The Run Smarter Podcast

 Learn more about Brodie's Research Database & AI Assistant 📄🔍For MORE Run Smarter Resources 🏃‍♂️📚- Including Free Injury Prevention Courses 🩹🎓- The Run Smarter Book 📖- Access to Research Papers 📄🔍- & Ways to Work with Brodie 🤝👟👉 CLICK HERE! 🎉✨ On this Q&A episode of the Run Smarter Podcast, Brodie tackles a range of listener-submitted running questions—covering everything from calf pain management to the best time to reintroduce speed work during tendon rehab. Drawing from both research and clinical experience, he provides practical, evidence-based strategies you can apply directly to your training.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeCalf Pain & Cadence Adjustments – Why increasing step rate can help, and what other factors (like load, recovery, and footwear) you need to balance for lasting relief.Tendinopathy Rehab – Should you introduce speed workouts or back-to-back run days first? Brodie outlines safe progression strategies to avoid setbacks.Strength Training for Runners – The four cornerstone exercises every runner should be doing, including recommended rep ranges and frequency for performance and injury prevention.Post-Marathon Motivation – What to do after the high of race day wears off, how to reflect on your performance, and strategies to find your “next thing.”Key TakeawaysRunning injuries often come down to load vs. recovery balance. Tweaking cadence, training intensity, or footwear can shift stress away from vulnerable tissues.In tendon rehab, symptom tolerance and gradual progressions are key—starting with strides before intervals.When it comes to strength training, lifting heavy (safely) has the greatest impact on running performance.After a big event like a marathon, self-reflection on what you loved (and what you didn’t) is the best guide to your next goal.

Learn more about Brodie's Research Database & AI Assistant 📄🔍For MORE Run Smarter Resources 🏃‍♂️📚- Including Free Injury Prevention Courses 🩹🎓- The Run Smarter Book 📖- Access to Research Papers 📄🔍- & Ways to Work with Brodie 🤝👟👉 CLICK HERE! 🎉✨In this episode, Brodie Sharpe sits down with Sara to share her inspiring journey of overcoming Proximal Hamstring Tendinopathy (PHT) after struggling with it for several years. Sara's story is filled with ups and downs, from navigating misdiagnoses and passive treatments to discovering the power of strength training and the mind-body connection. Whether you’re currently battling PHT or looking for guidance on chronic pain, this episode offers valuable insights and hope.Episode Highlights:00:00 – Introduction to today’s episode and Sara’s success story00:33 – Background on Sara’s PHT journey and how it developed over the years01:07 – Sara shares the onset of her symptoms dating back to 200902:34 – The chronic resurgence in 2017 and the role of life transitions03:54 – Seeking treatment: from passive treatments to sports medicine05:49 – Ineffective treatments: PRP, dry needling, and acupuncture06:48 – Diagnosis of PHT and later gluteal tendinopathy08:15 – Attempting different procedures: Tenex, injections, and shockwave therapy09:43 – The mental and emotional toll of chronic pain10:41 – Finding Brodie’s podcast and beginning strength training12:18 – The importance of slow, heavy progressive strength training in recovery14:13 – Balancing treatment approaches and avoiding unnecessary interventions16:29 – Returning to running: overcoming fear and rebuilding confidence19:22 – A pivotal moment: discovering ‘Think Away Your Pain’ and the mind-body connection24:27 – The impact of personality traits on chronic pain and recovery27:53 – How stress and responsibility play a role in pain persistence31:36 – Understanding the emotional component of pain and its management34:27 – Key strategies for overcoming hypervigilance and overanalysis37:45 – How to shift treatment strategies when progress plateaus41:02 – Sara’s current status: running again and symptom management42:51 – Final advice for PHT sufferers and key takeawaysKey Takeaways: ✔ Passive treatments like PRP, dry needling, and injections may not provide long-term relief for PHT. ✔ Strength training, specifically slow, heavy progressive loading, is a crucial foundation for recovery. ✔ Addressing the mind-body connection can be a game-changer in managing chronic pain. ✔ Hypervigilance and fear of movement can perpetuate pain—learning to reframe these thoughts is essential. ✔ Recovery is a journey—adjusting your approach when progress stalls is key to success. ✔ Stress and personality traits (perfectionism, responsibility, self-criticism) can influence chronic pain.Resources Mentioned:Sara's email: sarashaff@gmail.comThink Away Your Pain – David SchechterHealing Back Pain – Dr. John SarnoEmily's TMS InstagramDan’s YouTube Channel: Pain Free You

