

On Coaching with Magness & Marcus
Steve Magness
Coaches Steve Magness and Jon Marcus team up to bring you an insider’s view on coaching. Taking you inside the thoughts and conversations that usually occur behind the scenes. They bring a diverse background having both worked with athletes at the collegiate and professional level. They hope to bring a mixture of science, old-fashioned wisdom, and a touch of philosophy to help understand the process of coaching and maximizing endurance performance. For more information visit www.ScienceOfRunning.com
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jan 6, 2025 • 59min
262: Do drills work? The case for and against
Dive into the debate on the effectiveness of drills in athletic training. Explore how they may function more as warm-ups than skill enhancers, especially for sprinters. Discover the intricacies of muscle mechanics that challenge traditional views. Learn how context influences training success and the worrying decline in youth outdoor activities. Additionally, uncover modern rehabilitation methods that leverage drills for quicker recovery, emphasizing the importance of coordinated movements and intentional practice.

8 snips
Dec 30, 2024 • 55min
261: How to Write Training Part 2: Nuance, making adjustments and tweaks
Celebrating the thrill of NCAA cross-country, the hosts dive into how to elevate the sport's appeal. They discuss the evolving landscape of college athletics, highlighting a remarkable shoe-less performance. Flexibility is key in coaching, as real-time training adjustments can enhance athlete recovery. The intricacies of high-intensity training and the necessity of structured cycles are explored. Using an engaging cooking analogy, they emphasize the balance between monitoring progress and supporting athletes during tough days. Individualized approaches to training are championed for optimal performance.

Dec 23, 2024 • 53min
260: How to Write Training Part 1 Getting Started
Discover the art of crafting effective training plans that cater to individual athletes. Learn how understanding an athlete's unique background and goals is crucial for personalized training. Explore the diverse motivations that drive athletes and the vital role of time trials in measuring performance. Consistency emerges as a key theme, revealing how structured routines can enhance athletic capabilities. Balancing intensity and recovery becomes essential in avoiding burnout and ensuring progress. This engaging discussion is packed with insights for coaches and athletes alike!

Dec 2, 2024 • 58min
259: Race Day Meltdown: Strategies and Solutions for Bouncing Back When Everything Goes Wrong.
In this episode of the On Coaching Podcast, Steve Magness and Jon Marcus delve into the challenges of handling race day meltdowns. They discuss the emotional and psychological aspects that both athletes and coaches face when things don’t go as planned. Using personal anecdotes and real-life examples, they illustrate the importance of relationship building, understanding…

5 snips
Nov 25, 2024 • 59min
258: Longer Long Run or Faster Long Run!
The Great Long Run Debate: Length vs. Speed In this episode of the On Coaching Podcast, hosts Steve Magness and Jonathan Marcus dive into the classic debate on long runs: should athletes focus on longer durations or faster paces? They explore the history and benefits of long runs, referencing training methods from legendary coaches like…

Nov 17, 2024 • 56min
257: Workouts are only 40% of the equation. A podcast about the other 60%
Workouts are just 40% of what it takes to achieve peak performance. The hosts delve into how stability in life, sleep, and nutrition is equally crucial. They challenge the belief that workout metrics define success, highlighting recovery and readiness instead. Mental and emotional stability are equally emphasized, showcasing how mindset impacts performance. Personal stories reinforce the importance of a holistic approach, suggesting that effective coaching must address life obstacles to truly elevate athletic success.

Oct 7, 2024 • 53min
256: The science of going out hard and hanging on to win
n this episode of the On Coaching Podcast, hosts Steve Magness and John Marcus discuss the intricate demands of cross country racing that go beyond mere physiological preparation. They explore the need for strategic pacing, especially the importance of ‘going out hard’ right from the start of a race to secure a competitive position. The…

Sep 30, 2024 • 54min
255: The importance of being good coach, not just a nice coach.
Discover the delicate balance between being a supportive and authoritative coach. Personal anecdotes highlight the distinction between a nice coach and a good coach, stressing the importance of honesty and accountability. Learn how adaptability in coaching strategies can enhance performance and motivation. A pivotal championship race showcases the blend of guidance and athlete independence. Ultimately, authenticity and clear expectations create the foundation for strong coaching relationships.

4 snips
Sep 23, 2024 • 53min
254: Hard workouts: When, Where, How and Why?
Dive into the intricacies of hard workouts for distance runners, where physiological, psychological, and neurological demands intertwine. Learn how elite coaches customize training based on environmental factors and individual traits. Discover the impact of seasonal changes on training strategies and the importance of adapting to each athlete’s unique responses. Explore the neuroscience of movement and how understanding fatigue enhances performance. Finally, uncover the value of shared experiences in coaching, promoting joy over pure financial gains.

Sep 16, 2024 • 52min
253: Race Day Anxiety: How to Confront it, Run with it, and Potentially Overcome It.
Understanding and Addressing Performance Anxiety in Athletes In this episode of the ‘On Coaching’ podcast, hosts Steve Magness and John Marcus delve deep into the modern issue of performance anxiety, especially as it affects young athletes. They discuss the multidimensional nature of anxiety, its impact on performance, and the importance of identifying its sources. They…


