Q&A: Calf Tightness Troubleshooting, Introducing Speed vs Volume, Strength Training for Runners, Finding Motivation Post Marathon

Learn more about Brodie's Research Database & AI Assistant 📄🔍 For MORE Run Smarter Resources 🏃‍♂️📚 - Including Free Injury Prevention Courses 🩹🎓 - The Run Smarter Book 📖 - Access to Research Papers 📄🔍 - & Ways to Work with Brodie 🤝👟 👉 CLICK HERE! 🎉✨ On this Q&A episode of the Run Smarter Podcast , Brodie tackles a range of listener-submitted running questions—covering everything from calf pain management to the best time to reintroduce speed work during tendon rehab. Drawing from both research and clinical experience, he provides practical, evidence-based strategies you can apply directly to your training. What You’ll Learn in This Episode Calf Pain & Cadence Adjustments – Why increasing step rate can help, and what other factors (like load, recovery, and footwear) you need to balance for lasting relief. Tendinopathy Rehab – Should you introduce speed workouts or back-to-back run days first? Brodie outlines safe progression strategies to avoid setbacks. Strength Training for Runners – The four cornerstone exercises every runner should be doing, including recommended rep ranges and frequency for performance and injury prevention. Post-Marathon Motivation – What to do after the high of race day wears off, how to reflect on your performance, and strategies to find your “next thing.” Key Takeaways Running injuries often come down to load vs. recovery balance . Tweaking cadence, training intensity, or footwear can shift stress away from vulnerable tissues. In tendon rehab, symptom tolerance and gradual progressions are key—starting with strides before intervals. When it comes to strength training, lifting heavy (safely) has the greatest impact on running performance. After a big event like a marathon, self-reflection on what you loved (and what you didn’t) is the best guide to your next goal.