A to Z Running
By A to Z Running
A to Z RunningApr 30, 2024
Exclusive Pre-race with Elites w/ Nathan Martin and Zacchaeus Widner
Today on AtoZrunning:
We get an exclusive look at two elites pre-race routine before the US 25k championships. We answer a listener’s question about the science of humidity. In the world of running, teenagers appear to be dominating the track on the global scene. Both the men’s and women’s 25k American records were broken in Grand Rapids. And in recent headlines, cherries, beets, and cranberries are back on the menu!
For training, coaching, and other services, visit https://atozrunning.com/coaching
Why is Humidity so Bad?
Today on AtoZrunning:
We discuss a massive review of the effects of heat and humidity on performance. We also answer a listener question about pre-hydrating before races. In the world of running, as the summer Olympics approach, we learn more about who will be there! As track action continues, we bring some fast times and interesting analysis. In recent headlines, is there a link between personality and running mechanics?
For training, coaching, and other services, visit https://atozrunning.com/coaching
The Effects of Wind and How to Cope
Today on AtoZrunning:
We take a look at the physics of wind to consider why it does what it does to runners and what we might want to do about that. We also answer a listener question about Marathon training. In the world of running, track action continues with more records. Any guesses how fast a 76-year old can run a marathon? We’ve got the scoop from London. And in recent headlines, NIL deals continue, and a particular high schooler caught our attention.
For training, coaching, and other services, visit https://atozrunning.com/coaching
These 3 Principles Made Her an Olympian w/ Dakotah Lindwurm
Today on AtoZrunning:
We interview recent Olympic qualifier Dakotah Lindwurm about three things that carried her from a division 2 walk-on to an Olympian. We also answer a listener question about when runners hit their physical peak. In the world of running, London Marathon was windy, and it definitely showed but not for everyone! Xiamen kicked off the Diamond League, and it was thrilling. And in the headlines, Negative Nick is real, and about 160,000 people hate him.
For training, coaching, and other services, visit https://atozrunning.com/coaching
Managing Energy, Emotion, & Stress
This week on AtoZrunning: We finish our series on wise decisions by taking a close look at ways to manage energy, emotion, and stress. We also answer a listener question about cool down jogs after hard efforts and races. In the world of running, Boston Marathon was a nail-biter but for two totally different reasons between the men and women. College kids continue to assault the records boards. And from the headlines, Strava is being called into question yet again.
For training, coaching, and other services, visit https://atozrunning.com/coaching
Protect Your Core
Today on AtoZrunning:
We continue examining wise decisions, this week looking at conscious awareness and the dangers of outside influences on our decision-making. We also answer a listener question about running hills in preparation for hilly races. In the world of running, Arcadia is swiftly becoming the high school distance running mecca. The US 10-mile road championships was a record-breaking thriller. And from the headlines, being cold has a much bigger effect on endurance performance, a recent study shows.
For training, coaching, and other services, visit https://atozrunning.com/coaching
How We Lie to Ourselves
Today on AtoZrunning:
We begin a series on Loehr and Ohlsson’s Wise Decisions, focusing first on what they call reality-distorting mechanisms, otherwise known as the lies we tell ourselves. We answer a listener question about shoe rotations and how to navigate shoes that feel great vs. shoes that feel flat. In the world of running, the world cross country championships were as full of blood, sweat, and tears as cross country ought to be. We’ve got a recap and analysis to share. Other weekend highlights include a new college athlete’s NIL deal and another high school record. From the recent headlines, we share an article about when to begin preparing for your next marathon.
For training, coaching, and other services, visit https://atozrunning.com/coaching
Treadmills that Change the Game w/ Adam Homolka
This week on AtoZrunning:
Adam Homolka of Endurance Rehab joins us again to talk about some of the fascinating differences in treadmill technology and how to make use of it. We answer a listener question about how to objectively measure fatigue and the need for adjusting training. In the world of running, after 38 years, a woman finally finished the Barkley Marathons, and the photo is perfect. Also, we share an interesting article about the relationship between nutrition and soreness. All this and more on AtoZrunning.
