Episodes

17h ago

In this Mega Mailbag episode of the Marathon Handbook Podcast, Michael Doyle, Alex Cyr, and Katelyn Tocci answer a mountain of listener questions to close out 2025. The conversation covers running weight and fueling strategies (06:50), jump rope as cross-training (22:10), marathon confidence and mindset (27:40), returning from injury (45:40), breaking sub-3 and chasing Boston Qualifiers (55:20), increasing mileage as a new runner (01:08:00), first marathon pacing (01:11:30), strength training with injuries (01:21:30), winter training and cold-weather pacing (01:26:10), gear and shoe recommendations (01:34:00, 02:06:30), training around the menstrual cycle (01:45:10), and how becoming a parent impacts running goals (01:51:00). A wide-ranging, honest, and practical episode for runners at every stage. This episode is presented by Momentous. Use promo code MARATHON for up to 35% off your first order: ⁠livemomentous.com 📩 Questions about training, race previews, or to send us your hot takes? Email us at podcast@marathonhandbook.com.🎤 Leave us a voice memo for our mailbag episodes: marathonhandbook.com/podcast📸 Instagram: @marathon.handbook📘 Facebook: @marathonhandbook📰 Join 265,000+ runners getting our daily newsletter: marathonhandbook.com/newsletter👍 Like, subscribe, and drop your questions in the comments.🎧 Audio version available wherever you get podcasts + watch the video version on Spotify.📺 Subscribe on YouTube for weekly running deep dives. #RunningPodcast #MarathonTraining #BostonQualifier #Sub3Marathon #RunningAdvice #MarathonMindset #RunningShoes #WinterRunning #DistanceRunning #MarathonHandbook

3d ago

Ahmed Muhumed’s rise in American distance running almost didn’t happen. In this episode of the Marathon Handbook Podcast, host Alex Cyr talks with the HOKA NAZ Elite athlete about quitting his job, moving to Flagstaff with just $150, and betting everything on becoming a professional runner. Ahmed opens up about belief, recovery, elite mileage, finishing fourth in the 10,000m at U.S. Championships, chasing the American half marathon record, marathon ambitions, and what it truly takes to live like a pro athlete (00:00). The conversation also explores mindset, gratitude, financial realities of pro running, content creation, and what comes next on the road to LA 2028 (25:20). This episode is presented by Momentous. Use promo code MARATHON for up to 35% off your first order: ⁠livemomentous.com 📩 Questions about training, race previews, or to send us your hot takes? Email us at podcast@marathonhandbook.com.🎤 Leave us a voice memo for our mailbag episodes: marathonhandbook.com/podcast📸 Instagram: @marathon.handbook📘 Facebook: @marathonhandbook📰 Join 265,000+ runners getting our daily newsletter: marathonhandbook.com/newsletter👍 Like, subscribe, and drop your questions in the comments.🎧 Audio version available wherever you get podcasts + watch the video version on Spotify.📺 Subscribe on YouTube for weekly running deep dives.

6d ago

The Marathon Handbook Podcast recaps the second half of the 2025 running season , unpacking the year’s biggest stories across track, road, and trail. We dive into the collapse of the Grand Slam Track League (01:45), Sydney’s controversial debut as a World Marathon Major (15:55), standout performances from the Tokyo World Championships (27:50), and unforgettable marathon moments from Berlin (48:20), Chicago (54:10), New York (01:19:30), and Valencia (01:38:30). The crew also debates Harry Styles’ sub-3 marathon, Connor Mantz’s American record, Kilian Jornet’s historic mountain project, Courtney Dauwalter’s road-racing pivot, the Enhanced Games controversy (01:32:45), and what all of this means for the future of running heading into 2026. This episode is presented by Momentous. Use promo code MARATHON for up to 35% off your first order: ⁠livemomentous.com📩 Questions about training, race previews, or to send us your hot takes? Email us at podcast@marathonhandbook.com.🎤 Leave us a voice memo for our mailbag episodes: marathonhandbook.com/podcast📸 Instagram: @marathon.handbook📘 Facebook: @marathonhandbook📰 Join 265,000+ runners getting our daily newsletter: marathonhandbook.com/newsletter👍 Like, subscribe, and drop your questions in the comments.🎧 Audio version available wherever you get podcasts + watch the video version on Spotify.📺 Subscribe on YouTube for weekly running deep dives. #running #marathon #runningnews #trackandfield #worldrecord #marathontraining #runnersofyoutube #marathonhandbook

Dec 11

In Part 1 of our 2025 Year in Review, the Marathon Handbook team breaks down the biggest storylines from January through July. We open with Conner Mantz’s American record in Houston (01:30), then move into February’s world-record spree — from Yared Nuguse’s indoor mile to Jacob Kiplimo’s 56:42 half marathon (10:10). We relive the March Tokyo Marathon (11:40), then the Boston–London doubleheader in April, including John Korir’s dramatic win (16:00) and the Obiri–Lokedi showdown (17:30). We examine whether the marathon majors have grown too big (26:30) before heading into the mountains for a brutal no-finisher Barkley year (30:00). June brings Nike’s Breaking4 experiment with Faith Kipyegon (34:40), followed by her 1500m world record rebound (42:00) and Beatrice Chebet’s stunning sub-14 5K (49:00). We wrap with Western States, UTMB (53:00), and July’s devastating revelation: Ruth Chepngetich’s doping ban and its implications for the sport (1:00:00). Part 2 (Aug–Dec 2025) arrives next week.Part 2 (August–December) drops next week!This episode is presented by Momentous. Use promo code MARATHON for up to 35% off your first order: ⁠ livemomentous.com Questions about training, race previews, or to send us your hot takes? Email us at podcast@marathonhandbook.com . Leave us a voice memo for our mailbag episodes: marathonhandbook.com/podcast Instagram: @marathon.handbook Facebook: @marathonhandbook Join 265,000+ runners getting our daily newsletter: marathonhandbook.com/newsletter Like, subscribe, and drop your questions in the comments. Audio version available wherever you get podcasts + watch the video version on Spotify. Subscribe on YouTube for weekly running deep dives.

Dec 9

In this episode, Michael Doyle and Jessy Carveth deliver an almost-instant reaction to the 2025 Valencia Marathon, starting with Jessy’s on-the-ground report of the city’s electric atmosphere and why this race has become the destination for fast times (00:09). They break down the course, weather, and astounding depth that led to more than 5,500 sub-3 finishes (08:46). The team dives into John Korir’s dramatic mid-race drop followed by a massive surge that secured him the win (14:24), plus a wave of national records (33:27). Then they power-rank the men’s marathon stars of 2025 and debate whether anyone alive can break two hours (22:15). The women’s race delivered fireworks too, with Jocelyn Jepkosgei outdueling Olympic champ Perez Jepchirchir in a dominant course-record run (42:02). They also cover American performances (48:19), Melinda Elmore’s astonishing age-graded result (50:32), and whether Valencia should become a World Marathon Major (54:26). A packed episode from a wild race weekend. This episode is brought to you by the Wahoo’s KICKR RUN – go to https://⁠wahoofitness.com⁠ and use promo code MHRUN to get a free $319 KICKR Headwind Fan with your treadmill order.📩 Questions about training, race previews, or to send us your hot takes? Email us at podcast@marathonhandbook.com.🎤 Leave us a voice memo for our mailbag episodes: marathonhandbook.com/podcast📸 Instagram: @marathon.handbook📘 Facebook: @marathonhandbook📰 Join 265,000+ runners getting our daily newsletter: marathonhandbook.com/newsletter👍 Like, subscribe, and drop your questions in the comments.🎧 Audio version available wherever you get podcasts + watch the video version on Spotify.📺 Subscribe on YouTube for weekly running deep dives. #ValenciaMarathon #MarathonHandbook #RunningPodcast #MarathonNews #EliteRunning #RoadRacing

Dec 4

Today on the Marathon Handbook Podcast, we take you inside The Running Event for a deep dive into the future of running shoes . From the exploding gravel category to major durability upgrades, next-gen super trainers, and adidas’ secret prototypes, we break down which brands are innovating — and which ones might be falling behind. This is the most detailed look yet at the shoes shaping 2026 and beyond. This episode is brought to you by the Wahoo’s KICKR RUN – go to ⁠https://⁠wahoofitness.com⁠⁠ and use promo code MHRUN to get a free $319 KICKR Headwind Fan with your treadmill order! And by Momentous. Use promo code MARATHON for up to 35% off your first order: ⁠livemomentous.com 📩 Questions about training, race previews, or to send us your hot takes? Email us at podcast@marathonhandbook.com.🎤 Leave us a voice memo for our mailbag episodes: marathonhandbook.com/podcast📸 Instagram: @marathon.handbook📘 Facebook: @marathonhandbook📰 Join 265,000+ runners getting our daily newsletter: marathonhandbook.com/newsletter👍 Like, subscribe, and drop your questions in the comments.🎧 Audio version available wherever you get podcasts + watch the video version on Spotify.📺 Subscribe on YouTube for weekly running deep dives. #RunningShoes #2026Trends #SuperShoes #MarathonHandbook #TheRunningEvent #TRE2024 #RunningGear #TrailRunning #RoadRunning #RunningPodcast

Nov 27

In this episode of the Marathon Handbook Podcast, the team reveals the Best Running Shoes of 2025 , breaking down every major category—from Best New Shoe (32:35) to Best Daily Trainer (42:55), Best Stability Shoe (48:40), Best Super Trainer (54:15), the hotly debated Super Shoe of the Year (1:12:25), Most Innovative Shoe (1:28:05), Best Lineup (1:32:05), and finally the official 2025 Shoe of the Year (1:40:00). We kick things off with a fun “What Shoe Brand Are You?” debate (00:48) and a detailed listener question about achieving a sub-4 marathon at CIM (6:50). We share race-week stories from Philadelphia (24:40), dive into tech trends shaping next year’s shoes, and preview what we expect to see at TRE in San Antonio (1:49:00). A packed episode for shoe geeks, racers, and everyday runners alike. This episode is brought to you by the Wahoo’s KICKR RUN – go to ⁠https://⁠wahoofitness.com⁠⁠ and use promo code MHRUN to get 25% OFF FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY, plus a free $319 KICKR Headwind Fan with your treadmill order!📩 Questions about training, race previews, or to send us your hot takes? Email us at podcast@marathonhandbook.com.🎤 Leave us a voice memo for our mailbag episodes: marathonhandbook.com/podcast📸 Instagram: @marathon.handbook📘 Facebook: @marathonhandbook📰 Join 270,000+ runners getting our daily newsletter: marathonhandbook.com/newsletter👍 Like, subscribe, and drop your questions in the comments.🎧 Audio version available wherever you get podcasts + watch the video version on Spotify.📺 Subscribe on YouTube for weekly running deep dives. #RunningShoes #MarathonTraining #SuperShoes #RunningPodcast #Marathon #2025RunningShoes #ShoeReview #running

Nov 25

This episode is brought to you by the Wahoo’s KICKR RUN – go to ⁠https://⁠wahoofitness.com⁠⁠ and use promo code MHRUN to get 25% OFF FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY, plus a free $319 KICKR Headwind Fan with your treadmill order! In this episode, Michael Doyle and Alex Cyr tackle a big question: What is the best American marathon that isn’t a World Marathon Major? Using their Philadelphia Marathon Weekend experience as a catalyst, they break down the traits of a true “Great American Marathon,” from elite-friendly course design (03:48) to race-day logistics (18:35), spectator experience (15:10), and city identity (41:00). They compare Philly to other top contenders such as CIM, Grandma’s, Houston, and Twin Cities (22:00), while also examining how mid-sized races often outperform majors in value, execution, and overall runner experience. If you’re choosing your next big marathon, this deep dive is required listening. 📩 Questions about training, race previews, or to send us your hot takes? Email us at podcast@marathonhandbook.com.🎤 Leave us a voice memo for our mailbag episodes: marathonhandbook.com/podcast📸 Instagram: @marathon.handbook📘 Facebook: @marathonhandbook📰 Join 265,000+ runners getting our daily newsletter: marathonhandbook.com/newsletter👍 Like, subscribe, and drop your questions in the comments.🎧 Audio version available wherever you get podcasts + watch the video version on Spotify.📺 Subscribe on YouTube for weekly running deep dives. #MarathonRunning #PhiladelphiaMarathon #GreatAmericanMarathon #RunningPodcast #RoadRacing #MarathonTraining #CIM #GrandmasMarathon #HoustonMarathon

Nov 20

This episode is brought to you by the Wahoo’s KICKR RUN – go to ⁠https://⁠wahoofitness.com⁠⁠ and use promo code MHRUN to get 25% OFF FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY, plus a free $319 KICKR Headwind Fan with your treadmill order! In this episode of The Marathon Handbook Podcast , Michael, Alex, and Katelyn recap the biggest moments of 2025 and reveal their Men’s, Women’s, and Overall Runners of the Year. After catching up on listener questions and welcoming news editor Jessy Carveth (01:36), the team previews The Running Event and 2026 shoe launches (04:10), then dives into their own race plans (05:36). The debate kicks off with the men’s finalists (21:57), culminating in a spirited vote (39:52). The crew then breaks down the women’s finalists, including Faith Kipyegon, Beatrice Chebet, and Tigist Assefa (44:48), before naming the women’s winner (58:55) and ultimately the 2025 overall Runner of the Year (01:07:15). 📩 Questions about training, race previews, or to send us your hot takes? Email us at podcast@marathonhandbook.com.🎤 Leave us a voice memo for our mailbag episodes: marathonhandbook.com/podcast📸 Instagram: @marathon.handbook📘 Facebook: @marathonhandbook📰 Join 265,000+ runners getting our daily newsletter: marathonhandbook.com/newsletter👍 Like, subscribe, and drop your questions in the comments.🎧 Audio version available wherever you get podcasts + watch the video version on Spotify.📺 Subscribe on YouTube for weekly running deep dives. #running #marathon #trackandfield #runnersoftheyear #distancerunning #marathonhandbook #runningpodcast #supershoes #faithkipyegon #connermantz

Nov 16

Content Advisory: This episode includes adult subject matter , including sexual content. Listener discretion is advised. In this episode, Michael Doyle speaks with Nick Thompson — CEO of The Atlantic and author of the new book The Running Ground: A Father, A Son, and the Simplest of Sports — about how he became faster in his 40s and why that journey uncovered a deeper story about grief, trauma, psychology, and the complexities of the father–son bond. Nick explains the book’s origins (02:04), how cancer shaped his mindset (04:09), and why writing candidly about his father was both terrifying and necessary (06:06). He recounts his father’s extraordinary life (07:15), how running kept them connected (11:59), and why midlife can break or remake us (47:12). The conversation digs into training nerdery, including mileage and threshold work (23:05), diet and supplements (26:54), gear choices and heart-rate breakthroughs (28:59), and the central governor theory (31:10). Nick also shares insights on AI and future training tech (32:45), the powerful story of Michael Westphal (38:35), how he knew the book was finished (45:05), and what running means to him now as he chases new goals (53:21). This episode is brought to you by the Wahoo’s KICKR RUN – go to https://⁠wahoofitness.com ⁠ and use promo code MHRUN to get 25% OFF FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY, plus a free $319 KICKR Headwind Fan with your treadmill order! 📩 Questions about training, race previews, or to send us your hot takes? Email us at podcast@marathonhandbook.com.🎤 Leave us a voice memo for our mailbag episodes: marathonhandbook.com/podcast📸 Instagram: @marathon.handbook📘 Facebook: @marathonhandbook📰 Join 265,000+ runners getting our daily newsletter: marathonhandbook.com/newsletter👍 Like, subscribe, and drop your questions in the comments.🎧 Audio version available wherever you get podcasts + watch the video version on Spotify.📺 Subscribe on YouTube for weekly running deep dives. #NickThompson #RunningAfter40 #MarathonTraining #MasterAthlete #RunningMotivation #MarathonHandbook #RunningPodcast #runningbooks #nicholasthompson #TheAtlantic #runninglit

Nov 13

This episode is brought to you by the Wahoo’s KICKR RUN – go to https://⁠wahoofitness.com⁠ and use promo code MHRUN to get 25% OFF FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY, plus a free $319 KICKR Headwind Fan with your treadmill order! In this late-fall Mailbag episode of the Marathon Handbook Podcast, Michael, Alex, and Katelyn dig into listener questions covering everything from pacing strategies (08:00), understanding the difference between 5K pain and marathon fatigue (08:00), and how to break the sub-2:50 barrier (14:45), to chasing a sub-3 marathon at age 24 (16:10), marathon pacing best practices (26:20), and shoe rotation choices between the Evo SL, Superblast, and Megablast (47:15). We also break down how to train between big race cycles (54:20), balancing road marathons with ultras (59:10), essential running books (03:40), and even long-term goals like qualifying for the US Olympic Trials (01:33:00). The episode wraps with legendary advice on training after age 60 from Amby Burfoot (01:37:45). 📩 Questions about training, race previews, or to send us your hot takes? Email us at podcast@marathonhandbook.com. 🎤 Leave us a voice memo for our mailbag episodes: marathonhandbook.com/podcast 📸 Instagram: @marathon.handbook 📘 Facebook: @marathonhandbook 📰 Join 265,000+ runners getting our daily newsletter: marathonhandbook.com/newsletter 👍 Like, subscribe, and drop your questions in the comments. 🎧 Audio version available wherever you get podcasts + watch the video version on Spotify and YouTube. 📺 Subscribe on YouTube for weekly running deep dives. #running #marathontraining #marathonhandbook #runnersofyoutube #runpodcast #sub3marathon #bostonqualifier

Nov 6

In this episode, Michael sits down with Olympian and author Pete Pfitzinger , co-author of Advanced Marathoning , to discuss the brand-new 4th Edition (00:00). Pete shares the philosophy behind his approach to marathon training (09:58), the most common mistakes runners make (35:12), and how today’s advances—from super shoes (33:13) to hydrogels and heart-rate variability (50:47)—are reshaping how we prepare for 26.2 miles. They dive deep into balancing training and life (23:26), fueling and recovery (19:04), and the mindset needed to keep improving (37:09). A must-listen for serious runners and those new to the distance aiming to train smarter, race stronger, and enjoy the process. This episode is brought to you by the Wahoo’s KICKR RUN – go to https://⁠wahoofitness.com⁠ and use promo code MHRUN to get 25% OFF FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY, plus a free $319 KICKR Headwind Fan with your treadmill order! 📩 Questions about training, race previews, or to send us your hot takes? Email us at podcast@marathonhandbook.com.🎤 Leave us a voice memo for our mailbag episodes: marathonhandbook.com/podcast📸 Instagram: @marathon.handbook📘 Facebook: @marathonhandbook📰 Join 265,000+ runners getting our daily newsletter: marathonhandbook.com/newsletter👍 Like, subscribe, and drop your questions in the comments.🎧 Audio version available wherever you get podcasts + watch the video version on Spotify.📺 Subscribe on YouTube for weekly running deep dives. #marathontraining #runningpodcast #petepfitzinger #advancemarathoning #runners #superShoes #marathonhandbook #longrun #runningtips #marathoncoach

Nov 6

This episode is brought to you by the Wahoo’s KICKR RUN – go to https://⁠wahoofitness.com⁠ and use promo code MHRUN to get 25% OFF DURING THE MONTH OF NOVEMBER (2025), and receive a free $319 KICKR Headwind Fan with your treadmill order! Live from New York City during the 2025 TCS New York City Marathon weekend, this Marathon Handbook Podcast episode explores the future of running, racing, and technology . (00:00) Host Michael Doyle and co-hosts Katelyn Tocci and Alex Cyr welcome TCS futurist Bill Quinn (01:00), who explains how AI, digital twins, and smart tech are reshaping how athletes train and how races are organized. (06:00) He predicts the marathon of 2035 , complete with AI-optimized start corrals, sustainable “water pods,” and smart clothing that adapts to weather in real time. (18:00) In the second half, elite marathoner Colin Bennie (34:00) joins the show to discuss how he prepared for New York’s challenging course (39:00), the growing strength of American marathoners (40:30), and his mindset heading into the race. (47:00) Bennie also shares insights on training balance, wearable tech, and why even elites “trust the coach, not the data.” (53:00) (1:14:00) The episode closes with Bill Quinn’s futuristic predictions—AI shoes, nanotech, and digital twins for every runner—and reflections on how human intuition and technology must evolve together. 📩 Questions about training, race previews, or to send us your hot takes? Email us at podcast@marathonhandbook.com.🎤 Leave us a voice memo for our mailbag episodes: marathonhandbook.com/podcast📸 Instagram: @marathon.handbook📘 Facebook: @marathonhandbook📰 Join 265,000+ runners getting our daily newsletter: marathonhandbook.com/newsletter👍 Like, subscribe, and drop your questions in the comments.🎧 Audio version available wherever you get podcasts + watch the video version on Spotify.📺 Subscribe on YouTube for weekly running deep dives. #NYCMarathon #MarathonHandbook #FutureOfRunning #ColinBennie #BillQuinn #MarathonPodcast #RunningTechnology #TCSMarathon #BrooksRunning #AIMarathon

Nov 3

NOTE: The first 45 seconds or so are silent due to a technical glitch. Please skip forward for the beginning of the episode! In this instant reaction episode of the Marathon Handbook Podcast, recorded just after the 2025 TCS New York City Marathon, we unpack everything: the race outcome, potentially Eliud Kipchoge's final marathon, a new women's course record, a photo finish in the professional men's race, and more. This episode is brought to you by the Wahoo’s KICKR RUN – go to https://⁠wahoofitness.com⁠ and use promo code MHRUN to get 25% OFF during the month of November, and a free $319 KICKR Headwind Fan with your treadmill order.And by Momentous. Use promo code MARATHON for up to 35% off your first order: ⁠livemomentous.com⸻📩 Questions about training, race previews, or to send us your hot takes? Email us at podcast@marathonhandbook.com.🎤 Leave us a voice memo for our mailbag episodes: marathonhandbook.com/podcast📸 Instagram: @marathon.handbook📘 Facebook: @marathonhandbook📰 Join 265,000+ runners getting our daily newsletter: marathonhandbook.com/newsletter👍 Like, subscribe, and drop your questions in the comments.🎧 Audio version available wherever you get podcasts + watch the video version on Spotify.📺 Subscribe on YouTube for weekly running deep dives.#NYCMarathon #MarathonHandbook #RunningPodcast #SifanHassan #EliudKipchoge #MarathonTraining #LiveShow #RunningCommunity #NYC2025

Oct 30

In this week’s episode of The Marathon Handbook Podcast , hosts Michael Doyle, Alex Cyr, and Katelyn Tocci preview the 2025 TCS New York City Marathon — the final major of the year. They kick things off with a big announcement about the Marathon Handbook Live Show in New York (01:30), share race-week coverage plans and giveaways (04:30), and dive into logistics and pro tips for runners (25:40). Then, they break down the NYC course (36:55) and preview the women’s elite race , including Sifan Hassan’s bid for history (51:40). Later, the crew analyzes the men’s field with Kipchoge, Bekele, and Benson Kipruto (1:09:03), make their race predictions (1:23:15), and power-rank the World Marathon Majors (1:35:43). Finally, they speculate whether Cape Town could join as the next major (1:47:12) and share what they’re most excited to do in NYC (1:48:50).🎤 Marathon Handbook LIVE: NYC📍 Balance Arts Center, 151 West 30th Street, Midtown Manhattan🕦 Doors open: 11:30 AM | Show: 12:00–2:00 PM🎟️ Free admission — RSVP [via Google Form link in description]🎁 First 40 attendees get our limited-edition Running Sicko hat! This episode is brought to you by the Wahoo’s KICKR RUN – go to https://⁠wahoofitness.com⁠ and use promo code MHRUN to get a free $319 KICKR Headwind Fan with your treadmill order And by Momentous. Use promo code MARATHON for up to 35% off your first order: ⁠livemomentous.com 📩 Questions about training, race previews, or to send us your hot takes? Email us at podcast@marathonhandbook.com 🎤 Leave us a voice memo for our mailbag episodes: marathonhandbook.com/podcast 📸 Instagram: @marathon.handbook 📘 Facebook: @marathonhandbook 📰 Join 265,000+ runners getting our daily newsletter: marathonhandbook.com/newsletter 👍 Like, subscribe, and drop your questions in the comments. 🎧 Audio version available wherever you get podcasts + watch the video version on Spotify and YouTube. 📺 Subscribe on YouTube for weekly running deep dives. #NYCMarathon #MarathonHandbook #RunningPodcast #SifanHassan #EliudKipchoge #MarathonTraining #LiveShow #RunningCommunity #NYC2025

Oct 26

n this episode, Michael Doyle and Alex Cyr break down one of the biggest scandals in marathon history: Ruth Chepngetich’s doping ban. They trace the story from her shocking 2:09:56 world record in Chicago (04:00) to the first signs of suspicion, the January London Marathon announcement (10:00) , and the moment the positive drug test surfaced (13:00) . The hosts then unpack the digital evidence found on her phone (16:00) , the decision behind her three-year suspension (20:00) , and the incriminating WhatsApp messages about banned substances (22:00) . Later, they debate what happens to her world record (33:00), how Nike and World Athletics handled the fallout (27:00), and whether she — and her agent — should be banned for life (50:00) . The episode closes with a discussion about how the sport can recover from yet another doping crisis (54:00). #Marathon #RunningPodcast #Chepngetich #Doping #MarathonRunning #WorldRecord #RunningNews #TrackAndField #Athletics #MarathonHandbook

