Episodes

  • 291. Why Runners Don't Follow Through on Their Half Marathon Goals (And How 2026 Can Be Different)

    291. Why Runners Don't Follow Through on Their Half Marathon Goals (And How 2026 Can Be Different)
    Jan 1 2026
    Join The Half Marathon Follow-Through Formula (FREE 4-Day Challenge) If you've trained for a half marathon before but didn't follow through, this episode will change how you think about training. In this episode of the Healthy Runner Podcast, Dr. Duane Scotti breaks down the real reason half marathon training falls apart for so many runners (it has nothing to do with motivation or discipline). Most runners are committed and driven, but they're missing a system that actually fits real life. You'll learn why relying on motivation leads to burnout, how skipping strength and recovery increases injury risk, and what it really takes to stay consistent when life gets busy. Inside the episode, you'll discover: - Why most half marathon training plans fail - The 5 biggest mistakes that cause runners to fall off - How to build a realistic weekly training schedule - Why strength and recovery are essential for consistency - How to adjust training without quitting when setbacks happen Duane also shares a real runner success story and invites you to join a free 4-Day Challenge, The Half Marathon Follow-Through Formula, designed to help you stop feeling stuck and finish strong in 2026. If you want to stop starting over and finally follow through on your half marathon goals, this episode is for you. 🎧 Listen now and take the first step toward making 2026 different. [Download] Half Marathon Training Kickstart Kit: Start Strong and Stay Injury Free! Join the Waitlist and learn more about Half Marathon Group Coaching Here Listen to my previous episode on Half Marathon Training for Beginners Here Listen to my previous episode on determining if you are ready to run your first half marathon here! Listen to my previous episode on half marathon fueling here! Listen to my previous episode on the top 5 half marathon mistakes to avoid here! Listen to my previous episode on unlocking my fastest half marathon time in 7 years here! Listen to my previous episode on half marathon prep the week before your race here! Want to run stronger, faster, and injury-free? The Healthy Runner Academy gives you a proven system to stay consistent, prevent injuries, and build strength with expert coaching and a supportive running community. Join the waitlist to be first in line when doors open (only 3x/year) and get a special bonus. A big thanks to ucan for your support for this episode! Want to know what we recommend to our athletes during hard marathon training? We use EDGE Energy Gels from UCAN for those long runs! Fuel smarter during a run with the best no sugar energy gel on the market delivering up to 75+ minutes of steady energy to power your best running performance. Click here and use code HEALTHYRUNNER for 20% off your entire UCAN order! Connect with Dr. Duane: - Instagram - @sparkhealthyrunner - Sign up for the Healthy Runner Newsletter - Join our Healthy Runner Facebook Community - Subscribe to our YouTube Channel - duane@sparkhealthyrunner.com - www.sparkhealthyrunner.com Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Amazon Music Website
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    37 mins
  • 290. RunDisney Marathon Weekend: 7 Race Week Essentials for Dopey Runners

    290. RunDisney Marathon Weekend: 7 Race Week Essentials for Dopey Runners
    Dec 22 2025
    Download the Ultimate Marathon Race Ready Guide Here! Preparing for RunDisney Marathon Weekend or taking on the Dopey Challenge? Dr. Duane Scotti breaks down the 7 race week essentials that every Disney runner must know from how to taper the right way, to what to eat each day, to the weather, packing, and logistics that make RunDisney so unique. Learn how to avoid the common mistakes that drain energy, derail race week, or increase your injury risk, and instead run each magical mile with confidence, gratitude, and joy. Whether you're running the 5K, 10K, Half, Full, Goofy, or Dopey, this episode will help you feel prepared, strong, and ready to conquer Marathon Weekend the smart way. ✅ Subscribe for more marathon training tips, injury prevention, and smarter strength strategies. Grab your FREE RunDisney Race Ready Checklist Here! Want Dr. Duane to answer your question on the podcast? Submit questions here Want to run stronger, faster, and injury-free? The Healthy Runner Academy provides you the step-by-step system