The Strength Running Podcast

When race day arrives, having the right mindset can be the deciding factor in your success. This week’s guest on the podcast knows the importance of mindset, and has worked with athletes on the world’s biggest stages. Dr. Nicole Detling received her BA in psychology and sports science from Ohio Wesleyan University, her MS in sport psychology from Ithaca College, and her PhD in sport psychology at the University of Utah. She is a certified mental performance consultant and coauthor of the book “Don’t Leave Your Mind Behind.” While we have glimpsed what the human body is capable of with extraordinary feats like a sub-2 hour marathon, opportunity for continued success comes from harnessing the power of our mind. In our  conversation, Nicole and I discuss how to approach intensity and make mindset training part of your pre-race preparation. She makes mental training practical and accessible, and will help you learn: How pre-race intensity levels vary for different types of races Ways to discover your optimal energy stateHow elite athletes approach mental trainingStrategies to get yourself up and calm yourself down before a raceExercises that can help prepare you for race day visualizationHow “Plan Z” preparation can help prevent you from ever having to use itThe minimum effective dose of visualization for race day preparation This is a fascinating discussion that will benefit runners of every level, and can help your approach to other challenging areas in your life. Enjoy! Links & Resources from the Show: Learn more about HeadStrong ConsultingFollow Nicole on Twitter and InstagramConnect with Nicole on LinkedInSign up for our free mindset series Thank you MOBO Board! Invented by renowned physical therapist Jay Dicharry, MOBO helps you stabilize your stance with an innovative rocker board that’s set up on two fins. The design effectively forces you to drive your big toe into the bboard to improve your stability. I was pretty arrogant going into my first session on the MOBO Board. How hard can it be to balance, right? Well, I was humbled pretty quickly! Even if you’re a good runner, better balance, stability, and proprioception is going to help you have a more powerful stride and prevent more running injuries. You’ll learn how to improve the efficiency of the kinetic chain from your hip to your big toe. Because as Jay likes to say, it’s not just how strong you are, but how well you use that strength. Save 10% with code STRENGTHRUN10 at checkout at moboboard.com. Thank You Athletic Greens! Thank you to our sponsor, Athletic Greens! They are a health and wellness company that makes AG1. This is a category-leading greens mix that has 75 vitamins and minerals, prebiotics, probiotics, antioxidants, and adaptogens. One scoop per day is what I’ve been doing to help me fill in any nutrition gaps in my diet. It also provide a nice boost of energy and focus throughout the day. With all 3 of my kids in school, I know I need to support my immune system or else I’m getting sick and can’t train. I also love that AG1 has changed over the last decade. Athletic Greens has made 53 improvements to the formula based on the latest research to make these nutrients more absorbable. For our listeners, they are offering a year's worth of free Vitamin D and 5 free travel packs of AG1 with your first purchase. You can sign up for single shipment or for a monthly drop - the choice is yours. Check out Athletic Greens to redeem your offer today.

Dr. Justin Ross is a clinical psychologist and the Director of Workplace Wellbeing at the University of Colorado Health Hospital. He is also a competitive athlete, having qualified for the Boston Marathon 6 times. Dr. Ross has also competed in two Ironman 70.3 distance races, and recently completed the Leadville 100-mile mountain bike race. Our discussion today focuses on the essential components of mental toughness, and is full of practical advice that you can use in your own training: The varying definitions of mental toughnessWhat doesn't work: classic mistakes athletes make when trying to become mentally toughLearning how to normalize the voice of doubt we all faceWhat is attentional control and how can we use it for more focused workouts?How do our daily experiences contribute to mental toughness?Do non-sport specific activities (like ice baths) build mental toughness? Mental training is such an important component of finding success as an endurance athlete.  I hope our conversation can help you take your training to the next level! Links & Resources from the Show: Learn more our Dr. Ross and Connect with him on LinkedInCheck out Dr. Ross’ Performance Psychology plans on Training Peaks and Final Surge, and save 10% with code Performance10Learn how to build confidence and mental toughnessListen to my previous conversation with Dr. Ross in episode 122 Thank you Previnex! We’re supported by our newest partner, Previnex. After resisting most supplements for the better part of my life, I’m cautiously changing my tune. I’m less than a year from being a Masters runner and in my personal life, I’m optimizing for longevity. I want to be my healthiest self for as long as possible and I’m excited to partner with Previnex to make that happen. Previnex uses the most bioavailable, clinically tested ingredients, the optimal form and dose of each ingredient, pharmaceutical grade manufacturing, testing of raw ingredients and finished products. For every purchase you make, they also donate vitamins to kids in need. I’ve been taking their Immune Support and multivitamin over the last month and  I feel great. I have more energy and clarity, not to mention peace of mind that I’m giving my body what it needs.  I believe Previnex works and I hope you experience the same benefits as I do. Use code jason15 for 15% off your order at Previnex! Thank You InsideTracker! We’re sponsored by InsideTracker, a company that’s been around for more than 10 years to help you optimize your health, longevity, and performance. To live your healthiest, longest life possible, you need to understand what’s going on inside your body. People age at different speeds. And generic, annual blood work doesn’t properly evaluate your biological age. But InsideTracker does. InsideTracker is a truly personalized nutrition and performance system, designed to extend your health span and slow down the aging process. Created by leading scientists in aging, genetics, and biometrics, InsideTracker analyzes your blood, DNA, and fitness tracking data to identify where you’re optimized—and where you’re not. With InsideTracker, you get a daily Action Plan with personalized guidance on the right exercise, nutrition, and supplementation for your body. Add InnerAge 2.0 to any plan to calculate your true biological age, and see how you’re aging from the inside out. For a limited time, get 20% off the entire InsideTracker store!