Oct 23

In this week’s episode of The Marathon Handbook Podcast , hosts Katelyn Tocci and Alex Cyr take the reins while Michael is away coaching at a cross-country meet. (00:00) After covering back-to-back marathons in Chicago and Toronto, they share travel chaos stories and post-race reflections. (10:15) The conversation turns to post-marathon blues — what to do when the season ends or when your race doesn’t go to plan. (17:40) Listener Erin writes in about whether to run a redemption marathon, sparking an in-depth discussion on recovery timing, mental reset strategies, and avoiding injury. (31:00) Katelyn recounts her own mistake running too soon after a 100-miler, and Alex offers tips for managing motivation in the off-season. (50:00) The hosts close with how to structure recovery weeks, stay inspired during the winter, and find joy in running again before the next big race. (1:03:00) Plus, they tease what’s ahead for the Marathon Handbook team in New York. This episode is brought to you by the Wahoo’s KICKR RUN – go to https://⁠wahoofitness.com⁠ and use promo code MHRUN to get a free $319 KICKR Headwind Fan with your treadmill orderAnd by Momentous. Use promo code MARATHON for up to 35% off your first order: ⁠livemomentous.com 📩 Questions about training, race previews, or to send us your hot takes? Email us at podcast@marathonhandbook.com.🎤 Leave us a voice memo for our mailbag episodes: marathonhandbook.com/podcast📸 Instagram: @marathon.handbook📘 Facebook: @marathonhandbook📰 Join 265,000+ runners getting our daily newsletter: marathonhandbook.com/newsletter👍 Like, subscribe, and drop your questions in the comments.🎧 Audio version available wherever you get podcasts + watch the video version on Spotify.📺 Subscribe on YouTube for weekly running deep dives. #running #marathontraining #postraceblues #marathonhandbook #redemptionrace #runnerslife #runmotivation #offseasontraining

Oct 20

Recorded live at the TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon Expo , hosts Michael Doyle, Katelyn Tocci, and Alex Cyr sit down with Natasha Wodak , Canada’s marathon record holder, for an inspiring and hilarious conversation about racing, training, and staying motivated. They dive into Toronto Marathon weekend highlights (01:00), Natasha’s first marathon in 2013 (09:45), lessons from her comeback (12:00), rookie mistakes and pacing tips (16:00), and how to adapt to weather on race day (20:00). Natasha explains how she keeps running fun (27:30), breaks down the Toronto course (30:00), shares her ASICS super shoe preferences (33:45), and walks through her pre-race mindset (39:00). A special thanks to Asics for sponsoring this podcast! 📩 Questions about training, race previews, or to send us your hot takes? Email us at podcast@marathonhandbook.com.🎤 Leave us a voice memo for our mailbag episodes: marathonhandbook.com/podcast📸 Instagram: @marathon.handbook📘 Facebook: @marathonhandbook📰 Join 265,000+ runners getting our daily newsletter: marathonhandbook.com/newsletter👍 Like, subscribe, and drop your questions in the comments.🎧 Audio version available wherever you get podcasts + watch the video version on Spotify.📺 Subscribe on YouTube for weekly running deep dives. #MarathonHandbook #NatashaWodak #TorontoWaterfrontMarathon #RunningPodcast #MarathonTraining #RunningMotivation #ASICS #MarathonTips

Oct 16

In this episode of The Marathon Handbook Podcast (00:00), Michael, Alex, and Katelyn kick off Toronto Marathon week and preview their upcoming live show (04:20). They share plans for the New York City Marathon (07:00) and Michael’s big reveal that he’s running the Philadelphia Marathon (08:25). Then, they tackle two listener questions: how to handle being assigned to a slower corral at NYC (11:06) and how to base-build for a year toward a sub-3 marathon goal (31:32). In the second half (45:45), Alex interviews TCS futurist Bill Quinn about the future of the marathon — including AI-driven race organization (1:01:49), morphing performance clothing (57:57), nanotech wearables (56:13), smart shoes, and augmented reality for spectators (1:18:48). The conversation explores how technology could make marathons more sustainable (1:29:43) and accessible while preserving the human essence of running (1:34:22). This episode is brought to you by the Wahoo’s KICKR RUN – go to https://⁠wahoofitness.com⁠ and use promo code MHRUN to get a free $319 KICKR Headwind Fan with your treadmill orderAnd by Momentous. Use promo code MARATHON for up to 35% off your first order: ⁠livemomentous.com 📩 Questions about training, race previews, or to send us your hot takes? Email us at podcast@marathonhandbook.com.🎤 Leave us a voice memo for our mailbag episodes: marathonhandbook.com/podcast📸 Instagram: @marathon.handbook📘 Facebook: @marathonhandbook📰 Join 265,000+ runners getting our daily newsletter: marathonhandbook.com/newsletter👍 Like, subscribe, and drop your questions in the comments.🎧 Audio version available wherever you get podcasts + watch the video version on Spotify.📺 Subscribe on YouTube for weekly running deep dives. #MarathonHandbook #RunningPodcast #FutureOfRunning #MarathonTraining #TCSMarathon #MarathonMajors #RunningCommunity #DistanceRunning #AIinRunning #SmartShoes

Oct 13

In this instant reaction episode of the Marathon Handbook Podcast , Michael, Alex Cyr, and Katelyn Tocci recap all the action from the 2025 Chicago Marathon (00:00). Alex argues that Kelvin Kiptum’s 2023 world record looms even larger after this year’s results (02:40), while Katelyn spotlights Jacob Kiplimo’s blistering yet flawed attempt at history (05:15). The team dissects the record-breaking American run from Conner Mantz (13:50) and what it means for U.S. distance running (19:30). On the women’s side, Hawi Feysa’s near “immaculate” marathon earns praise for its perfect pacing (24:40), and the crew debates the future of American women’s marathoning (31:30). Plus, deep dives into the super shoe wars—Nike, Adidas, Hoka, and ASICS—and what’s next on the marathon circuit heading into Toronto (45:30). 📩 Questions about training, race previews, or to send us your hot takes? Email us at podcast@marathonhandbook.com.🎤 Leave us a voice memo for our mailbag episodes: marathonhandbook.com/podcast📸 Instagram: @marathon.handbook📘 Facebook: @marathonhandbook📰 Join 265,000+ runners getting our daily newsletter: marathonhandbook.com/newsletter👍 Like, subscribe, and drop your questions in the comments.🎧 Audio version available wherever you get podcasts + watch the video version on Spotify.📺 Subscribe on YouTube for weekly running deep dives. #ChicagoMarathon #ConnerMance #JacobKiplimo #MarathonRunning #RunningPodcast #MarathonHandbook #HowieFaisa #RunningShoes #AdidasProEvo #NikeAlphafly #HokaRunning #ASICS #Marathon2025 #RunningNews #TrackAndField

Oct 9

In this Chicago Marathon 2025 preview episode, Michael Doyle, Alex Cyr, and Katelyn Tocci are packing their bags for the Windy City (05:40) and sharing insider race-week plans — including a live podcast, Nike relay, and shakeout runs (11:25). Michael reflects on running Chicago five times (16:00) and breaks down how to race it smart (22:30), covering course landmarks (25:20), weather pitfalls (30:00), and his best and worst marathon moments (35:30). The team also power-ranks the World Marathon Majors (42:10) and previews what’s coming race weekend (48:40). Join us for our shakeout run and live podcast recording! RSVP here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfbxYZ48RaKs5jYKHdGLOjSBXg4xxi9G-rhx7yMYxbjlPqxJg/viewform?usp=dialog This episode is brought to you by the Wahoo’s KICKR RUN – go to https://⁠wahoofitness.com⁠ and use promo code MHRUN to get a free $319 KICKR Headwind Fan with your treadmill order And by Momentous. Use promo code MARATHON for up to 35% off your first order: livemomentous.com How to watch the Chicago Marathon: https://marathonhandbook.com/everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-2025-chicago-marathon/ 📩 Questions about training, race previews, or to send us your hot takes? Email us at podcast@marathonhandbook.com. 🎤 Leave us a voice memo for our mailbag episodes: marathonhandbook.com/podcast 📸 Instagram: @marathon.handbook 📘 Facebook: @marathonhandbook 📰 Join 265,000+ runners getting our daily newsletter: marathonhandbook.com/newsletter 👍 Like, subscribe, and drop your questions in the comments. 🎧 Audio version available wherever you get podcasts + watch the video version on Spotify. 📺 Subscribe on YouTube for weekly running deep dives. #ChicagoMarathon #MarathonHandbook #RunningPodcast #MarathonTraining #BankOfAmericaChicagoMarathon #RunningTips #MarathonMajors #RunnerLife #RunningCommunity #MarathonStrategy

Oct 5

Canadian-American Olympian Rory Linkletter joins us ahead of the 2025 Chicago Marathon, where he will attempt to break Cam Levins’ North American marathon record (2:05:36). We talk about his Boston breakthrough earlier this year (06:32), why he chose Chicago and his rivalry with Connor Mance (11:15), and his Olympic experience in Paris (18:19). Rory dives deep into training under coach John Green (27:43), sports science and lactate testing (34:53), the mental side of the marathon (38:48), and the business of being a pro runner (42:47). He discusses Puma’s role in the super shoe era (51:25), his views on doping (01:10:37), and what it will take to set the North American record in Chicago (01:13:49). This episode is brought to you by the Wahoo’s KICKR RUN – go to https://⁠wahoofitness.com⁠ and use promo code MHRUN to get a free $319 KICKR Headwind Fan with your treadmill order. -------📩 Questions about training, race previews, or to send us your hot takes? Email us at podcast@marathonhandbook.com.🎤 Leave us a voice memo for our mailbag episodes: marathonhandbook.com/podcast📸 Instagram: @marathon.handbook📘 Facebook: @marathonhandbook📰 Join 265,000+ runners getting our daily newsletter: marathonhandbook.com/newsletter👍 Like, subscribe, and drop your questions in the comments.🎧 Audio version available wherever you get podcasts + watch the video version on Spotify.📺 Subscribe on YouTube for weekly running deep dives. #RoryLinkletter #ChicagoMarathon2025 #MarathonHandbook #EliteMarathoner #MarathonTraining #CamLevins #ConnorMance #NorthAmericanRecord #CanadianRunner #AmericanMarathonRecord #BostonMarathon2025 #PumaRunning #SuperShoes #RunningPodcast #ProRunnerLife #DistanceRunning #MarathonMindset #RoadToChicago #EliteRunning #OlympicMarathoner #FlagstaffRunning #RunningYouTube #RunningMotivation #MarathonGoals #ChicagoMarathon #MarathonRunning #RunningCommunity #RunnersOfYouTube #MarathonPreparation #RunningDocumentary

Oct 2

This episode is brought to you by the Wahoo’s KICKR RUN – go to https://⁠wahoofitness.com⁠ and use promo code MHRUN to get a free $319 KICKR Headwind Fan with your treadmill order! In this episode of the Marathon Handbook Podcast, Michael Doyle, Alex Cyr, and Katelyn Tocci tackle some of your most pressing running questions. We kick things off with listener shoe dilemmas ahead of the Chicago Marathon (02:00), debate the Nike Vomero Plus (07:15), and share thoughts on sticking with what works before race day (15:20). We hear the inspiring story of a new runner turned 10K addict (17:30), and dive into SI joint injuries and tough race decisions (21:00). Patrick asks about quantity vs. quality in training (32:30), and then it’s time for the big one: cadence myths and the 180 steps per minute debate (40:30). We explore Jack Daniels’ famous study (51:30), running slow to run fast (56:00), and our own cadences. Later, we talk pain caves—5K vs. marathon (01:00:30), destination racing in Honolulu (01:11:30), and whether Toronto is the right BQ course (01:18:00). Finally, Patrick asks if AI can predict his Boston attempt (01:20:00). -------📩 Questions about training, race previews, or to send us your hot takes? Email us at podcast@marathonhandbook.com.🎤 Leave us a voice memo for our mailbag episodes: marathonhandbook.com/podcast📸 Instagram: @marathon.handbook📘 Facebook: @marathonhandbook📰 Join 265,000+ runners getting our daily newsletter: marathonhandbook.com/newsletter👍 Like, subscribe, and drop your questions in the comments.🎧 Audio version available wherever you get podcasts + watch the video version on Spotify.📺 Subscribe on YouTube for weekly running deep dives. #running #marathontraining #cadence #runningscience #marathonhandbook

Sep 25

In this Fall 2025 Mailbag Episode of The Marathon Handbook Podcast , we answer listener questions on everything from salvaging half marathon training (05:02) and international marathon travel tips (14:12) to running nutrition (25:35), sub-3 marathon pacing strategies (33:42), cross-training after injury (46:00), and marathon peak week illness (1:09:55). Plus, fun debates on running music and the future of World Marathon Majors (1:16:22). Sponsored by Wahoo KICKR RUN (00:00). This episode is brought to you by the Wahoo’s KICKR RUN – go to https://⁠wahoofitness.com⁠ and use promo code MHRUN to get a free $319 KICKR Headwind Fan with your treadmill order! 📩 Questions about training, race previews, or to send us your hot takes? Email us at podcast@marathonhandbook.com.🎤 Leave us a voice memo for our mailbag episodes: marathonhandbook.com/podcast📸 Instagram: @marathon.handbook📘 Facebook: @marathonhandbook📰 Join 265,000+ runners getting our daily newsletter: marathonhandbook.com/newsletter👍 Like, subscribe, and drop your questions in the comments.🎧 Audio version available wherever you get podcasts + watch the video version on Spotify.📺 Subscribe on YouTube for weekly running deep dives.

Sep 22

In this bonus episode of the pod, we dissect a surprising performance at the Berlin Marathon. Pop icon Harry Styles just ran a sub-3-hour marathon in Berlin—and we’ve got the full breakdown. Michael Doyle and Alex Cyr discuss Styles’ impressive splits (00:45), his massive improvement since Tokyo (05:00), the impact of Berlin’s extreme heat (06:00), the gear he used (08:00), his celebrity running GOAT status (12:00), and whether he might chase a Boston Marathon qualifier next (18:00). This is the definitive analysis of Harry Styles, the marathon runner. This episode is brought to you by Wahoo’s Kickr Run – go to ⁠wahoofitness.com⁠ and use promo code MHRUN to get a free $319 Kickr Headwind Fan with your treadmill order! 📩 Questions about training, race previews, or to send us your hot takes? Email us at podcast@marathonhandbook.com.🎤 Leave us a voice memo for our mailbag episodes: marathonhandbook.com/podcast📸 Instagram: @marathon.handbook📘 Facebook: @marathonhandbook📰 Join 265,000+ runners getting our daily newsletter: marathonhandbook.com/newsletter👍 Like, subscribe, and drop your questions in the comments.🎧 Audio version available wherever you get podcasts + watch the video version on Spotify.📺 Subscribe on YouTube for weekly running deep dives. #HarryStyles #BerlinMarathon #MarathonRunning #Sub3Marathon #RunningAnalysis #BostonMarathon #MarathonMajors #CelebrityRunners #RunningCommunity #TrackAndField

Sep 21

In this episode of the Marathon Handbook Podcast, we break down the 2025 Berlin Marathon (02:10), starting with Sebastian Sawe’s extraordinary victory (05:00) despite brutal heat and tough conditions. We compare his run to Kelvin Kiptum’s world record and Eliud Kipchoge’s Berlin performances (10:20), then analyze the impact of race timing and weather (15:00). The women’s race brought late drama as Rosemary Wanjiru held off a furious charge (20:10). We also discuss pacing strategies and etiquette (26:30), Berlin’s future as a fast marathon (30:00), and how influencer coverage shifted this year (34:30). Finally, we preview Chicago Marathon and our upcoming mailbag episode (36:50). This episode is brought to you by Wahoo’s Kickr Run – go to wahoofitness.com and use promo code MHRUN to get a free $319 Kickr Headwind Fan with your treadmill order! 📩 Questions about training, race previews, or to send us your hot takes? Email us at podcast@marathonhandbook.com.🎤 Leave us a voice memo for our mailbag episodes: marathonhandbook.com/podcast📸 Instagram: @marathon.handbook📘 Facebook: @marathonhandbook📰 Join 265,000+ runners getting our daily newsletter: marathonhandbook.com/newsletter👍 Like, subscribe, and drop your questions in the comments.🎧 Audio version available wherever you get podcasts + watch the video version on Spotify.📺 Subscribe on YouTube for weekly running deep dives. #BerlinMarathon #SebastianSawe #RosemaryWanjiru #MarathonRunning #EliudKipchoge #KelvinKiptum #RunningPodcast #WahooKickrRun #MarathonTraining #WorldMarathonMajors

Sep 18

In this episode of the Marathon Handbook Podcast, we kick things off with Caitlin’s epic 100-mile race recap (01:00) before diving into a listener’s question about long-term marathon training cycles and macro planning for big PR jumps (14:30). Then we shift to the 2025 Berlin Marathon Preview (36:50), covering its rich history and reputation (39:30), the greatest moments in Berlin Marathon history (50:00), and whether Berlin still deserves its title as the world’s fastest course (54:10). We explore Berlin’s role in the World Marathon Majors (1:03:00) before analyzing the women’s elite field (1:11:00) and the men’s elite field featuring Sebastian Sawe (1:15:50). Finally, we power rank all the World Marathon Majors (1:33:30) and share final thoughts plus upcoming content plans (1:36:45). ⸻This episode is sponsored by Skratch Labs. For a free starter pack (just pay for the shipping!) go to the link below and enter the promo code: MARATHONBUNDLEhttps://www.skratchlabs.com/products/hydration-bundle?utm_source=Email&utm_medium=Marathon-Handbook&utm_campaign=August&utm_term=hydration-bundle&utm_content=2025-5📩 Questions about training, race previews, or to send us your hot takes? Email us at podcast@marathonhandbook.com.🎤 Leave us a voice memo for our mailbag episodes: marathonhandbook.com/podcast📸 Instagram: @marathon.handbook📘 Facebook: @marathonhandbook📰 Join 265,000+ runners getting our daily newsletter: marathonhandbook.com/newsletter👍 Like, subscribe, and drop your questions in the comments.🎧 Audio version available wherever you get podcasts + watch the video version on Spotify.📺 Subscribe on YouTube for weekly running deep dives.⸻ #BerlinMarathon #MarathonHandbook #RunningPodcast #WorldMarathonMajors #MarathonTraining #RunningTips #SebastianSawe #RosemaryWanjiru #MarathonPreview #MarathonPredictions

Sep 15

In this episode, Michael Doyle and Alex Cyr break down the 2025 World Athletics Championships Men’s Marathon (0:50), a brutal Tokyo race in scorching conditions (4:20) that saw top contenders drop out (12:40) and an unprecedented photo finish as Alphonce Simbu edged Amanal Petros (25:00). We analyze early pacing strategies (8:10), compare it to yesterday’s women’s marathon (17:20), and explore the future of marathon championships after this thrilling finish (36:10). This episode is sponsored by Skratch Labs. For a free starter pack (just pay for the shipping!) go to the link below and enter the promo code: MARATHONBUNDLEhttps://www.skratchlabs.com/products/hydration-bundle?utm_source=Email&utm_medium=Marathon-Handbook&utm_campaign=August&utm_term=hydration-bundle&utm_content=2025-5📩 Questions about training, race previews, or to send us your hot takes? Email us at podcast@marathonhandbook.com.🎤 Leave us a voice memo for our mailbag episodes: marathonhandbook.com/podcast📸 Instagram: @marathon.handbook📘 Facebook: @marathonhandbook📰 Join 265,000+ runners getting our daily newsletter: marathonhandbook.com/newsletter👍 Like, subscribe, and drop your questions in the comments.🎧 Audio version available wherever you get podcasts + watch the video version on Spotify.📺 Subscribe on YouTube for weekly running deep dives.⸻#Tokyo2025 #WorldAthletics #MensMarathon #PhotoFinish #AlphonceSimbu #AmanalPetros #IliassAouani #MarathonRacing #RunningPodcast #MarathonRunning

Sep 14

Michael Doyle and Alex Cyr deliver their instant reactions to the 2025 World Athletics Championships Women’s Marathon in Tokyo. They break down the opening chaos (00:48), Susanna Sullivan’s fearless front-running (03:00), the chase pack’s strategy (06:12), the decisive move at 27.9K (09:03), and the thrilling final 10K (11:48). From Julia Paternain’s surprise podium run (14:23) to the epic sprint finish (15:48), brutal conditions (24:18), and the shoe wars (27:08), this episode has it all. This episode is sponsored by Skratch Labs. For a free starter pack (just pay for the shipping!) go to the link below and enter the promo code: MARATHONBUNDLE https://www.skratchlabs.com/products/hydration-bundle?utm_source=Email&utm_medium=Marathon-Handbook&utm_campaign=August&utm_term=hydration-bundle&utm_content=2025-5 📩 Questions about training, race previews, or to send us your hot takes? Email us at podcast@marathonhandbook.com. 🎤 Leave us a voice memo for our mailbag episodes: marathonhandbook.com/podcast 📸 Instagram: @marathon.handbook 📘 Facebook: @marathonhandbook 📰 Join 265,000+ runners getting our daily newsletter: marathonhandbook.com/newsletter 👍 Like, subscribe, and drop your questions in the comments. 🎧 Audio version available wherever you get podcasts + watch the video version on Spotify. 📺 Subscribe on YouTube for weekly running deep dives.

Sep 11

In this episode of the Marathon Handbook Podcast, Michael, Alex, and Katelyn break down the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo (00:51), highlighting the biggest storylines across the men’s and women’s marathons (28:00), the Faith Kipyegon vs. Beatrice Chebet rivalry in the 5000m (05:22), the men’s 1500m drama with Jakob Ingebrigtsen (13:26), the stacked men’s 800m field (22:18), and the electric 100m & 200m sprints (44:42). Predictions, hot takes, and must-watch races ahead of the September 13–21 championships. This episode is sponsored by Skratch Labs. For a free starter pack (just pay for the shipping!) go to the link below and enter the promo code: MARATHONBUNDLEhttps://www.skratchlabs.com/products/hydration-bundle?utm_source=Email&utm_medium=Marathon-Handbook&utm_campaign=August&utm_term=hydration-bundle&utm_content=2025-5📩 Questions about training, race previews, or to send us your hot takes? Email us at podcast@marathonhandbook.com.🎤 Leave us a voice memo for our mailbag episodes: marathonhandbook.com/podcast📸 Instagram: @marathon.handbook📘 Facebook: @marathonhandbook📰 Join 265,000+ runners getting our daily newsletter: marathonhandbook.com/newsletter👍 Like, subscribe, and drop your questions in the comments.🎧 Audio version available wherever you get podcasts + watch the video version on Spotify.📺 Subscribe on YouTube for weekly running deep dives.⸻#WorldAthleticsChampionships #Tokyo2025 #FaithKipyegon #BeatriceChebet #Marathon #MensMarathon #WomensMarathon #800m #1500m #5000m #10000m #100m #200m #TrackAndField #DistanceRunning #Sprints #NoahLyles #ShaCarriRichardson #JakobIngebrigtsen #KishaneThompson #runningpodcast #marathonpodcast

Sep 4

Peak week is the most demanding part of any training cycle — but how much mileage is enough, should you race, and how do you recover properly? In this episode, we dive into peak week mindset (00:00), share our most inspiring runners including Courtney Dauwalter and Cam Levins (02:00), compare old-school training intensity with modern approaches (08:30), and break down ultra vs. marathon peak week mileage (14:15). We talk about structuring peak week around intensity vs. volume (19:25), the debate on racing during peak week (25:10), racing strategy and whether to go all out or tempo it (31:40), and why practice races matter for strategy and logistics (35:00). We also cover running tech, recovery lessons (37:20), avoiding peak week burnout with sleep and nutrition tips (40:00), the importance of avoiding common mistakes like “licensing” (47:15), plus gear news with the ASICS MegaBlast & SonicBlast review (51:00), our new “7 Runners You Meet on the Sidewalk” reel (53:20), and a Couch to 5K video for beginner runners (55:00). This episode is sponsored by Skratch Labs. For a free starter pack (just pay for the shipping!) go to the link below and enter the promo code: MARATHONBUNDLE https://www.skratchlabs.com/products/hydration-bundle?utm_source=Email&utm_medium=Marathon-Handbook&utm_campaign=August&utm_term=hydration-bundle&utm_content=2025-5 📩 Questions about training, race previews, or to send us your hot takes? Email us at podcast@marathonhandbook.com. 🎤 Leave us a voice memo for our mailbag episodes: marathonhandbook.com/podcast 📸 Instagram: @marathon.handbook 📘 Facebook: @marathonhandbook 📰 Join 265,000+ runners getting our daily newsletter: marathonhandbook.com/newsletter 👍 Like, subscribe, and drop your questions in the comments. 🎧 Audio version available wherever you get podcasts + watch the video version on Spotify. 📺 Subscribe on YouTube for weekly running deep dives.

