A Runner’s Life

Join us for a candid chat as we gear up for the Boston Marathon. Rob, Phil, and I share our latest training updates, despite the challenges life throws our way, including Rob's recent loss of his mum. We also catch up with CJ as he preps for the London Marathon. Looking for Boston marathon tips? We've got you covered with insider advice on how to run your best Boston Marathon, along with a deep dive into our fuelling strategies. Plus, Phil spills the details on his meticulous race shoe plan, including the coveted Jordan choices. Exciting news! Thanks to the B.A.A, Lorna, and Adrienne, we'll be hosting a live podcast at the expo. Catch us on the main stage Saturday April 13th 2024 at 9:15 am for all the action. In other updates, the Black Unicorn Marathoners proudly announce the 2024 Team Meb 10. Join us in celebrating the 10th anniversary of Meb Keflezighi's historic Boston Marathon victory. It consists of four marathoners who embody Meb's spirit of perseverance, Luther Isaac, Ruben P. Sança, Philip King and Marcus Brown. Phil and Marcus share their experiences as part of Team Meb, celebrating Meb's legacy as a running influence for so many. Don't forget to join us at the Boston Marathon Expo. See you there! This week’s episode it brought to you by PILLAR Performance.  PILLAR is a sports micro-nutrition company, and I’m testing out a a few products in my build for the Boston and London marathon double.  If you would like to try PILLAR today, head to www.pillarperformance.shop and you can get 15% off first time purchases with code MARCUS 

Welcome to the Boston Marathon Mastery mini-series where I'm joined by my coach Matt Fox, a 2:20 marathoner, and Peter Bromka, a 2:19 marathoner and 8-time Boston finisher. We're cutting through the fluff to have an honest conversation about what really counts when tackling one of the world's most prestigious races, as I prepare for my third Boston Marathon. Peter shares his transition period towards the Boston Marathon. In this episode, Peter candidly shares his experience of rebuilding his training regimen, embracing a new era of fitness, and letting go off the pressure to prove himself after aiming for Olympic qualification. Listen in as Peter breaks down three essential strategies for racing Boston, from pacing to mindset, ensuring you're prepared to tackle the course with confidence. Discover the significance behind Mile 22, notoriously known as the haunted mile, and gain valuable insights on how to navigate the challenges it presents. But the marathon experience doesn't end with the race itself. Marcus and Peter share invaluable tips on managing the race weekend, from logistics to recovery, ensuring you make the most out of every moment leading up to and following the big day. AD - This episode is powered by PILLAR Performance, the ultimate sports nutrition ally. As I gear up for the Boston and London marathon double, I'm putting their products to the test. Ready to join me? Head over to www.pillarperformance.shop and use code MARCUS for an exclusive 15% off your first order.

In this episode of A Runner’s Life podcast, Corey, Phillip, Rob, and yours truly talk about the Tokyo Marathon 2024, where Kipchoge took on the course in style with his Jordans, sparking a debate over who rocked them better between him and CJ, who finally got his hands on AJ 3’s. Speaking of CJ, he takes us through his marathon journey in Tokyo, highlighting the vibrant diversity of runners touching down in Japan's major marathon race. From sipping sake mid-race to experiencing road Mario Kart events, we explore everything from sushi to ramen and glean valuable advice on pre-race prep when traveling far for a field. But the drama doesn't stop there. Rob drops a Boston training flex in our group chat, downplays it, and gets called out, only for Phil to up the ante with a training race flex. On a lighter note, Rob shares his guilty pleasure of binge-watching TV series with a bag of skinny pop, revealing his love for "Love is Blind." He tries to blame his wife for watching it, but we know it was his choice. We reveal that we will do a live podcast at the Boston Marathon expo Saturday on the main stage at 9:15 am, thanks to the B.A.A. including Lorna, and Adrienne. We'll also discuss Meb Keflezighi’s 10th anniversary since his Boston win, and contemplate: what if Meb caught up with you on the course? Would you race or show respect to the legend? To cap it off, Rob unveils another self-care routine and faux pas that'll leave you wondering how you ever lived without it. Tune in for all this and more in episode 185. This week’s episode it brought to you by PILLAR Performance.  PILLAR is a sports micro-nutrition company, and I’m testing out a a few products in my build for the Boston and London marathon double.  If you would like to try PILLAR today, head to www.pillarperformance.shop and you can get 15% off first time purchases with code MARCUS  Listen on your favourite podcast platforms or watch it on YouTube here ⁠https://youtu.be/F-53LGPsBZs