Learn more about Brodie's Research Database & AI Assistant 📄🔍For MORE Run Smarter Resources 🏃‍♂️📚- Including Free Injury Prevention Courses 🩹🎓- The Run Smarter Book 📖- Access to Research Papers 📄🔍- & Ways to Work with Brodie 🤝👟👉 CLICK HERE! 🎉✨O₂ max is often thrown around as the holy grail of endurance performance—but how much does it really matter, and how can you train it effectively? In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Will O’Connor, exercise physiologist, endurance coach, and experienced researcher, to break down the science, myths, and practical strategies behind VO₂ max.We cover what VO₂ max actually measures, whether your Garmin or Coros watch is giving you reliable readings, and the key workouts proven to raise your aerobic ceiling. Will also shares valuable insights into how long it takes to lose fitness when you’re sidelined with injury, and why efficiency and running economy might matter more than the raw VO₂ number.If you’ve ever worried about your fitness dropping during time off, or if you’re curious about how to truly get faster by training smarter, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhat VO₂ max really represents and how it’s measured in a labWhy running economy and fractional utilization matter more than a single numberHow accurate VO₂ max data is from wearables like GarminProven interval sessions to raise your aerobic ceilingThe difference between short, sharp efforts vs. 4-minute intervals (and when to use each)How quickly fitness declines during injury or downtimeThe importance of deciding: are you training or are you rehabbing?Why performance—not your watch’s algorithm—is the true indicator of progressGuest Bio – Dr. Will O’Connor Will holds a PhD in Sport & Exercise Science, specializing in performance metabolism and physiology. With hundreds of VO₂ max tests under his belt, published research, and years of coaching endurance athletes, he brings a unique balance of scientific rigor and practical know-how. He also runs the Performance Advantage Podcast and creates evidence-based training content on his YouTube channel, helping runners and triathletes worldwide optimize performance.Resources & LinksConnect with Will on YouTube: Dr. Will O’ConnorVisit his website: drwilloconnor.com

Learn more about Brodie's Research Database & AI Assistant 📄🔍For MORE Run Smarter Resources 🏃‍♂️📚- Including Free Injury Prevention Courses 🩹🎓- The Run Smarter Book 📖- Access to Research Papers 📄🔍- & Ways to Work with Brodie 🤝👟👉 CLICK HERE! 🎉✨In this episode, Brodie chats with Dr. Phil Hayes — senior lecturer at Northumbria University, sports scientist, and highly experienced running coach — about his role as co-editor of The Science and Practice of Middle and Long-Distance Running. Phil’s academic expertise in exercise physiology and decades of coaching experience give him a unique perspective on bridging cutting-edge research with practical training wisdom.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Behind the Book: How the project came about, Phil’s collaboration with Rich Blagrove, and why they felt a science-based resource for runners was missing from the market.Physiology Insights: The limitations of purely metabolic models of performance and why neuromuscular factors and fatigue resistance are vital for understanding endurance.Critical Speed Testing: How to use field-based protocols to estimate your maximum sustainable speed, set training zones, and guide performance predictions without a lab test.Training Load Monitoring: Why mileage alone can be misleading, and how tools like session RPE, TRIMP scores, and workload ratios help prevent injury and manage progression.Consistency Over Intensity: Why avoiding training spikes and maintaining a sustainable workload is key to long-term performance gains.Strength & Conditioning: How targeted, year-round S&C work prevents injury, improves resilience, and supports running efficiency.Structured Programming: Building both macro- and micro-level training structure to balance hard and easy sessions, and why logging your training is crucial.Race Preparation: Adopting a “own the start line” mindset, using checklists, and practicing tapers before key events to refine your approach.Tapering Principles: Reducing volume while maintaining intensity in the final weeks before a race, and why individual experimentation is essential.Fundamentals First: How focusing on the basics—training structure, S&C, recovery, and balanced intensity—outperforms chasing “magic workouts.”