Aug 31

Our editor Michael Doyle is joined by news editor Jessy Carveth to break down all the action at the 2025 Sydney Marathon, which debuted as a World Marathon Major. They unpack Eliud Kipchoge's surprising performance, and what it means for his legacy. They also discuss Sifan Hassan's greatness. And they debate whether or not Sydney felt like World Marathon Majors material. This episode is sponsored by Skratch Labs. For a free starter pack (just pay for the shipping!) go to skratchlabs.com and enter the promo code: MARATHONBUNDLE 📩 Questions about training, race previews, or to send us your hot takes? Email us at podcast@marathonhandbook.com. 🎤 Leave us a voice memo for our mailbag episodes: marathonhandbook.com/podcast 📸 Instagram: @marathon.handbook 📘 Facebook: @marathonhandbook 📰 Join 265,000+ runners getting our daily newsletter: marathonhandbook.com/newsletter 👍 Like, subscribe, and drop your Sydney power rankings in the comments. 🎧 Audio version available wherever you get podcasts + watch the video version on Spotify. 📺 Subscribe on YouTube for weekly running deep dives. #sydneymarathon #eliudkipchoge #sifanhassan #worldmarathonmajors

Aug 28

This week on The Marathon Handbook Podcast , Michael Doyle, Alex Cyr, and Katelyn Tocci break down the newest World Marathon Major: the Sydney Marathon (00:00). We cover the hilly course and its reputation as possibly the toughest major (06:55), the race’s rapid rise to global status (13:00), and whether adding more majors—like Cape Town or Shanghai—helps or hurts the brand (19:00). Then, we preview the elite fields : Kipchoge at 40 and what a win or loss would mean for his legacy (53:30), and Olympic champion Sifan Hassan’s dominance and challengers (45:00). Finally, we rank the majors from best to least best in our 2025 power rankings (1:08:00). This episode is sponsored by Skratch Labs. For a free starter pack (just pay for the shipping!) go to skratchlabs.com and enter the promo code: MARATHONBUNDLE 📩 Email us your questions: podcast@marathonhandbook.com 🎤 Leave us a voice memo question: marathonhandbook.com/podcast 📸 Instagram: @marathon.handbook 📘 Facebook: @marathonhandbook 📰 Daily newsletter (265k+ runners): marathonhandbook.com/newsletter 📺 Watch the podcast on YouTube + video version also available on Spotify. #SydneyMarathon #WorldMarathonMajors #EliudKipchoge #SifanHassan #MarathonHandbook #MarathonPreview

Aug 28

Thinking about ultramarathons? In this episode of the Marathon Handbook Podcast , Michael Doyle, Alex Cyr, and ultra coach Katelyn Tocci explain everything you need to know about making the leap from marathons to ultras. We define what an ultramarathon really is (1:40), debate whether the 50K is a “true” ultra (4:20), and share key differences between road and trail racing (7:00). We dig into fueling strategies (12:40), aid stations and gear (18:30), and how to pick your first ultra (30:45). Caitlin also reveals the biggest mistakes new ultra runners make (40:05). Then we dive deep into UTMB, Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc —its history (56:30), course details (1:03:00), controversies (1:19:00), and preview this year’s men’s and women’s fields (1:21:30). Finally, we make our podium picks and wrap up (1:36:00). This episode is sponsored by Skratch Labs. For a free starter pack (just pay for the shipping!) go to skratchlabs.com and enter the promo code: MARATHONBUNDLE 📩 Subscribe to our free daily newsletter: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter 🎙️ Leave us a voice note for our upcoming mailbag episode: https://marathonhandbook.com/podcast/ 📧 Email us: podcast@marathonhandbook.com 📸 Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/marathon.handbook 📘 Follow us on Facebook: https://facebook.com/marathonhandbook 🎧 Subscribe to the podcast on: Apple Podcasts Spotify Or wherever you get your podcasts!

Aug 21

In this episode of the Marathon Handbook Podcast , we reveal the results of a landmark study on 867 NYC Marathon trainees that identified a single exercise —the single-leg glute bridge —that cut injury risk by 64%. Michael Doyle, Katelyn Tocci, and Alex Cyr break down the findings, share their own injury stories, and discuss how runners can apply this to training. (00:00) The tease: could one exercise fix everything? (02:00) Training updates: Katelyn’s 100-miler build, Alex’s knee niggle, Michael’s pacing story (13:00) Study breakdown: how it worked, injury rates, the surprise result (16:30) The single-leg glute bridge explained (19:00) Injury horror stories and lessons learned (35:00) How to perform the exercise correctly (41:00) Why 20–29 seconds is the sweet spot (44:30) Unilateral strength for runners (51:20) Long-run spikes: the #1 cause of injury (53:30) Listener mailbag: chasing sub-3 in Lisbon (58:00) Wrap-up and mailbag invite How-To Explainer on glute exercises for runners: https://marathonhandbook.com/glute-exercises/ The single best exercise for runners to prevent injury: https://marathonhandbook.com/the-single-best-exercise-to-prevent-injury/ 🎧 Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/the-marathon-handbook-podcast/id1611840264 🎧 Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3QJ6ZdXSTI4k5yN6Zlh3m9 📬 Subscribe to our newsletter: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter 🎙 Leave us a voice message: https://www.speakpipe.com/MarathonHandbook 📩 Email us: podcast@marathonhandbook.com #Running #MarathonTraining #RunningInjuries #GluteBridge #MarathonHandbook

Aug 14

Michael Doyle, Alex Cyr, and Katelyn Tocci share the ultimate guide to choosing the perfect running shoe. After swapping travel and race stories (4:08), they break down the five main shoe categories — daily trainers, super trainers, super shoes, trail, and hybrid (11:24) — and reveal their own shoe rotations (16:54). They discuss key factors like fit, foot type, and mileage (21:58), common pitfalls for new runners (26:05), and a simple “flow chart” for buying the right shoe (33:40). The team shares workout shoe picks (39:04), builds the ideal multi-shoe “quiver” (43:31), and dives into super shoe trends and tech (45:28). They also cover when to invest in trail shoes (1:01:17), the rise of gravel/hybrid models (1:07:46), and pro tips for getting the best fit and value (1:20:02), before previewing upcoming reviews and projects (1:26:13). 📧 Questions or feedback? Email us at podcast@marathonhandbook.com – we read and reply to every message. 🎤 Send us a voice note: Leave up to 90 seconds of audio for our next mailbag episode: https://marathonhandbook.com/podcast/ 📱 Follow us on Instagram: Get daily running news, tips, and gear previews – @marathon.handbook ▶ Watch the video version: Available on YouTube and Spotify. 📰 Subscribe to the newsletter: Daily running stories and gear reviews direct to your inbox – https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter/

Aug 7

Mental toughness isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a trainable skill. In this episode, Michael, Alex, and Katelyn break down the science behind mental toughness in running, including the Central Governor Theory, neuroplasticity, and perception of effort (07:26). They highlight inspiring examples like Courtney Dauwalter, Eliud Kipchoge, and Faith Kipyegon (16:56), and share workouts and training strategies to build grit, like solo long runs, hill repeats, and back-to-backs (25:50). The team discusses training in tough conditions—embracing the suck (34:00), using visualization and mantras to push through dark patches (41:30), and the link between mindset, panic, and heart rate during races (58:05). They wrap with their personal philosophies on positive self-talk and why mental training matters as much as physical prep (01:03:45). 🔔 Watch our weekly podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@marathonhandbook 📬 Sign up for the daily running newsletter: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter 📸 Follow us on Instagram: https://instagram.com/marathon.handbook #Running #MarathonTraining #MentalToughness #RunningTips #EnduranceAthlete #Podcast #HalfMarathon #Marathon #UltraRunning #Mindset #SportsPsychology

Aug 3

Olympian Colleen Quigley joins the show to talk about her groundbreaking new running team: Meridia (01:00). We discuss how the name and identity were developed to reflect a fresh, feminine, athlete-driven brand (03:50), and how Colleen has evolved into a startup entrepreneur running a media-forward, athlete-first team (09:15). She breaks down what makes Meridia structurally different from other pro teams (13:45), the creative process behind the visuals and branding (18:07), and how merch and artist collaborations are already in motion (21:18). Colleen shares how Lululemon supported her vision and why the team’s multi-sponsor model matters (23:00), and critiques the current structure of professional track and field (25:36). We explore athlete representation, the road to LA 2028, and Meridia’s long-term vision (29:49, 32:09). Finally, Colleen previews upcoming events, including the virtual Meridia Mile and Boulder activations (39:16). Sign up for the Meridia Mile (Aug 9) : https://www.movemint.cc/events/meridia-mile Follow Colleen Quigley: https://www.instagram.com/steeple_squigs/ More on Meridia: https://www.instagram.com/teammeridia/ Subscribe for more: https://www.youtube.com/@MarathonHandbook #ColleenQuigley #MeridiaTeam #RunningPodcast #TrackAndField #WomenInSport #EntrepreneurAthlete #OlympianInterview #ProRunning #LululemonAthlete #AthleteBranding #RunningTeam #MarathonHandbook

Jul 31

In this episode of the Marathon Handbook Podcast, we dive deep into how to run your fastest ever half marathon. Michael, Alex, and Katelyn open with their personal half marathon origin stories (03:56) and discuss the importance of running a half before a full marathon (09:09). They explore what makes an effective half marathon training plan (19:21), including the benefits of VO2 max and threshold workouts (23:21), and how long your long runs should be (28:14). The crew explains the power of lactate threshold training (32:32), what separates half marathon training from 5K/10K and full marathon prep (36:22), and each host shares their favorite go-to workout (44:00). Finally, they give a full breakdown of race day strategy—warm-up (57:18), pacing (1:02:00), fueling (1:06:28), and how to mentally power through the hardest final kilometers (1:08:56). They wrap by recommending some of their favorite half marathons around the world (1:17:03). 🎧 Subscribe for more weekly episodes full of tips, insight, and running community fun. And watch a video version of our show on our YouTube channel and on Spotify! 📩 Have a question? Email us: hi@marathonhandbook.com #HalfMarathon #RunningTips #MarathonHandbook #ThresholdTraining #HalfMarathonWorkouts

Jul 24

In this episode of the Marathon Handbook Podcast, Michael, Alex, and Katelyn dive into the surprisingly complex art of race selection. Whether you’re mapping out your fall marathon calendar or choosing your first 50K, this conversation breaks down the key considerations every runner should weigh before hitting “register.” The team shares their personal experiences — from running too many races in one season (14:20) to choosing a race just because it’s close to home (11:00) — and offers practical advice on how to choose races that fit your fitness, life schedule, and goals. They explore different motivations like chasing PRs (08:00), destination races and bucket list events (16:30), and races that play to your strengths (21:00). You’ll also get a comprehensive checklist of factors to consider: course profile, elevation, travel logistics, weather, start time, and more (27:00). Plus, the hosts draft their ultimate fall race lineups in a global “Race Draft” featuring iconic races across all distances and terrains (52:10). Whether you’re building a season around a marathon, an ultra, or a fast 10K, this episode will help you make smarter, more satisfying decisions about where — and why — you race. 🎧 Listen to the Marathon Handbook Podcast wherever you get your podcasts — and now in video on Spotify and YouTube. 🔔 Subscribe to stay updated on the latest training insights, race analysis, and gear reviews. 🗞 Sign up for our daily running newsletter: https://www.marathonhandbook.com/newsletter 📱 Follow us on socials @marathon.handbook #RunningTips #MarathonTraining #ChooseYourRace #TrailRunning #RacePlanning #RunningPodcast #MarathonHandbook #FallRacePlanning #HalfMarathon #Ultrarunning #RunningMistakes #HowToChooseARace

Jul 18

In this bonus episode, Michael Doyle is joined by running legend and journalist Amby Burfoot to unpack Thursday's massive news: the shocking doping suspension of Ruth Chepngetich, the marathon world record holder who ran an eye-popping 2:09:56 in Chicago last fall. The two dive deep into the initial reactions to the Athletics Integrity Unit’s charges (00:00), break down what hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) is and why it’s banned (06:00), and question how a ratified world record might be revoked (13:45). They walk through a full timeline of Chepngetich’s performances and testing, including a suspicious half marathon result in Lisbon (17:00) and her quiet withdrawal from the London Marathon (20:45). Michael and Amby explore who bears responsibility beyond the athlete—agents, brands, the World Marathon Majors, and even Nike (23:30), while also asking whether the sport has a leadership vacuum (29:30). The conversation then turns toward the legacy of Chepngetich’s 2:09 (35:10), the damage this scandal could do to the credibility of women’s running and East African dominance in distance running (38:00), and how this moment echoes the fallout of Ben Johnson’s 1988 Olympic doping case (40:00). They also critique the failings of current testing systems and the prevalence of repeat-offender agents like Federico Rosa (44:30). The episode closes with a call for systemic reform in marathon oversight, greater transparency, and sustainable investment in clean sport from brands and race organizers (51:00).

Jul 17

Strength training for runners isn’t optional—it’s essential. In this comprehensive episode of the Marathon Handbook Podcast, Michael Doyle, Katelyn Tocci and Alex Cyr unpack the how, why, and when of strength training for runners. They kick things off by breaking down why runners need to lift weights in the first place (01:20), then bust some of the biggest myths in the sport, like “lifting will make you bulky” (05:30), “running is enough” (08:45), and “bodyweight exercises don’t count” (10:15). The team lays out exactly how to structure strength into your week without burning out (20:00), including a complete no-equipment routine for small spaces (26:55). Alex shares his simple and effective twice-a-week strength plan (35:20), while Katelyn dives into her dynamic gym-based routine (50:20), offering inspiration for both beginners and advanced athletes alike. You’ll also hear the truth about balance, plyometrics, and functional strength training (45:20), plus tips to help you just get started—and stay consistent (01:03:45). Whether you’re training for your first 5K or your next marathon, this episode will reshape the way you think about strength. Subscribe to The Marathon Handbook Podcast for weekly episodes on training, gear, and the running life. 🌐 More at www.marathonhandbook.com 📲 Follow us on Instagram: @marathon.handbook #StrengthTrainingForRunners #MarathonTraining #InjuryPrevention #RunningTips #RunnerWorkout #MarathonHandbook #FitnessForRunners #StrengthWorkout #RunnersLife #StrengthTraining #RunningPodcast #PlyometricsForRunners #BodyweightTraining #MarathonHandbookPodcast

Jul 10

Ready to run your fastest mile ever? In this episode of the Marathon Handbook Podcast, we dive headfirst into the magic and mystery of the mile—why it’s such a romantic and enduring distance for runners of all levels (01:00), the difference between the mile and 1500m (06:00), and the story behind Roger Bannister’s legendary sub-4 performance (02:30). We explore how breaking barriers—like the 4-minute mile or sub-10 mile for beginners—can shift what’s considered humanly possible (09:00), and why the mile still holds powerful cultural cachet in the running world (12:30). From there, we get into the science behind running a mile fast (16:20), including VO2 max, aerobic vs anaerobic systems, and why it hurts so much more than you’d expect (20:00). Is the mile harder than a marathon? We debate it (19:00). Then we break down a full 4–6 week training plan, including three key workouts: the Broken Mile (29:00), 1K cruise intervals (36:00), and Flying 200s (41:00). We discuss how to structure your training week, balance intensity and recovery (43:30), and race your time trial (46:00). You’ll also hear personal reflections on where each host currently stands in their mile journey (48:30), a wild story of running a mile with a dog that clocked a 4:28 (51:00), and the unbelievable world of the beer mile (54:00). We wrap by encouraging listeners to take on the mile challenge themselves—whether as a standalone summer project or as a way to boost long-distance performance (56:00). Plus, we’ve got links to helpful training guides for every level, from beginner to sub-5 aspirants (58:00). 👉 Subscribe to the Marathon Handbook Podcast on your favorite platform 🎧 Listen wherever you get your podcasts: https://www.marathonhandbook.com/podcast 📲 Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marathonhandbook 📰 Sign up for our daily newsletter: https://www.marathonhandbook.com/subscribe #MileTraining #FastestMile #RunYourBestMile #MarathonHandbook #RunningTips #MilePR #TrackTraining #4WeekPlan #VO2max #ThresholdTraining #DistanceRunning #Sub5Mile #RunningGoals #RunFaster

Jul 3

It’s time for our Summer Mailbag episode! The Marathon Handbook Podcast crew — Michael, Katelyn, and Alex — dive into listener questions about marathon training, race strategy, running shoes, and how to get faster without getting injured. We kick things off with Katelyn’s 100-mile training update and Alex powering through a raspy-voiced episode (00:00), before unpacking how marathon pace should feel over a 16- to 20-week build (03:30). We talk through why you don’t need to hit every distance time trial to validate your marathon goal (12:05), and why Garmin’s race predictor might be messing with your head (15:00). We break down how to build VO₂ max with 5K interval workouts (19:45), what those sessions should look like (21:45), and what shoes are best for hard efforts (25:15). Michael shares his go-to marathon prep workout — a 10K at goal pace 10 days before race day (30:45), and we discuss how to train on terrain that matches your race (33:45). Then comes blob run talk: how to handle purposeless or failed workouts and how to bounce back stronger (35:15). We dive into heat training and how to adjust your pacing using the VDOT calculator’s temperature function (43:00), and help a listener decide if a 4:30 marathon goal is realistic for CIM (47:05). Next, we take on the great supershoe debate: Should you train in them or save them for race day? (50:15) Are they just for fast runners? (55:00) And how do you properly break in a brand new pair? (59:30). We even ask: Is a “carbon cleanse” coming? Will runners rebel against high-stack, tech-loaded shoes? (1:02:00) Then we unpack Boston Marathon’s new qualifying rules and debate whether shoes with >40mm stack heights should be banned (1:05:15). We also offer advice for overpronators looking for racing shoes (1:14:00), and help a listener navigate heart rate training on hilly routes (1:18:45). Finally, we respond to some pushback around Alex’s “real marathon” comments (1:26:00) and discuss what defines a meaningful marathon experience. As always, thank you for the amazing questions — keep them coming! 📩 Got a question for the pod? Email us at hi@marathonhandbook.com or drop a comment on YouTube or Spotify! 👟 Subscribe for more running tips, gear reviews, and race strategy: https://www.marathonhandbook.com/podcast 📱 Follow us for updates, behind-the-scenes, and expert shoe reviews: • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marathon.handbook • TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marathonhandbook • Threads: https://www.threads.net/@marathon.handbook #marathontraining #runningshoes #runningtips #runningpodcast #vo2max #supershoes #racedaytips #runningcoach #beginnerrunner #sub4marathon #halfmarathontraining #cimarathon #bostonqualifier #rpe #jackdanielsvdot

Jun 27

In this instant reaction episode of the Marathon Handbook Podcast, recorded just minutes after Nike’s Breaking4 event in Paris, we unpack what really happened on and off the track. We start with the electric atmosphere inside the stadium and Nike’s high-stakes investment in Faith Kipyegon’s historic attempt to become the first woman to run a sub-4-minute mile (02:00). We share our exclusive access to the event, including a surreal pre-race walk on the track and a behind-the-scenes look at the Innovation Day showcasing the speed suit, spikes, and printed sports bra designed specifically for this attempt (13:45). We discuss Kipyegon’s lap-by-lap pacing breakdown (24:00), debate whether the technology helped or hindered (34:15), and explore the psychological dynamics of racing without competition (46:00). We also break down Kipchoge’s mesmerizing talk about the power of belief (18:00). Finally, we dig into the press conference, what comes next for Nike and Faith, and whether this was a brilliant step forward or an expensive misfire (58:00). Plus, our predictions on when and how the sub-4 barrier will finally fall (1:10:00). Over 240,000 runners read our newsletter. Sign up here and get our free book The 26 Golden Rules Of Running: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter/ Listen and subscribe to our Podcast here: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-marathon-handbook-podcast/id1687070922 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/40fbGjW1uLpDFnzsDfFXYn?si=6b44ece05be643fb YouTube Music: https://music.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLb3iPx8Lcl9n2WSDyO4K0i5yfz93H8BZk&si=lx248VvhqYFir0rq Follow us on IG: https://instagram.com/marathon.handbook Follow us on Tikok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marathon.handbook Like us on FB: https://facebook.com/marathonhandbook Follow us on X: https://x.com/MarathonHB #Breaking4 #FaithKipyegon #NikeRunning #Sub4Mile #MarathonHandbook #RunningPodcast #TrackAndField #WomenInSport #Nike #RunningInnovation #MiddleDistance #nikebreaking4

Jun 25

In this special episode of the Marathon Handbook Podcast, recorded on the ground in Paris, we dive deep into Nike’s audacious Breaking4 project and Faith Kipyegon’s attempt to become the first woman to run a sub-4-minute mile. This episode is sponsored by Hettas: performance running shoes for women. Check out Hettas at hettas.com We kick things off by setting the scene from a sweltering Paris just 25 hours before the event (02:15), and introduce the superstar at the center of it all: Faith Kipyegon, the reigning queen of middle-distance running (05:00). We explore why Paris and Stade Charléty were selected for this historic attempt (07:40), and why this event is being treated with the same magnitude as Breaking2 (10:30). Then we dig into the groundbreaking science and tech behind Breaking4 — including two key research studies that laid the foundation for this effort (12:30), the custom-engineered speed suit and spikes Kipyegon will wear (18:00), and why the event won’t count as an official world record (22:40). We explain the complex pacing strategy Nike has landed on after months of testing (26:00), who the elite pacers are (30:00), and discuss whether Kipyegon’s legacy could soon rival Kipchoge’s (35:00). We debate the barriers to mainstream fame for women’s track stars and how this moment could ignite a "Kipyegon Effect" (42:00). Then it’s time for conspiracy theories and hot takes: has she already broken four in secret? (46:00), is this her absolute peak? (50:00), and how much is Nike really spending on this event? (56:00). We close with predictions (1:02:00) and what’s next as we head trackside for our live coverage and instant reactions (1:04:30). This is your all-access pass to what could be a turning point in running history. Be sure to follow our live updates and the the live stream on June 26 starting at 1 pm EDT (7 pm CEST) for our coverage from the track in Paris of Breaking4: https://marathonhandbook.com/live-updates-nike-breaking4-live-stream/ Over 240,000 runners read our newsletter. Sign up here and get our free book The 26 Golden Rules Of Running: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter/ Follow us on IG: https://instagram.com/marathon.handbook Follow us on Tikok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marathon.handbook Like us on FB: https://facebook.com/marathonhandbook Follow us on X: https://x.com/MarathonHB Subscribe to our YouTube channel get all our training tips, running guides and gear reviews : https://www.youtube.com/@marathonhandbook?sub_confirmation=1

Jun 19

Could you run a marathon with zero training? In this episode of The Marathon Handbook Podcast, Michael Doyle, Alex Cyr, and Katelyn Tocci tackle that exact question — and things get real. This episode is sponsored by Hettas: performance running shoes for women. Check out Hettas at hettas.com We kick off by discussing a recent viral TikTok by Logan Goodspeed, who attempted the San Diego Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon with just 24 hours’ notice — and no running background (01:05). We analyze his prep (or lack thereof), how he actually finished in under 6 hours, and what he surprisingly did right (21:00). Before that, we each share the dumbest running decisions we’ve ever made (06:00), from delusional ultra attempts to summer marathons and poor race-day choices. We debate whether walking a marathon still counts (33:30), explore the importance of intent versus finish time , and ask: what makes someone a “real” marathoner? (40:00) The team also dives into key survival tips if you ever find yourself on the start line with little or no training: the best shoes to grab (24:00), fuel options (27:00), and what not to do — like taking Advil during the race (29:00). We also touch on serious health dangers like rhabdomyolysis (48:17), which can strike undertrained runners. To wrap things up, we play a hilarious round of “Marathon MacGyver,” building the perfect last-minute marathon kit — including favorite shoes, weird motivational hacks, and fuel-of-choice picks (53:35). Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner, training-curious, or just fascinated by endurance extremes, this episode is a wild ride full of laughs, honest lessons, and surprisingly practical takeaways (01:09:41). 🎧 Subscribe to the Marathon Handbook Podcast wherever you get your podcasts, or watch new episodes every Thursday on YouTube and Spotify. 📲 Follow Marathon Handbook for more: Instagram: @marathonhandbook TikTok: @marathonhandbook Website: www.marathonhandbook.com #MarathonPodcast #RunningTips #ZeroToMarathon #LoganGoodspeed #TikTokRunner #RunningFails #CanYouRunAMarathon #MarathonTraining #BeginnerRunner #Rhabdomyolysis #WalkRunMethod #CouchToMarathon #FunRun #AlexCyr #KatelynTocci #MichaelDoyle #MarathonChallenge #SanDiegoMarathon

Jun 12

This episode is sponsored by Hettas: performance running shoes for women. Check out Hettas at hettas.com In this special episode of the Marathon Handbook Podcast, hosts Michael Doyle, Alex Cyr, and Katelyn Tocci each share the greatest race of their lives—offering up deeply personal stories packed with insight, grit, and emotion. From Alex’s freezing sub-65 half marathon in Houston (04:15), to Katelyn’s comeback victory at a rugged Italian sky race after a terrifying Hep A diagnosis (39:27), to Michael’s flawlessly executed PB at the Chicago Marathon (01:06:36), each segment reveals the physical training, mental battles, and race-day turning points that shaped these career-defining moments. You’ll get a deep dive into Alex’s threshold-heavy training philosophy (09:57), relive the emotional rush of Katelyn breaking the tape in Italy (51:43), and hear how Michael was jolted back to life mid-race by a runner in toe shoes (01:25:29). We close it all out with the lessons we’d give our past selves, the weird tricks that worked (01:37:53), and a challenge to listeners to share their own greatest race story with us (01:46:41). 💬 Send us your greatest race story at: hi@marathonhandbook.com — we might feature it in an upcoming mailbag episode! 🔔 Subscribe to the Marathon Handbook Podcast wherever you listen and leave us a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ review to help other runners find the show. 📱 Follow us on socials @marathonhandbook 🌐 Visit us at www.marathonhandbook.com #RunningPodcast #MarathonTraining #TrailRunning #HalfMarathonTips #BestRaceEver #RunYourRace #Ultrarunning #RunningStories #MarathonMindset #MarathonHandbook #RaceDayTips #RunnerMotivation

Jun 5

Step into the fast lane with our deep dive into super shoes — the revolutionary footwear changing the face of distance running. This episode is sponsored by Hettas: performance running shoes for women. Check out Hettas at hettas.com We break down what actually makes a shoe “super” (01:45), take you inside the never-before-told history of Nike’s prototype era (06:30), and trace how the Vaporfly flipped the script on competitive marathoning (18:50). From foam wars to carbon plates , from elite deception to banned shoes , this is the complete story of the super shoe — past, present, and what’s coming next. We also get creative and build our dream super shoes using the best components on the market (38:30), and we power rank the top models you can buy in 2025 (50:20), including why Puma may have just launched the fastest shoe ever (53:00). 💡 Have a question or shoe pick? Drop us a comment on Spotify or find us on Instagram @marathonhandbook. 🎧 Subscribe to the Marathon Handbook Podcast and check out our new sister show: Run Long Run Healthy — science-backed insights to help you run smarter and stay injury-free.