For training, coaching, and other services, visit https://atozrunning.com/coaching
Channeling Energy, Effort, & Focus
Today on AtoZrunning:
Effort is finite. What does this mean for distance runners and what we here call the first key to thriving.
We answer a listener question about flat legs during pre-race tapering
In the world of running, the TEN featured 8 men under 27 minutes in the same 10,000m race. Has that ever happened before?
Fast times weren’ just limited to the track… or the 10,000… or the adults! We’ll share a weekend rundown of the need-to-knows.
In other news, RunTok is a thing, and we take a look at a recent article about it
For training, coaching, and other services, visit https://atozrunning.com/coaching
Finish Line Mentality w/ Liz Fanco
Today on AtoZrunning:
We interview Liz Fanco who shares how she helps other runners transform themselves through sport and the race experience.
We answer a listener question about the best order of runs or workouts in a week.
In the world of running, if you were making predictions a year ago about certain NCAA runners’ futures, chances are you were so wrong it hurt. We’ll share why.
High school runners are unhinged, and it’s a little disturbing.
And Ingebrigtsen is back in the news saying crazy things. You won’t guess what this time!
For training, coaching, and other services, visit https://atozrunning.com/coaching
How to Run Faster w/ Dave Hodgkinson
This week on AtoZrunning:
We throw back to one of our first interviews, a conversation with Coach Hodge about how to run faster without trying harder
We also answer a listener question about how to pace a race
In the world of running, the world indoor track and field championships was thrilling, and we’ve got the full scoop
And the Tokyo Marathon was a shocker with major upsets!
For training, coaching, and other services, visit https://atozrunning.com/coaching
Workouts Don't Mean a Thing
This week on AtoZrunning:
Runners are always talking about our workouts, good, bad, or otherwise. Do they tell us anything meaningful, though? We’ll tackle this one.
We answer a listener question about returning from surgery.
In the world of running, NCAA ran indoor conferences, and we’ve got the highlights.
Dennis Young interviewed 16 of the 26 last place finishers from the US Olympic Trials marathons, and the stories are astonishing.
And the Japanese marathon debut just got crazy.
For training, coaching, and other services, visit https://atozrunning.com/coaching
Olympic Trials Battles w/ Nathan Martin
This week on AtoZrunning:
Olympic trials top 10 finisher Nathan Martin joins the show again to relay his amazing experience at the trials as well as recent journey leading him to it.
We answer a listener question about VO2max and heart rate.
In the world of running, USA and British indoor championships were impressive.
Records continue falling.
And another record-breaker is down for the count amidst scandal.
For training, coaching, and other services, visit https://atozrunning.com/coaching
Don't Achieve Goals. Find Purpose!
This week on AtoZrunning:
In further reflection on the topic of goals and finding meaning, we share a compelling lesson from author, speaker, and coach John O’Sullivan’s Every Moment Matters.
Also, we answer a listener question about the camaraderie or lack of at the Olympic Trials Marathon.
In the world of running, indoor track is exploding, and records dropped like lead sinkers at Millrose Games.
Not to be outdone, there were great performances in France, as well.
And in a tragic turn, the marathon world-record holder has died in an accident.
For training, coaching, and other services, visit https://atozrunning.com/coaching
Olympic Trials Marathon
This week on AtoZrunning:
We share both the results of and the experience participating in the US Olympic Trials Marathon
We also answer a listener question about shoe drops and knee pain
In the world of running, the trials races were filled with upsets, heartbreak, and unexpected moments.
