Tread Lightly Running Podcast

First, we answer a listener’s question about breathing issues during runs. Then, we dive into a whole episode based on requests from listeners: what running gear is overhyped, and what gear is actually worth the cost? Discussion points include: Do you need a Garmin or other running watch? Do you need a chest strap heart rate monitor? Are foot pods worth the cost? Are sweat trackers useful or overrated? Are Whoop or Oura rings useful? Should you purchase compression boots? Are massage guns worth the cost? Do you need carbon-plated running shoes? Are EMS suits worth the investment? The one piece of gear we think most runners should have Our headphone recommendations for running Why sunglasses are a must-have piece of running gear Further resources:  Sweat calculator: https://www.featherstonenutrition.com/hydration/ Sodium calculator: https://www.featherstonenutrition.com/sodium/ https://www.runtothefinish.com/best-sunglasses-for-running/ https://www.runtothefinish.com/ultimate-guide-to-running-hydration/ https://lauranorrisrunning.com/carbon-plated-running-shoes/ https://lauranorrisrunning.com/polar-vs-garmin/ Want to support the podcast? Visit our websites! You can find thousands of running articles at lauranorrisrunning.com and runtothefinish.com - thank you!

How do you measure training intensity on easy runs and workouts? Should you use pace, RPE, or heart rate? We talk about the advantages and drawbacks of each method for measuring training intensity on your runs. Before our main discussion, we answer a listener’s question about caffeine supplementation, coffee, and energy drinks before runs.  Discussion points include:  When do you want to use pace on your runs? Understanding the different pace calculators How often should you test and reset your training paces? How do you use Rate of Perceived Exertion (RPE)? How to use the Talk Test for running Who benefits from using heart rate monitoring? How to use multiple methods to calibrate your training intensities Do power meters offer an option for measuring intensity? If you enjoyed this episode, you may also like: 73: How to Use Heart Rate Zones for Running 66: How to Improve Your Mile Time 61: VO2max Workouts, Threshold Runs, and More Want to support the podcast? Visit our websites! You can find thousands of running articles at lauranorrisrunning.com and runtothefinish.com - thank you! 

Dr. Alex Nelson, a DPT and owner of Training with Tendinopathy, dives into the intricacies of tendon health, particularly for runners. He clarifies the differences between tendinopathy, tendonitis, and tendinosis, emphasizing that rest alone won't heal these issues. Dr. Nelson discusses the crucial role of strength training in rehab, while addressing the benefits of collagen supplements and protein intake for recovery. Additionally, he provides insights on managing high hamstring tendinopathy, the implications of footwear, and the importance of listening to pain cues during recovery.

As unfortunate as it is, it’s inevitable if you run enough: a disappointing race can happen. This experience happens to almost every runner! It’s part of putting yourself out there and chasing your goals.  We talk about dealing with challenging races and missed goals in this episode.  Before our main topic, we answer a listener's question about scrapping vs foam rolling. Why and how to do a post-race assessment  Navigating post-race emotions What can you do in the 24 hours after a tough race? Should you do a redemption race? How long should you wait to race again? What NOT to do after a race that doesn’t go as planned Further reading:  https://lauranorrisrunning.com/how-to-recover-after-a-marathon/ https://lauranorrisrunning.com/how-to-recover-after-a-half-marathon/ https://www.runtothefinish.com/post-race-blues-recovery-plan/

Our listener question follows up on the listener question from episode 72 - how do you take objective vs subject approaches to determine your best race distance? Then, we dive into an important topic: pre- and post-run nutrition, and why they matter so much. We dive into the science and provide practical tips that you can implement in your own training.  Discussion points include: The definition of LEA and REDs Unintentional vs intentional LEA Symptoms and impacts of LEA How much and what should you eat before runs How soon should you eat after a run? What to eat after a run  References PMID: 32245088 PMID: 37329147 PMID: 35267961 PMID: 29889151 PMID: 28919842 PMID: 12617691 Lever Movement is the sponsor of this episode! Lever is an affordable home treadmill compatible tool that offloads your running - similar to an anti-gravity treadmill, but in the comfort of your home. Code: AMANDA for 20% off and https://www.levermovement.com