May 29

The Grand Slam Track League is here – but is it actually working? In this special episode of the Marathon Handbook Podcast, hosts Michael, Alex, and Caitlin break down everything you need to know about Michael Johnson’s ambitious new league. We dive into how it compares to the Diamond League, explore its bold innovations (like guaranteed prize money, racer vs. challenger formats, and athlete branding), and debate whether it’s doing enough to revolutionize track and field. We also ask: Is GST attracting enough viewers and athletes to stay alive? What’s holding it back from becoming a household name? How can it evolve to become the NBA or NFL of track? Should they adopt a team franchise model and bring in drafts, free agency, and a fantasy ecosystem? Plus, we play commissioner for a day and pitch wild (but serious!) ideas that could actually change the future of the sport. Whether you’re already hooked or just Grand Slam curious, this is your essential guide to the most disruptive experiment in modern track and field. (01:02) What is the Grand Slam Track League? (02:50) Format, events, and why it’s different from the Diamond League (05:10) Recapping Kingston & Miami — early hits and misses (07:12) Is GST living up to the hype so far? (09:45) The big vision: Can GST become track’s version of the NBA? (12:00) Growing pains and how athletes are reacting (14:20) Broadcast issues and missed opportunities (16:00) Athlete branding: How GST is helping runners become stars (20:30) The Racer vs. Challenger model explained (23:10) Athlete pay: Is this the end of underpaid pros? (24:45) What’s working: prize money, structure, presentation (26:30) The problem with empty stands (28:21) Should we worry about attendance? (29:41) Buy, Sell, or Hold: GST as a stock market metaphor (33:00) Is the hype fading already? (35:00) GST vs. Diamond League — real differences (38:50) Creating rivalries and new storylines (41:06) If we ran GST: Big changes from the pod team (44:08) Should GST scrap the 2-event format? (46:00) How to get fans in the stands (49:20) Fantasy teams, free agency, and a full pro ecosystem (53:15) Can GST make the Olympics irrelevant? (57:38) Could trail and ultra running adopt this model? (01:01:10) A fantasy draft for GST? (01:01:47) What’s next: Philadelphia and LA events (01:03:00) Final thoughts and what GST needs to thrive 🎧 Subscribe to the Marathon Handbook Podcast for more insights, debates, and deep dives into the world of running. 🌐 Visit us at https://marathonhandbook.com 📱 Follow us on socials: Instagram: @marathonhandbook Twitter/X: @marathonhandbk Facebook: Marathon Handbook #GrandSlamTrackLeague #MichaelJohnson #TrackAndField #Athletics #DiamondLeague #TrackLeague #RunningPodcast #Sprint #MiddleDistance #LongDistanceRunning #MarathonHandbook #GSTLeague #USATF #TrackRivals #SportInnovation #Olympics2028 #TrailRunning #TrackEntertainment

May 25

What does it take for a woman to break the 4-minute mile? In this exclusive and groundbreaking interview, Dr. Andy Jones—one of the world’s leading exercise physiologists and the mastermind behind Kipchoge’s sub-two-hour marathon—reveals the science, strategy, and secrets behind Nike’s latest audacious project: Breaking4 . Dr. Jones has worked with legends like Paula Radcliffe and Eliud Kipchoge, and now, he’s applying decades of research and experience to help Faith Kipyegon achieve what was once thought impossible: the first sub-4-minute mile by a woman. In this interview: 00:00 – Intro: Who is Dr. Andy Jones? 01:00 – The Origins of Nike's Breaking4 Project 03:00 – Faith Kipyegon: The Athlete at the Center 05:15 – Physiology of the Female Mile Record 09:00 – Can Faith Kipyegon Really Break 4 Minutes? 11:30 – VO2 Max, Running Economy & Anaerobic Contribution 15:15 – Pacing, Drafting, and Racing Strategy Insights 17:00 – The Science of the Perfect Mile Race 19:25 – The Role of Wavelight Technology & Aerodynamics 21:00 – Breaking2 Lessons Applied to Breaking4 23:25 – Pacers, Coordination, and Logistics in Elite Events 26:00 – Ideal Race Conditions for a Sub-4:00 Attempt 29:00 – Warm-Ups, Priming, and Race Day Preparation 33:00 – Training the Body to Hit VO2 Max Quickly 36:00 – Bicarbonate, Nitrate, and Legal Performance Enhancers 39:00 – Will There Be a New Nike Super Spike? 41:15 – Apparel, Drag, and Thermoregulation Science 42:50 – Will Wavelight Be Used for Breaking4? 45:00 – What Does Success Look Like (Even If She Doesn’t Break 4)? 47:00 – Why Scientists Won’t Collect Race-Day Data 48:50 – Was Breaking2 Ever Almost Indoors? (Behind-the-Scenes!) 50:50 – Why Breaking4 Must Feel Like a Real Race 53:00 – Dr. Jones' Prediction for the Record Attempt 54:20 – What Is Resilience in Endurance Running? 57:10 – How Kipchoge and Radcliffe Excelled in Resilience 58:45 – How Runners Can Train for More Resilience 01:01:00 – Fasted Training, Long Runs, and East African Methods 01:03:15 – Paula Radcliffe’s Steady Running Philosophy 01:06:00 – Is Easy Running Overrated? 01:08:00 – Will There Be Other Women in Breaking4? 01:10:00 – The Pacers of the Future: Could Young Stars Join In? 01:12:30 – Who Is Faith Kipyegon Beyond the Track? 01:14:00 – Closing Thoughts on Risk, Innovation, and Belief

May 22

Are you really doing a tempo run—or just running in the gray zone without purpose? In this episode, Michael Doyle, Alex Cyr, and Caitlin Tocci take a sledgehammer to one of running’s most overused and misunderstood terms: the “tempo run.” We explore the history of the term, why it’s misapplied in so many training plans, and what terms like lactate threshold, critical velocity, VO2 max, and steady state actually mean. Plus: our “Tempo Run Hall of Shame” and some spicy takes on running culture. Whether you’re training for a marathon, coaching, or just want smarter workouts—this episode will change the way you think about pace. ⏱️ Chapters Below 🗨️ Drop your worst tempo run story in the comments! 📬 Send us questions for our upcoming Mailbag episode at hi@marathonhandbook.com 00:00 - Intro + Boston Marathon Non-Super Shoe Division 04:00 - Shoe Picks for “No Super Shoe” Marathon 10:15 - The Problem With “Tempo Run” 12:00 - Alex’s Tempo Rant: Blob Runs and Gray Zones 13:45 - Origin of the Term: OBLA Study and Jack Daniels 15:00 - Caitlin’s Coaching Definition of Tempo 17:30 - Rebuilding the Glossary: Lactate Threshold Explained 19:55 - What Is Critical Velocity (CV) Pace? 21:20 - Marathon Pace vs Tempo Pace 22:40 - What Is “Steady State” Running? 24:00 - Identifying the Two Gray Zones in Training 26:00 - Easy Runs: Why Most Runners Go Too Hard 28:15 - What’s Your Real Easy Pace? 32:00 - Emotionally Engaging With Easy Runs (And Why That’s Bad) 34:10 - Mileage-Based vs Time-Based Recovery Runs 35:30 - Recap: What Tempo *Should* Mean 36:10 - Rebranding “Tempo”: Blob Runs and Grind Runs 40:00 - Failure Runs and Misjudged Workouts 44:30 - Tempo Run Hall of Shame: Trail Excuses + College Races 48:50 - Final Thoughts: Clarity Over Terminology 49:45 - What’s Next: Vlogs, Reviews, Interviews & Mailbag

May 15

Stop guessing your training and race pace! In this episode of the Marathon Handbook Podcast , hosts Michael Doyle, Coach Katelyn Tocci, and Alex Cyr break down how to scientifically and practically discover your true race and training pace — without falling into common runner traps. We explore: Six pace trap archetypes every runner should avoid (like the Marathon Mathematician and Legacy PR Guy) The most effective tools and calculators to dial in your real fitness level How to adjust pace throughout the season And how to use time trials and recent race data to plan smarter Whether you’re gunning for a sub-3 marathon, aiming for a PR in the 10K, or just want to train more efficiently, this episode is your definitive guide to realistic and smart pacing strategies . 🔗 Resources Mentioned : ▶ VDOT Calculator by Jack Daniels ▶ McMillan Running Calculator 📩 Sign up for our newsletter: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter 🎧 Listen to the podcast: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7o72muiWY6TSNrwfzirqH6?si=4cf9310996e14ae6 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/marathon-handbook-podcast/id1687070922 📺 Subscribe for more running videos: https://www.youtube.com/@marathonhandbook?sub_confirmation=1 ⏱️ Timestamps / Chapters 00:00 - Intro 01:00 - Why Most Runners Guess Their Pace Wrong 06:50 - The 6 Pacing Traps Runners Fall Into 07:50 - #1: The Marathon Mathematician 12:18 - #2: The Legacy PR Guy 16:47 - #3: The Copycat 22:20 - #4: The Tempo Merchant 29:35 - #5: The Round Number Chaser 34:45 - #6: The Negative Split Fantasist 38:10 - Tools to Find Your Real Race Pace 39:30 - Using Time Trials and VDOT 42:50 - Recent Race Results as Fitness Predictors 45:30 - How to Use Pace Calculators (VDOT, McMillan) 49:45 - Short vs Long Race Prediction Accuracy 56:50 - RPE and Recovery Runs 59:30 - Final Thoughts + How To Apply This In Training 1:01:00 - Upcoming Reviews & Channel Updates Our free marathon training plans: https://marathonhandbook.com/trainingplans/marathon-training-plans/ Follow us on IG: https://instagram.com/marathon.handbook Follow us on Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marathon.handbook Like us on FB: https://facebook.com/marathonhandbook Follow us on X: https://x.com/MarathonHB

May 8

In this episode of the Marathon Handbook Podcast, the hosts Alex Cyr, Katelyn Tocci and Michael Doyle delve into the complexities of running a 5K, exploring its challenges, physiological demands, and effective training strategies. They discuss the mental and physical aspects of the race, emphasizing the importance of pain tolerance and speed endurance. The conversation includes personal anecdotes, expert insights, and practical tips for runners looking to improve their 5K performance. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the intricacies of training for 5K races compared to marathons, discussing the specific workouts and strategies that can help runners achieve personal bests. They explore the importance of understanding pain in training, the significance of various workout types, and how to integrate them effectively into a training regimen. The discussion also highlights upcoming content and interviews that will provide further insights into running performance. Chapters with Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to the 5K 02:53 Defining the 5K: Pain, Fear... and Fun? 05:59 Physiological Insights of the 5K 11:54 Training Strategies for 5K Success 18:01 Would You Rather: 5K Scenarios 23:50 The Importance of Speed and Endurance 30:01 Conclusion and Key Takeaways 37:12 Marathon vs. 5K Training Dynamics 40:40 5K Workout Strategies for Personal Bests 41:49 Understanding Pain in 5K Training 42:30 The Prove It Workout: A Key to 5K Success 49:04 Race Pace Kicks: A Unique Training Approach 55:04 The Four, Three, Two, One Workout Explained 01:00:02 Integrating Workouts for Optimal Performance 01:01:25 Upcoming Interviews and Content

May 1

Our co-host Alex Cyr finally did it — broke 30 minutes in the 10K before his 30th birthday. But in this deeply personal episode, he, Katelyn Tocci, and Michael Doyle go beyond splits and finish lines. They unpack the mental toll of public goals (13:00), the crash after big wins (25:00), and how to redefine motivation (40:00). It’s a story of resilience, racing, identity, and the strange emotional alchemy of chasing big dreams. 🎙 Topics Covered: 10K race strategy & pacing breakdown Running through exhaustion and travel fatigue The danger of public goals + social media pressure Imposter syndrome at every pace Post-race blues and dopamine crash Why your best race isn’t always your fastest Shifting from chasing times to racing people Finding purpose after you hit your big goal How to manage running motivation long-term 📩 Join our daily newsletter: marathonhandbook.com 📸 Follow us on Instagram: @marathonhandbook

Apr 28

In this special instant reactions episode, Marathon Handbook’s Editor-in-Chief Michael Doyle and News Editor Jessy Carveth break down all the drama from the 2025 London Marathon just hours after the race wrapped. From Tigst Assefa’s women’s-only world record to Eliud Kipchoge’s twilight career run , plus shocking moments like Sebastian Sawe’s controversial race-winning move — we dive into all the elite races, surprises, disappointments, and behind-the-scenes insights from London. Jessy, fresh from the media center in London, shares insider takes you won’t hear anywhere else. 🎥 Also check out our full London Marathon Watch Along Replay on our YouTube channel! https://youtube.com/live/R7E8R59jVro?feature=share ⏱ Chapters and Timestamps 00:00 – Intro + Wahoo Kickr Run Sponsor Read 02:00 – Sensational Vibes in London: City Takeover and Massive Crowds 05:00 – Behind the Scenes at London: Emotional Finishes and Media Center Insights 08:00 – Women’s Elite Race Breakdown: Tigst Assefa’s World Record Performance 15:00 – Sifan Hassan Struggles: Dissecting a Disappointing Day 20:00 – Elite Women’s Field Analysis: How Missing Stars Changed the Race 25:00 – Men’s Elite Race Breakdown: The Kipchoge Question 30:00 – Is Eliud Kipchoge Past His Prime? 35:00 – Jacob Kiplimo’s Promising Debut 40:00 – Sebastian Sawe’s Controversial Feed Zone Move 45:00 – Biggest Winners of the Day 50:00 – Biggest Disappointments and Tough Days 55:00 – Biggest Surprises and Burning Questions 1:00:00 – New Balance Gear: Hits and Misses at London Expo 1:05:00 – Closing Thoughts: Who’s Chasing Sub-2 Hours Next? #LondonMarathon #MarathonRunning #TigstAssefa #EliudKipchoge #SifanHassan #RunningCommunity #MarathonTraining #RunningPodcast #RunnersOfYouTube #LondonMarathon2025

Apr 24

The 2025 London Marathon is here, and we’ve got your ultimate preview: elite race insights, logistics, history, and how to watch. Then, in a breaking second segment, we unpack Nike’s stunning new Breaking4 project —Faith Kipyegon’s quest to become the first woman to run a sub-4 minute mile. All the context, science, and bold predictions are here from Michael Doyle and Alex Cyr. This episode is brought to you by the Wahoo KICKR RUN. 🔗 Links & Resources: Subscribe to our newsletter for the London Marathon Watch-Along link: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter/ Nike launches “Breaking4” challenge to test limits of women’s mile: https://marathonhandbook.com/nike-launches-breaking4-challenge-to-test-limits-of-womens-mile/ Who Is Faith Kipyegon? The Greatest Miler in History Eyes the Impossible With Breaking4: https://marathonhandbook.com/who-is-faith-kipyegon-the-greatest-miler-in-history-eyes-the-impossible-with-breaking4/ ⏱️ Chapters with Timestamps (YouTube or Podcast Player) 00:00 – Intro + Boston Recap 01:00 – Previewing the 2025 London Marathon 03:30 – Start Times + Streaming Options 06:00 – Lottery & Participation Stats 08:00 – Course Logistics & History 14:00 – London’s Most Iconic Moments 21:00 – Tower Bridge + Race Landmarks 26:00 – Weather Forecast & Strategy 28:00 – Women’s Elite Race Preview 36:00 – Predictions + World Record Hot Takes 40:00 – Men’s Elite Race Preview 52:00 – Kipchoge’s Redemption Arc 59:30 – Marathon Majors Power Rankings 1:03:50 – Outro 1:08:20 – Nike BREAKING4: Segment Intro 1:10:00 – What Is Breaking4? 1:13:00 – Faith Kipyegon’s 3:59 Mission 1:17:00 – The Sports Science + Andy Jones 1:23:00 – Can She Do It? Predictions + Timeline 1:27:00 – Wrap-up + What’s Next Join the conversation on our socials: Follow us on IG: https://instagram.com/marathon.handbook Follow us on Tikok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marathon.handbook Like us on FB: https://facebook.com/marathonhandbook Follow us on X: https://x.com/MarathonHB

Apr 22

Editors Alex Cyr, Michael Doyle and Katelyn Tocci host an instant reaction episode, live from near the finish line of the Boston Marathon. They break down the phenomenal elite races, as well as Katelyn's experience running the marathon. Watch a replay of our Watch-Along Live Stream of the Boston Marathon: https://youtube.com/live/y5enYRMrI1U ⏱️ Timestamps & Chapters 00:00 – Welcome to Boston! Michael, Katelyn, and Alex reunite for a live post-marathon pod near the finish line. 01:30 – Katelyn’s Boston Marathon Recap A chaotic start, crowded early miles, fueling on the fly, and a brutally nostalgic homecoming through Newton. Katelyn shares what it’s like to race Boston 20 years after her first time—and why this one was so special despite the cramps, hills, and heartbreak. 14:00 – Can You PR in Boston? Short answer: probably not. The trio debates the myth of the Boston PR. 16:30 – Marathoning vs. Ultras Katelyn compares the marathon grind to ultra running—her verdict might surprise you. ⸻ 🏃‍♀️ Elite Women’s Race Breakdown (starts at 20:15) 20:15 – High Stakes from the Gun Buriso and Yehualaw force the pace early; Lokedi comes ready to rewrite her 2024 ending. 22:30 – Revenge and Records Lokedi outkicks Obiri in a dramatic role reversal from last year and shatters the course record. 26:00 – American Highlights Jess McClain stars with a 3-minute PR; Des Linden retires with grace. ⸻ 🏃‍♂️ Elite Men’s Race Recap (starts at 28:55) 28:55 – Surprise Front Pack Mantz, Young, Linkletter, and others shake up the race early. 31:00 – John Korir’s Perfect Breakaway Michael’s pick pays off: Korir surges at mile 20 and holds on for the win. 34:45 – Mantz’s Breakthrough Almost grabs the American Boston record (2:05:08) and reclaims his Strava crown from Alex. 37:00 – Major PRs + New American Name Linkletter (2:07:02), Young (2:07:04), and Ryan Ford (2:08:00) impress. ⸻ 🏁 Closing Thoughts (starts at 39:00) 39:00 – Favorite Moments & Reflections Katelyn reflects on letting go of time goals and running with joy. 41:30 – What’s Next Looking ahead to the 2025 London Marathon and future live coverage. Join the conversation on our socials: Follow us on IG: https://instagram.com/marathon.handbook Follow us on Tikok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marathon.handbook Like us on FB: https://facebook.com/marathonhandbook Follow us on X: https://x.com/MarathonHB #bostonmarathon #2025bostonmarathon

Apr 17

We’re back with a full preview of the 2025 Boston Marathon! Michael Doyle, Alex Cyr, and Katelyn Tocci break down everything you need to know heading into race weekend: Start times and how to watch Elite field preview + American hopefuls Katelyn’s emotional story about her first Boston Marathon in 2003 Course breakdown + pacing strategy Alex’s weather forecast + key advice Live show details (Saturday night!) Predictions: who’s winning Boston 2025? 🎥 Watch our live stream during the race (Monday @ 9 AM ET) right here: https://youtube.com/live/y5enYRMrI1U?feature=share How to watch the lives stream and broadcast: https://marathonhandbook.com/how-to-watch-the-2025-boston-marathon-a-complete-guide-for-spectators-and-viewers/ Amby Burfoot's essay on his most cherished Boston momento: https://marathonhandbook.com/ive-run-28-boston-marathons-and-i-even-won-one/ Our Ultimate Guide to the Pop-Ups and Shakeout Runs in Boston: https://marathonhandbook.com/the-ultimate-guide-to-boston-marathon-weekend-pop-up-shops-and-shakeout-runs/ Get fired up with deep insights, pro tips, and the spirit of Boston. Don’t forget to check out our post-race instant reaction episode coming Monday afternoon. Chapters with Timestamps: 00:00 - Intro + Hosts Check-In 01:20 - Boston Marathon Preview Overview 02:36 - Live Show Announcement 04:25 - Watch-Along Plans for Monday 05:06 - Team Vibes and Schedule 06:27 - Katelyn's Instant Reaction Plan 08:21 - Boston Start Times Breakdown 09:33 - Katelyn's Boston Story (2003) 12:30 - Alex’s Boston Experience 15:51 - Boston Trivia Game 25:04 - Course Strategy + Amby’s Advice Tease 28:38 - Newton Hills & Course Psychology 35:16 - Finish Line Magic 36:08 - Weather Forecast 40:40 - Women’s Elite Field Breakdown 45:33 - Top American Women Picks 48:03 - Women’s Winner Predictions 52:34 - Men’s Elite Field Breakdown 58:06 - Top American Men Picks 1:02:29 - World Marathon Majors Rankings 1:06:52 - Final Thoughts + What’s Next Over 230,000 runners read our newsletter. Sign up here and get our free book The 26 Golden Rules Of Running: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter/ Our free marathon training plans: https://marathonhandbook.com/trainingplans/marathon-training-plans/ Follow us on IG: https://instagram.com/marathon.handbook Follow us on Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marathon.handbook Like us on FB: https://facebook.com/marathonhandbook Follow us on X: https://x.com/MarathonHB #BostonMarathon #RunningPodcast #MarathonPreview #Boston2025 #NewtonHills #AmbyBurfoot #HelenObiri #ConnorMantz

Apr 10

Mailbag time! In this spring edition, we dig into your listener questions covering all things running—from training tweaks to shoe reviews, marathon pacing, gels, treadmill strategies, and a deep dive into that eternal mystery: what are speed goggles? Plus, Michael shares coaching tips for kids’ running programs, Caitlin gives sunscreen recs for Honolulu, and Alex bravely admits to lazy calves. We’ve got something for every runner—whether you’re chasing a BQ or your first 5K finish. 📍 LIVE SHOW ALERT! Join us April 19 at 5:30 PM at Trident Booksellers, Boston – Get your last-minute tickets (few left!): https://marathonhandbook.com/mile-zero/ If the invite RSVP link is closed, email hi@marathonhandbook.com and we'll see if there are spaces that become available! 💬 Got a question for our next mailbag? Email us at: hi@marathonhandbook.com 🕓 Chapters with Timestamps: 00:00 – Intro + Boston Live Show Preview 02:19 – Mailbag Begins: Marathon Training Plan Structure 11:28 – Zone 2 Confusion + Heart Rate Watch Accuracy 18:23 – Training Kids & Coaching Advice 27:09 – Heart Rate Spikes and Cardiac Drift 33:52 – Treadmill vs Outdoor Running 37:08 – Shuffling Feet Fixes 40:30 – Gels During Races: How, When, and Where 47:09 – Marathon Pacing Strategy 51:07 – Gear Section: Why No Puma Love? 57:09 – Is Brooks Hyperion Good for Slower Runners? 01:03:08 – Adidas Evo SL vs Pro Evo Explained 01:05:16 – Potpourri: Speed Goggles, Sunscreen, and Tattoos 01:13:10 – Fan Shoutouts + Next Week’s Boston Preview Over 230,000 runners read our newsletter. Sign up here and get our free book The 26 Golden Rules Of Running: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter/ Our free marathon training plans: https://marathonhandbook.com/trainingplans/marathon-training-plans/ Follow us on IG: https://instagram.com/marathon.handbook Follow us on Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marathon.handbook Like us on FB: https://facebook.com/marathonhandbook Follow us on X: https://x.com/MarathonHB

Apr 3

IMPORTANT NEWS: 🎉 We're hosting a LIVE PODCAST EVENT , happening Boston Marathon weekend, Saturday, April 19th, 2025, from 5:30PM to 7:30 PM . at Trident Booksellers on Newbury Street. There will be free food, drinks and exclusive gear giveaways! Tickets are free , but very limited, so RSVP now with this link: https://forms.gle/zSrSDAjbSP3Gqqir7 -------------------------- In this jam-packed episode of the Marathon Handbook Podcast, we’re here to make sense of the ever-evolving running shoe landscape. From your daily trainers to the high-stakes world of super shoes—and the weird, wonderful category in between (hello, super trainers)—we cover it all. We kick things off with some personal updates: Katelyn is closing in on the Boston Marathon and taper madness is knocking on her door. Meanwhile, Alex shares the story of his sub-30 10K attempt in New York, the triumphs and misses, and what it’s taught him about racing, pacing, and self-talk. Then we get into the good stuff: 👟 Everyday Trainers • What defines a great daily trainer in 2025? • The rise of supercritical foams in easy shoes • Top picks: ASICS Nimbus 27, Brooks Glycerin 22, New Balance 1080, On Cloudsurfer 2, Nike Vomero 18 ⚡ Super Shoes • The evolution of the carbon-plated racer • The lightweight race shoe renaissance (hello, Adidas Pro Evo) • Trust, performance, and the psychology of picking your race-day weapon • Top picks: Adidas Pro Evo, AlphaFly 3, Vaporfly 4, Metaspeed Paris, Adios Pro 4 🌀 Super Trainers • What even is a super trainer? • The blur between workout and long-run shoes • The Pegasus Premium paradox, and why we kind of love it • Top picks: ASICS Superblast, On Cloud Monster Hyper, New Balance Rebel v4, Pegasus Premium, SuperComp Trainer 🔗 Mentioned in this episode: • Tracksmith Eliot Runner review #running #runningshoes #marathontraining #supertrainers #supershoes #bostonmarathon #tracksmith #nikealpha #asicsnimbus #adidasproevo #shoereview

Mar 27

On today's episode, Alex, Katelyn and Michael debate about what the single biggest milestone is in all of running. First, Alex argues that it has to be the sub four minute mile, including the prospect that the barrier could conceivably be broken by a woman in the near future. Then, Katelyn stumps for the Boston Marathon qualifier (or BQ) as the single most significant milestone in all of running, as it's the benchmark for thousands of recreational runners each year, and is effectively the "Olympics for the every-person." Finally, Michael suggests that the sub two hour marathon on a legit marathon course is not only the greatest milestone in distance running, but it is the final frontier in marathoning. Over 230,000 runners read our newsletter. Sign up here and get our free book The 26 Golden Rules Of Running: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter/ Our free marathon training plans: https://marathonhandbook.com/trainingplans/marathon-training-plans/ Follow us on IG: https://instagram.com/marathon.handbook Follow us on Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marathon.handbook Like us on FB: https://facebook.com/marathonhandbook Follow us on X: https://x.com/MarathonHB #marathontraining #bostonmarathon #eliudkipchoge #runningmotivation #runningpodcast #running