And indoor track action has been a thrill, including national records and near misses
For resources and details, visit https://atozrunning.com/episode228
For training, coaching, and other services, visit https://atozrunning.com/coaching
Face Change Like a Pro w/ Robert Downs
This week on AtoZrunning:
Under Armour pro runner Robert Downs joins the show to talk about rethinking change and obstacles
We answer listener questions about max heart rate as well as splitting runs between indoors and outdoors
In the world of running, last year’s freshman phenom Addy Wiley has big news that involves Adidas
Nico Young has done it, and he might just be convincing the doubters
And the upcoming 2024 Olympics boast some fascinating statistics that we want to share
For resources and details, visit https://atozrunning.com/episode227
For training, coaching, and other services, visit https://atozrunning.com/coaching
Action: Respond, Get Help, & Simplify
This week on AtoZrunning:
We finish our examination of change and Brad Stulberg’s book by sharing practical actions, including how to practice responses and what it looks like to ask for help, among others
We also answer a couple listener questions about hard efforts on the treadmill and how to warmup well
In the world of running, the US cross country championships included some exciting results
That American record we recently mentioned? I just went down again. Stick around to find out which
And any guesses how fast an American can run a mile at 7,000 feet? You’ll find out…
For resources and details, visit https://atozrunning.com/episode226
For training, coaching, and other services, visit https://atozrunning.com/coaching
Identity: Who I Am & How to Keep It
Today on AtoZrunning:
What does identity have to do with change? A lot, according to Brad Stulberg, and we examine how he breaks it down in the second section of his book.
How do carbon super shoes respond to cold temperatures? We will answer a listener question about that very thing.
In the world of running, the Houston Half Marathon saw a new record from an unexpected source,
an absurdly fast road race raised eyebrows,
and records are falling on the track as well
For resources and details, visit https://atozrunning.com/episode225
For training, coaching, and other services, visit https://atozrunning.com/coaching
Mindset: Expectations Change Reality
Today on AtoZrunning:
We continue our series on change by examining mindset, the first section of Brad Stulberg’s book
Also, we answer a listener’s question about when to lift weights
In the world of running, world 800m champ Donovan Brazier is back in the news, we’ll share why
Dubai Marathon was fast and surprising in both the men’s and women’s races
And Outside Mag has some success tips for winter training based on Strava data
For resources and details, visit https://atozrunning.com/episode224
For training, coaching, and other services, visit https://atozrunning.com/coaching
The Beginning of Change
Today on AtoZrunning:
We kickoff a new series on change, examining Brad Stulberg’s newest book Master of Change and how we might apply those principles to this new year with its new goals
We also answer a listener question about the mental side of running
In the world of running, 2023 ended with a nice bang for Beatrice Chebet and a new world record
And we take some time to remember what we believe to be the top 10 moments from the world of running in 2023
For resources and details, visit https://atozrunning.com/episode223
For training, coaching, and other services, visit https://atozrunning.com/coaching
Ingredients for Success w/ Willy Fink
Today on AtoZrunning:
For this special release episode, we interview Under Armour pro runner Willy Fink to talk about the ingredients for success for runners. Fink shares both his experiences as a professional athlete and insights for runners of all levels.
Keep Growing w/ Sara Merritt
Today on AtoZrunning:
We conclude our series examining training by effort with our final conversation, this time with Sara, and the most succinct and clear articulation of this approach to date!
We also field a listener question about running in the cold and dark
In the world of running, have you heard of the willpower marshmallow test?
The Magness science digest included some poignant studies about emotions
And the women’s 24hr world record was broken, but not by someone you’d expect!
All this and a very Merry Christmas to you on AtoZrunning
For resources and details, visit https://atozrunning.com/episode221
For training, coaching, and other services, visit https://atozrunning.com/coaching
This is Success & Satisfaction w/ Kyle & Laura
Today on AtoZrunning:
Two more athletes talk about success and satisfaction and what it looks like to be comfortable in the mess and perform well
And We answer a question about preparing for a 50k race
In the world of running, new standalone 25k records were set in Kolkata
Three Japanese men broke a national record in the same race
And NIL deals are continuing to make news and getting ever more complicated
For resources and details, visit https://atozrunning.com/episode220
For training, coaching, and other services, visit https://atozrunning.com/coaching
Getting It Right w/ Ally, Laura, & Craig
Today on AtoZrunning:
Ally, Craig, and Laura help us dig deeper into the challenges of effort-based training and racing, whether new runners only just getting started or long-time runners many years into it.
