The Strength Running Podcast

Pete Pfitzinger, a RRCA hall of famer and top American marathoner, shares his expertise on peak marathon performance while highlighting the nuances of training. He discusses the impact of aging on endurance and the importance of good posture and core strength. Pfitzinger also introduces back-to-back hard workout days as a game-changer for improving results. Additionally, he emphasizes the significance of cross-training and warns of common training pitfalls, making this a must-listen for runners at any level.

Andy Galpin, an assistant professor at California State University Fullerton and a high-performance coach, delves into the vital role of strength training for runners. He discusses how to optimize workouts to improve speed and efficiency while addressing common mistakes and injury risks. Galpin emphasizes the importance of balancing strength and power, effective recovery strategies, and shares his favorite at-home equipment. This engaging conversation encourages a playful approach to building strength, ensuring accessibility for all runners.

Hunter Allen, a USA Cycling Level I coach and co-founder of TrainingPeaks, discusses the revolutionary impact of Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs) on endurance training. He highlights how CGMs provide real-time glucose data essential for optimal fueling. Listeners learn how to calibrate these devices, find their personal glucose ranges, and strategize nutrition to prevent crashes and spikes. Allen also addresses who might benefit from CGMs and shares insights from his new book, revealing the crucial relationship between glucose management and athletic performance.

A breakthrough race is intoxicating. Running a big Personal Best is a clear sign that you're training well, thriving, and on the right track. But what happens next? What happens after you run a big PR and your season comes to an end? How do you keep the momentum going, while still respecting recovery and your need for down-time?  This episode is a repost of a conversation on the Elevate Your Running podcast with coach Sara Manderscheid. We talk about: Recovery is a real phase of training. Learn how long to rest and why it's more than physical. Race analysis and reflection: Discover how to learn from your recent race, identifying both successes and areas for improvement. New Goals or No?: Explore diverse approaches to planning your next training cycle. Smart base rebuilding: Find effective strategies for a gradual and consistent return to training. Preventing burnout and staying motivated: Keep your passion for running strong, even during the off-season. More resources: The "Season Before the Season" video Coaching & Training Programs Follow Sara on Instagram How to plan your season Thanks Boulderthon! Boulderthon is a top 10 race in America according to USA Today and one of the best fall marathons according to Runner’s World. With a 5k, 10k, half marathon, and marathon, Boulderthon offers an amazing fall destination race weekend right at the foothills of the Rockies. Use code STRENGTH20 for $20 off the marathon or half marathon. Join me in Boulder, one of the top running destinations in the country, on September 28th, to experience the tight knit running community here, race on the epic streets of Boulder, and finish on historic Pearl Street. While I live in Denver, I travel to Boulder probably once a week to run. It’s arguably one of the best running locations in the United States. There’ll probably be cool and crisp fall weather for racing fast, too. And don’t worry, Boulderthon is a BQ-eligible, USA Track & Field Sanctioned Event. Boulderthon is on track to sell out again this year so don’t miss out. Use code STRENGTH20 to save $20 on the marathon or half-marathon here and I hope to see you in Boulder this fall. Thank you 2Before! We are supported by 2Before, a powerful sports supplement made from New Zealand Blackcurrants designed to increase endurance, manage inflammation, support immunity, and promote adaptation. 2Before helps to boost performance by increasing blood flow, making it more efficient for the body to pump oxygenated nutrient-rich blood into the muscles. Just like beetroot, New Zealand blackcurrant berries act as a vasodilator to increase blood flow, helping you perform better. Boost your performance and immune system with 2Before. Use code JASON for 30% off 20 packs and multi-serve packs at 2Before.com. Thank you 2Before for supporting Strength Running!

Dr. Nick Tiller, a research associate and author of The Skeptic's Guide to Sports Science, dives into the effectiveness of various wellness trends. He discusses whether nasal strips genuinely improve breathing and critiques detox diets, highlighting the body’s natural detox capabilities. The conversation also tackles the myths surrounding organic foods and the placebo effects of practices like cupping. Tiller emphasizes evidence-based approaches, urging listeners to make informed health choices while navigating popular fads in fitness.

Brady Holmer, a physiologist and 2:24 marathoner, dives into the world of creatine and its surprising benefits for endurance runners. He discusses the myths surrounding creatine, emphasizing its role in enhancing energy availability and recovery. Brady also shares insights on optimal dosing, safety concerns, and even potential cognitive benefits. With a fresh perspective, he challenges the notion that creatine is only for strength training, making a compelling case for its place in endurance sports. Engage further with his popular health newsletters for more tips!

A runner shares his inspiring recovery from IT band syndrome, achieving personal records in four different race distances. The discussion highlights the critical role of strength training in his transformation. From unstructured training to effective regimens, he emphasizes the importance of overlapping workouts with strategic strength exercises. Additionally, there’s excitement about an upcoming marathon in Boulder, showcasing the community's vibrant running culture. Personal achievements, including breaking the 90-minute barrier, underscore how structured training leads to success.

Dr. Victoria Sekely, a physical therapist and certified strength coach, discusses optimal fitness strategies for runners. She explains the importance of strength training over alternatives like Pilates, and why something can sometimes be worse than nothing. The conversation covers how to successfully integrate CrossFit with marathon training, emphasizing burnout management and effective workout scheduling. Victoria also shares her favorite calf exercises and tips on increasing weights confidently, all grounded in her extensive expertise in running performance.

Join acclaimed science journalist Alex Hutchinson, a former national class runner and author, as he dives into revolutionary training methods. He discusses the benefits of heat training and how to manage high mileage for optimal performance. Alex sheds light on the effort paradox, revealing how struggles enrich our experiences in running and beyond. He also shares insights from his latest book, encouraging us to explore personal limits and the meaning behind our challenges. Discover new perspectives on endurance and training!

In this engaging chat, Carolyn Coffin, host of the Inspired Souls Podcast, interviews Jason Fitzgerald, a running expert. They dive into essential training elements, emphasizing the importance of mastering middle distances like the 5K. Jason argues that the term 'full marathon' should be rethought and shares insights on the crucial 1% aspects of training that can make a big difference. Additionally, they discuss the significance of foundational skills in running, proper nutrition, and a holistic approach to balancing life and athletics.