Mar 20

Join us for an in-depth analysis of the 2025 Barkley Marathons , one of the most brutal and mysterious ultramarathons on the planet. In this episode, we break down exactly what happened in this year’s race — from the start line in Frozen Head State Park to the final taps of "Taps" for runners who didn’t finish. 🔥 What We'll Cover: Who toed the line in the 2025 Barkley Marathons How far each runner got — loop-by-loop breakdown Was this the toughest edition ever ? We compare it to past years Detailed finish statistics: Did anyone even finish the "Fun Run"? Weather, course conditions, and any route changes Historical data deep dive: Finish rates, race trends, and how the 2025 field stacked up against Barkley legends 📊 We also explore the full history of the Barkley Marathons, including: First-time finishers and repeat attempts How rare are Barkley finishes, really? Data trends across decades: Has the race gotten harder? 💀 Was the 2025 Barkley Marathons unbeatable? We look at the numbers. Further Reading: Was 2025 the Hardest Barkley Marathons Ever? The Data Says Yes: https://marathonhandbook.com/2025-barkley-marathons-data-analysis/ Read John Kelly's breakdown of his 2025 Barkley Marathons experience: https://marathonhandbook.com/john-kelly-reflects-on-brutal-2025-barkley-fun-run-this-one-hurt-more-than-my-full-finishes/ Re-live the event with our live updates of the 2025 Barkley Marathons: https://marathonhandbook.com/2024-barkley-marathons-results/ Read our story "No Finishers for 2025 Barkley Marathons as 36-Hour Cutoff Passes": https://marathonhandbook.com/breaking-no-finishers-for-2025-barkley-marathons-as-36-hour-cutoff-passes/ Who is Lazarus Lake, the Barkley Marathons creator? https://marathonhandbook.com/lazarus-lake/ Over 230,000 runners read our newsletter. Sign up here and get our free book The 26 Golden Rules Of Running: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter/ Our free running training plans: https://marathonhandbook.com/trainingplans/ Follow us on IG: https://instagram.com/marathon.handbook Follow us on Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marathon.handbook Like us on FB: https://facebook.com/marathonhandbook Follow us on X: https://x.com/MarathonHB #ultramarathonrunner #ultramarathon #barkleymarathons #runningpodcast #running

Mar 20

Our editors Michael Doyle, Katelyn Tocci and Alex Cyr dig into everything you need to know about the Barkley Marathons, the most mysterious, alluring and difficult race in the world. They go into the history of this 100-mile running race, its long list of eccentricities, how to get into the Barkley, and what the heck happened this year on the course, with no finishers. Follow our live updates of the 2025 Barkley Marathons: https://marathonhandbook.com/2024-barkley-marathons-results/ Read our story "No Finishers for 2025 Barkley Marathons as 36-Hour Cutoff Passes": https://marathonhandbook.com/breaking-no-finishers-for-2025-barkley-marathons-as-36-hour-cutoff-passes/ Who is Lazarus Lake, the Barkley Marathons creator? https://marathonhandbook.com/lazarus-lake/ Over 230,000 runners read our newsletter. Sign up here and get our free book The 26 Golden Rules Of Running: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter/ Our free marathon training plans: https://marathonhandbook.com/trainingplans/marathon-training-plans/ Follow us on IG: https://instagram.com/marathon.handbook Follow us on Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marathon.handbook Like us on FB: https://facebook.com/marathonhandbook Follow us on X: https://x.com/MarathonHB #ultramarathonrunner #ultramarathon #barkleymarathons #runningpodcast #running

Mar 13

We dream of the perfect race day, but let’s be honest—things can (and often do) go wrong at retty much any running event distance, from the 5K to ultramarathon distances. On today's podcast, we'll delve into the top 10 hiccups that can wreck your race. From blown-up pacing to blister meltdowns, weather surprises fueling nightmares, to the dreaded running side stitch, we’re getting into everything that could go wrong in a race and, more importantly, how to fix it in the moment. Plus, we will share personal horror stories from the road and trail. For each issue, we'll break down the details and science behind why it happens, practical tips on how to handle it in the moment, and strategies to prevent it from happening again. We Cover: 00:00 - Intro 01:56 - Hitting the Wall in a Marathon 11:22 - GI Issues 22:13 - Chafing, Blisters and Shoe Problems 29:36 - Side Stitch 38:30 - Leg Craps and Muscle Fatigue 41:41 - Dehydration 50:44 - Fueling Mistakes and Energy Crashes 54:40 - Bad Weather 1:02:50 - Mental Fatigue/Losing Focus 1:13:55 - Getting Lost/Sent Off Course Over 230,000 runners read our newsletter. Sign up here and get our free book The 26 Golden Rules Of Running: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter/ Our free marathon training plans: https://marathonhandbook.com/trainingplans/marathon-training-plans/ Follow us on IG: https://instagram.com/marathon.handbook Follow us on Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marathon.handbook Like us on FB: https://facebook.com/marathonhandbook Follow us on X: https://x.com/MarathonHB

Mar 9

Alex, Katelyn and Michael were live onstage at the Boston Run Show. They discuss the biggest running trends in 2025 and beyond: Are we really experiencing a running boom, and will it last? Are the World Marathon Majors making a mistake by expanding, and which events will be added next? Why is "running the new dating app"? And what do Nike's curious new set of running shoe patents suggest about the future of super shoes? Over 230,000 runners read our newsletter. Sign up here and get our free book The 26 Golden Rules Of Running: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter/ Our free marathon training plans: https://marathonhandbook.com/trainingplans/marathon-training-plans/ Follow us on IG: https://instagram.com/marathon.handbook Follow us on Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marathon.handbook Like us on FB: https://facebook.com/marathonhandbook Follow us on X: https://x.com/MarathonHB

Mar 6

Alex, Katelyn and Michael try something a little different in this week's podcast. They compete in a "race draft," similar to a sports fantasy draft, but with running events. They each have to build the perfect calendar year of running events, by picking one of the following: an ultra/trail event, a marathon, a half, a 10K, a 5K, a "wild card" race, and an event to they'd like to spectate as a fan. If a race is selected, it's off the board! Follow along and tell us who has the best schedule of dream races for the year, along with your picks! You can watch a video version of our podcasts on our YouTube channel, or on Spotify! Over 240,000 runners read our newsletter. Sign up here and get our free book The 26 Golden Rules Of Running: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter/ Our free marathon training plans: https://marathonhandbook.com/trainingplans/marathon-training-plans/ Follow us on IG: https://instagram.com/marathon.handbook Follow us on Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marathon.handbook Like us on FB: https://facebook.com/marathonhandbook Follow us on X: https://x.com/MarathonHB

Mar 2

Our editors Alex, Katelyn and Michael discuss the 2025 Tokyo Marathon moments after the elite races wrapped up. They break down all the action, including a surprising win on the men's side, and a risky move by defending champion Sutume Kebede in the women's race. Plus, the look at track great Joshua Cheptegei's race, which is his second shot at running a marathon. Was it a success? And finally, where does Tokyo stand as a major marathon? Is it still one of the best races in the world? Over 240,000 runners read our newsletter. Sign up here and get our free book The 26 Golden Rules Of Running: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter/ Our free marathon training plans: https://marathonhandbook.com/trainingplans/marathon-training-plans/ Follow us on IG: https://instagram.com/marathon.handbook Follow us on Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marathon.handbook Like us on FB: https://facebook.com/marathonhandbook Follow us on X: https://x.com/MarathonHB

Feb 27

Our editors Alex, Katelyn and Michael go deep on this weekend's Tokyo Marathon, the first World Marathon Major of the year! Topics Covered: The intriguing history of the race The course They power rank the World Marathon Majors They give Tokyo a score out of 100 Compare the elevation and course profile How to get into Tokyo 2026 Unpack the elite women's race Unpack the elite men's race Come see our live podcast at the Boston Run Show! March 1-2. Get tickets here: https://thebostonrunshow.seetickets.com/event/the-boston-run-show-the-boston-outdoor-expo/boston-hynes-convention-center/3110358 Over 239,000 runners read our newsletter. Sign up here and get our free book The 26 Golden Rules Of Running: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter/ Our free marathon training plans: https://marathonhandbook.com/trainingplans/marathon-training-plans/ Follow us on IG: https://instagram.com/marathon.handbook Follow us on Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marathon.handbook Like us on FB: https://facebook.com/marathonhandbook Follow us on X: https://x.com/MarathonHB

Feb 20

Our editors Alex, Katelyn and Michael delve into the concept of running economy, exploring its definition, significance, and the factors that influence it. They explain the role running form plays, and practical tips for improving running economy. They also share six ways you can improve your running economy, emphasizing the importance of strides, strength training, building an aerobic base, incorporating VO2 max workouts, running at goal pace, fine-tuning body composition, and the role super shoes can play on race day. We Cover: What is running economy? Steve Prefontaine vs. Frank Shorter: a running economy comparison Elite runners shows that running economy can compensate for lower VO2 max. The role biomechanics and neuromuscular efficiency play in running economy Strength training Heel striking: good or bad? How to test your running economy Tip 1: Run strides and hill sprints Tip 2: Strength training is essential Tip 3: Build an aerobic base Tip 4: Run VO2 max workouts Tip 5: When to run at goal pace Tip 6: Fine-tune your body composition Bonus Tip: The role super shoes can play on race day. Then, Alex and Michael are joined by running legend Amby Burfoot to analyze the crazy half marathon world record, which was set by Jacob Kiplimo last weekend in Barcelona. ------------------------------------------------------ Come see our live podcast at the Boston Run Show! March 1-2. Get tickets here: https://thebostonrunshow.seetickets.com/event/the-boston-run-show-the-boston-outdoor-expo/boston-hynes-convention-center/3110358 Our free marathon training plans: https://marathonhandbook.com/trainingplans/marathon-training-plans/ Over 210,000 runners read our newsletter. Sign up here and get our free book The 26 Golden Rules Of Running: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter/ Follow us on IG: https://instagram.com/marathon.handbook Follow us on Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marathon.handbook Like us on FB: https://facebook.com/marathonhandbook Follow us on X: https://x.com/MarathonHB

Feb 13

With the 2025 marathon season just around the corner, our editors Alex, Katelyn and Michael ask: who (if anyone) will finally break the two-hour barrier on a legal marathon course? They explore the science behind running a sub-two marathon, the evolution of shoe technology, Eliud Kipchoge's Breaking2 and INEOS 1:59 Challenge events, and the haunting spectre of the world record holder, late Kelvin Kiptum. They then get into where, when and who could finally break this elusive barrier in distance running. Come see our live podcast at the Boston Run Show! March 1-2. Get tickets here: https://thebostonrunshow.seetickets.com/event/the-boston-run-show-the-boston-outdoor-expo/boston-hynes-convention-center/3110358 Further Reading: The Haunting “What If…” Of Kelvin Kiptum https://marathonhandbook.com/the-haunting-what-if-of-kelvin-kiptum/ Watch our video "Why Is the Marathon 26.2 Miles?" https://youtu.be/cLMdmp1K4sM What Is Lactate Threshold Training For Athletes? https://marathonhandbook.com/lactate-threshold-training/ What Is VO2 Max? + How To Measure And Improve Your VO2 Max https://marathonhandbook.com/what-is-vo2-max/ Running Economy: How To Become A More Efficient Runner https://marathonhandbook.com/running-economy/ Marathon Pacers Explained: The Pros And Cons Of Running With A Pacer https://marathonhandbook.com/marathon-pacers/ What Is Drafting? + How This Controversial Tactic Can Win You Back Seconds (Or Minutes!) https://marathonhandbook.com/what-is-drafting/ How To Run Negative Splits: The Key To A Faster Race Time https://marathonhandbook.com/negative-splits/ Nike’s Alphafly Vs Vaporfly: What Separates The Shoe Giant’s Two Flagship Supershoes? https://marathonhandbook.com/alphafly-vs-vaporfly/ ------------------------------------------------------ Our free marathon training plans: https://marathonhandbook.com/trainingplans/marathon-training-plans/ Over 210,000 runners read our newsletter. Sign up here and get our free book The 26 Golden Rules Of Running: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter/ Follow us on IG: https://instagram.com/marathon.handbook Follow us on Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marathon.handbook Like us on FB: https://facebook.com/marathonhandbook Follow us on X: https://x.com/MarathonHB

Feb 6

On this week's episode, Alex, Katelyn and Michael first discuss the wild and bizarre outcome of the Strava x Chipotle Challenge. Then, the play a game of "Is it true that..." They look at the science (or lack thereof) behind: Does running on soft surfaces actually make you less injury prone than running on pavement? Should you try to run a negative split in the marathon to achieve the best outcome? Are there runners who just don't respond to the performance bump from super shoes? And is it true that beet juice can improve your running performances? And what about taking caffeine during a race? Further reading: Two Ultrarunners took the Strava x Chipotle Segment Challenge to the Extreme: https://marathonhandbook.com/2025-strava-x-chipotle-challenge/ The 6 Health Benefits Of Beet Juice To Boost Your Athletic Performance: https://marathonhandbook.com/health-benefits-of-beet-juice/ Coffee Before Running? Performance Benefits + How Much To Drink: https://marathonhandbook.com/coffee-before-running/ What Is The Best Surface To Run On To Avoid Injury? https://marathonhandbook.com/best-surface-to-run-on/ The Fastest Marathon Shoes Right Now: https://marathonhandbook.com/the-fastest-marathon-super-shoes-of-2024/ Come see our live podcast at the Boston Run Show! March 1-2. Get tickets here: https://thebostonrunshow.seetickets.com/event/the-boston-run-show-the-boston-outdoor-expo/boston-hynes-convention-center/3110358 Our free marathon training plans: https://marathonhandbook.com/trainingplans/marathon-training-plans/ Over 210,000 runners read our newsletter. Sign up here and get our free book The 26 Golden Rules Of Running: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter/ Follow us on IG: https://instagram.com/marathon.handbook Follow us on Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marathon.handbook Like us on FB: https://facebook.com/marathonhandbook Follow us on X: https://x.com/MarathonHB

Jan 30

On this week's episode of the Marathon Handbook Podcast, our editors Alex, Katelyn and Michael first do a mini preview of the 2025 Tokyo Marathon, which released its elite fields this week, including one intriguing starter, Joshua Cheptegei. Then they talk about three super weird footwear stories: the release of the first "super sandals" (or is it "super flip flops"?), yet another Crocs marathon world record, and Hoka's "speed loafer," which may be the most ridiculous shoe in history. Then, they are joined by Marathon Handbook founder, Thomas Watson, to discuss his most recent column for the site, entitled "Super Shoes Don't Make You Faster, It Turns Out." He explains how he's never run a race in super shoes, and now faces a personal ethical dilemma: does he taint his pre-super shoe PRs this coming year? And is running in super shoes... wrong? Read Thomas Watson's op-ed "Super Shoes Don’t Make You Any Faster, It Turns Out": https://marathonhandbook.com/supershoes-dont-make-you-any-faster/ Our coverage of the 2025 Tokyo Marathon: https://marathonhandbook.com/2025-tokyo-marathon-announces-star-studded-lineup-of-defending-champions/ Kenyan Runner Wins Marathon Wearing Carbon-Plated Sandals: https://marathonhandbook.com/kenyan-runner-wins-marathon-wearing-carbon-plated-sandals/ Hoka's "Speed Loafer" Is... A Sight to Behold: https://marathonhandbook.com/need-to-run-to-a-meeting-introducing-the-hoka-speed-loafer/ Come see our live podcast at the Boston Run Show! March 1-2. Get tickets here: https://thebostonrunshow.seetickets.com/event/the-boston-run-show-the-boston-outdoor-expo/boston-hynes-convention-center/3110358 Our free marathon training plans: https://marathonhandbook.com/trainingplans/marathon-training-plans/ Over 210,000 runners read our newsletter. Sign up here and get our free book The 26 Golden Rules Of Running: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter/ Follow us on IG: https://instagram.com/marathon.handbook Follow us on Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marathon.handbook Like us on FB: https://facebook.com/marathonhandbook Follow us on X: https://x.com/MarathonHB

Jan 23

Alex, Katelyn and Michael start by talking all about Alex's big half marathon personal best last weekend in Houston (1:39). Then, they share their strategies for making winter running on the treadmill not suck. In fact, they have share how the gamify their easy runs, workouts and long runs on the treadmill so they are, dare we say, fun? (11:10) Then, Alex and Michael discuss the massive new American record in the half marathon, set in Houston by Conner Mantz. They break down his run, and what Mantz could do in the marathon over the next few years. They also explore what Mantz should choose to do with his career (1:05:53). Come see our live podcast at the Boston Run Show! March 1-2. Get tickets here: https://thebostonrunshow.seetickets.com/event/the-boston-run-show-the-boston-outdoor-expo/boston-hynes-convention-center/3110358 Further Reading: 11 Tips To Nail Your Long Run On A Treadmill: https://marathonhandbook.com/long-run-on-a-treadmill/ How To Run On A Treadmill: Basics, Benefits + 5 Fun Workouts To Try https://marathonhandbook.com/how-to-run-on-a-treadmill/ Marathon Training On A Treadmill: Our Expert Coach’s Top Tips https://marathonhandbook.com/marathon-training-on-a-treadmill/ The Best Treadmill Workouts For Runners https://marathonhandbook.com/treadmill-workouts/ HIIT Treadmill Workouts To Get Faster https://marathonhandbook.com/hiit-treadmill-workout/ Here’s Our Pick Of The 13 Best Running Documentaries https://marathonhandbook.com/the-14-best-running-documentaries/ The 70 All-Time Best Running Songs To Get You Pumped Up https://marathonhandbook.com/the-70-all-time-best-running-songs-to-get-you-pumped-up/ Run To The Beat: High BPM Songs To Improve Your Running Performance https://marathonhandbook.com/high-bpm-songs/ Our free marathon training plans: https://marathonhandbook.com/trainingplans/marathon-training-plans/ Over 160,000 runners read our newsletter. Sign up here and get our free book The 26 Golden Rules Of Running: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter/ Follow us on IG: https://instagram.com/marathon.handbook Follow us on Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marathon.handbook Like us on FB: https://facebook.com/marathonhandbook Follow us on X: https://x.com/MarathonHB

Jan 16

In this episode, we demystify every running trend that's trending on socials in 2025. But first, Michael and news editor Jessy Carveth discuss the exciting breaking news that three of the greatest marathoners of all-time will race each other at this year's London Marathon. They explain why this could be a legendary and record-breaking marathon (02:05). Then, Alex, Katelyn and Michael break down the top trends and fads in running and fitness, including: What is the (insane) "75 Hard Challenge" (23:08)? Are Run Streaks Wise (33:49)? Is Zone 2 Training Still King? (45:35) Is HIIT Training Still Worthwhile? (52:16) Are Double Threshold Workouts Safe? (56:42) Is Strava Healthy or Evil? (1:02:46) Should You "Run Naked"? (1:11:28) Beware of Over-Optimization and Orthosomnia (1:16:07) Do Cold Plunges Work? (1:19:19) The Barefoot Running Fad won't go away (1:20:29) Fasted Running: brilliant or unhealthy? (1:22:12) Is Strava Segment Sniping OK? (1:25:12) Must I do Lactate Threshold Training? (1:27:09) Why Run Clubs Are Awesome (1:27:24) Should You Drink Chocolate Milk Post-Run? (1:28:53) Rapid Fire Round: Silly Fad or Legit Trend (1:29:37) They discuss what each of these trends is, if there's any science to back them up, if they've ever tried them. They also provide advice on how best to approach a running trend or fad ( (1:35:33). Show Notes: In 2025, It’s Time To De-Optimize Our Exercise Routines https://marathonhandbook.com/in-2025-its-time-to-de-optimize-our-exercise-routines/ Zone 2 Training, Explained: How To Unlock Endurance And Speed https://marathonhandbook.com/zone-2-training-the-science-benefits/ What Is Rucking? 4 Steps To Get Started Rucking Today! https://marathonhandbook.com/rucking/ 6 Ice Bath Benefits + What Is The Optimal Time To Stay In? https://marathonhandbook.com/ice-bath-benefits/ Barefoot And Minimalist Running: The Ultimate Guide https://marathonhandbook.com/barefoot-and-minimalist-running/ World’s Longest Running Streak Ends After 55 Years (Or 20,309 Runs) https://marathonhandbook.com/jon-sutherland-running-streak/ What Is A Running Streak + How To Join The Run Streak Community! https://marathonhandbook.com/what-is-a-running-streak/ Going Strava Segment Hunting In Front Of Drake’s House https://marathonhandbook.com/going-strava-segment-hunting-in-front-of-drakes-house/ HIIT Treadmill Workouts To Get Faster https://marathonhandbook.com/hiit-treadmill-workout/ Double Threshold Training: The Complete Guide For Runners https://marathonhandbook.com/double-threshold-training/ Fasted Running: How To, Benefits, + Drawbacks https://marathonhandbook.com/fasted-running/ Should You Drink Chocolate Milk After A Workout For Fast Recovery? https://marathonhandbook.com/chocolate-milk-after-a-workout/ Quitting Strava: The Surprising Benefits Of A Social Media Break https://marathonhandbook.com/quitting-strava/ Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/marathon-handbook-podcast/id1687070922 Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7o72muiWY6TSNrwfzirqH6?si=3522f6812e5f4d55 Our free marathon training plans: https://marathonhandbook.com/trainingplans/marathon-training-plans/ Over 160,000 runners read our newsletter. Sign up here and get our free book The 26 Golden Rules Of Running: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter/ Follow us on IG:

Jan 16

Each week, the editors at marathonhandbook.com, one of the largest running focused websites in the world, discuss what's going on in the running world, as well training advice for every distance from the 5K to ultramarathons.

Jan 9

Marathon Handbook's editors Alex Cyr, Katelyn Tocci and Michael Doyle provide beginner's tips on how to start running, or how to get back into running after a big break. Whether you're just starting to run for the first time and are thinking about trying your first 5K or half marathon, or if you've been running for years, but took a bit of a pause and are now seeking motivation and guidance, they have tips, insights, and do's and don't's for how to build a solid running routine. Related Links: Couch to 5K: https://marathonhandbook.com/couch-to-5k-training-plan/ Couch To 10K: https://marathonhandbook.com/couch-to-10k-training-plan/ Training Plan Database: https://marathonhandbook.com/running/ 12 Essential Pre-Run Stretches: https://marathonhandbook.com/pre-run-stretches/ The 12 Best Post-Run Stretches: https://marathonhandbook.com/post-run-stretches/ What To Eat Before A Run: https://marathonhandbook.com/what-to-eat-before-a-run-2/ Our Complete Strength Training Plan For Runners:https://marathonhandbook.com/strength-training-plan-for-runners/ The 11 Best Bodyweight Exercises You Can Do At Home: https://marathonhandbook.com/bodyweight-exercises/ The Best Total Body Gym Workout For Runners To Get Strong: https://marathonhandbook.com/total-body-gym-workout/ How To Choose Running Shoes: https://marathonhandbook.com/how-to-choose-running-shoes/ How To Start Running Today: https://marathonhandbook.com/how-to-start-running/ The 10% Rule: Is It A Valid Way To Increase Your Weekly Running Mileage? https://marathonhandbook.com/the-10-percent-rule/ 11 Running Motivation Hacks To Propel Your Training: https://marathonhandbook.com/running-motivation-hacks/ The Run Walk Method: https://marathonhandbook.com/run-walk-method/

Jan 2

Alex, Katelyn and Michael get out their crystal balls and peer into the future of running. But first, they discuss their holiday experiences (00:00), along with the reboot of The Marathon Project, a fascinating COVID-era event that is making its return in 2025 (16:26). Then, they get into their predictions. Marathon Handbook's staff members each produced one bold running-related prediction for 2025. Now, they unpack theirs, explaining why truly custom running shoe technologies will finally become the norm (20:57), big changes with running races and the running scene (30:40), and whether or not the sub-two hour marathon will finally be broken on a legal course in 2025 (47:29). Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/marathon-handbook-podcast/id1687070922 Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7o72muiWY6TSNrwfzirqH6?si=3522f6812e5f4d55 Further reading: The Marathon Project Is Back in 2025: https://marathonhandbook.com/the-marathon-project/ Our Bold Predictions For The Running World In 2025: https://marathonhandbook.com/our-bold-predictions-for-the-running-world-in-2025/ Our free marathon training plans: https://marathonhandbook.com/trainingplans/marathon-training-plans/ Over 160,000 runners read our newsletter. Sign up here and get our free book The 26 Golden Rules Of Running: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter/ Follow us on IG: https://instagram.com/marathon.handbook Follow us on Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marathon.handbook Like us on FB: https://facebook.com/marathonhandbook Follow us on X: https://x.com/MarathonHB

Dec 26, 2024

Marathon Handbook's editors Alex, Michael and Katelyn discuss the merits and peril of giving and receiving running themed gifts (00:00). Then, they get into how to set and stick to your 2025 running-related New Year's Resolutions (18:24). Finally, they reveal their own personal running resolutions and goals for the new year (48:07). Watch the video version of this podcast on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ugptQqL4OZI Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/marathon-handbook-podcast/id1687070922 Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7o72muiWY6TSNrwfzirqH6?si=3522f6812e5f4d55 Further reading: Watch our episode on how to set marathon goals: https://youtu.be/HT3fQi7wooI?feature=shared Running Goals: 96 Exciting Goal Ideas For Your Next Training Cycle: https://marathonhandbook.com/running-goals/ Goal Setting Considerations: https://marathonhandbook.com/goal-setting-considerations/ Our free marathon training plans: https://marathonhandbook.com/trainingplans/marathon-training-plans/ Over 160,000 runners read our newsletter. Sign up here and get our free book The 26 Golden Rules Of Running: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter/ Follow us on IG: https://instagram.com/marathon.handbook Follow us on Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marathon.handbook Like us on FB: https://facebook.com/marathonhandbook Follow us on X: https://x.com/MarathonHB