In the midst of a running boom, there is more information than ever being shared on social media. However, some of that information is misguided or presented without nuance - if not just straight up inaccurate. Our “hot takes” episodes guide you through some of these topics, drawing from our years of experience in coaching and from an evidence-based approach to coaching and training theory. Discussion points: Should you take electrolytes daily during the summer? Should your easy pace always be improving? Is red light therapy beneficial for recovery? Should you take ice baths? Do run less, run faster marathon plans work? References:  PMID: 21088862 PMID: 28748217 https://examine.com/other/red-light-therapy/faq/is-red-light-therapy-beneficial-for-exercise-performance-and-recovery/ PMID: 31513450 PMID: 35157264 PMID: 33146851 PMID: 26581833 PMID: 38695978 PMID: 29200895 This episode is sponsored by Boulderthon! Use code RUNTOTHEFINISH for $20 off the half or full marathon at Boulder’s premier road race on Sept 29, 2024. Register at https://www.boulderthon.org/  

We are doing something a bit different in this episode! Periodically, we will bring guests onto the show. Today we have our first guest, who has graciously hosted us on her podcast before. Elisabeth Scott of Running Explained joins us for a discussion on running goals.  Discussion points include:  Process goals vs outcome goals How much can you improve in a training cycle? How to set realistic running goals How to use race equivalency calculators Mental vs physical limitations  How to reset after missing your goals How social media impacts goal setting Further Resources:  Elisabeth’s Goal Setting Masterclass: https://www.runningexplained.co/challenge-page/masterclass-goalsetting Slate marathon calculator: https://www.slate.com/articles/sports/sports_nut/2014/10/running_calculator_introducing_slate_s_marathon_time_predictor_a_better.html Follow Elisabeth @runningexplained on Instagram Lever Movement is the sponsor of this episode! Lever is an affordable home treadmill-compatible tool that offloads your running - similar to an anti-gravity treadmill, but in the comfort of your home. Code: AMANDA for 20% off and https://www.levermovement.com

We collected listener questions on Instagram to provide you with a practical guide for how to use heart rate zones for running.  Discussion points include: Who should use heart rate zone training? Are Garmin’s heart rate zones accurate? How to calculate your individual heart rate zones Understanding the five-zone model Should you use your watch or a chest strap to measure HR on runs? Should certain runners NOT use heart rate zones? What is cardiac drift? Should you use heart rate monitoring for your hard workouts? What is so bad about zone 3? How do you run with low heart rate on hills? How much do heart rate zones matter for low-volume runners? This episode is sponsored by Boulderthon! Use code RUNTOTHEFINISH for $20 off the half or full marathon at Boulder’s premier road race on Sept 29, 2024. Register at https://www.boulderthon.org/    Further resources: Lactate threshold HR test: https://lauranorrisrunning.com/lactate-threshold-test/ https://www.runtothefinish.com/best-heart-rate-monitor/ Polar Verity Sense Armband: https://amzn.to/3ztNsLJ (affiliate link) Amanda’s low heart rate training plans: https://www.runtothefinish.com/low-heart-rate-training-plans  References: PMID: 29599724 PMID: 16095403 PMID: 33042384 PMID: 30539120 PMID: 32343255

The half marathon is one of the most popular race distance out there, for both experienced and novice runners. This episode focuses on how to train for your first marathon - while minimizing injury risk and enjoying the experience. These tips can also be helpful even if you are an experienced half marathon runner!  Discussion points include: Do you need to race shorter distances before you do a half marathon? How long should you spend training for your first half marathon?  How to pick a half marathon plan for your first race How far should you run before your first half marathon? How many days per week should you run? Nutrition and hydration for your first half marathon  How to reduce your injury risk  Should you have a goal finish time for your first half marathon? Resources:  Amanda’s book:  https://amzn.to/2MDXNda https://www.runtothefinish.com/half-marathon-training/ https://lauranorrisrunning.com/half-marathon-workouts/ https://lauranorrisrunning.com/how-far-should-you-run-before-a-half-marathon-or-marathon/

Are you traveling for a marathon (or other distance) soon, either domestically or internationally? Then this episode is for you! We have tips on how to make your destination race - and all the travel logistics around it - the smoothest and most enjoyable experience possible.  Discussion points: Managing your hydration while traveling for a race How to sleep on an airplane How to deal with jet lag around your race Should you do a shakeout run after arriving at your destination? Nutritional considerations for destination/international races How to manage car travel before a goal race This episode is sponsored by Boulderthon! Use code RUNTOTHEFINISH for $20 off the half or full marathon at Boulder’s premier road race on Sept 29, 2024. Register at ⁠https://www.boulderthon.org/⁠    If you enjoyed this episode, you may also like: Episode 39: Running at High Altitude Episode 67: Is the Boston Marathon Overhyped? Episode 69: How to Adjust Your Race References PMID: 33208347