Also, we field questions about race terrain times and proper long run duration
In the world of running, the last high school cross country race, Foot Locker nationals, was exciting
What happens when pro runners race in paradise?
And we’ll give you two guesses which NCAA runner just turned pro
For resources and details, visit https://atozrunning.com/episode219
For training, coaching, and other services, visit https://atozrunning.com/coaching
Don't be greedy. Be patient! w/ Pete Mumbower
What does it take to be a patient rather than greedy runner? Pete has thoughts on that and more.
Also, a question about long runs and fueling in training.
In the world of running, the BU opener for indoor track more than lived up to its anticipation this year!
Valencia Marathon was incredible, but not for the reasons you’re thinking.
And Nike Cross Nationals had it all: slogging mud, fording small streams, and upset victories. Stick around for exciting news and a familiar name!
For resources and details, visit https://atozrunning.com/episode218
For training, coaching, and other services, visit https://atozrunning.com/coaching
When to Go & When to Rest w/ Steph Martin
Today on AtoZrunning:
We continue the series on how to run by effort. This week’s guest shares insights like how she learned when to go and when to rest
Also, we share thoughts about how to return from stress fractures
In the world of running, Shanghai Marathon included some records
Japanese teenagers are FAST!
And there are some crazy events this weekend that you need to know about
For resources and details, visit https://atozrunning.com/episode217
For training, coaching, and other services, visit https://atozrunning.com/coaching
How to Grow Intuition
Today on AtoZrunning:
We keep talking about this idea of training by effort, and you’re likely wondering: does it actually work? And if so, how do you get there? We’ve got a great way to answer those questions as we kickoff a new series.
We also answer a listener's question about returning from injury plans.
In the world of running, all the talk right now is about NCAA cross country championships and the incredible dominance of Parker Valby!
Also, surprise! Running boosts your lifespan! But by how much and how do they know?
All this and more this week on AtoZrunning.
For resources and details, visit https://atozrunning.com/episode216
For training, coaching, and other services, visit https://atozrunning.com/coaching
Cross Country, Track, & Road Racing w/ Zach Panning
Today on AtoZrunning:
Zach Panning is back on the show to unpack race prep and strategy for different types of races on the track, cross country, and on the roads.
In the world of running, an unlikely candidate sets a 50 mile world record despite only barely dabbling in ultramarathons,
How long do you think it would take someone to run across the USA? A week shorter than the last one, at least!,
And baking soda is back on the menu for endurance athletes, but have they solved the GI issues?
For resources and details, visit https://atozrunning.com/episode215
For training, coaching, and other services, visit https://atozrunning.com/coaching
Making Moves in the Marathon w/ Zach Panning
Today on AtoZrunning:
We interview professional runner with Hansons Brooks Distance Project Zach Panning about his World Championships marathon experience and the race strategy decisions he made that led to a strong finish on a difficult day
In running news, NYC marathon was both incredibly fast and incredibly slow, but exciting all around
Spain crushed the 50k championships
And the USATF road circuit wrapped up with the 5k, and the men’s race was almost cut short by a bus
For resources and details, visit https://atozrunning.com/episode214
For training, coaching, and other services, visit https://atozrunning.com/coaching
How to Hone Hydration w/ Meridith Cass
Today on AtoZrunning:
We wrap up our Biosensor series by examining with Meridith Cass one of the most important aspects for runners: hydration
In running news, NCAA cross country conference action was crazy, including some upsets, some predictable outcomes, and more!
Big Dog’s backyard ultra saw the world’s best meet, and they did not disappoint
How fast can 11 year olds run a 5k? Crazy fast!
For resources and details, visit https://atozrunning.com/episode213
For training, coaching, and other services, visit https://atozrunning.com/coaching
Where Intuition Meets Data w/ Meridith Cass
This week on AtoZrunning:
Biosensor industry expert Meridith Cass joins us to discuss what we need to know about these technologies.
In running news, Valencia half marathon was just as crazy as promised.
Bowerman Track Club might be collapsing in real time.
And Olympic rankings and quotas are officially released, and it’s fascinating.
All this and more coming up on AtoZrunning!