Dec 19, 2024

Our Top 10 Stories of The Year Are... ​ Crazy records, unbelievable performances and lots of controversy; 2024 was a wild year in the running world. Our big Year-In-Review show is here! Alex, Katelyn and Michael go all the way back to January 2024, and run through every major event that took place in the running world over the past 12 months (16:41). There are wacky world records ( Crocs, 1,000-marathon club, age group heroics ), extraordinary performances, and quite a bit of intense controversy. Then, we count down the 10 most popular stories on marathonhandbook.com in 2024 (1:06:43) Plus, we reveal the 10 most popular training articles of 2024 (1:18:34) . Watch a video version of this pod on YouTube (or on Spotify): https://youtu.be/1B_t5NQcFN8 Watch our video The Top 5 Racing Shoes of the Year: https://youtu.be/NABZQUSP_uw Come see us live at the 2025 Boston Run Show! March 1-2: https://thebostonrunshow.com/ Over 160,000 runners read our newsletter. Sign up here and get our free book The 26 Golden Rules Of Running: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter/ Listen and subscribe to our Podcast here: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-marathon-handbook-podcast/id1687070922 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/40fbGjW1uLpDFnzsDfFXYn?si=6b44ece05be643fb YouTube Music: https://music.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLb3iPx8Lcl9n2WSDyO4K0i5yfz93H8BZk&si=lx248VvhqYFir0rq Follow us on IG: https://instagram.com/marathon.handbook Follow us on Tikok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marathon.handbook Like us on FB: https://facebook.com/marathonhandbook Follow us on X: https://x.com/MarathonHB Marathon Handbook was founded in 2016, with the mission from day one of helping you to run far, set goals and meet them. We provide free and super popular coach-vetted training plans for just about every distance and ability level, from your first 5K to a sub-3 hour marathon, to a 100-miler training plan. We've got you covered. We also follow the latest news and storylines in the running world, and review all the best shoes, running watches and gear on our site and our Youtube channel. At our heart, we are runners and athletes ourselves – every person on our team is a running coach, distance runner, or certified health and fitness trainer. #marathon #marathontraining #marathonrunning #running #runningmotivation #runningshoereview #shoereviews #runningshoes #runningshoes #runningshoesreview #Nike #halfmarathon #5k #10k

Dec 12, 2024

Alex, Katelyn and Michael share a special announcement about a live show in Boston in 2025! (00:00). Then they air out their opinions on the just-revealed 2025 Boston Marathon jacket (04:33). Then, they get into Nike's surprising move to gut its running shoe lineup and completely revamp it for 2025, along with other significant changes from the Swoosh (12:25). Then, they share their experiences running throughout the winter, covering their go-to winter running gear, how to train for a spring marathon through a tough winter, how and when to adjust marathon and workout paces, the best running shoes for winter running on ice and snow, and when it's too cold to run safely (spoiler: much colder than you think!) (21:44). Come see us live at the 2025 Boston Run Show! March 1-2: https://thebostonrunshow.com/ Watch our explainer video: Nike Is Making BIG Changes in 2025 https://youtu.be/gUjCUf9VjLA 7 Cold Weather Running Tips To Survive Winter Runs: https://marathonhandbook.com/cold-weather-running/ Running In Snow and Ice Safely: 5 Winter Running Tips To Stay Upright: https://marathonhandbook.com/running-in-snow/ Over 160,000 runners read our newsletter. Sign up here and get our free book The 26 Golden Rules Of Running: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter/ Listen and subscribe to our Podcast here: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-marathon-handbook-podcast/id1687070922 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/40fbGjW1uLpDFnzsDfFXYn?si=6b44ece05be643fb YouTube Music: https://music.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLb3iPx8Lcl9n2WSDyO4K0i5yfz93H8BZk&si=lx248VvhqYFir0rq Follow us on IG: https://instagram.com/marathon.handbook Follow us on Tikok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marathon.handbook Like us on FB: https://facebook.com/marathonhandbook Follow us on X: https://x.com/MarathonHB Marathon Handbook was founded in 2016, with the mission from day one of helping you to run far, set goals and meet them. We provide free and super popular coach-vetted training plans for just about every distance and ability level, from your first 5K to a sub-3 hour marathon, to a 100-miler training plan. We've got you covered. We also follow the latest news and storylines in the running world, and review all the best shoes, running watches and gear on our site and our Youtube channel. At our heart, we are runners and athletes ourselves – every person on our team is a running coach, distance runner, or certified health and fitness trainer. #marathon #marathontraining #marathonrunning #running #runningmotivation #runningshoereview #shoereviews #runningshoes #runningshoes #runningshoesreview #Nike #TRE2024 #TheRunningEvent #TRE #NikeVomero #NikeVomero18 #NikePegasus #NikePegasus41 #Vomero18 #Vomero #Pegasus #Pegasus41 #halfmarathon #5k #10k

Dec 5, 2024

Alex, Katelyn, and Michael answer your questions in our Fall 2024 Mailbag Episode (19:19). We take on whether or not you really need to do hill repeats for marathon training, how to fix tummy troubles on race day, our fuelling strategies, the best shoes for track workouts, what the heck is going on with Nike's shoe lineup, and Katelyn's amazing midlife crisis purchase! Then, Michael and news editor Jessy Carveth unpack the strange and controversial winners of the World Athletics Athlete of the Year Award (1:31:20). Timestamps: 3:05 - Intro chat - XC love, and summer running in Costa Rica 19:19 - Your Mailbag Questions Answered! 1:31:20 - The Athlete of the Year Debacle, Explained Watch the video version of the podcast on YouTube: https://youtu.be/_BmMtou5Ih0 Further reading: World Athletics Announces Its 2024 athletes of the Year: https://marathonhandbook.com/world-athletics-announces-its-2024-athletes-of-the-year/ Did World Athletics Mess up Athlete Of The Year Awards To Protect Its Image?: https://marathonhandbook.com/opinion-world-athletics-athlete-of-the-year-chepngetich-hassan/ Our free marathon training plans: https://marathonhandbook.com/trainingplans/marathon-training-plans/ Over 160,000 runners read our newsletter. Sign up here and get our free book The 26 Golden Rules Of Running: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter/ Follow us on IG: https://instagram.com/marathon.handbook Follow us on Tikok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marathon.handbook Like us on FB: https://facebook.com/marathonhandbook Follow us on X: https://x.com/MarathonHB

Nov 28, 2024

Alex, Katelyn and Michael explain Strava's bold and controversial decision to wall out many third-party apps from its platform. How will runners be affected by this drastic change? Why did the company do this, and what does this move suggest about the future of Strava? Then, they share their reactions to seeing all the 2025 running shoes and gear in Austin, Texas, at The Running Event, reveals the forthcoming big trends in running over the next 13 months and beyond. Timestamps: 00:00 - Intro/Turkey Talk! 07:24 - The Strava API Controversy, Explained 18:37 - What Will Be The 2025 Running Shoe and Gear Trends? Shoe Notes: More on the Strava situation: https://marathonhandbook.com/strava-api-changes/ Watch all of our sneak peek 2025 shoe videos from The Running Event: 2025 On Running Shoes Preview l Cloudboom Strike LS, Cloudflow 5, and Cloudboom Max https://youtu.be/qoBnduvuaI0 2025 ASICS Running Shoes Preview l ASICS GEL-Nimbus 27, Novablast 5 https://youtu.be/VL4klPNYr7w 2025 Brooks Running Shoes Preview l Glycerin 22, Ghost 17, Hyperion Elite 4 PB, and more https://youtu.be/luB77AfaoDk 2025 Adidas Running Shoes Preview l Adizero Adios Pro 4 and EVO SL https://youtu.be/6UCcjK4r8YQ 2025 Saucony Running Shoes Preview l Endorphin Trainer, Endorphin Elite 2, Triumph 23, and more https://youtu.be/ZecN_9S19yY 2025 The North Face Running Shoes Preview l Vectiv Pro 2, Infinite 3, Enduris 4, and more https://youtu.be/Mk_sXwffjrY 2025 Hoka Running Shoes Preview l Clifton 10, Bondi 9, Mafate X And More https://youtu.be/rbbMgxLBgKs Our free marathon training plans: https://marathonhandbook.com/trainingplans/marathon-training-plans/ Over 160,000 runners read our newsletter. Sign up here and get our free book The 26 Golden Rules Of Running: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter/ Follow us on IG: https://instagram.com/marathon.handbook Follow us on Tikok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marathon.handbook Like us on FB: https://facebook.com/marathonhandbook Follow us on X: https://x.com/MarathonHB

Nov 21, 2024

Alex, Katelyn and Michael are together in-person for the first time ever (!) at The Running Event, in Austin, Texas. The Running Event is basically the best running expo ever, where every brand, from Asics to Nike to Brooks to Hoka provide journalists a sneak peak at next year's shoes. In this episode, we doll out the Marathon Handbook Awards for: 00:00:00 - Intro Chat! 00:08:47 - Best Running Innovation of 2024 00:16:20 - Best Running Watch of 2024 00:19:02 - Our Must-Have Running Items of 2024 00:35:33 - Best Indie Running Brand of 2024 00:40:02 - Best Trail Shoe of 2024 00:42:50 - Best Everyday Running Shoe of 2024 00:47:30 - Best New Shoe of 2024 00:50:25 - Best Super Trainer of 2024 00:45:44 - Best Super Shoe of 2024 01:01:10 - Best Running Brand 01:11:23 - Best Shoe of 2024 Let us know your picks in the comments! Hosts: Alex Cyr, Michael Doyle and Katelyn Tocci Also check out the video version of our pods on YouTube! Find us at: https://www.youtube.com/@marathonhandbook Our free marathon training plans: https://marathonhandbook.com/trainingplans/marathon-training-plans/ Over 160,000 runners read our newsletter. Sign up here and get our free book The 26 Golden Rules Of Running: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter/ Follow us on IG: https://instagram.com/marathon.handbook Follow us on Tikok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marathon.handbook Like us on FB: https://facebook.com/marathonhandbook Follow us on X: https://x.com/MarathonHB

Nov 14, 2024

Our editors Alex, Katelyn and Michael select the best runners, athletes, performances, the biggest controversies and defining moments this year on the roads, track and trails, with our first annual Marathon Handbook Awards! But to start things off, Michael shares what the trail running scene is like in Hong Kong, as well as the experience of running UTMB TransLantau, one of the premiere ultramarathon events in South East Asia. Then, they kick off year-in-review season by culling over all the biggest performances, emerging athletes, and the most compelling storylines in running in 2024. 00:00:00 - Intro Chat 00:03:35 - Trail Running in Hong Kong + UTMB TransLantau 00:25:35 - The Biggest Controversy of 2024 Award 00:38:12 - The Defining Moment of 2024 Award 00:52:26 - The Running Event of the Year Award 01:01:22 - Inspirational Runner of the Year Award 01:09:00 - Male Runner of the Year Award 01:18:00 - Female Runner of the Year Award 01:27:04 - Ultra-Trail Runner of the Year Award 01:36:40 - A Special Announcement! Let us know your picks in the comments! Hosts: Alex Cyr, Michael Doyle and Katelyn Tocci Also check out the video version of our pods on YouTube! Find us at: https://www.youtube.com/@marathonhandbook Further Reading: Opinion: Why It’s Hard To Trust Ruth Chepngetich’s Marathon World Record: https://marathonhandbook.com/opinion-why-its-hard-to-trust-ruth-chepngetichs-marathon-world-record/ The Awesomesauce Controversy Explained: https://youtu.be/bxun7YO-_r4?feature=shared The Josh Kerr vs. Jakob Ingebrigtsen Rivalry Is Exactly What Track and Field Needs: https://youtu.be/dbxF4Qo9mqA?feature=shared Parkrun Records Are Gone To “Promote Inclusivity” And Runners Aren’t Happy About It: https://marathonhandbook.com/parkrun-records/ Why Lululemon Dropped Ultrarunner Camille Herron | Wikipedia Controversy Explained: https://youtu.be/919mUxIRZMc?feature=shared Who Is Jasmin Paris? Meet The First Woman To Finish The Barkley Marathons: https://marathonhandbook.com/who-is-jasmin-paris/ WATCH: Jasmin Paris Becomes First Woman To Complete The Barkley Marathons: https://marathonhandbook.com/jasmin-paris-finishes-barkley-marathons/ Is Sifan Hassan Nike's Perfect Replacement for Eliud Kipchoge ? https://youtu.be/gyHXQmLW2EY Live from New York! Our NYC Marathon Instant Reaction Pod: https://youtu.be/hFVnlEIsWXQ Kelvin Kiptum’s Marathon World Record: Pace and Splits Analysis: https://marathonhandbook.com/kiptum-marathon-world-record-pace-splits/ WATCH: Olympic Champion Athing Mu Will Not Defend Title In Paris After Nasty Fall In U.S. Trials 800m Final: https://marathonhandbook.com/athing-mu-2024-us-olympic-trials-fall/ Abbott Announces Sydney Marathon as Newest Addition to the World Marathon Majors: https://marathonhandbook.com/sydney-marathon-wmm-announcement/ How Boston Marathon Qualification Times Have Changed Throughout History:

Nov 7, 2024

Eliud Kipchoge, the greatest marathoner in history, turned 40 on Nov. 5. In celebration of the GOAT becoming a masters athlete, our editors Alex, Katelyn and Michael look back at how Kipchoge single-handedly innovated distance running. They explore how Kipchoge was the face of the super shoe revolution and Nike's technological discoveries as he strived to break the two-hour barrier in the marathon. Kipchoge also put nutrition and fueling front-and-center for marathon training and racing, and elevated Maurten into the powerhouse brand it is today. They do a deep dive on all the sports science breakthroughs triggered by Kipchoge's superhuman performances, his psychological strategies for running record breaking times, and put it all into context as discoveries that can be applicable for runners of all abilities levels. Show Notes: 7 Top Running Form Takeaways We Can All Learn from Eliud Kipchoge: https://marathonhandbook.com/kipchoge-running-form/ Are You Using The Same Mental Strategy As Eliud Kipchoge Or David Goggins? https://marathonhandbook.com/can-gaslighting-make-you-faster/ Eliud Kipchoge: 15 Training Takeaways From The World’s Best: https://marathonhandbook.com/eliud-kipchoge-takeaways/ Eliud Kipchoge Opens Up About Historic First DNF at the 2024 Paris Olympic Marathon: https://marathonhandbook.com/eliud-kipchoge-olympic-dnf/ Eliud Kipchoge Will Not Return To Berlin Marathon—Who Will Replace Him In This New Post-GOAT Era? https://marathonhandbook.com/2024-berlin-marathon-elite-lineup/ Our free marathon training plans: https://marathonhandbook.com/trainingplans/marathon-training-plans/ Over 160,000 runners read our newsletter. Sign up here and get our free book The 26 Golden Rules Of Running: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter/ Follow us on IG: https://instagram.com/marathon.handbook Follow us on Tikok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marathon.handbook Like us on FB: https://facebook.com/marathonhandbook Follow us on X: https://x.com/MarathonHB Eliud kipchoge training tips,eliud kipchoge marathon training,eliud kipchoge smile,eliud kipchoge running tips,eliud kipchoage sub two hour marathon,who is the greatest runner of all time,sub two hour marathon,how to run a marathon,marathon training tips,marathon fuelling,best marathoner in the world,how to PR marathon,How to PB a marathon,how to run your fastest marathon,Eliud Kipchoge shoes

Nov 3, 2024

We're live from New York! Our editor Michael Doyle talks with Alex Cyr live from the media center at the 2024 New York City Marathon in Central Park, just steps away from the finish line. They discuss the elite women's and men's races, how the top Americans did, and the overall vibe of the biggest marathon in the world. Spoiler Alert Warning: We discuss who won the New York City Marathon. 2024 New York City Marathon Women’s Top 20 Finishers: 1.Sheila ChepkiruiKEN2:24:35 2.Hellen ObiriKEN2:24:49 3.Vivian CheruiyotKEN2:25:21 4.Eunice ChumbaBRN2:25:58 5.Fabienne SchlumpfSUI2:26:31 6.Sara VaughnUSA2:26:56 7.Senbere TeferiETH2:27:14 8.Jessica McClainUSA2:27:19 9.Sharon LokediKEN2:27:45 11.Des LindenUSA2:29:32 12.Edna KiplagatKEN2:29:56 13.Tristin ColleyUSA2:30:02 14.Maggie MontoyaUSA2:30:53 15.Lily PartridgeGBR2:30:55 16.Savannah BerryUSA2:31:39 17.Dakotah PopehnUSA2:31:45 18.Jenny SimpsonUSA2:31:54 19.Aliphine TuliamukUSA2:32:10 20.Jessa HansonUSA2:32:43 2024 New York City Marathon Men’s Top 20 Finishers: 1.Abdi NageeyeNED2:07:39 2.Evans ChebetKEN2:07:45 3.Albert KorirKEN2:08:00 4.Tamirat TolaETH2:08:12 5.Geoffrey KamwororKEN2:08:50 6.Conner MantzUSA2:09:00 7.Clayton YoungUSA2:09:21 8.Abel KipchumbaKEN2:10:39 9.Bashir AbdiBEL2:10:39 10.Cj AlbertsonUSA2:10:57 11.Ryan FordUSA2:11:08 12.Colin BennieUSA2:11:16 13.Frank LaraUSA2:11:21 14.Jonny MellorGBR2:11:22 15.Rory LinkletterCAN2:11:45 16.Wesley KiptooKEN2:11:58 17.Futsum ZienasellassieUSA2:12:32 18.Joel ReichowUSA2:12:52 19.Elkanah KibetUSA2:13:27 20.Ryan EilerUSA2:13:36 -------------------- Show Notes: Sheila Chepkirui And Abdi Nageeye Win 2024 New York City Marathon Against Top Fields: https://marathonhandbook.com/2024-nyc-marathon-results/ Missed the race? Scroll back and relive the marathon with our live updates from New York here on race day: https://marathonhandbook.com/live-updates-the-2024-new-york-city-marathon/ Here’s How To Get Into the 2025 NYC Marathon: https://marathonhandbook.com/nyc-marathon-entry/ New Balance Went Big at the 2024 New York City Marathon Expo: https://marathonhandbook.com/new-balance-went-big-at-the-2024-new-york-city-marathon-expo/ The New York City Marathon Jacket Now Rivals Boston as the Ultimate Running Status Symbol: https://marathonhandbook.com/new-york-city-marathon-jackets/ Jess McClain Is Out To Prove She’s More than An Alternate: https://marathonhandbook.com/jess-mcclain-2024-nyc-marathon-interview/ Our free marathon training plans: https://marathonhandbook.com/trainingplans/marathon-training-plans/ Over 160,000 runners read our newsletter. Sign up here and get our free book The 26 Golden Rules Of Running: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter/ Follow us on IG: https://instagram.com/marathon.handbook Follow us on Tikok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marathon.handbook Like us on FB: https://facebook.com/marathonhandbook Follow us on X: https://x.com/MarathonHB

Oct 31, 2024

The New York City Marathon is Nov. 3, and in this episode our editors Alex, Katelyn and Michael share with you everything you need to know about the New York City Marathon, whether you're running the race this year, or following along at home. First we get the necessary details out of the way: when the race starts, and how to live stream the race. Then delve right into the significance and crazy history of the New York City Marathon, from it's beginnings with just 127 runners (and only 55 finishers), running loops in Central Park. We discuss the evolution of the event since its inception in 1970, and the unique challenges of the marathon course. The conversation highlights the marathon's cultural impact, the growth of participation, and the conditions runners can expect on race day. We describe the intricacies of the New York City Marathon course, discussing its challenges and notable landmarks. We also break down the men's and women's elite fields, and our picks for who will win the New York City Marathon. Follow our live updates from New York here on race day: https://marathonhandbook.com/live-updates-the-2024-new-york-city-marathon/ NYC Marathon Race Day Schedule: Sunday, Nov. 3 8:00 a.m. Professional Wheelchair Division 8:22 a.m. Handcycle Category and Select Athletes with Disabilities 8:35 a.m. Professional Women’s Open Division 9:05 a.m. Professional Men’s Open Division 9:10 a.m. Wave 1 9:45 a.m. Wave 2 10:20 a.m. Wave 3 10:55 a.m. Wave 4 11:30 a.m. Wave 5 Hosts: Alex Cyr, Katelyn Tocci, Michael Doyle, Jessy Carveth Thanks to our presenting partner, Wahoo. Check out our first look video of the Wahoo KICKR RUN: https://youtu.be/-IrHrfjvzHU Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Xit1_8JfECg Show Notes: Everything You Need To Know About The 2024 New York City Marathon: https://marathonhandbook.com/everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-2024-new-york-city-marathon/ Here’s How To Get Into the 2025 NYC Marathon: https://marathonhandbook.com/nyc-marathon-entry/ Jess McClain Is Out To Prove She’s More than An Alternate: https://marathonhandbook.com/jess-mcclain-2024-nyc-marathon-interview/ Defending Champions Tamirat Tola And Hellen Obiri Headline Stacked Elite Fields For 2024 New York City Marathon: https://marathonhandbook.com/2024-new-york-city-marathon-elite-field-list/ Our free marathon training plans: https://marathonhandbook.com/trainingplans/marathon-training-plans/ Over 160,000 runners read our newsletter. Sign up here and get our free book The 26 Golden Rules Of Running: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter/ Follow us on IG: https://instagram.com/marathon.handbook Follow us on Tikok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marathon.handbook Like us on FB: https://facebook.com/marathonhandbook Follow us on X: https://x.com/MarathonHB

Oct 24, 2024

News editor Jessy Carveth and Michael Doyle break down the nominees for World Athletics Track Athlete of the Year. They also unpack Jessy's excellent data-driven analysis of the controversial new women's marathon world record, and why she thinks it could be legit. Then, Alex, Katelyn, and Michael as they recap their recent races—the Chicago Marathon, Kodiak UTMB and the TCS Toronto Waterfront Half Marathon, discussing what went right, what didn’t, and their plans for improvement. Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/UYNqDFLkKTY Show Notes: Here’s Why Ruth Chepngetich’s World Record Is Completely Plausible: A Data-Driven Analysis: https://marathonhandbook.com/ruth-chepngetich-world-record-plausible/ World Athletics Announces 2024 Track Athlete Of The Year Nominations: https://marathonhandbook.com/world-athletics-announces-2024-track-athlete-of-the-year-nominations/ Our free marathon training plans: https://marathonhandbook.com/trainingplans/marathon-training-plans/ Hosts: Alex Cyr, Katelyn Tocci, Michael Doyle, Jessy Carveth Over 160,000 runners read our newsletter. Sign up here and get our free book The 26 Golden Rules Of Running: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter/ Follow us on IG: https://instagram.com/marathon.handbook Follow us on Tikok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marathon.handbook Like us on FB: https://facebook.com/marathonhandbook Follow us on X: https://x.com/MarathonHB

Oct 17, 2024

In this episode, Alex, Katelyn and Michael discuss the importance of having a comprehensive pre-race checklist, covering everything from taper madness to essential items for race day. They share personal experiences and tips on how to prepare mentally and physically for races, emphasizing the significance of logistics, planning, and having a routine. The conversation also touches on post-race essentials and the importance of knowing the course and aid stations. The aim of this pod is that it serves as a guide for runners to ensure they are well-prepared for their upcoming races. Chapters: 00:00 Why You Need a Pre-Race Checklists 01:30 Taper Madness: The Psychological Struggle 07:20 Creating a Race Day Routine 12:26 Essential Items for Race Day 22:39 Post-Race Bag Essentials 32:05 Logistics and Planning for Race Day 50:53 Final Thoughts and Tips for Success Our free marathon training plans: https://marathonhandbook.com/trainingplans/marathon-training-plans/ Hosts: Alex Cyr, Katelyn Tocci, Michael Doyle Over 160,000 runners read our newsletter. Sign up here and get our free book The 26 Golden Rules Of Running: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter/ Follow us on IG: https://instagram.com/marathon.handbook Follow us on Tikok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marathon.handbook Like us on FB: https://facebook.com/marathonhandbook Follow us on X: https://x.com/MarathonHB

Oct 16, 2024

In this special bonus episode, Marathon Handbook editor-at-large, Boston Marathon winner and respected author Amby Burfoot discusses his op-ed on the site about his skepticism of the world record performance by Ruth Chepngetich at the 2024 Chicago Marathon. His main concern: that fans of the sport, including himself, have grown cynical of extreme outlier performances, and that this cynicism is going to irreparably damage running, especially women's participation in the marathon over time. It should be made clear: Ruth Chepntegich has never failed a doping test, and the world record has not yet been ratified by World Athletics, the global governing body of the sport. He highlights the lack of transparency in athletics, particularly in women's running, and the need for institutional reform to ensure the integrity of the sport. The hosts analyze the data behind Chepngetich's record-breaking run and compare it to world record performances in other athletics events in history. They call for increased accountability among stakeholders in the marathon running community, including shoe brands, World Athletics, the World Marathon Majors race organizers, and the agents and coaches working with elite marathoners today. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to the World Record Controversy 01:44 Skepticism Surrounding Ruth Chepngetich's Performance 08:34 Comparative Analysis with Other Events 13:55 Examining the Data Behind the Record 20:21 The Need for Transparency in Athletics 26:45 Call for Institutional Reform in Marathon Running This podcast originally appeared on our YouTube feed in video format. Watch it here: https://youtu.be/Y9rf0D2pvJM Show Notes: Read Amby's op-ed: https://marathonhandbook.com/opinion-why-its-hard-to-trust-ruth-chepngetichs-marathon-world-record/ Watch Chepngetich's world record finish in Chicago: https://marathonhandbook.com/ruth-chepngetich-chicago-world-record/ WATCH: Ruth Chepngetich Sets World Record At Chicago Marathon And Becomes The First Woman To Break 2:10: https://marathonhandbook.com/ruth-chepngetich-chicago-world-record/ More on the doping crisis in Kenyan athletics: https://apnews.com/article/kenya-doping-track-field-worlds-2358ed10c5016bba7eadc6024034afde The Kenyan government cuts funding to anti-doping controls in the country: https://nation.africa/kenya/sports/athletics/why-adak-funding-cut-spells-doom-for-kenyan-athletes-4768630 Our Live Updates from the 2024 Chicago Marathon: https://marathonhandbook.com/live-updates-2024-chicago-marathon/ Here’s What Nike’s Exclusive Chicago Marathon In-store Pop Up Looked Like: https://marathonhandbook.com/nike-designed-by-you-chicago-marathon-pop-up/ The Best Gear of the 2024 Chicago Marathon Expo: https://marathonhandbook.com/the-best-gear-of-the-2024-chicago-marathon-expo/ Our free marathon training plans: https://marathonhandbook.com/trainingplans/marathon-training-plans/ Hosts: Alex Cyr, Katelyn Tocci, Michael Doyle Over 160,000 runners read our newsletter. Sign up here and get our free book The 26 Golden Rules Of Running: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter/ Follow us on IG: https://instagram.com/marathon.handbook Follow us on Tikok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marathon.handbook Like us on FB: https://facebook.com/marathonhandbook Follow us on X: https://x.com/MarathonHB Thumbnail photo: Chicago Marathon/Kevin Morris/MH illustration