Welcome to the Boston Marathon Mastery mini-series where I'm joined by my coach Matt Fox, a 2:20 marathoner, and Peter Bromka, a 2:19 marathoner and 8-time Boston finisher. We're cutting through the fluff to have an honest conversation about what really counts when tackling one of the world's most prestigious races. This episode holds a spotlight on why hill training is non-negotiable for success. As I prepare for my third Boston Marathon Matt will break down the coaching strategies I'm putting into action for this year's Boston marathon, while Peter shares practical advice developed from his own training. And really breaks down the nuances to consider in your training. Plus, we'll reveal the key Boston workout Peter would do if he were featured on Sweat Elite. AD - This episode is powered by PILLAR Performance, the ultimate sports nutrition ally. As I gear up for the Boston and London marathon double, I'm putting their products to the test. Ready to join me? Head over to www.pillarperformance.shop and use code MARCUS for an exclusive 15% off your first order. Watch the full episode on YouTube https://youtu.be/1rTXmwV-ECI

In this episode of A Runner’s Life podcast, Corey, Phillip, Rob, and yours truly talk about stress management in our training, and uncover the deeper reasons behind why we run. No fluff, just real talk. We kick off with Rob's beauty updates, a segment that's quickly become a fan favourite. But this time, he's delivering a lesson we never knew we needed. Then, it's all about CJ's latest endeavour—the Jordan purchase before Tokyo. And of course, Phil's got his Jordans on the clutch, providing a YouTube-style review of the new Air Jordan (AJ) 3 Craft Ivory. We talk about the release of the new AJ4 Bred reimagined. Plus we give our reactions to the Olympic trials, including a shoutout to Sara Hall, we cover it all. Ever wondered what Eliud Kipchoge would be like if he weren't the Yoda of running? And he was just an American working full time trying to qualify for the American Olympic marathon trials? We explore that, along with sharing personal experiences like Rob ending up in the medical tent after emptying the tank. Stress management takes centre stage as Phil surprises us with an unexpectedly honest solution. We discuss how stress impacts our running and everyday lives, minus the scientific jargon. But it's not all serious talk. Phil shares a poignant story about finding his "why" in memory of a friend, reminding us of the deeper motivations that drive us forward. And finally, we discuss the significance of the Boston jacket—when it's appropriate wear and when it's just a flex. This week’s episode it brought to you by PILLAR Performance.  PILLAR is a sports micro-nutrition company, and I’m testing out a a few products in my build for the Boston and London marathon double.  If you would like to try PILLAR today, head to www.pillarperformance.shop and you can get 15% off first time purchases with code MARCUS 

In this episode, join me as we travel from the UK to the Bermuda Triangle Half Marathon Challenge, featuring an exclusive interview with the respected American marathoner, Deena Kastor. With an illustrious career marked by American marathon records and an Olympic bronze medal, Deena offers her invaluable insights and experiences straight from Bermuda. I share my own journey tackling the mile, 10k, and half marathon courses after overcoming a challenging three-month injury. Along the way, I indulge in local delicacies such as the iconic post-race Dark 'N' Stormy cocktail and delectable fish sandwiches. The race series boasts impressive event records, including Grete Waitz's '82 triumph with a time of 31:41 on the old course, and Eilish McColgan's sprint in 2020, clocking in at 33:28 on the new route. During the episode, I catch up with Dennis Mbelenzi, the men’s marathon record holder, as he takes on the full marathon challenge and successfully defends his title. Throughout our conversations, I strive to capture the essence of Bermuda amidst lively discussions in taxis, on boats, and amidst the island's awe-inspiring scenery. Please be advised that the sound quality may vary due to the natural surroundings. I highly recommend participating in the race series for an unforgettable experience in 2025. As a special offer, you can receive a 10% discount on entry to the CHUBB Bermuda Triangle Challenge with code 2025Marcus10off. Don't miss out – registration is now open from this link https://www.bermudatrianglechallenge.com/registration/ 

