The running community talks a lot about longer distances, but we are focusing in this episode on an underrated distance: the mile. While most runners can run multiple miles without stopping, racing a mile as fast as you can is an entirely different challenge. In this episode, we discuss how to improve your mile time - whether you are aiming for a 5 minute mile or 12 minute mile.

Discussion points include:

• What are the benefits in racing a mile?
• The physiology of racing a mile
• How to train for a mile race
• Speed workouts to improve your mile time
• Supplemental workouts including plyometric workouts
• How often can you race a mile?
• Do you taper for a mile race?
• How to pace a mile race
• Nutrition considerations for racing a mile

References:

• PMID: 34021488
• PMID: 30299184

A number of listeners have asked us some questions based on common running myths - and so we’re here today to refute some of those myths! From running making you look older to marathons being bad for your health, we wade through the myth and evidence in this episode.

• How does blood donation impact your running?
• Does running make you look older?
• Do zero drop shoes protect you from running injury?
• Should you stop running when you reach menopause?
• Is running marathons bad for your health?
• Does sweating in the cold make you sick?

If you enjoyed this episode, you may also like:

• Episode 25: Running during Perimenopause and Menopause

Further resources:

https://lauranorrisrunning.com/donating-blood-affects-running/

https://lauranorrisrunning.com/sunscreen-for-runners/

https://www.runtothefinish.com/zero-drop-shoe-review/

https://lauranorrisrunning.com/heel-strike-running/

https://www.runtothefinish.com/best-cushioned-running-shoes/

References:

• PMID: 22953596
• PMID: 31685526
• PMID: 31045685

Larger encompasses a variety of body types: taller than average, more muscle, or higher body mass. Both Laura and Amanda are taller than the average female runner and have worked with runners of a wide range of body sizes. However, we’ve noticed that a lot of the online advice that focuses mostly on how to start running if you have a larger body - but what about if you are a seasoned runner who is taller, more muscular, or heavier?

Discussion points include:

• What are the Athena and Clydesdale categories?
• Do you need to lose weight to start running?
• Understanding “metabolically healthy”
• How does running in a larger body increase your injury risk?
• Do larger runners need more fuel during long runs/races?
• Sweat rates for taller and heavier runners
• Running gait variations for taller runners
• Inclusive sizing gear/clothing brands
• Tips for new runners

Sweat test instructions: https://www.featherstonenutrition.com/hydration/

References:

PMID: 27852613

PMID: 38350462

https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/overweight-and-healthy-the-concept-of-metabolically-healthy-obesity-201309246697