When you’ve already pushed your body to the limit and made it to the Olympics as an elite 800m runner, what’s next? Nick Symmonds returns to talk about his adventures since retiring from competitive running. Although Nick retired from competitive running in 2017, he has been busier than ever. Whether developing Run Gum or getting over a million followers on YouTube, Nick is always in pursuit on the next personal and professional challenge. In addition to talking about what Nick has been doing professionally since 2016, we also cover: How his desire to entertain has gotten him over a million followers on YouTubeWhy he loves running but has no desire to train anymoreNick’s current fitness goalsHow he inspires a passion for fitness in others while keeping it funWhy Nick fears boredom as an entrepreneur more than anything elseWhat mindset allows Nick to tackle such audacious goals You can't help but be inspired by Nick's energy and enthusiasm for all things fitness. Enjoy! Links & Resources from the Show: Check out Nick's YouTube ChannelSee the unveiling of Nick's obstacle course!Learn more about Run GumFollow Nick on Instagram,  Facebook and Twitter.Listen to my first ever podcast episode with Nick.Want to get strong like Nick?  I can help. Thank you MOBO Board! Invented by renowned physical therapist Jay Dicharry, MOBO helps you stabilize your stance with an innovative rocker board that’s set up on two fins. The design effectively forces you to drive your big toe into the bboard to improve your stability. I was pretty arrogant going into my first session on the MOBO Board. How hard can it be to balance, right? Well, I was humbled pretty quickly! Even if you’re a good runner, better balance, stability, and proprioception is going to help you have a more powerful stride and prevent more running injuries. You’ll learn how to improve the efficiency of the kinetic chain from your hip to your big toe. Because as Jay likes to say, it’s not just how strong you are, but how well you use that strength. Save 10% with code STRENGTHRUN10 at checkout at moboboard.com. Thank You Athletic Greens! Thank you to our sponsor, Athletic Greens! They are a health and wellness company that makes AG1. This is a category-leading greens mix that has 75 vitamins and minerals, prebiotics, probiotics, antioxidants, and adaptogens. One scoop per day is what I’ve been doing to help me fill in any nutrition gaps in my diet. It also provide a nice boost of energy and focus throughout the day. With all 3 of my kids in school, I know I need to support my immune system or else I’m getting sick and can’t train. I also love that AG1 has changed over the last decade. Athletic Greens has made 53 improvements to the formula based on the latest research to make these nutrients more absorbable. For our listeners, they are offering a year's worth of free Vitamin D and 5 free travel packs of AG1 with your first purchase. You can sign up for single shipment or for a monthly drop - the choice is yours. Check out Athletic Greens to redeem your offer today.

This week on the podcast I have strength coach and sprinting expert Kyle Davey to help runners gain a better understanding of hamstring injuries and how to prevent them. Kyle is the Coordinator of Athletic Performance at Northwest Rehabilitation Associates, regularly contributes to Simplifaster, and is the owner of Salem Speed Academy. Kyle and I take an in-depth look at hamstring injuries, especially as they relate to distance runners. Knowing how to prevent hamstring injuries and manage them if they occur is essential so they don’t become a chronic issue. Learn more about injury prevention here. Our conversation touches on many aspects of prevention and treatment, including: The most common types of hamstring injuriesKey factors that increase your risk of injuryTraining suggestions for injury preventionThe role of strength training in prevention and treatmentWhat is pelvic tilt and how it impacts your hamstringsThe injury rehabilitation process for low and high grade injuries You'll find everything you wanted to know about hamstring health in this episode with Kyle! Links & Resources from the Show: Learn more about what Kyle does at RE_Building by NWRAFollow Kyle on Linked InRead articles from Kyle on SimplifasterDiscover more about Salem Speed AcademyLet me help you prevent injuries Thank you MOBO Board! Invented by renowned physical therapist Jay Dicharry, MOBO helps you stabilize your stance with an innovative rocker board that’s set up on two fins. The design effectively forces you to drive your big toe into the bboard to improve your stability. I was pretty arrogant going into my first session on the MOBO Board. How hard can it be to balance, right? Well, I was humbled pretty quickly! Even if you’re a good runner, better balance, stability, and proprioception is going to help you have a more powerful stride and prevent more running injuries. You’ll learn how to improve the efficiency of the kinetic chain from your hip to your big toe. Because as Jay likes to say, it’s not just how strong you are, but how well you use that strength. Save 10% with code STRENGTHRUN10 at checkout at moboboard.com. Thank You Athletic Greens! Thank you to our sponsor, Athletic Greens! They are a health and wellness company that makes AG1. This is a category-leading greens mix that has 75 vitamins and minerals, prebiotics, probiotics, antioxidants, and adaptogens. One scoop per day is what I’ve been doing to help me fill in any nutrition gaps in my diet. It also provide a nice boost of energy and focus throughout the day. With all 3 of my kids in school, I know I need to support my immune system or else I’m getting sick and can’t train. I also love that AG1 has changed over the last decade. Athletic Greens has made 53 improvements to the formula based on the latest research to make these nutrients more absorbable. For our listeners, they are offering a year's worth of free Vitamin D and 5 free travel packs of AG1 with your first purchase. You can sign up for single shipment or for a monthly drop - the choice is yours. Check out Athletic Greens to redeem your offer today.

I’ve had the privilege of working with this week’s guest on the podcast for nearly four years. Thomas Shanabruch came to me as a gifted runner who was looking to push himself to the next level, while staying healthy as a master’s runner. This is the story of the last few years and how he has notched PR after PR in a variety of distances from the 5k to the marathon (but his progression in the marathon is just stunning!). Tom and I discuss a variety of factors that have contributed to his string of PRs, including: Taking your your workouts AND your recovery seriously The importance of setting bold goalsStepping out of your comfort zone, whether it’s in a 5k or in the weight roomHow to make time for strength work, day in and day outThe importance of mindset - taking the training seriously without it becoming a burden What’s next up for Tom? He’ll be running the Boston Marathon in 2022 and as well as the Berlin Marathon to complete the world marathon majors. Although most of us aren’t as fast as Tom, everyone can learn from his love of running and racing, and his continued commitment to improvement! NOTE: This show is a rerun of episode 233. Links & Resources from the Show: Get your own PR Race PlanLearn how weightlifting can help you get fasterRead more about strength training for marathon runnersLearn more ways to PR as a master's runner Thank you Previnex! We’re supported by our newest partner, Previnex. After resisting most supplements for the better part of my life, I’m cautiously changing my tune. I’m less than a year from being a Masters runner and in my personal life, I’m optimizing for longevity. I want to be my healthiest self for as long as possible and I’m excited to partner with Previnex to make that happen. Previnex uses the most bioavailable, clinically tested ingredients, the optimal form and dose of each ingredient, pharmaceutical grade manufacturing, testing of raw ingredients and finished products. For every purchase you make, they also donate vitamins to kids in need. I’ve been taking their Immune Support and multivitamin over the last month and  I feel great. I have more energy and clarity, not to mention peace of mind that I’m giving my body what it needs.  I believe Previnex works and I hope you experience the same benefits as I do. Use code jason15 for 15% off your order at Previnex! Thank You InsideTracker! We’re sponsored by InsideTracker, a company that’s been around for more than 10 years to help you optimize your health, longevity, and performance. To live your healthiest, longest life possible, you need to understand what’s going on inside your body. People age at different speeds. And generic, annual blood work doesn’t properly evaluate your biological age. But InsideTracker does. InsideTracker is a truly personalized nutrition and performance system, designed to extend your health span and slow down the aging process. Created by leading scientists in aging, genetics, and biometrics, InsideTracker analyzes your blood, DNA, and fitness tracking data to identify where you’re optimized—and where you’re not. With InsideTracker, you get a daily Action Plan with personalized guidance on the right exercise, nutrition, and supplementation for your body. Add InnerAge 2.0 to any plan to calculate your true biological age, and see how you’re aging from the inside out. For a limited time, get 20% off the entire InsideTracker store!