Is Phil's Last Dance in the Boston Marathon a swan song or just a funky two-step of sandbagging? Plus, we unravel the mystery behind Wesley Snipes and his surprising role in making marathons faster. Spoiler alert: it involves less blade action and more running self care! This episode is sponsored by PILLAR Performance, brings you straight into the heart of sports micronutrition. I'm currently testing PILLAR's products for my Boston and London marathon double. Ready to join the journey? Head to pillarperformance.shop and grab an exclusive 15% off with code MARCUS on your first purchase. Join the conversation with Corey, Phillip, Rob, and yours truly as we talk about our training build up for the Boston, London and Tokyo marathons. No fluff, just Boston Qualifier marathoners diving into the essence of a runner's life. Candid talks, friendly banter, and a journey beyond the speed.

In episode 180 of A Runner's Life Podcast, we share the inspiring story of Eric Van Delden, who discovered strength and solace in unexpected places following the loss of his wife to cancer in 2020. Join us as we delve into Eric's remarkable journey of resilience, highlighted by the simple act of completing a few press-ups which led to his completion of an astonishing 30,000 push-ups in just a year and a half. Experience the transformative power of physical activity as Eric navigates grief, finding refuge and purpose in exercise. From his initial two push-ups after his wife's passing to pursuing ambitious fitness goals like multiple half marathons and a full marathon, Eric's dedication reveals a newfound sense of resilience. Eric shares insights into the tips that helped him get unstuck, emphasising the coexistence of grief and happiness. But Eric's journey extends beyond personal achievements; with the support of his network, he transforms grief into motivation, inspiring others to find their own paths too healing. Join us as we uncover Eric's remarkable story of perseverance, resilience, and the transformative power of exercise in overcoming grief. From the depths of loss to the heights of personal triumph, Eric Van Delden's journey is a testament to the indomitable human spirit. Key Points Covered: Eric's journey from grief to resilience through exercise. The role of physical activity in processing grief. Setting and achieving ambitious fitness goals as a form of healing. Finding support and inspiration through social media. Balancing grief with newfound happiness and relationships. The ongoing process of healing and honouring memories. Tune in to discover how Eric Van Delden turned tragedy into triumph through the power of perseverance and push-ups. You can watch the full episode on YouTube by clicking this link https://youtu.be/E7Je8GELheE You can follow Eric on Instagram @eric.push.pull.run

Join us in a candid conversation with Enfield Chasers' Chairman, Andrew, and Head Coach, Marcus, as they unveil the story about how a community run meetup turned into an England athletics affiliated run club, capturing not just miles on the road but the essence of community. We discuss what Enfield Chasers represents, and look into the hopes and aspirations that drive the committee, and the entire club as they aim to make a positive impact within the community. It's a candid conversation about running, community, and the shared vision that propels Enfield Chasers forward.

Join us for an unfiltered episode as Phil sets the ground rules for CJ and Rob, setting the tone for a candid discussion. In this episode, we explore the behind-the-scenes of Rob's elite entry into the Indy marathon uncovering insights and a surprising playlist of country songs.  Phil and Rob share the profound impact of family challenges, adding depth to their running journeys. Despite race obstacles, Rob not only triumphs with a personal best but sparks a genuine discussion on mental well-being. Fresh from a sub-3 performance in Chicago, Phil recounts his sub-3 NYC Marathon, underlining the respect owed to the challenging course. Experience the mid-race twist as PK makes a call to his partner to check his splits. Cory updates us on Honolulu Marathon training and unveils his pursuit of a Jordan starter pack. Marcus shares his recovery journey from injury, gearing up for the Bermuda Triangle Challenge on Jan 12-14, 2024. 🏖️ Use code Marathonmarcus10Off for a 10% entry discount! We dive into our training methods and explore the latest from the Sydney Marathon, where runners have the chance to earn a provisional marathon major star. Tune in to hear our candid reactions and much more!