to finally stay consistent, avoid burnout, and prevent nagging injuries… all with expert coaching and a supportive community behind you! Perfect for adult runners who want to: - Stop nagging injuries - Build a resilient running body - Get faster and stronger - Enjoy pain-free, consistent training Join the waitlist today and be first in line when doors open (only 3x/year) + get a special bonus to strengthen your running journey! Episodes and Resources mentioned in this episode: Listen to my previous episode on 6 Steps to Mastering runDisney Training Listen to my previous episode on my Disney Marathon Weekend Recap Conquering the Dopey Challenge Listen to my previous episode on what to do after you sign up for the Dopey challenge Listen to my previous episode with Jeff Galloway on how to implement the run walk run method for Disney training Listen to my previous episode on marathon strength training guide: run stronger with these 3 essentials here! Watch how Sonya overcame her fears to finish her first marathon in Disney by getting stronger not only physically but mentally here! Watch how Dipti went from chronic shin splints for over a year to running the Disney Dopey Challenge in 6 months here! Watch how Stephanie went from IT band pain with every long run to conquering the 48.6 mile Dopey Challenge here! A big thanks to Naboso for your support for this episode! Want to know how I prioritize achilles and foot health to prevent & heal achilles tendonitis? Kinesis board and toe splays from Naboso! Naboso's product, the Kinesis board, features dual sensory stimulation, a micro-wobble system and a single-leg platform to improve my stability for running! Click here and use code HEALTHYRUNNER for 20% off your entire Naboso order! Connect with Dr. Duane: - Instagram - @sparkhealthyrunner - Sign up for the Healthy Runner Newsletter - Join our Healthy Runner Facebook Community - Subscribe to our YouTube Channel - duane@sparkhealthyrunner.com - www.sparkhealthyrunner.com Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Amazon Music
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    1 hr and 24 mins
  • 289. Philadelphia Marathon Recap: What Went Wrong and What I Nailed to Get Stronger for My Next Race

    289. Philadelphia Marathon Recap: What Went Wrong and What I Nailed to Get Stronger for My Next Race
    Dec 4 2025
    Join the waitlist for Healthy Runner Academy Here! If you have ever trained perfectly… only to fall short of your goal on race day… this episode is for you. I am breaking down my Philadelphia Marathon, the lessons that cost me a PR and the wins that set me up to come back even stronger. Inside, you will learn: • The exact moment my race slipped away • How I managed pacing, fueling, and hydration with zero cramps (until I didn't) • The elevation traps most runners underestimate in Philly • Why "middle mile mindset" can make or break your race • What I will do differently next time, so you can too Race day results are never just about fitness. mindset, strategy, focus, and adaptability all play a huge role once the marathon gets real. Whether you are shooting for a PR or simply trying to run your next marathon feeling strong, this recap gives you the real behind the scenes (not just the highlight reel). ✅ Subscribe for more marathon training tips, injury prevention, and smarter strength strategies. Grab your FREE Ultimate Marathon Training Guide to Master Your Marathon Feeling Strong! There are six parts of your running journey that need to be optimized so you can run strong and last long! Learn them here Want Dr. Duane to answer your question on the podcast? Submit questions here Want to run stronger, faster, and injury-free? The Healthy Runner Academy provides you the step-by-step system to finally stay consistent, avoid burnout, and prevent nagging injuries… all with expert coaching and a supportive community behind you! Perfect for adult runners who want to: - Stop nagging injuries - Build a resilient running body - Get faster and stronger - Enjoy pain-free, consistent training Join the waitlist today and be first in line when doors open (only 3x/year) + get a special bonus to strengthen your running journey! Episodes and Resources mentioned in this episode: Listen to my previous episode on the race day mistake most runners don't see coming here! Listen to my previous episode on 7 lessons learned from not running for 42 days here! Download THE Ultimate Guide to Running Healthy without Achilles Pain Listen to my previous episode on marathon strength training guide: run