Miscellaneous

Running coaches are often seen as the ultimate experts in the sport. I design training plans, offer motivation, and guide runners toward their goals. So, it might seem surprising (just ask my wife) or even ironic when I decided to hire another running coach for myself. Why would someone with all that knowledge and experience seek outside help? This post explores the reasons why I made that decision and what it reveals about coaching, growth, and the pursuit of excellence. A

Running is one of the most accessible and popular forms of exercise. Yet, many runners hit plateaus or struggle to reach their goals alone. This raises a common question: does hiring a running coach truly make a difference? Understanding the advantages and drawbacks can help you decide if investing in a coach fits your needs and ambitions. Running coach guiding a runner on a forest trail Benefits of Having a Running Coach Personalized Training Plans A running coach creates tr

Walking is something most people do every day without much thought. Yet, the way we walk can reveal a lot about our health and physical condition. A gait analysis is a detailed assessment of how you walk or run, often used to identify issues that could lead to pain or injury. Knowing when to have a gait analysis done can help you address problems early and improve your overall movement. Side view of gait analysis What is Gait Analysis? Gait analysis studies the mechanics of w

Running is one of the most accessible and rewarding forms of exercise. Whether you are just starting out or training for an ultramarathon, staying injury-free is key to enjoying your runs and reaching your goals. Over the years, I have learned that a few simple strategies can make a huge difference in preventing injuries and keeping your body in top shape. In this post, I will share practical running injury prevention tips that you can apply right away. These tips are based

Side dominance, also known as limb asymmetry, can elevate the risk of injury in runners by creating uneven loading patterns, muscular imbalances, and compensatory movement strategies. These conditions may predispose individuals to injuries such as shin splints and tendinitis, particularly when limb asymmetries exceed 10–15%. Although research findings are variable, factors such as training practices, fatigue, and physiological adaptation further influence injury risk. How Sid

When I first started running seriously, I quickly realized that how I moved mattered just as much as how far or fast I ran. That’s where gait analysis comes in. It’s a tool that helps you understand your running style, identify potential issues, and improve your performance. Whether you’re training for your first 5K or gearing up for an ultramarathon, knowing your gait can make a big difference. What Is Gait Analysis and Why It Matters Gait analysis is the study of how you wa

When preparing for races ranging from a 5K to an ultra marathon, compile a list of potential issues that might arise during the event. Then, determine strategies to address these issues if they occur. By adopting this approach, you'll have greater clarity in challenging moments, reducing the likelihood of panicking or dropping out. You may still face difficulties, but you'll be better equipped to handle them. I learned this from coach David Roche after I did not finish my fir

Leg Massage Yesterday, I completed my first outdoor run in two years. It lasted only 6 minutes, but it was a fantastic, though incredibly tough, experience. You might wonder what happened. Well, it was one of those " Can't Fix Stupid" moments many runners experience. In February 2023, I was finishing a great training block and was in excellent shape. During a morning warm-up and stretching session, I felt a slight twinge in my Achilles. I dismissed it and went for a run. Unfo

Unofficially I started running when I was 6 years old. My grandfather would time me as I ran up a trail near our hunting camp in Potter County. When I returned to hear my time, I would confidently say, "I could run it faster." Then I would turn around and start all over again. As I reflect back to that time, it's hard to believe that my running would take me all over the country, let alone that I'd still be doing it at 64.