Learn more about Brodie's Research Database & AI Assistant 📄🔍For MORE Run Smarter Resources 🏃‍♂️📚- Including Free Injury Prevention Courses 🩹🎓- The Run Smarter Book 📖- Access to Research Papers 📄🔍- & Ways to Work with Brodie 🤝👟👉 CLICK HERE! 🎉✨In this month’s research breakdown, Brodie dives into four fascinating studies every runner should know about. From bone health and marathon pacing to hamstring flexibility and recovery tools, these findings reveal how science can help you train smarter and avoid common pitfalls.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Bone Health in Distance Runners Why running alone isn’t always enough for strong bones, and the crucial roles of nutrition, vitamin D, strength training, and recovery. Learn the red flags—like stress fractures and missed periods—that signal compromised bone health.The Science of Negative Splits in Marathons How running the second half faster than the first can preserve glycogen, improve thermoregulation, reduce cardiac drift, and even protect your biomechanics. Plus, practical training strategies to master pacing discipline.Hamstring Flexibility & Performance A small but insightful study shows how hamstring tightness may reduce quadriceps strength—but doesn’t necessarily affect speed or endurance. What this means for your strength balance, mobility work, and injury prevention.Foam Rolling vs Massage Guns for DOMS Which recovery tool actually works? Foam rolling improved muscle tone, elasticity, and stiffness faster than rest, but neither reduced soreness compared to doing nothing. Find out what this means for your post-run recovery routine.Key Takeaways for Runners:Fuel properly—low energy availability harms bone health.Strength training twice a week boosts bone density and performance.A slight negative split is often the optimal marathon pacing strategy.Hamstring flexibility supports strength balance but doesn’t guarantee speed gains.Foam rolling may help restore function, but don’t expect it to erase soreness.

Learn more about Brodie's Research Database & AI Assistant 📄🔍For MORE Run Smarter Resources 🏃‍♂️📚- Including Free Injury Prevention Courses 🩹🎓- The Run Smarter Book 📖- Access to Research Papers 📄🔍- & Ways to Work with Brodie 🤝👟👉 CLICK HERE! 🎉✨In this powerful conversation, Brodie Sharpe sits down with physical therapist, running coach, and lifelong runner Steph Mundt to explore her remarkable journey from repeated bone stress injuries and dangerously low bone density to becoming a stronger, healthier, and faster runner.Steph opens up about her history with disordered eating, how Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (RED-S) impacted her bone health, and the wake-up call that led her to overhaul her training and fueling strategies. She shares exactly what worked — from nutrition changes to targeted strength training and plyometrics — and why bone health should be on every runner’s radar, not just those who have experienced stress fractures.Whether you’re looking to prevent injury, improve performance, or run for decades to come, this episode delivers science-backed strategies and inspiring lessons for all runners.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeSteph’s early running journey and how a desire for speed led to under-fueling and multiple stress fracturesThe truth about RED-S and its impact on hormones, recovery, and bone densityWhy running alone is a poor bone-building stimulus (and what to do instead)The specific strength training and plyometric exercises Steph used to rebuild her bone densityHow often to train, and why timing matters for bone adaptationFueling strategies and key nutrients for strong bonesWhy all runners — even those without bone health issues — should focus on building and maintaining bone strengthThe mindset shift from chasing short-term PRs to prioritizing longevity and consistency in trainingLinks & ResourcesFollow Steph on Instagram: @stephmundt.dptSteph’s Coaching & PT Services: Volante PT & Performance