stronger with these 3 essentials here! Listen to my previous episode race recap running a 23 minute PR at the Cape Cod Marathon here! Listen to my previous episode on conquering 48.6 miles as part of the Dopey Challenge here! A big thanks to CurraNz for your support for this episode! Want to know my favorite recovery supplement for runners? CurraNz is New Zealand's natural running supplement made of a strong antioxidant (polyphenol anthocyanin) found within blackcurrants. Learn more about the real science behind blackcurrant extract in my interview with Fleur Cushman in episode 233 on the Healthy Runner Podcast. Click here and use code HEALTHYRUNNER for 20% off your first order! Connect with Dr. Duane: - Instagram - @sparkhealthyrunner - Sign up for the Healthy Runner Newsletter - Join our Healthy Runner Facebook Community - Subscribe to our YouTube Channel - duane@sparkhealthyrunner.com - www.sparkhealthyrunner.com Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Amazon Music Website
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    1 hr and 11 mins
  • 288. Weighted Vest Training for Runners: Helpful or Harmful? What You Need to Know with Coach Cat

    288. Weighted Vest Training for Runners: Helpful or Harmful? What You Need to Know with Coach Cat
    Nov 20 2025
    Should you run or walk with a weighted vest to get stronger or faster? Or is it just another social media fitness fad that can lead to injury? In this episode, Dr. Duane Scotti sits down with Coach Cat from the Spark Healthy Runner team to break down the science behind weighted vest training for runners. Together, they uncover what fitness influencers often get wrong and explain when (and how) a weighted vest might actually be helpful — and when it can do more harm than good. You'll learn: - Whether weighted vests really help with bone density, weight loss, or speed - Why runners over 40 should be cautious before adding extra load - The truth behind "1 pound adds 4 pounds of pressure" on your joints - Safe alternatives to build strength without increasing injury risk - A simple, evidence-based way to strengthen your running body year-round If you've ever wondered whether a weighted vest can take your training to the next level or just add unnecessary stress to your joints, this episode is for you. 🎧 Tune in and discover how to run stronger, faster, and injury-free…no gimmicks required. There are six steps to growing in your trail running journey so you can enjoy it and stay healthy! Learn them here! Want to start running (the right way) without getting injured? Download our blueprint here! Get all of coach Cat's previous trainings here! Follow along with coach Cat's 30-Minute Treadmill workout for runners here! Listen to our previous episode on 6-Steps to get strong this winter here! Listen to our previous episode on how to build a solid foundation with base training here! Want to run stronger, faster, and injury-free? The Healthy Runner Academy provides you the step-by-step system to finally stay consistent, avoid burnout, and prevent nagging injuries — all with expert coaching and a supportive community behind you. Perfect for adult runners who want to: - Stop nagging injuries - Build a resilient running body - Get faster and stronger - Enjoy pain-free, consistent training Join the waitlist today and be first in line when doors open (only 3x/year) + get a special bonus to strengthen your running journey! ⭐️ Winter Strong Body Coaching Here! http://learn.sparkhealthyrunner.com/strong Sign up for Free Healthy Runner Newsletter here! ➡︎ https://sparkhealthyrunner.com/newsletter/ A big thanks to Naboso for your support for this episode! Want to know how I prioritize achilles and foot health to prevent & heal achilles tendonitis? Kinesis board and toe splays from Naboso! Naboso's product, the Kinesis board, features dual sensory stimulation, a micro-wobble system and a single-leg platform to improve my stability for running! Click here and use code HEALTHYRUNNER for 20% off your entire Naboso order! Connect with Coach Cat: - Email: cat@sparkhealthyrunner.com - Healthy Runner Facebook Community Connect with Dr. Duane: - Instagram - @sparkhealthyrunner - Sign up for the Healthy Runner Newsletter - Join our Healthy Runner Facebook Community - Subscribe to our YouTube Channel - duane@sparkhealthyrunner.com - www.sparkhealthyrunner.com Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Amazon Music Website
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    1 hr