Comedian Laura Green has been a lifelong runner who competed in middle distance at Northeastern University. She now lives in Boston with her family, and in her own words “runs a lot and makes fun of running a lot.” Laura is the comedic influencer we didn’t know we needed, and her Instagram reels are so on point and relatable to runners that it’s hard not to sit and watch them all. Whether she’s poking fun at Strava, podcasters, or the varying personalities of different running apparel companies, you'll laugh out loud at her comedy. In this episode Laura and I discuss the value of humor in the sport, as well as how it can help us have conversations about more serious topics. We also talk about: How Laura gets the inspiration for her comedyWhy her varying experiences as a competitor, mom, and trail runner all make her so relatableWhat goes into making a typical reelHow she has used humor to address subjects such as catcalling and harassmentLaura’s future projects Enjoy my conversation and laughter with Laura Green! Links & Resources from the Show: Follow Laura on Instagram, TikTok or YouTubeVisit Laura's websiteLet me help you get the most out of your running! Thank you Previnex! We’re supported by our newest partner, Previnex. After resisting most supplements for the better part of my life, I’m cautiously changing my tune. I’m less than a year from being a Masters runner and in my personal life, I’m optimizing for longevity. I want to be my healthiest self for as long as possible and I’m excited to partner with Previnex to make that happen. Previnex uses the most bioavailable, clinically tested ingredients, the optimal form and dose of each ingredient, pharmaceutical grade manufacturing, testing of raw ingredients and finished products. For every purchase you make, they also donate vitamins to kids in need. I’ve been taking their Immune Support and multivitamin over the last month and  I feel great. I have more energy and clarity, not to mention peace of mind that I’m giving my body what it needs.  I believe Previnex works and I hope you experience the same benefits as I do. Use code jason15 for 15% off your order at Previnex! Thank You InsideTracker! We’re sponsored by InsideTracker, a company that’s been around for more than 10 years to help you optimize your health, longevity, and performance. To live your healthiest, longest life possible, you need to understand what’s going on inside your body. People age at different speeds. And generic, annual blood work doesn’t properly evaluate your biological age. But InsideTracker does. InsideTracker is a truly personalized nutrition and performance system, designed to extend your health span and slow down the aging process. Created by leading scientists in aging, genetics, and biometrics, InsideTracker analyzes your blood, DNA, and fitness tracking data to identify where you’re optimized—and where you’re not. With InsideTracker, you get a daily Action Plan with personalized guidance on the right exercise, nutrition, and supplementation for your body. Add InnerAge 2.0 to any plan to calculate your true biological age, and see how you’re aging from the inside out. For a limited time, get 20% off the entire InsideTracker store!

This week’s guest has played a pivotal role in the trail running community. Dylan Bowman is an elite ultrarunner, podcast host, and leader and cofounder of Freetrail. He began his athletic career as a competitive lacrosse player, but after college discovered his love for the beauty and community of trail running. Early in his career, Dylan established himself as a force to be reckoned with in the ultra world, with podium finishes at many of the most competitive ultra races including Leadville and Ultra-Trail Mt Fuji. In the last couple of years Dylan has set his sights on a new project - Freetrail - best described as “a community dedicated to the life-changing sport of trail running.” Dylan and I cover a lot of ground in this podcast, from how he became a trail runner to his newest project and vision for the sport. Some of the topics we discuss include: Why making the leap from lacrosse to trail running was not as random as it seemsThe importance of finding the things in life that light you upHow Dylan’s early love of sports radio impacted his current endeavorThe parallels between entrepreneurship and runningThe evolution and direction of the trail running worldWhy livestreaming is the lynchpin to growth in the sport Dylan's genuine love for his running and business are infectious, and you're sure to enjoy all the twists and turns of our conversation. Links & Resources from the Show: Follow Dylan on Instagram and TwitterLearn more about DylanConnect with Dylan on Linked InCheck out Freetrail and follow Freetrail on InstagramListen to the Freetrail podcastLearn more about trail running Thank you Previnex! We’re supported by our newest partner, Previnex. After resisting most supplements for the better part of my life, I’m cautiously changing my tune. I’m less than a year from being a Masters runner and in my personal life, I’m optimizing for longevity. I want to be my healthiest self for as long as possible and I’m excited to partner with Previnex to make that happen. Previnex uses the most bioavailable, clinically tested ingredients, the optimal form and dose of each ingredient, pharmaceutical grade manufacturing, testing of raw ingredients and finished products. For every purchase you make, they also donate vitamins to kids in need. I’ve been taking their Immune Support and multivitamin over the last month and  I feel great. I have more energy and clarity, not to mention peace of mind that I’m giving my body what it needs.  I believe Previnex works and I hope you experience the same benefits as I do. Use code jason15 for 15% off your order at Previnex! Thank you Bodyweight Power! We’re also supported by our very own strength training program, Bodyweight Power. This is the only bodyweight strength training program created specifically for endurance runners that’s periodized and focuses on power. I partnered with running coach, physical therapist, and certified strength coach Victoria Sekely to make this program possible. That means it’s running coach, PT, and strength coach approved!  It’s time to treat yourself, so make a commitment to get stronger and stay healthy. You can use Bodyweight Power for years, gaining strength with each training cycle. Once you enroll, you also get free updates for life.  Invest in your strength, injury resilience, and speed with Bodyweight Power.

Strength training is an essential component of becoming a better athlete. If you’re a runner who’s a newbie in the gym or an experienced weightlifter looking to run more regularly, you can balance your training to make it beneficial, fun and sustainable! This week’s podcast is from a conversation I had with Matt Chittim on the Rambling Runner Podcast. Matt is a runner and a coach, and his enthusiasm and knowledge about the sport has made his podcast enormously popular. We have covered an array of topics in our previous conversations, but this one focuses on one of my favorite topics: strength training. Matt and I talk about some different aspects of strength training in this episode, including roadblocks that keep runners from getting into the gym, and why it’s ok not to optimize every aspect of your training. For more on this topic, get Strength Running's free strength course. Our discussion also includes: The ubiquitous need for strength work, whether you’re a new runner or an eliteWhy something is always better than nothing when it comes to weight trainingHow obstacle course racing (OCR) has become a “gateway drug” into runningUsing a blend of the activities you love to keep running fun and sustainableThe cautious approach to lifting heavy in the gym My conversations with Matt are always fun, energetic and informative.  Enjoy! Links & Resources from the Show: Listen to The Rambling Runner PodcastFollow The Rambling Runner on InstagramListen to my recent conversation with Matt on engineering a comebackGet strong at home with Bodyweight PowerLearn how to lift like the elites Thank you Previnex! We’re supported by our newest partner, Previnex. After resisting most supplements for the better part of my life, I’m cautiously changing my tune. I’m less than a year from being a Masters runner and in my personal life, I’m optimizing for longevity. I want to be my healthiest self for as long as possible and I’m excited to partner with Previnex to make that happen. Previnex uses the most bioavailable, clinically tested ingredients, the optimal form and dose of each ingredient, pharmaceutical grade manufacturing, testing of raw ingredients and finished products. For every purchase you make, they also donate vitamins to kids in need. I’ve been taking their Immune Support and multivitamin over the last month and  I feel great. I have more energy and clarity, not to mention peace of mind that I’m giving my body what it needs.  I believe Previnex works and I hope you experience the same benefits as I do. Use code jason15 for 15% off your order at Previnex! Thank You InsideTracker! We’re sponsored by InsideTracker, a company that’s been around for more than 10 years to help you optimize your health, longevity, and performance. To live your healthiest, longest life possible, you need to understand what’s going on inside your body. People age at different speeds. And generic, annual blood work doesn’t properly evaluate your biological age. But InsideTracker does. InsideTracker is a truly personalized nutrition and performance system, designed to extend your health span and slow down the aging process. Created by leading scientists in aging, genetics, and biometrics, InsideTracker analyzes your blood, DNA, and fitness tracking data to identify where you’re optimized—and where you’re not. With InsideTracker, you get a daily Action Plan with personalized guidance on the right exercise, nutrition, and supplementation for your body. Add InnerAge 2.0 to any plan to calculate your true biological age, and see how you’re aging from the inside out. For a limited time, get 20% off the entire InsideTracker store!

