
On Coaching with Magness & Marcus
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
Latest episodes

Jul 1, 2024 • 46min
247: Specific Strength Training for Runners. And how it differs from general strength training.
How do you extend your peak? In this episode we go deep on how to keep the peak going and the myths surrounding peaking. Steve & Jon Check out the Scholar Program The Scholar Program is our one-stop-shop for all things coaches education. It has 20+ courses plus an online interaction system with 500+ other…

Jun 25, 2024 • 57min
246: Base Training: Progression Over Career
Exploring the evolution of base training over an athlete's career, focusing on building a strong foundation in training through aerobic and biomechanical development. Highlighting the importance of movement patterns, skill acquisition, and tailored training programs to optimize performance and prevent injuries. Discussing the significance of assessing athlete weaknesses and adapting training plans for goal achievement.

Jun 17, 2024 • 1h 2min
245: Developing Aerobic Power: A scientific approach to improving specific endurance
What is aerobic power? How do you develop it? What are the workout progressions to optimize it? We go deep into the science to understand aerobic metabolism. Steve & Jon Check out the Scholar Program The Scholar Program is our one-stop-shop for all things coaches education. It has 20+ courses plus an online interaction system…

May 27, 2024 • 54min
244: The Post Peak Peak: What is it and how to set it up.
How do you extend your peak? In this episode we go deep on how to keep the peak going and the myths surrounding peaking. Steve & Jon Check out the Scholar Program The Scholar Program is our one-stop-shop for all things coaches education. It has 20+ courses plus an online interaction system with 500+ other…

May 20, 2024 • 54min
243: The science of the struggle bus: How people get on and how to get off.
What do you do when things go wrong, when an athlete is on the struggle bus? In this episode we explain how to get athletes out of the hole and back on track. Steve & Jon Check out the Scholar Program The Scholar Program is our one-stop-shop for all things coaches education. It has 20+…

May 13, 2024 • 50min
242: Two Feet in Reality: Tips on How to Support High Performance
How do you support high performance? In this episode we discuss creating the culture and environment that allows people to thrive. Steve & Jon Check out the Scholar Program The Scholar Program is our one-stop-shop for all things coaches education. It has 20+ courses plus an online interaction system with 500+ other coaches! And we’ve…

10 snips
May 6, 2024 • 1h 1min
241: Most common mistakes when coaching distance runners and how to avoid.
Topics discussed in the podcast include common mistakes in coaching distance runners, the importance of flexibility and empowering athletes, effective coaching strategies for distance running, preparing athletes mentally and physically for race day, navigating the complexity of coaching runners, and balancing training priorities and adaptation.

4 snips
Apr 15, 2024 • 54min
240: The Science of Zone 2: Why it’s misunderstood and how to apply it successful in your training.
Dive into the misunderstood world of Zone 2 training, a crucial aspect of endurance that often raises questions. The discussion tackles common misconceptions, emphasizing the balance of hard and easy training. Personalized approaches matter—understanding individual physiology is key. Explore how training frequency in lower intensities enhances performance and supports mitochondrial health. Ultimately, it’s about merging science with the art of coaching to optimize athletic potential.

Apr 8, 2024 • 58min
239: The Science of Overuse injuries and rehabilitation for distance runners.
Injury prevention and rehabilitation for distance runners take center stage. The hosts discuss collaborative coaching and how shared experiences can enhance problem-solving skills. They dive into the science behind overuse injuries and the importance of correcting running mechanics. Neurological recovery is highlighted as a key aspect of rehabilitation, especially after ACL injuries. A holistic approach is championed, combining diverse movement activities and the importance of nutrition and sleep for optimal recovery.

8 snips
Apr 1, 2024 • 53min
238: When workouts don’t work: The art of the audible
What do you do when it all goes wrong during a workout? You call an audible! In this episode, we walk you through how and when to adjust a bad workout. Steve & Jon Check out the Scholar Program The Scholar Program is our one-stop-shop for all things coaches education. It has 20+ courses plus…