  • 287. Stop Making These Marathon Fueling Mistakes (Especially If You're Over 40) with Jennifer Giles, RDN

    287. Stop Making These Marathon Fueling Mistakes (Especially If You're Over 40) with Jennifer Giles, RDN
    Nov 6 2025
    [Download] the Ultimate Guide to Mastering Your Marathon Feeling Strong Are you unintentionally sabotaging your marathon with fueling mistakes? You're not alone. Most runners over 40 struggle with energy crashes, GI issues, cramping, or bonking — and it has nothing to do with fitness and everything to do with fueling. In this episode, I'm joined by sports nutritionist, exercise physiologist, and speaker Jenn Giles, who specializes in marathon fueling for masters runners. Together, we break down the most common marathon nutrition mistakes and exactly how to fuel smarter so you can run strong from start to finish. ✅ Here's what you'll learn: - The biggest fueling mistakes runners over 40 make (and how to fix them) - Why bonking is totally preventable — if you follow this strategy - Carb loading mistakes that cause race day disaster (and what to do instead) - Exactly how many carbs per hour your body needs during a marathon - Gel vs. chews vs. real food — what REALLY works? - How underfueling leads to injuries, fatigue, and burnout - A simple race week fueling plan anyone can follow - The electrolyte formula to prevent cramping in long races If you've ever hit the wall, struggled with race day stomach issues, or faded hard after mile 18, this episode will change how you fuel forever. 🎧 Listen now and learn how to fuel your miles like a master — so you can race strong, recover faster, and enjoy marathon running for life. Want to run stronger, faster, and injury-free for your Marathon? The Healthy Runner Academy provides you the step-by-step system to finally stay consistent, avoid burnout, and prevent nagging injuries — all with expert coaching and a supportive community behind you. Perfect for adult runners who want to: - Stop nagging injuries - Build a resilient running body - Get faster and stronger - Enjoy pain-free, consistent training Join the waitlist today and be first in line when doors open (only 3x/year) + get a special bonus to strengthen your running journey! Related Resources: Listen to my previous conversation with Jenn and learn what to eat and drink before your long run here! Listen to my previous episode on marathon nutrition here! Listen to my previous episode on Beginner Marathon Training here! Listen to my previous episode on Advanced Marathon Training here! Listen to my previous episode on injury prevention for marathon training here! Listen to my previous episode on marathon strength training guide: run stronger with these 3 essentials here! Sign up for Free Healthy Runner Newsletter here! ➡︎ https://sparkhealthyrunner.com/newsletter/ A big thanks to CurraNz for your support for this episode! Want to know my favorite recovery supplement for runners? CurraNz is New Zealand's natural running supplement made of a strong antioxidant (polyphenol anthocyanin) found within blackcurrants. Learn more about the real science behind blackcurrant extract in my interview with Fleur Cushman in episode 233 on the Healthy Runner Podcast. Click here and use code HEALTHYRUNNER for 20% off your first order! Connect with Jenn Giles: - Instagram: @jenngileseat4sport - TikTok: @jenngileseat4sport - Website: www.jenngilesrd.com Connect with Dr. Duane: - Instagram - @sparkhealthyrunner - Sign up for the Healthy Runner Newsletter - Join our Healthy Runner Facebook Community - Subscribe to our YouTube Channel - duane@sparkhealthyrunner.com - www.sparkhealthyrunner.com Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Amazon Music Website
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    1 hr and 9 mins
  • 286. NYC Marathon Survival Guide: Race Day Tips from Ferry to Finish with Coach Whitney LaCombe

    286. NYC Marathon Survival Guide: Race Day Tips from Ferry to Finish with Coach Whitney LaCombe
    Oct 23 2025