If your job requires unconventional hours, it can be a struggle to find the time to run. But with a little creativity, even runners with challenging schedules can train to improve and reach their goals! This week’s episode features a coaching call with two runners who work unconventional hours. While both have found a way to fit running into their hectic lives, we discuss strategies to help them continue to upgrade their training. As an oncology nurse, Daryl works 12-13 hour shifts 3 days a week, in addition to her commute. She is on her feet for almost all of those hours, continuously working with patients. Tom juggles two jobs with one starting at 3 am, and on 3 days each week he has at most an hour to transition to his next shift. His work is also intensely physical in addition to the long hours. Some of the strategies we touch on include: The importance of dominating your sleepUsing cross-training to transition to a higher volume of runningThe best options for run workouts with limited timeWhere strength training fits in when you have a physically demanding jobWhy adding short, additional runs can make you a more durable runner No matter what your schedule, you're bound to learn a lot from this discussion and be inspired by Daryl and Tom's commitment! Links & Resources from the Show: Using sleep to enhance your trainingHow to make pre-dawn running work for youLet me help you with your training! Thank you Previnex! We’re supported by our newest partner, Previnex. After resisting most supplements for the better part of my life, I’m cautiously changing my tune. I’m less than a year from being a Masters runner and in my personal life, I’m optimizing for longevity. I want to be my healthiest self for as long as possible and I’m excited to partner with Previnex to make that happen. Previnex uses the most bioavailable, clinically tested ingredients, the optimal form and dose of each ingredient, pharmaceutical grade manufacturing, testing of raw ingredients and finished products. For every purchase you make, they also donate vitamins to kids in need. I’ve been taking their Immune Support and multivitamin over the last month and  I feel great. I have more energy and clarity, not to mention peace of mind that I’m giving my body what it needs.  I believe Previnex works and I hope you experience the same benefits as I do. Use code jason15 for 15% off your order at Previnex! Thank You Athletic Greens! Thank you to our sponsor, Athletic Greens! They are a health and wellness company that makes AG1. This is a category-leading greens mix that has 75 vitamins and minerals, prebiotics, probiotics, antioxidants, and adaptogens. One scoop per day is what I’ve been doing to help me fill in any nutrition gaps in my diet. It also provide a nice boost of energy and focus throughout the day. With all 3 of my kids in school, I know I need to support my immune system or else I’m getting sick and can’t train. I also love that AG1 has changed over the last decade. Athletic Greens has made 53 improvements to the formula based on the latest research to make these nutrients more absorbable.

Are you a new runner or looking to get back into the sport after a long break? This episode is for you! We tackle all the questions to help you get started, run comfortably, and develop an amazing lifelong habit. Mark Kennedy is an RRCA Certified Running Coach and the founder of the None to Run community, which also has its own podcast and app. What started as a blog has become an impressive community of new runners all sharing in their ongoing successes. Mark and I talk a bit about the community, but focus on listener generated questions that include: How do I establish a consistent running habit?How can I get back into running if I’ve spent years away from it?Are trails a suitable place for a new runner?What’s the best way to implement strength training with my running?I’ve fallen in love with running! How soon can I think about running my first marathon?Am I going to harm my knees? If you’ve been hoping for an episode that gets back to the basics, this is for you. Our conversation will help get you on your way to healthy, happy running! Links & Resources from the Show: Follow Mark and None to Run on InstagramVisit the None to Run communityCheck out the articles in the None to Run BlogLet me help you finish your first 5k! Thank you Previnex! We’re supported by our newest partner, Previnex. After resisting most supplements for the better part of my life, I’m cautiously changing my tune. I’m less than a year from being a Masters runner and in my personal life, I’m optimizing for longevity. I want to be my healthiest self for as long as possible and I’m excited to partner with Previnex to make that happen. Previnex uses the most bioavailable, clinically tested ingredients, the optimal form and dose of each ingredient, pharmaceutical grade manufacturing, testing of raw ingredients and finished products. For every purchase you make, they also donate vitamins to kids in need. I’ve been taking their Immune Support and multivitamin over the last month and  I feel great. I have more energy and clarity, not to mention peace of mind that I’m giving my body what it needs.  I believe Previnex works and I hope you experience the same benefits as I do. Use code jason15 for 15% off your order at Previnex! Thank You InsideTracker! We’re sponsored by InsideTracker, a company that’s been around for more than 10 years to help you optimize your health, longevity, and performance. To live your healthiest, longest life possible, you need to understand what’s going on inside your body. People age at different speeds. And generic, annual blood work doesn’t properly evaluate your biological age. But InsideTracker does. InsideTracker is a truly personalized nutrition and performance system, designed to extend your health span and slow down the aging process. Created by leading scientists in aging, genetics, and biometrics, InsideTracker analyzes your blood, DNA, and fitness tracking data to identify where you’re optimized—and where you’re not. With InsideTracker, you get a daily Action Plan with personalized guidance on the right exercise, nutrition, and supplementation for your body. Add InnerAge 2.0 to any plan to calculate your true biological age, and see how you’re aging from the inside out. For a limited time, get 20% off the entire InsideTracker store!