For resources and details, visit https://atozrunning.com/episode212
For training, coaching, and other services, visit https://atozrunning.com/coaching
Biosensors are Changing the Game
This week on AtoZrunning:
What’s going on in the biosensor industry? We kick off a multi-week series to address the technology and what it does and can do for runners. Is it a good thing for the sport? We’ll find out.
In running news, Boston marathon champ Des Linden is getting a new heart. What’s that all about?
Also, according to Runner’s World, breathing matters, but we’re probably doing it wrong, apparently
And it’s about time to discuss cross country as we begin to enter championship season
All this and more coming up on AtoZrunning!
For resources and details, visit https://atozrunning.com/episode211
For training, coaching, and other services, visit https://atozrunning.com/coaching
Start with Effort, End with Effort
This week on AtoZrunning:
When should we run by effort, and when should we not? What does that even mean? Everyone says effort, but it’s never clear what it looks like. We can help with that! Is Eliud Kipchoge a thing of the past? Recent events are leading some to wonder. Do you know the name Sifan Hassan yet? If you listen here you probably do, but at this point, she probably needs to be a household name in running. And When you’re 90 years old, what new thing will you try? Dot Sowerby has a good one!
For resources and details, visit https://atozrunning.com/episode210
For training, coaching, and other services, visit https://atozrunning.com/coaching
Where do we start?
Today on AtoZrunning:
Where do we start as runners? To kick off our 5th season, we address this question whether you’re a long-time runner or totally new to the sport.
Also, close to 5,000 runners were informed mere hours before the start of their event that it was canceled.
The world athletes held the first ever road-racing championships, and Hobbs Kessler’s post-race reaction was priceless.
And this track meet went off the rails when they found out drug testers would be making an unexpected appearance.
For resources and details, visit https://atozrunning.com/episode209
For training, coaching, and other services, visit https://atozrunning.com/coaching
Efficiency, Nose Breathing, & Training Changes (Monthly Q & A)
This week, we answer listener questions about running efficiency and the connection to injury reduction, nose breathing, and how to change training during an existing season.
After that, we share world of running updates about the crazy Berlin Marathon world record and the USATF racing circuit.
For resources and details, visit https://atozrunning.com/episode208
For training, coaching, and other services, visit https://atozrunning.com/coaching
What makes us move?
This week, we examine motivation and the factors that make us want to do things, including the role of other people, our own perceptions, and more.
After that, we share world of running updates about an incredible double-record and the Diamond League final, complete with world records, national records, and performances the like of which we’ve never seen before.
For resources and details, visit https://atozrunning.com/episode207
For training, coaching, and other services, visit https://atozrunning.com/coaching
How to Do Neuromuscular Training
This week, we deliver as promised a comprehensive 5-step approach to being better at running by developing neuromuscular control and efficiency.
After that, we share world of running updates about the 5th Avenue Mile and two new world records on the track with a plethora of area and national records to follow.
For resources and details, visit https://atozrunning.com/episode206
For training, coaching, and other services, visit https://atozrunning.com/coaching
Why Neuromuscular Training is Essential
This week, we begin a discussion about neuromuscular training, what it is and why runners need to do more of it.
After that, we share world of running updates about more diamond league action in Zurich and Xiamen, USA 20k champs, and bigtime mountain racing in Europe.
For resources and details, visit https://atozrunning.com/episode205
For training, coaching, and other services, visit https://atozrunning.com/coaching
Marathon Tempos, Runner’s Knee, & Weighted Shoes (Monthly Q & A)
This week, we answer listener questions about when and how to do marathon tempos, how to rehabilitate runner’s knee, and whether runners should consider ankle weights or weighted shoes.
After that, we discuss the complete world championships results and analysis.
For resources and details, visit https://atozrunning.com/episode204
For training, coaching, and other services, visit https://atozrunning.com/coaching
How much struggle is good?
This week, we take a look at struggle and finding the right balance of avoiding vs. embracing struggle to grow and find fulfillment.
After that, we share world of running updates about the first weekend of world championships track, including the 10,000m finals, and the Falmouth Road Race.