This episode with Charlotte was originally recorded for the Relay Platform, for the Chat with a Pro episode. Join our hosts Kara Goucher, Laura Thweatt, Marcus Brown, Lindsey Hein, and Peter Bromka as we sit down professional runner Charlotte Purdue. Fresh from her fantastic top 10 finish at the Berlin Marathon, clocking a PB of 2:22:17. Charlotte now holds the title of the second fastest British female marathoner, a time only surpassed by Paula Radcliffe,  After her remarkable performance in Berlin, hitting the Olympic standard, the big question is: will it earn her selection at the Paris 2024 Olympics? We explore the contrasting marathon qualifying approaches in Britain and the US. Guided by her coach, Nic Bideau, we delve into Charlotte's training leading up to the Berlin Marathon.  From her pivotal role in Purdue Performance a coaching venture she runs with her partner Adam. Balancing coaching duties in Berlin while preparing for her own Olympic qualifying race adds a unique layer to her journey. In this episode, we also touch on the recent female marathon world record, as we get a glimpse of how elite athletes perceive such milestones while staying focused on their own goals. Don't miss out on this candid conversation filled with insights, laughs, and a whole lot of running wisdom. A huge thanks to Charlotte for joining us on this episode!

Join us for an in-depth discussion on marathons, world records, super shoes and life after the race! In this episode of the podcast, Rob and Marcus dissect their recent Berlin Marathon experience, and bring you an unfiltered debrief of the race. Then, we've got a Chicago Marathon recap from Corey and hear about Phil's story of running a remarkable 2:48 time after completely downplaying his training, it is a testament to his experience as a runner. We dive into the world of marathon records, with a focus on Tigst Assefa and Kelvin Kiptum's recent achievements. Plus, we tackle discuss super shoes. Do they truly make a difference for amateur runners, or is it all hype? And when the marathon is over, how do you manage life post-race? We explore the strategies and routines everyone adopts to ease into the daily routine. What counts as maintenance miles in the off-season? Find out as we break it all down. Join us for an engaging conversation on the marathon experience, records, and everything in between.

This episode with Rose was originally recorded for the Relay Podcast, for the Chat with a Pro episode. Join our hosts Marcus Brown, Kara Goucher, Laura Thweatt, and Peter Bromka as we dive into a candid conversation with Rose Harvey. Fresh off her podium finish at the Big Half Marathon in London,  Rose was gearing up for the Chicago Marathon. We'll discuss her preparation, training, and insights into being a Puma-sponsored athlete coached by Alistair and Amy Cragg. Expect insights, not just on running but also some Taylor Swift fun! We're discussing Rose's quest for Olympic Marathon qualification, the power of social media in pro sports, and the mental game that resonates with both elites and amateurs. Thank you Rose for joining us in this episode!  Photo by @kevmofoto

Join Hannah Bast alongside Corey, Phillip, Rob, and myself on the Boston Marathoners Round Table series. We dive into Hannah’s journey discussing an honest view of pursuing the US Olympic trials qualification standard. We cover the following: * Fact-checking Rob from past episodes * The Olympic trial quest leading to the Berlin Marathon * Teammates, Training, and Triumphs with Hannah and Rob * Overcoming setbacks and racing forward * Pacing: Instincts vs. Technology * Racing Joys and Challenges: Our Favorite Distances * The Next Leg of the Race * And Much More! * There will be a follow-up episode detailing how Berlin went down.

Join Corey, Phillip, Rob and myself in the Boston Marathoners Round Table, where Boston Qualifier marathoners talk about the essence of a runner's life. From candid talks and friendly banter to delving into the universal runner experience, we go beyond the speed. The Verdict: Confidence vs. Trash Talk - Ingebrigtsen vs. Kipchoge Boston Marathon 2024: Application Insights and Representation Challenges Training updates: 2024 Plans, Berlin and Chicago Preparations Music that motivates our runs (Check out our Spotify playlist linked below) Unexpected essentials: Must-Have Race Gear Revealed And so much more… https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6ma8qReBs0HzyPEscHrZZj?si=58bd539eedfe45ee

Corey, Phillip and Rob, join me in the second Boston Marathoners Round Table. As sub 3-hour marathoners with different aspirations, we dive beyond speed to explore the essence of the runner's life that all can relate to. Join us for candid conversations that capture the universal runner experience. Episode 2 Highlights: Goal vs. Process: What's the winning mindset? Long-term running aspirations: From personal growth to athletic achievements. Training turning points: Moments that push us to the next level. The Need for Speed: Debunking the importance of running fast. Current Inspirations: Who's lighting up our running paths?