Sam Murphy is a journalist, author and running coach. She has written for numerous newspapers and magazines over the last 20 years, and pens the enduring Murphy's Lore column in Runner's World magazine. As a long time runner, Sam has raced a variety of distances from 5Ks to ultras, and she earned her degree in sports and exercise science. Sam and I discuss the common mistakes and misconceptions that can complicate marathon training, especially if you are new to the distance. Some of the myths we address include: The “perfect” training cycle - why it doesn’t existWhy a 20 mile training run isn’t always a necessity before the marathon Marathon training won’t age you - if you do it right!Why training at faster paces isn’t only for advanced runnersInjury is NOT an expected part of the marathon training cycleYou don’t have to abstain from all alcohol during marathon training Sam's blend of experience, wisdom, and humor make for an episode that runners of all levels can enjoy and benefit from. Whether you're planning your first or 50th marathon, you're bound to discover some valuable training insights! Links & Resources from the Show: Check out Sam’s newest book, Run Your Best Marathon Follow Sam on Instagram and TwitterLearn more about Sam on her websiteMore books from Sam Murphy!Read more about the science of running and alcohol consumption here and here. Thank you Previnex! We’re supported by our newest partner, Previnex. After resisting most supplements for the better part of my life, I’m cautiously changing my tune. I’m less than a year from being a Masters runner and in my personal life, I’m optimizing for longevity. I want to be my healthiest self for as long as possible and I’m excited to partner with Previnex to make that happen. Previnex uses the most bioavailable, clinically tested ingredients, the optimal form and dose of each ingredient, pharmaceutical grade manufacturing, testing of raw ingredients and finished products. For every purchase you make, they also donate vitamins to kids in need. I’ve been taking their Immune Support and multivitamin over the last month and  I feel great. I have more energy and clarity, not to mention peace of mind that I’m giving my body what it needs.  I believe Previnex works and I hope you experience the same benefits as I do. Use code jason15 for 15% off your order at Previnex! Thank You Athletic Greens! Thank you to our sponsor, Athletic Greens! They are a health and wellness company that makes AG1. This is a category-leading greens mix that has 75 vitamins and minerals, prebiotics, probiotics, antioxidants, and adaptogens. One scoop per day is what I’ve been doing to help me fill in any nutrition gaps in my diet. It also provide a nice boost of energy and focus throughout the day. With all 3 of my kids in school, I know I need to support my immune system or else I’m getting sick and can’t train. I also love that AG1 has changed over the last decade. Athletic Greens has made 53 improvements to the formula based on the latest research to make these nutrients more absorbable. For our listeners, they are offering a year's worth of free Vitamin D and 5 free travel packs of AG1 with your first purchase. You can sign up for single shipment or for a monthly drop - the choice is yours. Check out Athletic Greens to redeem your offer today.

Meet Meghann Featherstun - a Registered Dietitian and board certified specialist in sports dietetics. Meghann is also a talented runner, having broken 3 hours in the marathon after starting to run as an adult in 2009. Throughout our discussion Meghann answers questions from listeners, in addition to many of my own! Some of these include: What’s a normal blood glucose range and why might runners be different from the average population?What impact does training have on your blood glucose over time?How is your blood glucose and other lab work impacted by an event like a marathon?How should diabetics think differently about pre-run/pre-race fueling?What is the impact of carb loading on blood glucose?  Is pre-run fasting ever beneficial? Meghann does an outstanding job of making a complex topic interesting and relatable, and you're bound to learn a lot from her expertise! Links & Resources from the Show: Visit Meghann on her websiteFollow Meghann on InstagramLearn more about the ins and outs of carb loadingMake fueling less complicated with Nutrition for RunnersListen to my conversation with Dr. Stephanie Howe on running nutrition Thank you Previnex! We’re supported by our newest partner, Previnex. After resisting most supplements for the better part of my life, I’m cautiously changing my tune. I’m less than a year from being a Masters runner and in my personal life, I’m optimizing for longevity. I want to be my healthiest self for as long as possible and I’m excited to partner with Previnex to make that happen. Previnex uses the most bioavailable, clinically tested ingredients, the optimal form and dose of each ingredient, pharmaceutical grade manufacturing, testing of raw ingredients and finished products. For every purchase you make, they also donate vitamins to kids in need. I’ve been taking their Immune Support and multivitamin over the last month and  I feel great. I have more energy and clarity, not to mention peace of mind that I’m giving my body what it needs. I believe Previnex works and I hope you experience the same benefits as I do. Use code jason15 for 15% off your order at Previnex! Thank you Ultimate Training Bundle! We’re also supported by Strength Running’s own Ultimate Training Bundle. Since 2010, Strength Running has helped runners around the world race faster, get stronger, and prevent more injuries with our evidence-based training programs and courses. Now, you can get all of our best courses - High Performance Lifting, Injury Prevention for Runners, Bodyweight Power, Mindset Mastery, Nutrition for Runners, and Team Strength Running - at a massive 35% discount. Give yourself the gift of certainty this new year and get your running, strength training, nutrition, and mindset on the right track. Get it here today!

This week’s podcast features a coaching call with a runner named Bradford. After a year of fast racing, Bradford had a taste of success and is looking to make continued improvement as a new master’s runner. Having recently turned 40, Bradford set some challenging but realistic goals for the year ahead: run a sub-3 marathon and qualify to run Boston in 2024. Bradford lives in Washington, DC and often runs several workouts each week with a local club of competitive athletes. While these structured workout sessions have enabled him to achieve fast times in the 5k and half marathon, Bradford is wondering how best to juggle all the elements of training for his first marathon. Bradford and I talk about his past and current training and plan for how he can achieve his goals in the years ahead. While he is doing a lot of things right, we discuss ways he can make continued progress, including: How to alter his current schedule of workoutsThe importance of race selection when setting a challenging goalWhy more mileage is so key to his marathon goalUsing tuneup races to evaluate his fitnessHow to fit strength training into a busy schedule Often we think about what we're doing wrong in training. This is a fun discussion on how to keep improving when you're already on the right track. Enjoy! Join Team Strength Running to be able to come on the podcast for these coaching calls! Don't miss our other coaching call episodes: How to Escape a Running RutHow to Fix Knee PainRunning And Lifting: How Elizabeth Does Both As A Sub-3 Marathoner Links & Resources from the Show: Learn more about running your fastest marathon as a masterEngineering a marathon PR as master’s runnerSee how High Performance Lifting can benefit your runningRun coaching to help you set new PRs Thank You InsideTracker! We’re sponsored by InsideTracker, a company that’s been around for more than 10 years to help you optimize your health, longevity, and performance. To live your healthiest, longest life possible, you need to understand what’s going on inside your body. People age at different speeds. And generic, annual blood work doesn’t properly evaluate your biological age. But InsideTracker does. InsideTracker is a truly personalized nutrition and performance system, designed to extend your health span and slow down the aging process. Created by leading scientists in aging, genetics, and biometrics, InsideTracker analyzes your blood, DNA, and fitness tracking data to identify where you’re optimized—and where you’re not. With InsideTracker, you get a daily Action Plan with personalized guidance on the right exercise, nutrition, and supplementation for your body. Add InnerAge 2.0 to any plan to calculate your true biological age, and see how you’re aging from the inside out. For a limited time, get 20% off the entire InsideTracker store! Thank You Athletic Greens! Thank you to our sponsor, Athletic Greens! They are a health and wellness company that makes AG1. This is a category-leading greens mix that has 75 vitamins and minerals, prebiotics, probiotics, antioxidants, and adaptogens. One scoop per day is what I’ve been doing to help me fill in any nutrition gaps in my diet. It also provide a nice boost of energy and focus throughout the day. With all 3 of my kids in school, I know I need to support my immune system or else I’m getting sick and can’t train. I also love that AG1 has changed over the last decade. Athletic Greens has made 53 improvements to the formula based on the latest research to make these nutrients more absorbable. For our listeners, they are offering a year's worth of free Vitamin D and 5 free travel packs of AG1 with your first purchase. You can sign up for single shipment or for a monthly drop - the choice is yours. Check out Athletic Greens to redeem your offer today.