Oct 13, 2024

Alex Cyr jumps on the pod with Michael Doyle, who is in Chicago and just ran the marathon. They talk all about Ruth Chepngetich's wild and huge new women's marathon world record of 2:09:56, what that means for distance running, where it ranks in the pantheon of great sports moments, and exactly just how fast it is by the numbers. They also discuss the rest of the women's race, including how the top Americans did, as well as the men's race, which saw an impressive 2:02 winner in John Korir, along with a few solid American performances. Michael also shares just what it's like to run the Chicago Marathon with 50,000 other runners, what makes this World Marathon Major so special, and all the details behind the scenes of what it was like on race weekend in the Windy City. Show Notes: WATCH: Ruth Chepngetich Sets World Record At Chicago Marathon And Becomes The First Woman To Break 2:10: https://marathonhandbook.com/ruth-chepngetich-chicago-world-record/ Here’s What Nike’s Exclusive Chicago Marathon In-store Pop Up Looked Like: https://marathonhandbook.com/nike-designed-by-you-chicago-marathon-pop-up/ The Best Gear of the 2024 Chicago Marathon Expo: https://marathonhandbook.com/the-best-gear-of-the-2024-chicago-marathon-expo/ Live Updates: The 2024 Chicago Marathon: https://marathonhandbook.com/live-updates-2024-chicago-marathon/ Our free marathon training plans: https://marathonhandbook.com/trainingplans/marathon-training-plans/ Hosts: Alex Cyr, Katelyn Tocci, Michael Doyle Over 160,000 runners read our newsletter. Sign up here and get our free book The 26 Golden Rules Of Running: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter/ Follow us on IG: https://instagram.com/marathon.handbook Follow us on Tikok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marathon.handbook Like us on FB: https://facebook.com/marathonhandbook Follow us on X: https://x.com/MarathonHB

Oct 10, 2024

Our editors Alex Cyr, Katelyn Tocci and Michael Doyle breakdown everything you need to know about the 2024 Chicago Marathon, one of the biggest marathons in the world! But first they discuss their early experiences using Strava's new "Athlete Intelligence" AI (1:02), which provides a training prompt after each run. Is it merely a low-fi chatbot gimmick or the future of coaching? Then they get into the Chicago Marathon (11:05), unpacking the history of the race, the vibe in Chicago on race weekend, how to live stream the Chicago Marathon, and whether or not we'll see a marathon world record attempt (or perhaps an American women's marathon record). They unpack what to anticipate from the elite races, and what it's like to run the Chicago Marathon. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Chicago Marathon Preview 01:02 Strava's New Athlete Intelligence Feature 11:05 Transitioning to the Chicago Marathon 21:49 History and Trivia of the Chicago Marathon 28:51 Previewing the Elite Races 32:53 Marathon Rankings and Performances 42:39 Women's Race Preview and Predictions 49:19 Men's Race Predictions and Insights 56:05 Chicago vs. Berlin: The Fastest Marathon Debate 1:00:02 Power Rankings of Major Marathons 1:04:37 Deep Dish Pizza Debate and Closing Thoughts Show Notes: Everything You Need To Know About The 2024 Chicago Marathon, including how to live stream the race: https://marathonhandbook.com/everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-2024-chicago-marathon/ Start Date The 2024 Chicago Marathon is slated for Sunday, October 13, 2024. Start Time The professional men and women will go off at 7:30 a.m. CT Have family or friends running the race? We have the full list of start times below: Marathon Wheelchair Start (men): 7:20 a.m. Marathon Wheelchair Start (women): 7:21 a.m. Handcycle Start: 7:23 a.m. Wave 1 Start (corrals A, B, C, D, and E): 7:30 a.m. Wave 2 Start (corrals F, G, H, and J): 8:00 a.m. Wave 3 Start (corrals K, L, M, and N): 8:35 a.m. Our free marathon training plans: https://marathonhandbook.com/trainingplans/marathon-training-plans/ Hosts: Alex Cyr, Katelyn Tocci, Michael Doyle Over 160,000 runners read our newsletter. Sign up here and get our free book The 26 Golden Rules Of Running: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter/ Follow us on IG: https://instagram.com/marathon.handbook Follow us on Tikok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marathon.handbook Like us on FB: https://facebook.com/marathonhandbook Follow us on X: https://x.com/MarathonHB

Oct 3, 2024

Editors Alex Cyr, Katelyn Tocci and Michael Doyle chat about Alex's trip to Memphis (and his morning runs in a parking lot) (00:48). Then they talk about Marathon Handbook's fancy new website! (06:14). Michael has been testing the Brooks Glycerin Max and shares his thoughts after a big run (09:33); and Katelyn shares her plan for the Kodiak UTMB ultra in California next week! (16:13). Then, they get into the latest science on how to recover from a marathon, as well as shorter distances (5K, 10K, half-marathon) (19:54). They discuss optimal nutrition, whether or not stretching cooldowns and treatments such as massage or ice baths are effective. They also delve into the latest studies on post-race recovery. Chapters: 00:00:48 - Alex's trip to Memphis 00:06:14 - Marathon Handbook's new website is live! 00:09:33 - Testing the new Brooks Glycerin Max 00:16:13 - Katelyn is running Kodiak UTMB! 00:19:54 - Post-race recovery tips Show Notes: Bounce Back Strong With My 13 Expert Tips for Your Post Marathon Recovery: https://marathonhandbook.com/post-marathon-recovery/ Running Recovery: The Best Post-Run Routine: https://marathonhandbook.com/running-recovery/ Half Marathon Recovery Guide: How To Recover From A Half Marathon: https://marathonhandbook.com/half-marathon-recovery/ Our free marathon training plans: https://marathonhandbook.com/trainingplans/marathon-training-plans/ Hosts: Alex Cyr, Katelyn Tocci, Michael Doyle Over 160,000 runners read our newsletter. Sign up here and get our free book The 26 Golden Rules Of Running: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter/ Follow us on IG: https://instagram.com/marathon.handbook Follow us on Tikok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marathon.handbook Like us on FB: https://facebook.com/marathonhandbook Follow us on X: https://x.com/MarathonHB

Sep 29, 2024

Editors Alex Cyr, Katelyn Tocci and Michael Doyle jump into the studio for an emergency pod, right after the finish of the 2024 Berlin Marathon on Sunday morning. SPOILER ALERT: we talk about how the race played itself out, and who won. Chapters 00:00 Instant Reactions to the 2024 Berlin Marathon 06:17 Men's and Women's Races 12:19 Adidas Dominance in the Marathon 17:37 The Impact of Missing Big Names 23:02 Burning Questions Post-Marathon 28:26 Winners and Losers of the Berlin Marathon Show Notes: Read our recap of the Berlin Marathon elite races: https://marathonhandbook.com/results-2024-bmw-berlin-marathon/ Relive the race by scrolling back through our moment-by-moment live updates of the 2024 Berlin Marathon: https://marathonhandbook.com/2024-berlin-marathon-live-updates/ Men’s Top 10 Results Milkesa Mengesha (ETH), 2:03:17 Cybrian Kotut (KEN), 2:03:22 Haymanot Alew (ETH), 2:03:31 Stephen Kiprop (KEN), 2:03:37 Hailemariyam Kiros (ETH), 2:04:35 Yohei Ikeda (JPN), 2:05:12 Tadese Takele (ETH), 2:05:13 Oqbe Kibrom Ruesom (ERI), 2:05:37 Enock Onchari (KEN), 2:05:53 Melaku Belachew (ETH), 2:06:30 Women’s Top 10 Results Tigist Ketema (ETH), 2:16:42 Mestawot Fikir (ETH), 2:18:48 Bosena Mulatie (ETH), 2:19:00 Aberu Ayana Mulisa (ETH), 2:20:20 Ai Hosoda (JPN), 2:20:31 Mizuki Matsuda (JPN), 2:20:42 Calli Hauger-Thackery (GBR), 2:21:24 Yebregual Melese (ETH), 2:21:39 Fikrte Wereta (ETH), 2:23:23 Sisay Meseret Gola (ETH), 2:23:36

Sep 26, 2024

Marathon Handbook's news editor Jessy Carveth and editor-in-chief Michael Doyle unpack why the American ultrarunner Camille Herron is embroiled in a messy Wikipedia scandal. The conversation delves into the controversy surrounding ultrarunner Camille Herron, who has faced backlash for allegedly manipulating her Wikipedia page to enhance her image while undermining her competitors by altering their pages, and also implying they cheated while bettering her world records. The discussion covers the implications of her actions, the public's response, and the broader impact on women's sports. The hosts explore the duality of Herron's role as both a celebrated athlete and a controversial figure, questioning the ethics of her behavior and its effects on the running community. They explain why the Camille Herron scandal is such a big deal in the ultrarunning world, who Herron is, and why Lululemon abruptly dumped Herron after she operated as a key ambassador for the brand to the running world. They also explain why many other athletes are now speaking out about Herron's behaviour, particularly after they break records she once set, and how Herron and her husband/coach are pushing back against these accusations. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Controversy 06:41 The Wikipedia Manipulation 12:01 The Fallout and Public Response 16:47 Role Model or Villain? 22:00 The Irony of Fame and Insecurity 30:21 Conclusion and Future Implications Show Notes: Camille Herron Accused of Manipulating Wikipedia Pages to Downplay Rivals: https://marathonhandbook.com/camille-herron-wikipedia-controversy/ Lululemon drops Camille Herron as ambassador after Wikipedia controversy https://marathonhandbook.com/lululemon-drops-camille-herron-as-ambassador-after-wikipedia-controversy/ Camille Herron’s Husband and Coach Conor Holt Takes Full Responsibility Amidst Malicious Wikipedia Controversy: https://marathonhandbook.com/camille-herrons-husband-takes-full-responsibility-wikipedia-controversy/ Takeaways - Camille Herron has been dropped by Lululemon amid controversy - She has made over 300 edits to her Wikipedia page. - Her husband attempted to take the blame for the edits. - Many in the running community are skeptical of their claims - Herron's actions have raised questions about ethics in sports - The controversy has sparked a broader discussion about female athletes - The situation highlights the challenges women face in sports - Public perception of Herron has shifted dramatically - The fallout from this controversy may have lasting implications Our free marathon training plans: https://marathonhandbook.com/trainingplans/marathon-training-plans/ Hosts: Katelyn Tocci, Michael Doyle Over 160,000 runners read our newsletter. Sign up here and get our free book The 26 Golden Rules Of Running: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter/ Follow us on IG: https://instagram.com/marathon.handbook Follow us on Tikok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marathon.handbook Like us on FB: https://facebook.com/marathonhandbook Follow us on X: https://x.com/MarathonHB

Sep 26, 2024

Our editors Alex, Katelyn and Michael break down everything you need to know about this Sunday's Berlin Marathon, including how to live stream the race, key storylines, a bit of the fascinating history of the marathon, and who will win each race. They discuss the significance of the 50th anniversary of the Berlin Marathon, its ranking as a World Marathon Major, why so many marathon world records have been achieved on this course, and the legacy of both Eliud Kipchoge and Kenenisa Bekele at the race. 2024 marks the first time in 11 years that the Berlin Marathon will not feature either Kipchoge (the 2022 and 2023 champion) or Bekele. After last year's world record performance in Berlin by Tigst Assefa, will the 2024 edition of the marathon feature a new breakout star and a record breaking run? Our editors weigh in on who might win in Berlin, and the outlook of elite marathon running in the next few years. 00:00 Opening chatter 02:57 Alex's attempt at a sub-30 minute 10K 06:08 Our favorite city running experiences 08:46 The Significance of Major Marathons 11:45 Berlin Marathon Overview 15:03 Is the Berlin Marathon Course Fast? 17:59 Berlin has a Rollerblade Marathon?!?! 23:52 Historical Context of the Berlin Marathon 26:57 Course Profile and Challenges 30:01 Elite Field Insights 39:46 Emerging Stars in Women's Marathon 51:01 Weather and Conditions 52:13 The End of the Kipchoge Era 01:07:41 We Rank the World Marathon Majors Watch a full video version of this podcast on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/Nih6qNESz44 Show Notes: 2024 Berlin Marathon Elite Preview: https://marathonhandbook.com/2024-berlin-marathon-elite-lineup/ Our free marathon training plans: https://marathonhandbook.com/trainingplans/marathon-training-plans/ Hosts: Katelyn Tocci, Michael Doyle Over 160,000 runners read our newsletter. Sign up here and get our free book The 26 Golden Rules Of Running: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter/ Follow us on IG: https://instagram.com/marathon.handbook Follow us on Tikok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marathon.handbook Like us on FB: https://facebook.com/marathonhandbook Follow us on X: https://x.com/MarathonHB

Sep 19, 2024

Marathon Handbook editors Alex Cyr, Katelyn Tocci and Michael Doyle discuss the latest developments in the World of Marathon Majors: Boston Marathon's new qualification standards and the Sydney Marathon's rise to reportedly become the next World Marathon Major, perhaps as early as next year. They also delve into Alex's recent 5K PR, exploring the training changes he made and the importance of coaching in achieving running goals. 00:00 - Opening Chat 01:35 - Boston Marathon Qualification Changes 14:00 - Sydney Marathon's Rise to Major Status 26:30 - Cape Town Marathon and Chengdu Marathon as WMM candidates 38:06 - Alex's 5K PR and Tips Watch a full video version of this podcast on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/Nih6qNESz44 Show Notes: Qualifying for the Boston Marathon just got harder: https://marathonhandbook.com/2026-boston-marathon-qualifying-times/ Sydney on the verge of being named seventh WMM: https://marathonhandbook.com/sydney-marathon-seventh-world-major-marathon-2025/ Alex's go-to fartlek for improving speed: 1min 10k effort/2min easy 45sec 5k effort/90sec easy 2x30sec 1500m effort/1min easy 4x15sec 800m effort/45sec easy Our free marathon training plans: https://marathonhandbook.com/trainingplans/marathon-training-plans/ Hosts: Katelyn Tocci, Michael Doyle Over 160,000 runners read our newsletter. Sign up here and get our free book The 26 Golden Rules Of Running: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter/ Follow us on IG: https://instagram.com/marathon.handbook Follow us on Tikok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marathon.handbook Like us on FB: https://facebook.com/marathonhandbook Follow us on X: https://x.com/MarathonHB

Sep 12, 2024

Editors Alex Cyr, Katelyn Tocci and Michael Doyle chat about Alex's recent trip to the French Alps for a week of trail running in the mountains. He shares what he learned, the mistakes he made on the trails, and the YouTube vlog he produced documenting this humbling and enlightening experience. Then, they provide a primer on how to get into trail running, particularly if you're coming from a road running background. They cover topics such as finding trails, differences in training and mindset, the physical challenges of trail running, and the benefits of running on trails. They also touch on the importance of strength training for trail runners and the sense of community that comes with trail running. The hosts share their personal experiences and offer advice for those interested in trying trail running. Watch a full video version of this podcast on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/Nih6qNESz44 Show Notes: Watch Alex's video "5 Mistakes to Avoid When Trail Running": https://youtu.be/BN7Ffazn8so Katelyn's strength and stability routine: https://marathonhandbook.com/knee-strengthening-exercises/ Tips for running downhill: https://youtu.be/I77KRM5Q4nQ Tips for uphill running: https://youtu.be/lOZnlI3rhH0 Our free marathon training plans: https://marathonhandbook.com/trainingplans/marathon-training-plans/ Hosts: Katelyn Tocci, Michael Doyle Over 160,000 runners read our newsletter. Sign up here and get our free book The 26 Golden Rules Of Running: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter/ Follow us on IG: https://instagram.com/marathon.handbook Follow us on Tikok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marathon.handbook Like us on FB: https://facebook.com/marathonhandbook Follow us on X: https://x.com/MarathonHB

Sep 5, 2024

In this episode, Katelyn Tocci and Michael Doyle discuss why UTMB continues to be the most talked about ultramarathon in the world. Then they dive into the big topic of the pod: fuelling for marathons. They emphasize the importance of fuelling properly for optimal performance and discuss the timing and composition of pre-race meals. They share their personal approaches to race week nutrition and offer tips for carb loading, and discuss the best practices for fuelling during a marathon. 00:00 Intro 03:04 UTMB 08:05 Men's race at UTMB 12:16 Katie Scheid's massive performance at UTMB 19:46 Fuelling for a marathon 25:36 Balancing diet and variety 31:03 Michael's race morning routine 36:15 Finding food options on race morning 38:09 Katelyn's race morning routine 39:24 Pre-Race Nutrition and Fuelling 41:39 Carb-Loading 101 43:08 Managing digestion and fiber Intake 47:35 Fuelling Strategies during the marathon 01:19:10 Mastering marathon fuelling: Best Practices and Strategies 01:25:14 Carrying gels and practicing fuelling: Tips for training runs 01:29:54 Hydration tips on race day Watch a full video version of this podcast on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/Nih6qNESz44 Show Notes: Two Champions Crowned At 2024 UTMB—An Underdog And A Veteran: https://marathonhandbook.com/2024-utmb-results/ Who Is Vincent Bouillard? Meet The Unsponsored Hoka Engineer Who Just Won UTMB: https://marathonhandbook.com/who-is-vincent-bouillard/ Carb Loading for Runners: How to + 8 Common Mistakes: https://marathonhandbook.com/carb-loading/ Our free marathon training plans: https://marathonhandbook.com/trainingplans/marathon-training-plans/ Hosts: Katelyn Tocci, Michael Doyle Over 160,000 runners read our newsletter. Sign up here and get our free book The 26 Golden Rules Of Running: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter/ Follow us on IG: https://instagram.com/marathon.handbook Follow us on Tikok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marathon.handbook Like us on FB: https://facebook.com/marathonhandbook Follow us on X: https://x.com/MarathonHB

Aug 29, 2024

Marathon Handbook editors Alex Cyr, Katelyn Tocci and Michael Doyle discuss the upcoming season two of the docu-series 'Sprint' on Netflix, the Ultra Trail de Mont Blanc (UTMB) race, and answer listener questions. Your questions ask about the importance of rest days after long runs and how to adjust training paces based on individual abilities, improving your mile time, dealing with feet and leg soreness, and a few questions for Alex about his "best of" selections for shoes of the year. Watch a full video version of this podcast on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/Nih6qNESz44 Show Notes: Read our story on everything we know so far about Sprint Season 2: https://marathonhandbook.com/sprint-season-two/ Everything You Need To Know About The 2024 UTMB Finals: https://marathonhandbook.com/everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-2024-utmb-finals/ Our free marathon training plans: https://marathonhandbook.com/trainingplans/marathon-training-plans/ Hosts: Katelyn Tocci, Michael Doyle Over 160,000 runners read our newsletter. Sign up here and get our free book The 26 Golden Rules Of Running: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter/ Follow us on IG: https://instagram.com/marathon.handbook Follow us on Tikok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marathon.handbook Like us on FB: https://facebook.com/marathonhandbook Follow us on X: https://x.com/MarathonHB

Aug 22, 2024

On this week's pod, Alex, Katelyn and Michael begin with Alex's latest YouTube video, in which he goes Strava segment hunting in front of Drake's $100 million mansion. Then, they briefly break down the just-announced 2024 New York City Marathon elite fields, with a surprising number of Olympic marathoners on the list. And then, they dive deep into the big topic of the day (inspired by the Paris Olympic marathons to some degree). Whether your running a local 5K, a track race, a mid-season half marathon or a big goal race like the Boston Marathon or New York, every race has its dark moments. So in this pod, we'll go deep on the dreaded DNF (Did Not Finish). We cover: What does the DNF mean in the context of running and racing Recent cases of DNFs in the Olympics (Eliud Kipchoge, Fiona O'Keeffe) When to Consider a DNF (spoiler: almost never) When not to DNF (spoiler: almost always) Strategies and prevention tips to avoid a DNF Katelyn, Alex, and Michael share their own experiences with DNF, plus lessons learned and advice for listeners Watch Alex's video on taking down the "Cruising by Drake's Crib" Strava segment: https://youtu.be/xX0jHA53slk Watch a full video version of this podcast on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/Nih6qNESz44 Our free marathon training plans: https://marathonhandbook.com/trainingplans/marathon-training-plans/ Hosts: Katelyn Tocci, Michael Doyle Over 160,000 runners read our newsletter. Sign up here and get our free book The 26 Golden Rules Of Running: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter/ Follow us on IG: https://instagram.com/marathon.handbook Follow us on Tikok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marathon.handbook Like us on FB: https://facebook.com/marathonhandbook Follow us on X: https://x.com/MarathonHB

Aug 15, 2024

Editor Michael Doyle is joined by Marathon Handbook's resident coach Katelyn Tocci to break down everything you need to know about how to go about setting goals for the marathon. They discuss: Setting Marathon Goals Understanding SMART Goals What is the “SMART” criteria for goal setting? How can applying SMART goals enhance your marathon training? 2. Process-Based vs. Outcome-Based Goals Differences between process-based and outcome-based goals. Marathon-specific examples to illustrate each type of goal. 3. The Role of A, B, and C Goals What are A, B, and C goals in marathon training? How to prioritize and set these goals effectively. 4. Tailoring Goals to Your Fitness Level and Personal Circumstances Steps to set realistic and achievable marathon goals based on your current fitness level. How to adapt your goals to fit personal factors and training constraints. 5. Overcoming Obstacles and Maintaining Motivation Common challenges in marathon training and how to tackle them. Proven strategies to stay motivated and committed throughout your training journey. Show Notes: Andrew Huberman's "The Science of Setting and Achieving Goals" episode on the Huberman Lab podcast: https://www.hubermanlab.com/episode/the-science-of-setting-and-achieving-goals The paper on the "85% Rule": https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-019-12552-4 Our free marathon training plans: https://marathonhandbook.com/trainingplans/marathon-training-plans/ Hosts: Katelyn Tocci, Michael Doyle Watch a full video version of this podcast on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/Nih6qNESz44 Over 160,000 runners read our newsletter. Sign up here and get our free book The 26 Golden Rules Of Running: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter/ Follow us on IG: https://instagram.com/marathon.handbook Follow us on Tikok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marathon.handbook Like us on FB: https://facebook.com/marathonhandbook Follow us on X: https://x.com/MarathonHB

Aug 11, 2024

Editors Alex Cyr, Katelyn Tocci and Michael Doyle jump into the studio for a their final emergency pod of these Olympic Games, right after the finish of the women's Olympic marathon in Paris on Sunday morning. The final event of the Olympics did not disappoint, delivering a thrilling finish. SPOILER ALERT: we talk about how the race played itself out, and who won. Watch a video version of this pod on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/LBZZl9US_bc ________ Sifan Hassan of the Netherlands put on a show in the final moments of the marathon, out sprinting world record holder Tigst Assefa of Ethiopia for one of the great marathon performances of all time. But it was not without its controvery, as Hassan and Assefa made contact with about 200m to go. We also discuss Nike's big win, if Hassan is the next Kipchoge, and what happened to American runner Fiona O'Keeffe (and why some are upset about her DNF). The Women’s Olympic Marathon top 10 Results: 🥇Sifan Hassan 🇳🇱 🥈 Tigst Assefa 🇪🇹 🥉Hellen Obiri 🇰🇪 Sharon Lokedi 🇰🇪 Amane Shankule 🇪🇹 Yuka Suzuki 🇯🇵 Delvine Meringor 🇷🇴 Stella Chesang 🇺🇬 Lonah Salpeter 🇮🇱 Eunice Chumba 🇧🇭 Read our full recap of the 2024 Olympic marathon, plus full results, here: https://marathonhandbook.com/2024-olympic-women-marathon-results/ Follow our live coverage of the track and marathons here: https://marathonhandbook.com/live-updates-athletics-track-2024-paris-olympics/ Hosts: Alex Cyr, Katelyn Tocci, Michael Doyle

Aug 10, 2024

Editors Alex Cyr and Michael Doyle jump into the studio for an emergency pod, right after the finish of the men's Olympic marathon in Paris on Saturday morning. SPOILER ALERT: we talk about how the race played itself out, and who won. Be sure to follow this pod feed for an instant reaction episode after the women's Olympic marathon as well, shortly after the race concludes on Sunday morning. ________ Tamirat Tola of Ethiopia was the big winner of this Olympic marathon, taking gold. We talk about his incredible race, the experience of watching the Paris Olympic marathon overall, as well as Eliud Kipchoge's shocking result and what this means for the GOAT's legacy long term. The men's marathon podium in Paris: 🇪🇹 Tamirat Tola 🥇 2:06:26 🇧🇪 Bashir Abdi 🥈 2:06:47 🇰🇪 Benson Kipruto 🥉 2:07:00 Read our full recap of the 2024 Olympic marathon, plus full results, here: https://marathonhandbook.com/2024-olympic-men-marathon/ Follow our live coverage of the track and marathons here: https://marathonhandbook.com/live-updates-athletics-track-2024-paris-olympics/ Hosts: Alex Cyr, Michael Doyle

Aug 8, 2024

Alex, Katelyn and Michael describe the Paris Olympic marathon course in detail, and what to expect when live streaming both the men's and women's marathons this weekend. Will Eliud Kipchoge pull of the improbable and win gold in the Olympic marathon for a third straight time? Or will there be a new Olympic champ at 26.2 miles? And in the women's marathon, which concludes the Paris Olympics, will defending champ Peres Jepchirchir dominate the field, or can world record holder Tigst Assefa use her speed on this incredibly hilly and challenging course? We break it all done for you so you'll be primed and ready for this weekend's Olympic marathons in Paris, which are set for 2:00 a.m. EDT Saturday (for the men's race) and 2:00 a.m. EDT Sunday (for the women's race). And be sure to check this feed after the marathons this weekend for our instant reaction pods! Hosts: Alex Cyr, Katelyn Tocci, Michael Doyle Watch a full video version of this podcast on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/Nih6qNESz44 Follow our Paris Olympic Games coverage: 10 Sprinters to Watch in Paris: https://marathonhandbook.com/2024-paris-olympics-sprinters/ 10 Middle-Distance Stars You Won't Want to Miss: https://marathonhandbook.com/10-mid-distance-stars-olympics/ How to Watch the Track Events at the Paris Olympics: https://marathonhandbook.com/how-to-watch-athletics-at-the-2024-olympic-games/ Over 160,000 runners read our newsletter. Sign up here and get our free book The 26 Golden Rules Of Running: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter/ Follow us on IG: https://instagram.com/marathon.handbook Follow us on Tikok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marathon.handbook Like us on FB: https://facebook.com/marathonhandbook Follow us on X: https://x.com/MarathonHB Marathon Handbook was founded in 2016, with the mission from day one of helping you to run far, set goals and meet them. We provide free and super popular coach-vetted training plans for just about every distance and ability level, from your first 5K to a sub-3 hour marathon, to a 100-miler training plan. We've got you covered. We also follow the latest news and storylines in the running world, and review all the best shoes, running watches and gear on our site and our Youtube channel.