Learn more about Brodie's Research Database & AI Assistant 📄🔍For MORE Run Smarter Resources 🏃‍♂️📚- Including Free Injury Prevention Courses 🩹🎓- The Run Smarter Book 📖- Access to Research Papers 📄🔍- & Ways to Work with Brodie 🤝👟👉 CLICK HERE! 🎉✨🧠 Episode SummaryIn this episode, Brodie dives into a newly published paper titled “Female Tendons are from Venus and Male Tendons are from Mars: But Does it Matter for Tendon Health?” by Gerard McMahon and Jill Cook. The paper explores how male and female tendons differ in structure, adaptation, healing, and injury risk—and what it means for those dealing with tendinopathy.🔍 What You’ll LearnKey structural differences between male and female tendons (size, stiffness, collagen synthesis)Why female tendons may stretch more but adapt less to trainingHow men and women respond differently to tendon rehab protocolsSurprising findings about pain, healing, and tendon blood flowWhether injury prevention or rehab should differ based on sex📌 Key TakeawaysFemale tendons are more compliant, have lower stiffness, and show slower collagen production—even at rest.Male tendons respond more favorably to traditional rehab (like eccentric loading), often reporting greater pain reduction and functional improvements.Despite men experiencing more frequent tendon injuries in some data, women may be closer to their strain “danger zone” during exercise, possibly increasing injury risk.Women may need longer rehab timelines, heavier resistance training (beyond just eccentrics), and closer attention to recovery, nutrition, and hormonal cycles.Men should be cautious about overloading tendons due to higher force-generating capacity and should still progress gradually.💡 For Runners With TendinopathyDon’t compare your progress to someone of the opposite sex—recovery is sex-specific.Trust the process: healing may be happening at a microscopic level even if pain relief is slow.Tailor your rehab by considering not just gender, but also age, training history, injury severity, and more.

Learn more about Brodie's Research Database & AI Assistant 📄🔍For MORE Run Smarter Resources 🏃‍♂️📚- Including Free Injury Prevention Courses 🩹🎓- The Run Smarter Book 📖- Access to Research Papers 📄🔍- & Ways to Work with Brodie 🤝👟👉 CLICK HERE! 🎉✨To celebrate 400 episodes of the Run Smarter Podcast, Brodie brings on his sister Zoe for a heartfelt and relatable conversation about one of the most transformative shifts in her running journey: learning to truly slow down.After years of red-lining every session, feeling fatigued, and struggling with motivation, Zoe had a revelation that changed everything. In this episode, she shares what triggered this shift, how removing the pressure of apps like Strava helped, and what it actually feels like to run slow enough to enjoy the process and stay consistent.💡 Key Takeaways:Slowing Down Can Speed You Up: Running slower than you think you “should” may be the key to unlocking consistency and long-term improvement.Strava & Social Pressures: Public tracking apps can subconsciously push you into unsustainable efforts. Zoe ditched Strava and focused on how running felt rather than how it looked.Enjoyment Fuels Consistency: For the first time, running became enjoyable — not a chore. Zoe looked forward to her runs instead of dreading them.Signs You’re Running Too Hard:You constantly red-lineYou struggle to breathe or feel exhausted post-runYou feel unmotivated to start your runsTips for Running Slow Enough:Try “embarrassingly slow” pace for recovery runsSing a line of a song as a breathing testFocus on how your legs and breath feel, not your watchFinish feeling like you could do it againThe 80/20 Rule: About 80% of your weekly mileage should be at low intensity — slow enough to hold a conversation or feel relaxed throughout🧠 Reflection Prompts:Are you genuinely running slow enough on your easy days?Do apps or social comparison affect your running intensity?Would removing pressure improve your enjoyment and consistency?