Grayson Murphy is a five-time Division 1 All-American, the 2019 World Mountain Running Champion, and the 2019 and 2021 US Mountain Running Champion. In addition to her racing success, Grayson is working on her Masters of Sustainable Natural Resources at Oregon State University. She also has her own small business selling a self-designed training log and planner. Catch her contribution to Episode 160: 5 Of The World’s Fastest Women On Injury Prevention & Recovery! Grayson and I discuss her year of injuries, and she shares how she has handled them both mentally and physically. Her openness about dealing with injury is a tremendous resource for all levels of runners. Some topics we touch on include: Her sequence of injuries, from her plantar fascia to her hipHow cross-training both hindered and helped her recovery processThe importance self-assessment along with professional helpHow a written training journal can help with injury prevention and recoveryWhat she learned about recognizing different types of painHow she is beginning to trust her body again post-injury Grayson’s thoughtfulness and self-reflection on her recovery process will help any runner, whether injured or not! Links & Resources from the Show: Visit Grayson’s websiteFollow Grayson on InstagramLearn more about GraysonRead about Grayson’s cross training adventuresLet me help you prevent injuries! Thank You InsideTracker! This episode is brought to you by InsideTracker, one of the most reputable blood testing companies in the world. They were founded in 2009 by aging, genetics, and biometrics scientists to help you analyze your body’s data and get a firm idea of how well you’re responding to training. Understanding your body’s biomarkers, from stress hormones to testosterone to Vitamin D, can help you figure out if you’re over-training, under-training, optimally training, or if you have a health issue that might be affecting your running. But the best part is that they give you personalized optimal ranges for each of these biomarkers and a host of ways to improve these markers through diet, lifestyle, or exercise changes. I’ve gotten several Ultimate tests from them and the process is simple, easy, and very eye-opening if you haven’t done a deep dive on your biomarkers yet.  Of all the investments you can make in your running, this one is like getting a detailed checkup or regularly scheduled maintenance for your internal physiology.  Get yours today! Thank you Elemental Labs! A big thanks to Elemental Labs for their support of this episode! They make electrolyte drinks for athletes and low-carb folks with no sugar, artificial ingredients, or colors. And you can get a free sampler pack of 4 flavors and 8 individual packets when you pay $5 in shipping. Elemental Labs' products have some of the highest sodium concentrations that you can find. Anybody who runs a lot knows that sodium, as well as other electrolytes like magnesium and potassium, are essential to our performance and how we feel throughout the day. The citrus flavor has quickly become my favorite. I’m drinking one a day now to help me get enough fluids in our dry Colorado air. It’s tasty and delicious and I find that I’m not peeing every 45 minutes throughout the day, which might be an indication I wasn’t eating enough sodium. There’s now mounting evidence that higher sodium intake levels are not unhealthy – and athletes need substantially more than your typical sedentary person. Of course, ask your doctor if you’re worried. But for those athletes running outside in the heat, an electrolyte replacement makes a lot of sense. So check out Elemental Labs to try their new flavor or get a free sampler pack.

What exatly is the "off-season?" In this episode, coach Jason Fitzgerald discusses the often-confusing off-season and why it's really a combination of time off and the early base phase of training.  You'll learn how to plan that time off, what the early weeks of base training should look like, and the goals of base training.  More resources: Base Training 101Training ProgramsHow to build a bigger base Thank You InsideTracker! This episode is brought to you by InsideTracker, one of the most reputable blood testing companies in the world. They were founded in 2009 by aging, genetics, and biometrics scientists to help you analyze your body’s data and get a firm idea of how well you’re responding to training. Understanding your body’s biomarkers, from stress hormones to testosterone to Vitamin D, can help you figure out if you’re over-training, under-training, optimally training, or if you have a health issue that might be affecting your running. But the best part is that they give you personalized optimal ranges for each of these biomarkers and a host of ways to improve these markers through diet, lifestyle, or exercise changes. I’ve gotten several Ultimate tests from them and the process is simple, easy, and very eye-opening if you haven’t done a deep dive on your biomarkers yet.  Of all the investments you can make in your running, this one is like getting a detailed checkup or regularly scheduled maintenance for your internal physiology. I scheduled another Ultimate test for myself soon and it’ll be interesting to compare with the test I got in February. Get yours today! Thank You Athletic Greens! Thank you to our sponsor, Athletic Greens! They are a health and wellness company that makes AG1. This is a category-leading greens mix that has 75 vitamins and minerals, prebiotics, probiotics, antioxidants, and adaptogens. One scoop per day is what I’ve been doing to help me fill in any nutrition gaps in my diet. It also provide a nice boost of energy and focus throughout the day. With all 3 of my kids in school, I know I need to support my immune system or else I’m getting sick and can’t train. I also love that AG1 has changed over the last decade. Athletic Greens has made 53 improvements to the formula based on the latest research to make these nutrients more absorbable. For our listeners, they are offering a year’s worth of free Vitamin D and 5 free travel packs of AG1 with your first purchase. You can sign up for single shipment or for a monthly drop – the choice is yours. Check out Athletic Greens to redeem your offer today.

