In this post, we’ll go over the benefits of listening to podcasts. Providing some recommendations for some popular podcasts to check out.

1. Stay up-to-date with the latest trends and news

One of the major benefits of listening to podcasts is the ability to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and news in the running world. Many podcasts feature interviews with industry experts and coaches, providing valuable insights and advice on a variety of topics.

There are also podcasts that cover the latest research and developments in the running world, from new training techniques and strategies to the latest gear and technology. By listening to podcasts, you can stay informed and ahead of the curve in terms of your training and performance.

2. Get inspired and motivated with Running Podcasts

Running can be a challenging and sometimes lonely sport. Listening to podcasts can help provide inspiration and motivation when you need it most. Many podcasts feature interviews with successful runners and their stories of overcoming challenges and achieving their goals. These stories can be incredibly inspiring and help remind you of what’s possible with hard work and determination.

In addition to inspiring stories, there are also podcasts that offer tips and advice for staying motivated and achieving your own running goals. Whether it’s setting new personal bests, training for a specific race, or simply staying consistent with your training, these podcasts can provide valuable guidance and support.

3. Learn new training techniques and strategies

Another benefit of listening to podcasts is the opportunity to learn new training techniques and strategies. This can help improve your running form and performance. Many podcasts offer tips and tricks for everything from improving your running efficiency to recovering from injuries.

In addition, there are also podcasts that offer training plans and workouts for different levels and goals. Whether you’re just starting out or are an experienced runner looking to take your training to the next level, these podcasts can provide valuable guidance and structure for your training.

4. Connect with other runners and the running community

Running can be a solitary sport, but listening to media can help you feel connected to other runners and the wider running community. Many podcasts feature discussion and analysis of running events and races, providing an opportunity to learn more about these events and hear from other runners who have participated in them.

In addition, some podcasts feature listener Q&A and feedback segments, allowing you to connect with other runners and share your own experiences and insights. By listening to these podcasts, you can feel like you’re part of a larger community of runners.

Running Podcasts Conclusion

Listening to podcasts can provide a wealth of benefits for runners of all levels. From staying up-to-date with the latest trends and news, to getting inspired and motivated, to learning new training techniques and strategies, to connecting with other runners and the running community, there are countless reasons to tune in to these podcasts.

To get started, you can see a few popular running podcasts here.

No matter which podcast you choose, we hope you’ll find it enjoyable and helpful in your running journey. Happy listening!

The post The Benefits of Listening to Running Podcasts appeared first on Run Tall.

I’ve been through different phases over my running life. Starting off with a trusty iPod Nano with Nike kit (look them up!), every-run I did for years was using those classic iPod earphones – always to a custom playlist to my taste. Once I joined a running club, I moved away from listening to music. I didn’t find it very sociable whilst running with others :-) Since running solo again in recent years I’ve gone back to my earphones but now prefer audiobooks and podcasts to pass the time.

Some mass participation races ban the use of headphones so it’s worth training without them at some point. Even if it’s once a week you’ll get comfortable without that mental distraction you’ve been used to.

Where can I find audio to listen to when running?

What to listen to when running? Streaming services are in and buying CD’s are out apparently :-) It’s far easier now to find your listening preference, load on your phone and get out for a run. There’s an additional barrier if you don’t want/can’t carry your phone which I’ll cover in the next part!

Some streaming services you could use (I recommended storing offline if you can). This may ultimately depend on what you currently use to reduce the barrier to getting started:

• Spotify
• Apple Music
• Youtube Music
• Audible

All these services will have curated playlists to suit your style. There’s even running specific playlists which offer more up-tempo music. I recommend going with this over making your own as there’s a pleasure from the spontaneity of what’s coming next. This is all down to you though, and what gets you motivated to get through your run!

Technology to wear when running

Phone, Headphones, Running Watch? There are some nifty ways to get your favourite audio into your ears. If you want to carry your phone for other reasons than just audio then look to invest in a holder. This could be an arm strap or a running belt. The latter also gives you the opportunity to hold money/keys. Personally, my phone fits in my shorts pocket.

If you don’t want to carry your phone consider upgrading your running watch. Some devices now have music storage on them. The Garmin Forerunners 245 and 645 both allow you to upload your Spotify music and podcasts before heading out for a run. They also will sync to Bluetooth headphones making them super convenient and giving you less too carry. You just need to more organised ahead of time :-)

In terms of headphones/earphones, this is a personal preference. I recommend Bluetooth headphones if you’re able to invest in them. Getting rid of the wire saves it from getting in the way. However, you’ll just need to remember to charge it regularly or you’ll be left with no audio on your run!

