

Science of Running
Steve Magness
An in depth look at training, coaching, Sport Science, and anything else that relates to enhancing endurance performance.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Oct 18, 2021 • 1h 14min
Episode 148: Phasing Out the Long Run: How, When, Why?
The long run is a staple of the runner’s diet. In this episode, we explore how the long run became a weekly staple and whether that still holds true. We dive into the function and physiology of the long run, and how you may want to gradually wind it down as the season comes to…

Oct 11, 2021 • 1h 9min
Episode 147: The Science of Training Management: Managing the messiness of the training process compared to the neatness of training plan
Training is messy. You are dealing with human beings. In this episode we dive into adaptability, aiming for mastery, and giving your athletes autonomy to grow and develop. How do we manage the messiness of competing and racing and not just fall for the temptation of the training plan. Steve & Jon Visit our Sponsor…

Oct 4, 2021 • 1h 2min
Episode 146: Law of the Minimum: A Better Way to Think About Training
Leibig’s Law of the Minimum states that “growth is dictated not by total resources available, but by the scarcest resource.” In this episode we discuss how to identity your limiting factor and what to do about it. Our limiting factor shifts as you adapt to training. That’s the reason why the same training for an…

Sep 28, 2021 • 1h 5min
Episode 145: Amazing Workouts, Awful Races
The hosts discuss the disconnect between workouts and races, the importance of trust and vulnerability in coaching, and the impact of early hydration on marathon performance. They also explore knowing when to step in, training approaches for speed and rest, managing expectations and instilling confidence in athletes, and pushing through discomfort in races.

Sep 13, 2021 • 1h 10min
Episode 144: How to Deal with Failure
How do you handle failure? Do you freak out, let your anger get the best of you, or wallow in despair? Failure is a normal and expected part of racing. In fact, we ‘fail’ far more often than we succeed. In this episode, we dive into how to create an environment that frees athletes up…

Sep 6, 2021 • 1h 7min
Episode 143: Training and Racing in Heat and Humidity
In this podcast, the hosts discuss the challenges of training and racing in hot and humid conditions. They explore the effects of heat and humidity on the body, including core temperature, sweating mechanisms, and blood flow. Strategies for training and racing in these conditions are also discussed, such as using a treadmill to simulate heat, maintaining proper hydration, and having a focused mindset. Acclimatization and understanding the challenges of running in hot and humid conditions are emphasized, along with the importance of adequate recovery time.

Aug 30, 2021 • 1h 8min
Episode 142: Coaching an Olympic Medalist- A conversation with coach Danny Mackey
In this episode, we welcome coach Danny Mackey to the show to discuss the training and preparation of Olympic Bronze medalist Josh Kerr. We dive into everything that went into preparing Josh for the games. From the training decisions, and workouts leading into the race to the psychology. How did he prepare Josh for the…

Aug 16, 2021 • 1h 8min
Episode 141: The Science of Warm-Ups and Cool Downs
Warming up should be simple. Go jog around for a bit, do some drills and strides and you’re ready to go. In this episode we break down the science of two staples of running that are often afterthoughts. You’ll learn how warm-ups and cool downs aren’t just about priming your body to perform and then…

Aug 9, 2021 • 1h 8min
Episode 140: The Power of Reflection- Looking back at dumb stuff we used to do.
We are taking a trip back into the time machine. It’s time to look back at training and coaching that we used to do, that we now look back upon and ask “what in the world were we thinking?” This weeks episode is about reflection. Not only to laugh at our ignorance, but to learn…

Jul 21, 2021 • 51min
Episode 139: Why a perfectionist mindset is holding you and your athletes back.
The hosts discuss the hinderance of a perfectionist mindset in training and how it can lead to overplanning and a focus on minor details. They explore the evolution of a coach's mindset and the importance of achieving desired training effects. They also emphasize the need for consistency in training and overcoming perfectionism. The impact of a perfectionist mindset on coaching is also discussed, highlighting the importance of balance and openness to different ideas.