Any athlete who seeks to perform at their best knows the importance of mental training. Whether it’s a tough workout, a local 5k, or competing on the world stage at the Olympics, having confidence in your abilities will help you get the most out of yourself. Greg Chertok has over a decade of experience creating mental training programs for a wide range of athletes. He's worked with youth athletes as well as professionals, including Olympians, NCAA and Super Bowl champions, and Stanley Cup players. As a performance and mental skills consultant, Greg is an expert at helping others build sport-specific confidence. Greg and I discuss many aspects of developing confidence that will benefit your running, including: What does it mean to be confident in an athletic setting?Is confidence innate or can it be changed?Common confidence traps and how to avoid themWhat can we learn from professionals when it comes to building confidence?What are the disadvantages of being both under- and over-confident?How does confidence impact us outside of competition? Links & Resources from the Show: Learn more about Greg’s workWork on your own mental skills with our free mindset email courseTake our mindset course! Thank You InsideTracker! This episode is brought to you by InsideTracker, one of the most reputable blood testing companies in the world. They were founded in 2009 by aging, genetics, and biometrics scientists to help you analyze your body’s data and get a firm idea of how well you’re responding to training. Understanding your body’s biomarkers, from stress hormones to testosterone to Vitamin D, can help you figure out if you’re over-training, under-training, optimally training, or if you have a health issue that might be affecting your running. But the best part is that they give you personalized optimal ranges for each of these biomarkers and a host of ways to improve these markers through diet, lifestyle, or exercise changes. I’ve gotten several Ultimate tests from them and the process is simple, easy, and very eye-opening if you haven’t done a deep dive on your biomarkers yet.  Of all the investments you can make in your running, this one is like getting a detailed checkup or regularly scheduled maintenance for your internal physiology. I scheduled another Ultimate test for myself soon and it’ll be interesting to compare with the test I got in February. Get yours today! Thank you Elemental Labs! A big thanks to Elemental Labs for their support of this episode! They make electrolyte drinks for athletes and low-carb folks with no sugar, artificial ingredients, or colors. And you can get a free sampler pack of 4 flavors and 8 individual packets when you pay $5 in shipping. Elemental Labs' products have some of the highest sodium concentrations that you can find. Anybody who runs a lot knows that sodium, as well as other electrolytes like magnesium and potassium, are essential to our performance and how we feel throughout the day. The citrus flavor has quickly become my favorite. I’m drinking one a day now to help me get enough fluids in our dry Colorado air. It’s tasty and delicious and I find that I’m not peeing every 45 minutes throughout the day, which might be an indication I wasn’t eating enough sodium. There’s now mounting evidence that higher sodium intake levels are not unhealthy – and athletes need substantially more than your typical sedentary person. Of course, ask your doctor if you’re worried. But for those athletes running outside in the heat, an electrolyte replacement makes a lot of sense. So check out Elemental Labs to try their new flavor or get a free sampler pack.

If you haven’t thought much about power as it relates to your running, you’re not alone. As runners, power isn’t something that we often consider in our training.  To help us understand power, we have David Roche with us today. David Roche is an elite trail runner, author, and running coach. He is a two-time USATF trail national champion and the 2014 Sub-Ultra Trail Runner of the Year. David publishes regularly in Trail Runner Magazine and wrote the book, The Happy Runner, with his wife Megan. Although the subject of power and mechanical output may sound daunting, never fear! David breaks down the concepts in a way that makes it understandable, approachable, and easy to apply to your running year-round. We discuss: The definition of power and mechanical output, both in theory and in practicality for runnersWhy power is a bigger limiter for non-elite athletesHow most benefits of developing power come from very short work intervalsWhy maintaining power is your key to longevity in the sportThe success of the Norwegian system using power developmentFive way to consistently improve your own power David is insightful and enthusiastic when it comes to discussing the technical aspects of running. You're bound to learn something new to apply to your own training! Thank You InsideTracker! This episode is brought to you by InsideTracker, one of the most reputable blood testing companies in the world. They were founded in 2009 by aging, genetics, and biometrics scientists to help you analyze your body’s data and get a firm idea of how well you’re responding to training. Understanding your body’s biomarkers, from stress hormones to testosterone to Vitamin D, can help you figure out if you’re over-training, under-training, optimally training, or if you have a health issue that might be affecting your running. But the best part is that they give you personalized optimal ranges for each of these biomarkers and a host of ways to improve these markers through diet, lifestyle, or exercise changes. I’ve gotten several Ultimate tests from them and the process is simple, easy, and very eye-opening if you haven’t done a deep dive on your biomarkers yet.  Of all the investments you can make in your running, this one is like getting a detailed checkup or regularly scheduled maintenance for your internal physiology. I scheduled another Ultimate test for myself soon and it’ll be interesting to compare with the test I got in February. Get yours today! Thank You Athletic Greens! Thank you to our sponsor, Athletic Greens! They are a health and wellness company that makes AG1. This is a category-leading greens mix that has 75 vitamins and minerals, prebiotics, probiotics, antioxidants, and adaptogens. One scoop per day is what I’ve been doing to help me fill in any nutrition gaps in my diet. It also provide a nice boost of energy and focus throughout the day. With all 3 of my kids in school, I know I need to support my immune system or else I’m getting sick and can’t train. I also love that AG1 has changed over the last decade. Athletic Greens has made 53 improvements to the formula based on the latest research to make these nutrients more absorbable. For our listeners, they are offering a year's worth of free Vitamin D and 5 free travel packs of AG1 with your first purchase. You can sign up for single shipment or for a monthly drop - the choice is yours. Check out Athletic Greens to redeem your offer today.

What exactly is stability and how does it impact our running? Stability allows us to transform strength into speed. The good news is that building stability doesn’t require hours of strenuous workouts - most of what we need can be accomplished in a few short sessions. This week’s podcast guest has a Masters of Physical Therapy and is a board certified sports clinical specialist. Jay Dicharry is an author, innovator and coach who has built an international reputation as an expert in biomechanical analysis. Jay has written 2 books many runners may be familiar with: Anatomy for Runners and Running Rewired. Jay is also the inventor of the MOBO board, a tool that helps you build stability in multiple planes of motion. The board is unique in how it teaches you to drive your big toe into the ground - an essential concept in creating a more stable foundation for your running. Use code STRENGTHRUN10 to save 10% on your MOBO Board! In our discussion, Jay and I focus on the importance of stability and how to build it in your running and daily life. We address: How injury is more impacted by stability than strengthWhat it means to “drive the big toe” into the groundWhy stability is the foundation of training (& why you can’t fire a cannon from a canoe!)How a lack of balance and stability can impact us as we ageThe importance of varying your footwearWhy and how to implement stability-focused workouts into your routine Jay's expertise and ability to translate complex concepts into actionable advice is sure to benefit your running,  Enjoy! Links & Resources from the Show: Learn more about the MOBO board (Code STRENGTHRUN10 saves 10%)Visit Jay's websiteFollow Jay on InstagramVisit Jay on Linked in and YouTubeListen to our previous discussion on pain free running Thank you MOBO Board! Invented by renowned physical therapist Jay Dicharry, MOBO helps you stabilize your stance with an innovative rocker board that’s set up on two fins. The design effectively forces you to drive your big toe into the bboard to improve your stability. I was pretty arrogant going into my first session on the MOBO Board. How hard can it be to balance, right? Well, I was humbled pretty quickly! Even if you’re a good runner, better balance, stability, and proprioception is going to help you have a more powerful stride and prevent more running injuries. You’ll learn how to improve the efficiency of the kinetic chain from your hip to your big toe. Because as Jay likes to say, it’s not just how strong you are, but how well you use that strength. Save 10% with code STRENGTHRUN10 at checkout at moboboard.com. Thank you Elemental Labs! A big thanks to Elemental Labs for their support of this episode! They make electrolyte drinks for athletes and low-carb folks with no sugar, artificial ingredients, or colors. And you can get a free sampler pack of 4 flavors and 8 individual packets when you pay $5 in shipping. Elemental Labs' products have some of the highest sodium concentrations that you can find. Anybody who runs a lot knows that sodium, as well as other electrolytes like magnesium and potassium, are essential to our performance and how we feel throughout the day. The citrus flavor has quickly become my favorite. I’m drinking one a day now to help me get enough fluids in our dry Colorado air. It’s tasty and delicious and I find that I’m not peeing every 45 minutes throughout the day, which might be an indication I wasn’t eating enough sodium. There’s now mounting evidence that higher sodium intake levels are not unhealthy – and athletes need substantially more than your typical sedentary person. Of course, ask your doctor if you’re worried. But for those athletes running outside in the heat, an electrolyte replacement makes a lot of sense. So check out Elemental Labs to try their new flavor or get a free sampler pack.