Learn more about Brodie's Research Database & AI Assistant 📄🔍For MORE Run Smarter Resources 🏃‍♂️📚- Including Free Injury Prevention Courses 🩹🎓- The Run Smarter Book 📖- Access to Research Papers 📄🔍- & Ways to Work with Brodie 🤝👟👉 CLICK HERE! 🎉✨Struggling with running during illness, lingering muscle pain, or training for a faster marathon? In this special Ask Me Anything episode, Brodie dives into listener-submitted questions to cover a range of critical topics—from when to return to training after a cold, to how long injuries actually take to heal, to strategies for a faster marathon.🎧 What You'll Learn:🔹 Running After Illness:How to know when you're ready to return to training after a cold, flu, or COVID.The role of heart rate variability in gauging recovery.Brodie's personal recovery experience from COVID and his return-to-run strategy.Practical illness recovery tips: breathwork, hydration, supplements, and more.🔹 When Rest Isn’t Enough for Muscle Healing:Why complete rest often delays recovery.How early rehab exercises support healing and reduce dysfunction.The “pain-rest-weakness” spiral and how to avoid it.Step-by-step progressions for hamstring rehab.🔹 Injury Recovery Timeframes:Why Brodie avoids giving specific timelines for recovery.The importance of physical benchmarks over time-based goals.Key recovery factors: daily load, psychological mindset, treatment methods, and training mistakes.🔹 Is Chronic Injury Harder to Heal?The impact of long-term pain on your nervous system and mindset.Why recovery is still possible—even after years of dealing with injury.🔹 Marathon Performance Boosters (Beyond Mileage):Strength training (and how heavy you really need to lift)Pacing strategy (even or negative splits for optimal results)Fueling & hydration (don’t wait until race day to figure it out)Recovery strategy (why sleep is your best performance tool)Footwear (how super shoes like Vaporfly affect performance)

Learn more about Brodie's Research Database & AI Assistant 📄🔍For MORE Run Smarter Resources 🏃‍♂️📚- Including Free Injury Prevention Courses 🩹🎓- The Run Smarter Book 📖- Access to Research Papers 📄🔍- & Ways to Work with Brodie 🤝👟👉 CLICK HERE! 🎉✨In this episode, Brodie explores the latest research on vitamin D and its role in tendon health, diving into a 2024 comprehensive review that examines both cell-based and animal studies. You’ll learn how vitamin D influences tendon healing, inflammation, and collagen production—and how low levels could delay your recovery. Plus, Brodie shares practical advice on vitamin D testing, optimal levels, sun exposure, supplementation, and the potential role of vitamin K2.🧠 What You'll Learn:How tendons respond to training and stress via collagen synthesisWhy vitamin D is like a “site manager” during tendon repairThe difference between in vitro (lab) and in vivo (animal) studiesWhat research shows about vitamin D deficiency and tendon healingThe importance of maintaining adequate vitamin D levels (and what’s considered optimal)Whether supplementation is necessary—and how to combine it with vitamin K2🧪 Research Highlight:Study: Exploring the Impact of Vitamin D on Tendon Health: A Comprehensive Review (2024)14 studies analyzed: 5 in vitro, 9 in vivo (mostly animal models)Key takeaway: Vitamin D deficiency may impair tendon healing and increase re-injury risk🛠️ Practical Takeaways:Ask your GP for a 25-hydroxyvitamin D blood testAim for blood levels between 75–125 nmol/L for optimal musculoskeletal healthGet sun exposure for 10–30 mins/day (arms and legs, mid-morning or afternoon)Include dietary sources like fatty fish, egg yolks, and fortified foodsSupplement with 1,000–2,000 IU/day if needed; higher doses may require supervisionIf supplementing long-term, consider pairing vitamin D with vitamin K2 to support bone health and calcium balance🎯 Ideal For:Runners and athletes recovering from tendinopathyPeople looking to optimize tendon repair and performanceAnyone curious about the role of micronutrients in injury recovery

Learn more about Brodie's Research Database & AI Assistant 📄🔍For MORE Run Smarter Resources 🏃‍♂️📚- Including Free Injury Prevention Courses 🩹🎓- The Run Smarter Book 📖- Access to Research Papers 📄🔍- & Ways to Work with Brodie 🤝👟👉 CLICK HERE! 🎉✨In this mind-expanding episode, I’m joined by sports scientist and biomechanics researcher Gustavo Leporace, who unpacks the findings from his newly published paper: “The Search for the Holy Grail of Running Biomechanics – Is There an Ideal Movement Profile for Minimizing Mechanical Overload?”https://journals.sagepub.com/eprint/PZ8SVIXH7GSZI7YPTJVQ/fullWe discuss:🏃‍♂️ Why no single “perfect” running form exists📊 How machine learning revealed 5 distinct running profiles based on load patterns⚖️ The difference between peak vs. cumulative mechanical load—and why it matters🧬 Variables like cadence, duty factor, vertical stiffness, and movement smoothness🔄 When changing your running technique can help (and when it can backfire)🔍 Why injury rehab should first focus on load management before movement retraining📚 Mentioned Resources  🎥 YouTube explainer video of the 5 running profiles