Meet Corey, Phillip, Rob, and myself in the first Boston Marathoners Round Table. As sub 3-hour marathoners with different aspirations, we dive beyond speed to explore the essence of the runner's life that all can relate to. Join us for candid conversations that capture the universal runner experience. Episode 1 Highlights: Setting sights on our future marathons and overcoming training obstacles. Unveiling our rituals that fuel marathon race days. Inner reflections, what's your self-talk pre marathon? Mastering the balance between striving for your goals and having fun. Don't miss Episode 172, arriving immediately after Episode 171, as we tackle the question: Does speed truly define running success?

In episode 170, we dive into the incredible journey of Ryan Gehman, a 30-year-old post-collegiate runner and the 103rd finisher at the 2023 Boston Marathon, with an impressive time of 2:27 (PR). Join us as Ryan shares his inspiring mantra that drives him forward and how it all came to be. "You can let it fuel you, or you can let it fall off you," Ryan, reveals how running helps him navigate life on the autistic spectrum and is propelling him to pursue an Olympic Trials Qualifier in the marathon. With an impressive track record, including being the 2014 NCAA DIII South/South East Region Champion and Regional Runner of the Year, he's shown his resilience in racing. We'll explore the impact of Peter Bromka's written pieces on Ryan's Boston Marathon preparation, leading to his extraordinary PR of 2:27 in 2023. Beyond personal achievement, Ryan uses running to navigate life on the spectrum and inspire hope for other neurodiverse individuals. Join us as we rewind the clock to Ryan's formative years, from being nonverbal to thriving with the support of his parents. Discover how he's now gearing up for the Chicago Marathon in Fall 2023, where he'll run for a cause close to his heart - raising funds for the Organization for Autism Research (OAR). To donate click here. https://support.researchautism.org/Chicago2023/FlyinRyan Listen now to be inspired by Ryan Gehman's incredible journey, and support his mission to make a difference!

Join hosts Peter and Marcus as they welcome special guest Matt Fox, Marcus's coach and the Content Director at Sweat Elite, as well as a coach at the Sweat Elite Coaching Academy. In this episode (originally published on the Relay platform) we delve deeper into the topic introduced in our previous episode, where we explored how marathoners strive to enhance their speed in shorter distances after completing their respective marathon blocks. Peter shares his latest experiences in racing the mile, while Marcus reflects on his recent 10K race. Together, they provide insights into their training routines and offer a comprehensive analysis of their respective races. Additionally, Matt provides valuable insight into Marcus's training for the 10K leading up to the Berlin Marathon block, and shares his training style and the influences that have shaped it. As the episode unfolds, the trio delves into the mental aspects of running, particularly the differences in the mental game required during intense workouts and shorter distance races. Expect a fun discussion that goes beyond the physical challenges of running. So, whether you're a seasoned runner or just starting your journey, join us for Episode 2 of "Unlocking Your Fast" as we explore how to unlocking your speed potential.

Join us, Peter and Marcus, as we embark on this podcast series dedicated to marathoners seeking to develop fast speed in shorter distances after completing a marathon block. This episode was original published on the Relay platform. As runners ourselves, we understand the common quest to find speed beyond the marathon. In this episode, we share our personal experiences and insights, shedding light on the well-trodden path that many runners embark upon. Fresh off our experiences at the 2023 Boston and London marathons, we delve into our training methods and share strategies we've used to unlock speed during the summer months. And what we’ll be doing differently or the same this time round. In this series we will candidly discuss the highs and lows of this challenging training phase, aiming to bridge the gap between middle distance running and marathon training. Whether you're currently on this journey or contemplating taking the leap, this podcast series can provide pointers that will help you on your personal path to training to find speed.