This week’s episode is with ultra endurance athlete Travis Macy. It was originally published on his podcast, The Travis Macy Show. Travis interviews me on a wide variety of topics, including training and strength work, running after COVID, and how I developed Strength Running, one step at a time. We also talk about: My background and development of my lifelong love for runningThe value of running both roads and trailsHow fueling options have changed for the betterWhy strength training only gets more important with ageMy gradual approach to developing a multi-faceted online businessWhy you should never, ever say “full” marathon Travis is always a pleasure to talk to and I hope you enjoy our conversation! Links & Resources from the Show: Learn more about TravisFollow Travis on InstagramListen to the Travis Macy Show PodcastRead my past interviews with Travis on finding adventure and signs of overtrainingLet me help you with your running!Read Travis' new book A Mile at a Time Thank You InsideTracker! This episode is brought to you by InsideTracker, one of the most reputable blood testing companies in the world. They were founded in 2009 by aging, genetics, and biometrics scientists to help you analyze your body’s data and get a firm idea of how well you’re responding to training. Understanding your body’s biomarkers, from stress hormones to testosterone to Vitamin D, can help you figure out if you’re over-training, under-training, optimally training, or if you have a health issue that might be affecting your running. But the best part is that they give you personalized optimal ranges for each of these biomarkers and a host of ways to improve these markers through diet, lifestyle, or exercise changes. I’ve gotten several Ultimate tests from them and the process is simple, easy, and very eye-opening if you haven’t done a deep dive on your biomarkers yet.  Of all the investments you can make in your running, this one is like getting a detailed checkup or regularly scheduled maintenance for your internal physiology. I scheduled another Ultimate test for myself soon and it’ll be interesting to compare with the test I got in February. Get yours today! Thank You Athletic Greens! Thank you to our sponsor, Athletic Greens! They are a health and wellness company that makes AG1. This is a category-leading greens mix that has 75 vitamins and minerals, prebiotics, probiotics, antioxidants, and adaptogens. One scoop per day is what I’ve been doing to help me fill in any nutrition gaps in my diet. It also provide a nice boost of energy and focus throughout the day. With all 3 of my kids in school, I know I need to support my immune system or else I’m getting sick and can’t train. I also love that AG1 has changed over the last decade. Athletic Greens has made 53 improvements to the formula based on the latest research to make these nutrients more absorbable. For our listeners, they are offering a year's worth of free Vitamin D and 5 free travel packs of AG1 with your first purchase. You can sign up for single shipment or for a monthly drop - the choice is yours. Check out Athletic Greens to redeem your offer today.

Whether it's illness, injury, or stale training, most runners have found themselves stuck in a rut at times. Learn the best way to assess your running and start making progress again with this one-on-one coaching call. This week’s episode features a coaching call with Ivan, a Team Strength Running member. Ivan was a runner in high school and came back to the sport after over a decade away. Ivan had a successful buildup to a strong half marathon last year, but has struggled with his running after some recent setbacks. Like many of us, Ivan's bout with COVID earlier in the year made for a slower than expected return to training.  He has struggled with finding the right volume and intensity in training to both feel good and make progress. Our discussion focuses on putting all the pieces together - looking at his past and present running - to help him get back on track and feel positive again. Ivan and I talk about the factors that impact his training, including: All the things Ivan has been doing right with his trainingWhy more time off requires a longer base phaseThe importance of pacing training runs correctlyWhat Ivan's training history says about his racing potentialWhy lower mileage is the right plan to focus on for nowIvan's long term goals for 2023 and beyond This is a conversation everyone can relate to. I hope you enjoy my coaching call with Ivan! Thank You InsideTracker! This episode is brought to you by InsideTracker, one of the most reputable blood testing companies in the world. They were founded in 2009 by aging, genetics, and biometrics scientists to help you analyze your body’s data and get a firm idea of how well you’re responding to training. Understanding your body’s biomarkers, from stress hormones to testosterone to Vitamin D, can help you figure out if you’re over-training, under-training, optimally training, or if you have a health issue that might be affecting your running. But the best part is that they give you personalized optimal ranges for each of these biomarkers and a host of ways to improve these markers through diet, lifestyle, or exercise changes. I’ve gotten several Ultimate tests from them and the process is simple, easy, and very eye-opening if you haven’t done a deep dive on your biomarkers yet.  Of all the investments you can make in your running, this one is like getting a detailed checkup or regularly scheduled maintenance for your internal physiology. I scheduled another Ultimate test for myself soon and it’ll be interesting to compare with the test I got in February. Thank you Elemental Labs! A big thanks to Elemental Labs for their support of this episode! They make electrolyte drinks for athletes and low-carb folks with no sugar, artificial ingredients, or colors. And you can get a free sampler pack of 4 flavors and 8 individual packets when you pay $5 in shipping. Elemental Labs' products have some of the highest sodium concentrations that you can find. Anybody who runs a lot knows that sodium, as well as other electrolytes like magnesium and potassium, are essential to our performance and how we feel throughout the day. The citrus flavor has quickly become my favorite. I’m drinking one a day now to help me get enough fluids in our dry Colorado air. It’s tasty and delicious and I find that I’m not peeing every 45 minutes throughout the day, which might be an indication I wasn’t eating enough sodium. There’s now mounting evidence that higher sodium intake levels are not unhealthy – and athletes need substantially more than your typical sedentary person. Of course, ask your doctor if you’re worried. But for those athletes running outside in the heat, an electrolyte replacement makes a lot of sense. So check out Elemental Labs to try their new flavor or get a free sampler pack.