Aug 2, 2024

Alex Cyr and Michael Doyle scramble the pod mics for an emergency pod that's all about the first medal event of the 2024 Olympic Games, the men's 10,000m. The race turned out to be among the best distance championship finals of all-time, with an electric finish. Spoiler alert: world record holder Joshua Chepetegei is incredible. American Grant Fisher also delivered the race of his life, and there was heartbreak for Canadian Moh Ahmed. Men's 10,000m final podium results: 🥇 Joshua CHEPTEGEI 🇺🇬 26:43.14 (Olympic record) 🥈 Berihu AREGAWI 🇪🇹 26:43.44 🥉 Grant FISHER 🇺🇸 26:43.46 SB Our full race recap: https://marathonhandbook.com/olympic-men-10000m-final/ Be sure to follow our live updates of all the running events at the Paris Olympics here: https://marathonhandbook.com/live-updates-athletics-track-2024-paris-olympics/ And here's the schedule for athletics at the Games: https://marathonhandbook.com/schedule-running-events-2024-paris-olympics/ Hosts: Alex Cyr, Michael Doyle

Aug 1, 2024

Our editors go through every running event in the first week in Paris, providing you with a cheat sheet on the favorites, the contenders, fun facts you should know while watching each race, and which events are must see (and which you can probably skip). The events we cover on the pod: Men's 10,000m final (3:26) Mixed 4x400m final (11:59) Women's 100m final (16:56) Men's 100M final (24:00) Women's 5,000m final (33:34) Women's 800m final (41:33) Men's 1,500m final (48:47) Women's 3,000m steeplechase (56:53) Women's 200m final (1:01:39) Men's 400m final (1:08:12) Men's 3,000m steeplechase (1:13:06) Men's 200m final (1:19:05) Women's 400m hurdles final (1:25:59) Men's 110m hurdles final (1:31:03) Hosts: Alex Cyr, Katelyn Tocci, Michael Doyle Watch a full video version of this podcast on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/Nih6qNESz44 Follow our Paris Olympic Games coverage: 10 Sprinters to Watch in Paris: https://marathonhandbook.com/2024-paris-olympics-sprinters/ 10 Middle-Distance Stars You Won't Want to Miss: https://marathonhandbook.com/10-mid-distance-stars-olympics/ How to Watch the Track Events at the Paris Olympics: https://marathonhandbook.com/how-to-watch-athletics-at-the-2024-olympic-games/ Over 160,000 runners read our newsletter. Sign up here and get our free book The 26 Golden Rules Of Running: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter/ Follow us on IG: https://instagram.com/marathon.handbook Follow us on Tikok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marathon.handbook Like us on FB: https://facebook.com/marathonhandbook Follow us on X: https://x.com/MarathonHB Marathon Handbook was founded in 2016, with the mission from day one of helping you to run far, set goals and meet them. We provide free and super popular coach-vetted training plans for just about every distance and ability level, from your first 5K to a sub-3 hour marathon, to a 100-miler training plan. We've got you covered. We also follow the latest news and storylines in the running world, and review all the best shoes, running watches and gear on our site and our Youtube channel. At our heart, we are runners and athletes ourselves – every person on our team is a running coach, distance runner, or certified health and fitness trainer.

Jul 26, 2024

Our editors Alex, Katelyn and Michael share their picks for the most intriguing athletes, exciting races and hot storylines to keep tabs on going into the first week of the Olympics next week. Can Sifan Hassan pull off running three track events AND a marathon? Will Noah Lyles actually break one of Usain Bolt's world records? And what's more exciting: the nasty showdown in the men's 1,500m, or the suddenly wide open field in both the women's and men's marathons? 10 Sprinters to Watch in Paris: https://marathonhandbook.com/2024-paris-olympics-sprinters/ 10 Middle-Distance Stars You Won't Want to Miss: https://marathonhandbook.com/10-mid-distance-stars-olympics/ How to Watch the Track Events at the Paris Olympics: https://marathonhandbook.com/how-to-watch-athletics-at-the-2024-olympic-games/ Hosts: Alex Cyr, Katelyn Tocci, Michael Doyle Watch a full video version of this podcast on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/Nih6qNESz44 Over 160,000 runners read our newsletter. Sign up here and get our free book The 26 Golden Rules Of Running: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter/ Follow us on IG: https://instagram.com/marathon.handbook Follow us on Tikok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marathon.handbook Like us on FB: https://facebook.com/marathonhandbook Follow us on X: https://x.com/MarathonHB Marathon Handbook was founded in 2016, with the mission from day one of helping you to run far, set goals and meet them. We provide free and super popular coach-vetted training plans for just about every distance and ability level, from your first 5K to a sub-3 hour marathon, to a 100-miler training plan. We've got you covered. We also follow the latest news and storylines in the running world, and review all the best shoes, running watches and gear on our site and our Youtube channel. At our heart, we are runners and athletes ourselves – every person on our team is a running coach, distance runner, or certified health and fitness trainer.

Jul 19, 2024

Alex Cyr, Katelyn Tocci and Michael Doyle talk about Wahoo's forthcoming "Kickr Run" treadmill, with legitimately might be the best piece of running tech since the super shoe. They also chat about boutique brand Tracksmith's $700 analog watch (which is already sold out), and another crazy innovation by the Swiss brand On Running (spoiler alert: robots can now make super shoes in under six minutes, with nothing more than a glue gun). Then, they share their favorite workouts, the weirdest workouts they've ever done, the neatest locations they've run one, and the workouts they fear most. Hosts: Alex Cyr, Katelyn Tocci, Michael Doyle SIGN UP FOR OUR SUMMER RUNNIN' CHALLENGE HERE: https://raceroster.com/events/2024/91184/summer-runnin Watch a full video version of this podcast on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/Nih6qNESz44 Over 160,000 runners read our newsletter. Sign up here and get our free book The 26 Golden Rules Of Running: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter/ Follow us on IG: https://instagram.com/marathon.handbook Follow us on Tikok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marathon.handbook Like us on FB: https://facebook.com/marathonhandbook Follow us on X: https://x.com/MarathonHB Marathon Handbook was founded in 2016, with the mission from day one of helping you to run far, set goals and meet them. We provide free and super popular coach-vetted training plans for just about every distance and ability level, from your first 5K to a sub-3 hour marathon, to a 100-miler training plan. We've got you covered. We also follow the latest news and storylines in the running world, and review all the best shoes, running watches and gear on our site and our Youtube channel. At our heart, we are runners and athletes ourselves – every person on our team is a running coach, distance runner, or certified health and fitness trainer.

Jul 12, 2024

Our editors Alex Cyr, Katelyn Tocci and Michael Doyle discuss the ultra GOAT Courtney Dauwalter's return to the Hard Rock 100, one of the toughest races in the world. Katelyn explains why Dauwalter has emerged as one of the greatest distance athletes of all time, and puts her performances in context. Then, they talk about Alex's foray into the world of indie brands launching shoes, including Rabbit, Tracksmith and Mount to Coast. Are these shoes any good? Finally, they have a roundtable chat about when you should consider getting a running coach, how to select the right coach for you, what it should cost you, and even how to break up with a coach if it's not working out. Hosts: Alex Cyr, Katelyn Tocci, Michael Doyle SIGN UP FOR OUR SUMMER RUNNIN' CHALLENGE HERE: https://raceroster.com/events/2024/91184/summer-runnin Watch a full video version of this podcast on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/Nih6qNESz44 Over 160,000 runners read our newsletter. Sign up here and get our free book The 26 Golden Rules Of Running: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter/ Follow us on IG: https://instagram.com/marathon.handbook Follow us on Tikok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marathon.handbook Like us on FB: https://facebook.com/marathonhandbook Follow us on X: https://x.com/MarathonHB Marathon Handbook was founded in 2016, with the mission from day one of helping you to run far, set goals and meet them. We provide free and super popular coach-vetted training plans for just about every distance and ability level, from your first 5K to a sub-3 hour marathon, to a 100-miler training plan. We've got you covered. We also follow the latest news and storylines in the running world, and review all the best shoes, running watches and gear on our site and our Youtube channel. At our heart, we are runners and athletes ourselves – every person on our team is a running coach, distance runner, or certified health and fitness trainer.

Jul 5, 2024

Marathon Handbook's staff gather together with popcorn in hand to breakdown everything you need to know about the new Netflix docuseries "Sprint," which features the top 100m and 200m runners in the world as they gear up for the 2023 Paris Summer Olympics. We highlight our favorite athlete/characters, crazy moments in the series, if there are any villains, and if Sprint will connect with a mass audience. Hosts: Alex Cyr, Jessy Carveth, Katelyn Tocci, Michael Doyle Watch a full video version of this podcast on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/Nih6qNESz44 Over 160,000 runners read our newsletter. Sign up here and get our free book The 26 Golden Rules Of Running: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter/ Follow us on IG: https://instagram.com/marathon.handbook Follow us on Tikok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marathon.handbook Like us on FB: https://facebook.com/marathonhandbook Follow us on X: https://x.com/MarathonHB Marathon Handbook was founded in 2016, with the mission from day one of helping you to run far, set goals and meet them. We provide free and super popular coach-vetted training plans for just about every distance and ability level, from your first 5K to a sub-3 hour marathon, to a 100-miler training plan. We've got you covered. We also follow the latest news and storylines in the running world, and review all the best shoes, running watches and gear on our site and our Youtube channel. At our heart, we are runners and athletes ourselves – every person on our team is a running coach, distance runner, or certified health and fitness trainer.

Jun 28, 2024

On this week's pod, editors Alex Cyr, Katelyn Tocci and Michael Doyle break down all the excitement and serious drama from the U.S. Olympic Track and Field Trials in Eugene, Oregon. Then, they provide a primer and preview of the Western States 100, which is one of the oldest and most celebrated ultras in the world. And in the main segment of the pod, they chat all about the state of running shoes in 2024: what to buy, how many shoes do you really need to train for a goal race, and which super shoes are the best for running a PR. Podcast hosts: Alex Cyr, Katelyn Tocci, Michael Doyle Watch Alex's video where he rates the top 5 training shoes of the year (so far): https://youtu.be/51CEwj5RlmM Over 160,000 runners read our newsletter. Sign up here and get our free book The 26 Golden Rules Of Running: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter/ Follow us on IG: https://instagram.com/marathon.handbook Follow us on Tikok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marathon.handbook Like us on FB: https://facebook.com/marathonhandbook Follow us on X: https://x.com/MarathonHB Marathon Handbook was founded in 2016, with the mission from day one of helping you to run far, set goals and meet them. We provide free and super popular coach-vetted training plans for just about every distance and ability level, from your first 5K to a sub-3 hour marathon, to a 100-miler training plan. We've got you covered. We also follow the latest news and storylines in the running world, and review all the best shoes, running watches and gear on our site and our Youtube channel. At our heart, we are runners and athletes ourselves – every person on our team is a running coach, distance runner, or certified health and fitness trainer.

Jun 21, 2024

On this week's episode of the Marathon Handbook Podcast, our editors Alex Cyr, Katelyn Tocci and Michael Doyle discuss Alex's recent video essay entitled "Can Andrew Huberman's Daily Blueprint Make Me a Better Runner?". Then, they break down everything you need to know about the long run, a weekly cornerstone workout for marathon training. Watch Alex's video essay "Can Andrew Huberman's Daily Blueprint Make Me a Better Runner?" here: https://youtu.be/j5EqZenojE8 Podcast hosts: Alex Cyr, Katelyn Tocci, Michael Doyle Over 160,000 runners read our newsletter. Sign up here and get our free book The 26 Golden Rules Of Running: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter/ Follow us on IG: https://instagram.com/marathon.handbook Follow us on Tikok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marathon.handbook Like us on FB: https://facebook.com/marathonhandbook Follow us on X: https://x.com/MarathonHB Marathon Handbook was founded in 2016, with the mission from day one of helping you to run far, set goals and meet them. We provide free and super popular coach-vetted training plans for just about every distance and ability level, from your first 5K to a sub-3 hour marathon, to a 100-miler training plan. We've got you covered. We also follow the latest news and storylines in the running world, and review all the best shoes, running watches and gear on our site and our Youtube channel. At our heart, we are runners and athletes ourselves – every person on our team is a running coach, distance runner, or certified health and fitness trainer.

Jun 14, 2024

Our editors Alex, Katelyn and Michael break down the newly released trailer for the upcoming Netflix docuseries Sprint, which features the top 100m and 200m track runners as they prepare for this summer's Paris Olympics. Then, they look at the bizarre partnership between the dating app Tinder and the running app Runna. Is it a disaster waiting to happen, or genius? Finally, the big topic of the day: 8 reasons why you perhaps shouldn't run a marathon, and a few reasons why you should. Podcast hosts: Alex Cyr, Katelyn Tocci, Michael Doyle Also check out the video version of our pods on YouTube! Find us at: https://www.youtube.com/@marathonhandbook Over 160,000 runners read our newsletter. Sign up here and get our free book The 26 Golden Rules Of Running: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter/ Follow us on IG: https://instagram.com/marathon.handbook Follow us on Tikok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marathon.handbook Like us on FB: https://facebook.com/marathonhandbook Follow us on X: https://x.com/MarathonHB Marathon Handbook was founded in 2016, with the mission from day one of helping you to run far, set goals and meet them. We provide free and super popular coach-vetted training plans for just about every distance and ability level, from your first 5K to a sub-3 hour marathon, to a 100-miler training plan. We've got you covered. We also follow the latest news and storylines in the running world, and review all the best shoes, running watches and gear on our site and our Youtube channel. At our heart, we are runners and athletes ourselves – every person on our team is a running coach, distance runner, or certified health and fitness trainer.

Jun 7, 2024

In this week's episode, Alex, Katelyn and Michael discuss why it is that the Boston Marathon decided to (literally) give the unicorn on their logo a face lift. Then, they unpack the brief history of the running influencer — how it all started, some of the influential figures in the space, the pro athlete as influencer, and where this all goes from here. Finally, they break down how to approach eating pre run or race, as well as some terrible mistakes each has made in the past with food before running. Podcast hosts: Alex Cyr, Katelyn Tocci, Michael Doyle Also check out the video version of our pods on YouTube! Find us at: https://www.youtube.com/@marathonhandbook Over 160,000 runners read our newsletter. Sign up here and get our free book The 26 Golden Rules Of Running: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter/ Follow us on IG: https://instagram.com/marathon.handbook Follow us on Tikok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marathon.handbook Like us on FB: https://facebook.com/marathonhandbook Follow us on X: https://x.com/MarathonHB Marathon Handbook was founded in 2016, with the mission from day one of helping you to run far, set goals and meet them. We provide free and super popular coach-vetted training plans for just about every distance and ability level, from your first 5K to a sub-3 hour marathon, to a 100-miler training plan. We've got you covered. We also follow the latest news and storylines in the running world, and review all the best shoes, running watches and gear on our site and our Youtube channel. At our heart, we are runners and athletes ourselves – every person on our team is a running coach, distance runner, or certified health and fitness trainer.

May 25, 2024

Editors Alex Cyr, Katelyn Tocci and Michael Doyle break down every aspect of how a successful marathon training plan is built, including: Ideal length of a marathon training plan Macrocycle vs mesocycles, what are they? Our favorite workouts Training methods (Heart rate/pace training / RPE training) Long runs: how long should they be and how many should you do How to choose the correct training plan How to pick a coach Hosts: Alex Cyr, Katelyn Tocci, Michael Doyle

May 20, 2024

Our news editor Jessy Carveth joins Michael Doyle to discuss how a recreational runner duped a major news outlet (and donors on GoFundMe) into thinking she will be representing the U.S. at this summer's Olympic Games (00:00:46). Then, they debate whether or not Canadian standout Michael Roth should have been DQed for an "unsportsmanlike" gesture when he won a NCAA conference championship race (00:10:59). They also provide details for "Sprint," the Netflix's upcoming docuseries on track athletes, and talk about if it will propel athletics as "Drive To Survive" did Formula One (00:21:11). And finally, they get into the Paris Games' "anti-sex bed" fiasco (00:38:15). Hosts: Jessy Carveth, Michael Doyle Also check out the video version of our pods on YouTube! Find us at: https://www.youtube.com/@marathonhandbook Over 160,000 runners read our newsletter. Sign up here and get our free book The 26 Golden Rules Of Running: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter/ Follow us on IG: https://instagram.com/marathon.handbook Follow us on Tikok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marathon.handbook Like us on FB: https://facebook.com/marathonhandbook Follow us on X: https://x.com/MarathonHB Marathon Handbook was founded in 2016, with the mission from day one of helping you to run far, set goals and meet them. We provide free and super popular coach-vetted training plans for just about every distance and ability level, from your first 5K to a sub-3 hour marathon, to a 100-miler training plan. We've got you covered. We also follow the latest news and storylines in the running world, and review all the best shoes, running watches and gear on our site and our Youtube channel. At our heart, we are runners and athletes ourselves – every person on our team is a running coach, distance runner, or certified health and fitness trainer. #marathon #marathonrunning #londonmarathon #bostonmarathon #running #runningmotivation #newyorkcitymarathon #nycmarathon #bostonmarathon #Olympics #olympicmarathon #nike #hoka #onrunning #brooksrunning #asics #adidasrunning #parisolympics #olympicmarathon

May 16, 2024

Marathon Handbook editors Alex Cyr, Michael Doyle and Katelyn Tocci gather together for their weekly group chat. Katelyn just ran a marathon in New Hampshire, where there was snow at the start line and she ran down a big ol’ mountain (01:32). It was her first in many years, so we thought it would be a great opportunity to unpack how each of us recovers when the goal race is done (23:19), and also how we get up off the mat, and refocus and the importance of goal setting. We share with you each of our own big goals for the rest of the year and beyond (39:07). And then, Alex, our Lord of the Shoes, explains this golden era in “super trainers,” the Frankenstein category between a super shoe and an everyday trainer, with recent releases from the likes of Hoka and On Running (56:27). Alex shares his thoughts on whether or not these shoes are the Goldilocks for workouts and long runs, if they are worth the pretty high cost of adding them to the roster, or if they are just marketing hype. Hosts: Alex Cyr, Michael Doyle, Katelyn Tocci Also check out the video version of our pods on YouTube! Find us at: https://www.youtube.com/@marathonhandbook Over 160,000 runners read our newsletter. Sign up here and get our free book The 26 Golden Rules Of Running: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter/ Follow us on IG: https://instagram.com/marathon.handbook Follow us on Tikok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marathon.handbook Like us on FB: https://facebook.com/marathonhandbook Follow us on X: https://x.com/MarathonHB Marathon Handbook was founded in 2016, with the mission from day one of helping you to run far, set goals and meet them. We provide free and super popular coach-vetted training plans for just about every distance and ability level, from your first 5K to a sub-3 hour marathon, to a 100-miler training plan. We've got you covered. We also follow the latest news and storylines in the running world, and review all the best shoes, running watches and gear on our site and our Youtube channel. At our heart, we are runners and athletes ourselves – every person on our team is a running coach, distance runner, or certified health and fitness trainer. #marathon #marathonrunning #londonmarathon #bostonmarathon #running #runningmotivation #newyorkcitymarathon #nycmarathon #bostonmarathon #Olympics #olympicmarathon #nike #hoka #onrunning

May 10, 2024

Senior news editor Jessy Carveth joins Michael Doyle to talk about a wild week in the running scene. They unpack a controversial disqualification at a California Marathon (04:17), a UK man who's run 1,000 marathons over a 43 year stretch (14:47), Olympic marathon qualification ridiculousness (22:53), Nike's alleged manipulation of the Kenyan squad for the Paris Games (35:56), and... zombies (51:05). Hosts: Jessy Carveth, Michael Doyle Also check out the video version of our pods on YouTube! Find us at: https://www.youtube.com/@marathonhandbook Over 160,000 runners read our newsletter. Sign up here and get our free book The 26 Golden Rules Of Running: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter/ Follow us on IG: https://instagram.com/marathon.handbook Follow us on Tikok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marathon.handbook Like us on FB: https://facebook.com/marathonhandbook Follow us on X: https://x.com/MarathonHB Marathon Handbook was founded in 2016, with the mission from day one of helping you to run far, set goals and meet them. We provide free and super popular coach-vetted training plans for just about every distance and ability level, from your first 5K to a sub-3 hour marathon, to a 100-miler training plan. We've got you covered. We also follow the latest news and storylines in the running world, and review all the best shoes, running watches and gear on our site and our Youtube channel. At our heart, we are runners and athletes ourselves – every person on our team is a running coach, distance runner, or certified health and fitness trainer. #marathon #marathonrunning #londonmarathon #bostonmarathon #running #runningmotivation #eliudkipchoge #newyorkcitymarathon #nycmarathon #bostonmarathon #Olympics #olympicmarathon #nike

May 4, 2024

Editors Katelyn Tocci and Michael Doyle chat about what it's like to cover Boston, then turn around and go to London for the marathon six days later (00:20), former NHLer and giant man Zdeno Chara's insane back-to-back marathon performances (04:44). Then we dig into what the heck is going on with this Parkrun controversy (08:05), whether or not race results should be in the public domain (27:41), and who owns your NIL in a race? (33:27). Then we discuss the crazy 2025 London Marathon Lottery, which nearly hit 1 million entrants (34:15), how to get into London if you don't get selected (39:00), and what the wild popularity of the Marathon Majors means for the running industry overall (45:05). Finally, Katelyn takes us through her pre-marathon race week prep (53:12), which serves as a guide book for a marathoner! Host: Michael Doyle Co-host: Katelyn Tossi Over 160,000 runners read our newsletter. Sign up here and get our free book The 26 Golden Rules Of Running: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter/ Follow us on IG: https://instagram.com/marathon.handbook Follow us on Tikok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marathon.handbook Like us on FB: https://facebook.com/marathonhandbook Follow us on X: https://x.com/MarathonHB #marathon #marathontraining #marathontrainingplan #marathonrunning #marathontrainingtips #londonmarathon #bostonmarathon #parkrun #running #runningmotivation

May 1, 2024

This this episode Marathon Handbook's Alex Cyr and Michael Doyle are live in Boston to cover the 2024 Boston Marathon immediately after the race. We break down what it's like to run the Boston Marathon, all the gear and neat brand action on the ground throughout marathon weekend, as well as an analysis of both the women's and men's elite races.

May 9, 2023

In this Born To Run 2 interview, we talk to author, journalist and runner extraordinaire, Chris McDougall, and ultrarunner and coach champion, Eric Orton. In this follow-up to the bestseller Born To Run, McDougall and Orton share their practical "how to" guide to running - from drills to speed to shoes to nutrition. We talk about the original book, it's inception and ultimate impact, the state of the barefoot shoe market today, the new book, their collab with @xeroshoes , and plenty more!

Jan 1, 1970

Three-time Olympic champion Gabby Thomas joins Alex Cyr and Katelyn Tocci to break down the tech, mindset, and training that shape her sprinting career. Gabby explains how super spikes compare to distance super shoes (00:26), why she limits their use in training (01:10), and how wearables and accurate metrics guide sprint performance (01:48). She shares the data she actually watches during workouts (02:40), how she manages recovery and sleep without obsession (04:25), and what it’s like navigating post-Olympic highs and lows (05:30). Gabby gets candid about her “killer instinct” on race day (06:53), her surprisingly zen off-track personality (08:35), and why she’s taking on the 400m next season (09:23). She talks discovering Strava (10:52), balancing joy with competitive drive, her Vogue shoot experience (12:10), and how new leagues like Athlos can empower athletes (14:14). The episode closes with a fun debate on what distance she and Katelyn could race head-to-head (16:29).