Learn more about Brodie's Research Database & AI Assistant 📄🔍For MORE Run Smarter Resources 🏃‍♂️📚- Including Free Injury Prevention Courses 🩹🎓- The Run Smarter Book 📖- Access to Research Papers 📄🔍- & Ways to Work with Brodie 🤝👟👉 CLICK HERE! 🎉✨ Is it safe to exercise while fasting? What if you're a recreational runner? A woman? Or trying to lose weight?In this episode, I’m joined by the brilliant Kira Sutherland, a naturopath and sports nutritionist with over 25 years of clinical experience and a deep passion for endurance sports. Together, we unravel the science (and myths) behind fasting and athletic performance.Kira shares practical, evidence-informed insights about:🕒 The different types of fasting (intermittent, dry, Ramadan, fasted training)💪 How fasted exercise influences fat adaptation, performance, and recovery⚠️ Common mistakes athletes make with fasted training👩‍🦰 Why women respond differently to fasting than men (and what to do about it)🍽 The truth about post-exercise eating windows and what matters most🧠 Why the body’s natural rhythms may matter more than your fasting schedule📆 How often and when runners should fast depending on their goalsWhether you're curious about using fasting for performance, longevity, gut health, or fat loss — this episode will help you understand how to do it safely, effectively, and in sync with your body.

Learn more about Brodie's Research Database & AI Assistant 📄🔍In this episode, Brodie dives into three new studies aimed at helping runners prevent injury and understand how tech and biomechanics affect performance. Whether you're a recreational runner or an aspiring marathoner, these findings offer practical, science-backed takeaways.Featured Studies & Key InsightsAsymmetry & Bone Stress InjuriesStudy Title: Can biomechanical variables and asymmetry predict bone stress injuries in collegiate distance runners?✅ Key Finding: Even small left-to-right asymmetries may increase injury risk — particularly for female runners.🧍‍♂️ Implication: Asymmetry under 10% was still meaningful in injury prediction. Don’t ignore minor imbalances in cadence, step length, or ground reaction force.🧠 Tip: Wearables that track contact time or vertical oscillation may help identify early imbalances before pain begins.Strength & Flexibility Self-Assessments for MarathonersStudy Title: Strength and Flexibility Self-Assessment and Subsequent Training Injuries Among Recreational Runners of the NYC Marathon✅ Key Finding: The single-leg glute bridge was the only test significantly associated with injury risk.❌ Flexibility tests (sit & reach, quad stretch) and other strength tests (planks, heel raises, push-ups) had no predictive value.🏠 DIY Test: If you can’t hold a single-leg glute bridge for >20 seconds on your weaker side, your injury risk may be higher.Super Shoes & Injury RiskStudy Title: Technology Advanced Running Shoes Reduce Biomechanical Factors of Running-Related Injury Risk👟 Super shoes (like Nike Alphafly) encouraged mid/forefoot striking without increasing joint or muscle strain.✅ They reduced load on key areas like the ankle joint, soleus, and peroneus longus.❗️Minimalist shoes, on the other hand, tripled ankle joint forces and heavily loaded the calf and foot — a risk for Achilles and metatarsal injuries.⚠️ Caution: Transition slowly into super shoes or minimalist footwear. Your body needs time to adapt to new mechanics.Practical Takeaways for RunnersMonitor asymmetries using wearables or self-awareness — don’t wait for pain.Use the glute bridge hold as a simple strength test at home. Aim for >20 seconds on both sides.Super shoes aren’t just for speed — they may actually help with injury prevention, especially for habitual forefoot strikers.Avoid going cold turkey into minimalist shoes unless you're conditioned for it.📚 Want to Go Deeper?🔍 All referenced studies are stored in the Run Smarter Research Database — accessible for just $8.99/month. 💬 Plus, get access to the Run Smarter AI Assistant, which answers your running questions based on podcast episodes, papers, and course content.👉 Click here to explore membership optionsFor MORE Run Smarter Resources 🏃‍♂️📚- Including Free Injury Prevention Courses 🩹🎓- The Run Smarter Book 📖- Access to Research Papers 📄🔍- & Ways to Work with Brodie 🤝👟👉 CLICK HERE! 🎉✨ 

