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Better by next week ... A Podcast Fifteen years ago, Dad Tim embarked on an ultra running odyssey, stepping onto rugged trails with a...

When you push yourself harder during a run, the effort often feels grueling, even overwhelming. Yet, the satisfaction and sense of accomplishment afterward can be extraordinary. This experience reflects a simple truth: the more difficult the challenge, the greater the reward. This idea echoes Newton’s third law of motion, which states that every action has an equal and opposite reaction. In running and life, the harder you push, the more powerful the payoff. This post explore

Running can be a powerful way to improve your health, clear your mind, and set personal challenges. But as an amateur runner, it’s easy to get caught up in chasing goals and forget about the relationships that support and enrich your life. Balancing your running ambitions with time for the people who matter is not just kind to your loved ones, it also makes you a better, happier runner. Why Balancing Running and Relationships Matters Running is rewarding, but it can also be d

Every goal worth reaching demands effort, patience, and resilience. The climb to success or personal achievement is rarely straightforward. It twists, turns, and sometimes feels like you are moving backward. Yet, the view at the top makes every struggle worthwhile. Understanding that the journey itself holds the real value helps us stay motivated and trust ourselves through the ups and downs. The climb is always worth the view at the top The Road Is Never Straight When you se

Every runner knows the feeling of pushing through a tough workout or crossing a finish line after a gruelling race. These moments are more than just physical achievements. They offer a chance to pause and reflect on how far you’ve come. Taking time to reflect on your running journey helps you see growth not only in your fitness but also in your everyday life. Each hard challenge you face, whether on the road or in daily routines, shapes your ability to handle future obstacles

Running is a powerful way to boost your health, but the choices you make outside of your training can have just as much impact. Small changes in your diet and lifestyle can improve your running performance and overall well-being. Instead of overhauling everything at once, making better or alternative choices can lead to lasting benefits. This post explores how small shifts, like swapping full-strength beer for zero beer or choosing healthier sweets, can help you run better an

Every new year, millions set resolutions with hope and excitement. Yet, by February or March, many find those resolutions fading away. Why does this happen? Because resolutions often focus on a challenge to overcome, a finish line to cross, or a sudden change to make. But real improvement, especially in running and life, is a process. It happens through small, steady steps and shifts in habits, not quick fixes or dramatic leaps. This post explores how to reframe your approach

You just crossed the finish line of a big running event. Your legs feel like jelly, your lungs are begging for mercy, and your mind is buzzing with a mix of relief, pride, and maybe a dash of “What just happened?” It’s tempting to jump straight into planning your next race or scrolling through your phone to check your time. But before you do, take a moment to soak in the feeling. Reflection after a big running event is not just a nice-to-have; it’s a powerful tool that helps

Running in warm weather can feel like a challenge, even when the thermometer reads a comfortable 20 degrees Celsius. Add the sun blazing overhead, and suddenly that “cool” day feels much hotter. Whether you’re training or racing, managing heat is key to staying safe and performing your best. This guide covers practical tips and some simple science to help you handle everything from mild warmth to scorching 35-degree days. Keeping cool Why the Sun Makes It Feel Hotter Than the

Speed is the holy grail for many runners. When the latest "super shoes" hit the market promising to boost your pace, it’s tempting to believe they hold the key to unlocking your fastest self. But can shoes alone make you faster, or are they just a hopeful accessory? Let’s explore how much these shoes really contribute to speed and why your own body and training remain the true drivers of performance. The Super Shoe The Role of Super Shoes in Speed Super shoes often feature ad

Stress affects every part of our lives, including how well we run. When stress builds up in the body, it can reduce endurance, slow reaction times, and increase the risk of injury. Understanding what stress does inside the body and how it physically affects runners is key to improving performance. This post explains how stress works, the toll it takes on runners, and offers five practical steps to reduce stress and become a better runner. What !?! DU135 ...Nothing to stress a

Running events can bring excitement, challenges, and a mix of emotions. Whether you're an experienced marathoner or participating in your first 5K, staying motivated is key to enjoying training and race day. In this blog post, we will dive into different motivational strategies, examining their strengths and weaknesses, and ultimately help you find a balance to enjoy your running journey. That morning motivation feeling The All-In Approach: Seeking External Validation Going "

Trail running is more than just a workout; it’s a thrilling adventure that connects you to nature while offering remarkable benefits for your body. Unlike the hard surfaces of pavement or tracks, trail running involves varying terrains, elevations, and stunning scenery, all of which can significantly enhance your physical and mental health. In this blog post, we will delve into the many advantages of trail running compared to other surfaces and how these differences can posit

Waking up for a morning run can feel challenging. The comfort of your bed can make it hard to rise. You might find yourself thinking, “Why am I doing this?” But don’t worry! With the right mindset and some simple techniques, you can turn your mornings into an energising start to your day. Let’s explore seven effective strategies to help you shake off that morning dread. 1. Prioritise Sleep: The Foundation of Early Rising A key way to face your morning run is to ensure you're

When it comes to racing, aid stations can be your best friend or worst enemy. They are the support systems providing hydration, nutrition, and a brief respite on your journey. However, how you approach these stations can dramatically influence your performance. In this post, we will uncover how to optimise your time at aid stations to reach your goals and highlight the common pitfalls of overstaying. The Importance of Aid Stations Aid stations are intentionally placed through

Sleep is often the unsung hero of recovery. In today's fast-paced world, where hustle and productivity take center stage, the importance of a good night's sleep is frequently overlooked. However, sleep is the most effective and cost-efficient form of recovery available to us. It’s time to highlight this crucial aspect of our health and well-being. This blog post explores how sleep aids recovery, what is needed for optimal sleep, effective hacks to help you fall asleep faster,

For many runners, caffeine is not just a daily ritual; it’s considered a secret weapon. This stimulant helps improve performance by lowering perceived effort and enhancing focus. As a result, when tiredness sets in during the later stages of a race, caffeine can provide the necessary boost. Yet, it’s important to understand that not everyone reacts to caffeine the same way. For instance, while one runner feels energised and focused after two cups of coffee, another might expe

As you enter your 40s, you may hear the myth that your best athletic days are behind you. This notion couldn't be further from the truth....

Experiencing stomach issues during long runs or races can be frustrating for runners. But here’s the good news: managing your gut is not...

As runners, we often face the complex challenge of managing our training schedules, race preparations, and dietary needs. It can feel...