I currently run with Aftershokz Air Trekz headphones and couldn’t rate them highly enough! As they don’t go directly into your ear I can hear other ongoings around me (such as road traffic or dogs chasing me!). Their customer service is also excellent. The first pair I bought broke after 10 months and without a quibble Aftershokz sent me a new pair within a few days of submitting a warranty request!

In summary when running

Hopefully, I’ve given you a few tips of how and what to listen to when running.

Find what works for you when it comes to audio when running. I’ve tried to give an overview from my perspective and point out what has worked for me. In recent years I’ve settled into listening to audiobooks and podcasts as I feel the run is serving a duel purpose. I am considering going audio free when I’m back from injury. At least for 1 run a week to be alone with my own thoughts, deliberate solitude as I’ve heard it referred to!

The post How and what to listen to when running? appeared first on Run Tall.

In fact, according to a recent study mixing up your training boosts motivation to exercise by 40%

Let’s make running awesome!

Initially, I got hooked through a simple stopwatch, timing my runs and times around the block. I moved onto a foot sensor, which gave me read out of time/distance. I love data so this really grabbed my attention and pushed me on in establishing a habit. The rest they say is history!

…I originally started running after a drunken bet, but that’s a different story!

Running is more mental than physical. You’ll be surprised how your mind can wander if you let it. Here is my advice if want to mix it up and inject some freshness into your running!

1. Run somewhere different

If you’re tired of the same roads around where you live and stuck in a routine, run elsewhere. Go off the beaten track. Run your normal route the other way around. There are some great tools you can use to map new routes or see where other people are running:

Strava Heatmaps – This is a great tool I use when I am away from home or in an unfamiliar location. Zoom in to where you want and filter by your chosen sport you’ll be able to see the popular routes. This can be very useful when on holiday so you don’t get caught out!

Onthegomap.com – Unsure how far somewhere is? Want to map out a new route? This tool is excellent for getting a route mapped in advance, especially useful if you’re targeting a distance. You can make sure you return home without having done too much (or too little)!

2. Run with others

Sounds basic but often you can get stuck in a routine. Family, friends or even join a local running club. Convince a friend to start running with you, the time will disappear! Even if you’re just meeting up for a walk, you can run to a friends house and back again. You’ll have still had plenty of time on your feet.

Search for a running club, all clubs are different ability groups so there is something to cater for everybody (they’re not all ‘elitist’). Running with like-minded people or similar ability is a great motivator, and having a time and a place to meet regularly holds you accountable.

Furthermore, you can seek a running coach who will work within your ability and availability to keep you honest (I recommend JM Coaching).

3. Interval Training

Mix up your runs by adding up intervals!

What are intervals? Essentially going faster for a set period or distance then going pack to your normal pace, repeating for a number of times. A good basic example of this is:

Run for 10 minutes to warm-up then run 1 minute faster than your normal pace. Slow down for 1 minute back to your normal pace. Repeat 10 times before running 10 minutes easy to cool down.

You may want to use this if you’re just starting out to go from 1-minute walk, 1-minute run, repeating 10 times. You’ll be surprised how quick the session will go! If you don’t like too many reps, commit to less at the start. I often find myself doing more once I’ve done a few and settled in.

See my posts on interval training for more advice!

4. Listen to something

Enjoy the simple delights of music or learn something new… everyday is a school day after-all!

Phone, Headphones are the basics then look at Music or Podcasts (via Spotify), Audiobooks (via Audible). I really enjoy listening to both podcasts and inspirational running/adventure books. You may just want music, it’s whatever works for you.

See my posts for reviews on music playlists, podcasts and audiobooks I’ve listened too.

5. Run Commute

With busy lives and days sometimes fitting in a run can be difficult. Friends, family and work often take priority so think smart of ways to fit in a run. More importantly to mix up your routes and give a run a purpose I recommend commuting to and from your place of work. Other strategies could include a run to the shops if you need to pickup a loaf (run the long way there if it’s close by!). You’ll always need to overcome barriers, change of clothes, showering, etc but if you plan carefully enough it can work.

I would get the train to work with my running kit and a small 10L backpack then run home, eaving my work clothes behind to pick-up the next day. If I ran into work I would take a change of clothes in the day before and leave my laptop in the office. When I didn’t want to run too far I would get the train part of the way. Don’t have a shower in work? is there a gym closeby you could finish at? If this could work for you have a think of what you would need to do to build it in, put your commute time to better use.

Use Map Your Run to see if it could work for you.

6. Cross-Training

If you’re fed up of pounding the pavement and can’t seem to get out of the rut, ditch the shoes and do something different. Running is more a mental than physical challenge. Build some bike rides into your week, go for a swim. If it’s something that’s makes you look forward to your next run you’re more likely to stick at it.

The post How to make running awesome, not boring! appeared first on Run Tall.