Learn more about Brodie's Research Database & AI Assistant 📄🔍In this episode of the Run Smarter Podcast, Brodie sits down with world-renowned sports dietitian and researcher Professor Louise Burke to clear the air on one of the most debated topics in endurance sport: low-carb vs high-carb diets.After receiving listener pushback from a previous episode on low-carb nutrition, Brodie brings in Louise — who has decades of elite-level experience and research — to explore:The theory behind fat-adaptation and low-carb, high-fat dietsWhether the science supports keto for endurance performanceThe trade-offs between fuel efficiency, oxygen use, and high-intensity outputWhat recreational runners should consider when planning their fueling strategiesLouise also shares:When keto may be appropriate (hint: not for everyone!)How to train your gut to tolerate more carbsThe dangers of extreme diet restrictionWhy individual response should guide your nutrition planHer concerns around misinformation, particularly in female athlete nutrition🧠 Key Takeaways:Yes, keto increases fat burning, but it can impair high-intensity performance due to reduced oxygen efficiency.Carb periodisation—adjusting intake based on session intensity—is a smart strategy for most runners.Carbohydrate source and quality matter just as much as quantity.Training the gut is essential if you're increasing carb intake for race day.Avoid extreme rigidity in diets. Nutrient density, food range, and enjoyment are critical for long-term success.💬 Quotes to Remember:“It’s not about choosing sides — it’s about choosing the right strategy for your sport, goals, and physiology.”“Everyone’s an expert in nutrition… because everyone eats. But not everyone interprets the science correctly.”Follow Prof Louise Burke on Twitter (X)For MORE Run Smarter Resources 🏃‍♂️📚- Including Free Injury Prevention Courses 🩹🎓- The Run Smarter Book 📖- Access to Research Papers 📄🔍- & Ways to Work with Brodie 🤝👟👉 CLICK HERE! 🎉✨ 

Learn more about Brodie's Research Database & AI Assistant 📄🔍In this listener Q&A episode, Brodie tackles a wide range of questions from the Run Smarter community. From race-day fueling strategies and minimalist footwear to the nuances of tendon vs muscle rehab, this episode delivers practical, evidence-based advice to help you train smarter and reduce your injury risk.❓ Questions Answered in This Episode:What’s the optimal fueling strategy for long runs and race day?How can I avoid calf cramps and “hitting the wall” after 32km?Is it okay to strength train the day before a speed session?What shoe or biomechanical adjustments can help with medial tibial stress syndrome?Are ketone supplements worth the investment for performance or recovery?Why do I only get sit-bone pain when running hills?How can I safely find my upper weekly mileage limit?What are the pros, cons, and research on barefoot running and Vibram shoes?Are youth runners more prone to injuries due to early specialization?How does tendon rehab differ from muscle rehab—and why do tendon injuries linger?🧠 Key Lessons:Carb fueling: Aim for 60–90g of carbs per hour during long races; train your gut beforehand.Cramping prevention: Hydration must include electrolytes, not just water.Strength & speed: Don’t compromise quality—if you notice performance drop-offs, rearrange your training week.Barefoot shoes: They offer benefits but come with a very narrow margin for error and higher overload risk.Injury rehab: Tendon injuries often linger due to stress shielding and require different loading strategies than muscles.✅ Practical Takeaways:Test fueling and hydration strategies during training, not on race day.Consider cadence, step width, and load distribution when dealing with shin splints.Use shoes as tools: rotate between minimalist and supportive footwear depending on recovery needs.Vary youth training loads and encourage multi-sport participation for injury prevention.Tendons need slow, progressive loading and may not respond to typical muscle rehab protocols.💬 Quote to Remember:“A part of training should be exploring your limits and learning from them—just don’t wait until injury forces the lesson.”For MORE Run Smarter Resources 🏃‍♂️📚- Including Free Injury Prevention Courses 🩹🎓- The Run Smarter Book 📖- Access to Research Papers 📄🔍- & Ways to Work with Brodie 🤝👟👉 CLICK HERE! 🎉✨ 