    [Download] The Ultimate Marathon Guide to Master Your NYC Marathon Feeling Strong! Are you running the TCS New York City Marathon this year? Whether it's your first 26.2 or your fifth, this episode is your complete survival guide to race day — from the ferry ride to the finish line in Central Park! Coach Whitney LaCombe from the Spark Healthy Runner coaching team joins Dr. Duane Scotti to break down everything you need to know to make race day smooth, confident, and unforgettable. We cover: 🏃‍♀️ Race morning logistics — what time to leave, what to bring, and how to handle the start village chaos 🗽 Course experience — where the hills really hit, what the crowds are like, and how to pace yourself across the five boroughs 🎽 Expo essentials — what's worth seeing (and skipping) before race day 💧 Race strategy — fuel, hydration, and mindset tips to avoid hitting the wall 🎉 Post-race recovery & meetup tips — how to reunite with family, manage soreness, and celebrate your finish Coach Whitney has conquered NYC twice and helped countless runners do the same — so if you've ever worried about missing your corral, running out of toilet paper (yes, we go there), or hitting the wall at mile 20… this episode will calm your nerves and prepare you for your best race yet. 🎁 Download your free Marathon Blueprint Grab your copy of our Healthy Runner Marathon Blueprint for your step-by-step race week 🎧 Tune in, take notes, and run NYC with confidence — we've got your back from ferry to finish! Want to run stronger, faster, and injury-free for your Marathon? The Healthy Runner Academy provides you the step-by-step system to finally stay consistent, avoid burnout, and prevent nagging injuries — all with expert coaching and a supportive community behind you. Perfect for adult runners who want to: - Stop nagging injuries - Build a resilient running body - Get faster and stronger - Enjoy pain-free, consistent training Join the waitlist today and be first in line when doors open (only 3x/year) + get a special bonus to strengthen your running journey! Episodes and Resources mentioned in this episode: Listen or watch all of coach Whitney's previous episodes Listen to my previous episode on Beginner Marathon Training here! Listen to my previous episode on Advanced Marathon Training here! Listen to my previous episode on injury prevention for marathon training here! Listen to my previous episode on marathon strength training guide: run stronger with these 3 essentials here! A big thanks to CurraNz for your support for this episode! Want to know my favorite recovery supplement for runners? CurraNz is New Zealand's natural running supplement made of a strong antioxidant (polyphenol anthocyanin) found within blackcurrants. Learn more about the real science behind blackcurrant extract in my interview with Fleur Cushman in episode 233 on the Healthy Runner Podcast. Click here and use code HEALTHYRUNNER for 20% off your first order! Connect with coach Whitney: - Instagram: @runwhitspark - Email: whitney@sparkhealthyrunner.com - Healthy Runner Facebook Community Connect with Dr. Duane: - Instagram - @sparkhealthyrunner - Sign up for the Healthy Runner Newsletter - Join our Healthy Runner Facebook Community - Subscribe to our YouTube Channel - duane@sparkhealthyrunner.com - www.sparkhealthyrunner.com Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Amazon Music Website
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    1 hr and 5 mins
  • 285. How to Run for Life Without Getting Injured - Running Longevity Tips (Interview by Coach Sara Manderscheid)

    285. How to Run for Life Without Getting Injured - Running Longevity Tips (Interview by Coach Sara Manderscheid)
    Oct 16 2025
    Want to keep running strong for decades — without dealing with the same nagging injuries? In this powerful conversation, I sat down with Coach Sara Manderscheid on the Elevate Your Running Podcast to talk all about how to make running a lifelong pursuit. We dive deep into: - How to adapt your training as you age so you can stay strong and confident in every season of life - Why strength and plyometric work are non-negotiable for injury prevention - How to tell the difference between "normal" soreness and red flags that mean you need to pause - The key mindset shifts that turn setbacks into long-term success Whether you're coming back from injury, feeling frustrated by recurring pain, or simply want to make sure you're still running well into your 40s, 50s, and beyond — this episode will help you build a body that's durable, strong, and built for the long run. 🎁 Grab your FREE 6-Step Plan to GROW in Your Running Journey: learn.sparkhealthyrunner.com/grow Listen to my previous episode with Sara on 5 Recovery Essentials Every Runner Over 40 needs here! Follow along with my 25 Minute Strength Workout for Runners (TO RUN PAIN FREE) There are six parts of your running journey that need to be optimized so you can run strong and last long! Learn them here 💥 Healthy Runner Academy is a membership for runners who want to feel stronger, more confident, and run pain-free all year long — without the overwhelm. 