your Next Training Cycle:https://marathonhandbook.com/running-goals/Goal Setting Considerations:https://marathonhandbook.com/goal-setting-considerations/Our free marathon training plans:https://marathonhandbook.com/trainingplans/marathon-training-plans/Over 160,000 runners read our newsletter. Sign up here and get our free book The 26 Golden Rules Of Running: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter/Follow us on IG: https://instagram.com/marathon.handbookFollow us on Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marathon.handbookLike us on FB: https://facebook.com/marathonhandbookFollow us on X: https://x.com/MarathonHB

Our Top 10 Stories of The Year Are...​ Crazy records, unbelievable performances and lots of controversy; 2024 was a wild year in the running world.Our big Year-In-Review show is here! Alex, Katelyn and Michael go all the way back to January 2024, and run through every major event that took place in the running world over the past 12 months (16:41). There are wacky world records (Crocs, 1,000-marathon club, age group heroics), extraordinary performances, and quite a bit of intense controversy. Then, we count down the 10 most popular stories on marathonhandbook.com in 2024 (1:06:43) Plus, we reveal the 10 most popular training articles of 2024 (1:18:34).Watch a video version of this pod on YouTube (or on Spotify):https://youtu.be/1B_t5NQcFN8Watch our video The Top 5 Racing Shoes of the Year:https://youtu.be/NABZQUSP_uwCome see us live at the 2025 Boston Run Show! March 1-2:https://thebostonrunshow.com/Over 160,000 runners read our newsletter. Sign up here and get our free book The 26 Golden Rules Of Running: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter/Listen and subscribe to our Podcast here:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-marathon-handbook-podcast/id1687070922Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/40fbGjW1uLpDFnzsDfFXYn?si=6b44ece05be643fbYouTube Music: https://music.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLb3iPx8Lcl9n2WSDyO4K0i5yfz93H8BZk&si=lx248VvhqYFir0rqFollow us on IG: https://instagram.com/marathon.handbookFollow us on Tikok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marathon.handbookLike us on FB: https://facebook.com/marathonhandbookFollow us on X: https://x.com/MarathonHBMarathon Handbook was founded in 2016, with the mission from day one of helping you to run far, set goals and meet them. We provide free and super popular coach-vetted training plans for just about every distance and ability level, from your first 5K to a sub-3 hour marathon, to a 100-miler training plan. We've got you covered. We also follow the latest news and storylines in the running world, and review all the best shoes, running watches and gear on our site and our Youtube channel.At our heart, we are runners and athletes ourselves – every person on our team is a running coach, distance runner, or certified health and fitness trainer.#marathon #marathontraining #marathonrunning #running #runningmotivation #runningshoereview #shoereviews #runningshoes #runningshoes #runningshoesreview #Nike #halfmarathon #5k #10k