For resources and details, visit https://atozrunning.com/episode203
For training, coaching, and other services, visit https://atozrunning.com/coaching
Fatigue & Mind Games
This week, we tackle the mental side of fatigue, what we know, and what we can do about it as runners.
After that, we share world of running updates focused on our exclusive world championships preview.
For resources and details, visit https://atozrunning.com/episode202
For training, coaching, and other services, visit https://atozrunning.com/coaching
The Cost of Disruptions
This week, we review research on running injuries and the performance cost of various lengths and timings of disruptions.
After that, we share world of running updates about American Track League, road miles, and the oldest marathoner ever.
For resources and details, visit https://atozrunning.com/episode201
For training, coaching, and other services, visit https://atozrunning.com/coaching (For our past episode on how to deal with disruptions, visit https://atozrunning.com/episode155
Refine Your Mind
This week, we discuss a collection of studies on the brain-body connection and suggestions for runners.
After that, we share world of running updates about champions around the world and brain research on the relationship between aging and running.
For resources and details, visit https://atozrunning.com/episode200
For training, coaching, and other services, visit https://atozrunning.com/coaching
Switching Events, Hills in Races, & Run/Walk Method (Monthly Q & A)
This week, we respond to listener questions about switching events, hills in races, and run/walk method.
After that, we share world of running updates about diamond league madness at both Monaco and London and more!
For resources and details, visit https://atozrunning.com/episode199
For training, coaching, and other services, visit https://atozrunning.com/coaching
What Your Running Form Tells You
This week, we take a look at running form: what it tells us and what we can do about it.
After that, we share world of running updates about the latest Diamond League (Poland), Americans chasing standards in Europe, and the queen of ultras: Courtney Dauwalter.
For the complete notes, links, and resources, visit https://atozrunning.com/episode198
For coaching and training details and services, visit https://atozrunning.com/coaching
Lessons from Fast People (2023 US Championships Report)
This week, we discuss the 2023 US outdoor track and field championships–amazing and jam packed with incredible moments and fascinating lessons. As we report on the results, we also share relatable lessons and takeaways for any runner.
For resources and details, visit https://atozrunning.com/episode197
For training, coaching, and other services, visit https://atozrunning.com/coaching
Priorities & Continued Success w/ Dot McMahan
This week, 5x Olympic trials marathoner and US champion Dot McMahan discusses priorities and success over time.
Stick around for the latest from the world of running, including a new US record on the roads and diamond league excitement.
For the complete notes, links, and resources, visit https://atozrunning.com/episode196
For coaching and training details and services, visit https://atozrunning.com/coaching
Social Running, Marathon Bottles, & Fixing Form (Monthly Q & A)
This week, we answer listener questions about racing with bottles vs. gels for fuel and hydration, social running challenges and tensions, and fixing asymmetrical running mechanics.
After that, we share world of running updates about last-chance track meets Stumptown Twilight and NYC Grand Prix, a new Courtney Dauwaulter record at Western States 100, and more!
For resources and details, visit https://atozrunning.com/episode195
For training, coaching, and other services, visit https://atozrunning.com/coaching
Feeding the Wolves w/ Fernando Cabada
This week, US champ and record-holder Fernando Cabada joins us to discuss the competitive urge and finding worth, and in his words, how we feed the wolves inside us.
After that, we share world of running updates about severe competition at Bislett Games, high school nationals excitement, and another look at the new training approach that has captivated world-class runners.
For resources and details, visit https://atozrunning.com/episode194
For training, coaching, and other services, visit https://atozrunning.com/coaching
Working Harder isn't Always Better (w/ Nell Rojas)
Up next, we talk with US champion and pro marathoner Nell Rojas about how to better approach the idea of working harder.
After that, we share world of running updates about the unparalleled success of the Paris Diamond League meet, including no fewer than three new world records in distance events. We also report on the NCAA championships and more.
For resources and details, visit https://atozrunning.com/episode193
For training, coaching, and other services, visit https://atozrunning.com/coaching