👉 Join the waitlist now and be the first to access our next enrollment and get exclusive bonuses! Don't miss your chance to reset your running and finish this year stronger than ever. Want to work with Dr. Duane as your running physical therapist and coach with structured rehab, strength, nutrition, and a run plan with full support and accountability to prevent your stubborn injury from coming back again? Book a call and learn more about Healthy Runner coaching here Related Resources: Listen to my previous episode with Sara on 5 Recovery Essentials Every Runner Over 40 needs here! Listen to my previous episode on Marathon Injury Prevention here! Listen to my previous episode on the 7 Lessons Learned From My Running Injury here! Listen to my previous episode on How to Return to Running After Injury here! A big thanks to Naboso for your support for this episode! Want to know how I prioritize achilles and foot health to prevent & heal achilles tendonitis? Kinesis board and toe splays from Naboso! Naboso's product, the Kinesis board, features dual sensory stimulation, a micro-wobble system and a single-leg platform to improve my stability for running! Click here and use code HEALTHYRUNNER for 20% off your entire Naboso order! Connect with Sara Manderscheid: Instagram & Threads: @elevateyourrunning and @sayrahrunshappy Website: https://elevateyourrunning.com The Elevate Your Running Podcast on Apple The Elevate Your Running Podcast on Spotify Connect with Dr. Duane: - Instagram - @sparkhealthyrunner - Sign up for the Healthy Runner Newsletter - Join our Healthy Runner Facebook Community - Subscribe to our YouTube Channel - duane@sparkhealthyrunner.com - www.sparkhealthyrunner.com Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Amazon Music Website
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    1 hr and 21 mins
  • 284. Never Get Bored Running Again: 3 Route Planning Secrets with Coach Lu

    284. Never Get Bored Running Again: 3 Route Planning Secrets with Coach Lu
    Oct 2 2025
    Do you find yourself running the same loop over and over… and getting bored? In this episode, Coach Duane sits down with coach Lufeng Zou from our Spark Healthy Runner team to uncover the secret to keeping running exciting, purposeful, and fun through smart route planning. You'll learn the 3 types of running routes every runner needs: - Routine Runs — familiar loops that make recovery days stress-free - Workout Routes — purposeful paths for speedwork, hills, and long runs - Exploration Runs — fun adventures (yes, even Strava Art 🎨) that bring joy back to running Whether you're training for your next half marathon or just trying to stay consistent without burning out, this episode will show you how to plan routes that build strength, keep you motivated, and help you run injury-free for life. Hit play, and let's make your running anything but boring! Want to run stronger, faster, and injury-free? The Healthy Runner Academy provides you the step-by-step system to finally stay consistent, avoid burnout, and prevent nagging injuries — all with expert coaching and a supportive community behind you. Perfect for adult runners who want to: - Stop nagging injuries - Build a resilient running body - Get faster and stronger - Enjoy pain-free, consistent training Join the waitlist today and be first in line when doors open (only 3x/year) + get a special bonus to strengthen your running journey! Episodes and Resources mentioned in this episode: Listen to coach Lu's story on getting a sub 3 hour marathon in Boston here! Sign up for Free Healthy Runner Newsletter here! ➡︎ https://sparkhealthyrunner.com/newsletter/ A big thanks to Naboso for your support for this episode! Want to know how I prioritize achilles and foot health to prevent & heal achilles tendonitis? Kinesis board and toe splays from Naboso! Naboso's product, the Kinesis board, features dual sensory stimulation, a micro-wobble system and a single-leg platform to improve my stability for running! Click here and use code HEALTHYRUNNER for 20% off your entire Naboso order! Connect with coach Lu: - Follow coach Lu on Instagram - Email: lu@sparkhealthyrunner.com - Healthy Runner Facebook Community Connect with Dr. Duane: - Instagram - @sparkhealthyrunner - Sign up for the Healthy Runner Newsletter - Join our Healthy Runner Facebook Community - Subscribe to our YouTube Channel - duane@sparkhealthyrunner.com - www.sparkhealthyrunner.com Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Amazon Music Website
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    1 hr and 19 mins