Learn more about Brodie's Research Database & AI Assistant 📄🔍In this listener Q&A episode, Brodie answers your submitted questions on a range of running topics—from biomechanics and nutrition to recovery strategies and age-related changes in performance. Packed with science-backed insights and practical takeaways, this is part one of a two-part Q&A series.🔍 What’s Covered in This Episode:🥤 Is Beetroot a Performance Enhancer?A listener asks why WADA might ban beetroot supplements like caffeine.Brodie turns to the Run Smarter AI Assistant for research-backed answers.Find out how beetroot may impact muscle recovery, oxidative stress, and strength post-race.🦶 Asymmetrical Foot Position in Swing PhaseWhat to do if one foot points down and the other points outward while running.When to ignore it and when to address it with assessments, strength/mobility work, or conscious retraining.👟 Should You Rotate Running Shoes?A review of a 22-week prospective study: Runners who used multiple shoe types had a 39% lower injury risk.Learn how shoe variety changes loading patterns to potentially prevent injury.Plus: How to safely transition into a new pair.💪 Can I Add More Strength Training If I’m Time Poor?Listener Ben wants to fit more upper body strength work into an already full week.Brodie shares how to superset exercises for efficiency and recommends a push–pull split over two sessions.⏱️ “I Used to Run a 41-Minute 10K... Now Everything Feels Hard”Emma is struggling after a major performance decline post-relocation and age-related changes.Brodie dives into how menopause, environmental factors, training intensity, and aging physiology may all play a role—and what to do about it.🍑 What Causes Hip Drop?Lindy asks about excessive hip drop and how to correct it.Brodie breaks down biomechanics, contributing factors (like cadence and strength), and specific glute medius exercises (hip hikes, crab walks, jump rope drills).🧬 BPC-157: The “Healing Peptide” – Is It Legit?Listener Scott asks if BPC-157 is worth exploring for tendon healing.Brodie consults tendon rehab expert Dr. Alex Nelson, who shares a cautious perspective: mostly animal studies, inconsistent results, and many unknowns.For MORE Run Smarter Resources 🏃‍♂️📚- Including Free Injury Prevention Courses 🩹🎓- The Run Smarter Book 📖- Access to Research Papers 📄🔍- & Ways to Work with Brodie 🤝👟👉 CLICK HERE! 🎉✨

Learn more about Brodie's Research Database & AI Assistant 📄🔍 Episode 391 – Running is Rehab: When Doing is the Fixing with Greg LehmanIs complete rest the answer to running injuries? Or is movement—specifically running—itself the medicine?In this powerful episode, I’m joined by Greg Lehman, renowned physiotherapist, biomechanist, and educator, to challenge long-standing rehab dogmas. We dive into why running itself should often be the primary rehab tool and how to safely navigate pain, fear, and flare-ups on your return to running.Whether you're dealing with a stubborn tendon, recovering from a muscle strain, or stuck in the fear loop of re-injury, this conversation will shift your mindset and offer practical strategies you can use immediately.🎯 In This Episode, You'll Learn:Why "running is rehab" and what that really meansHow to reframe pain and symptoms as part of the recovery journeyWhy many runners are told to stop running unnecessarilyHow to use pain intelligently (yes, you can run with some pain)The truth about muscle imbalances and faulty running formWhen to reintroduce hills, speedwork, or doublesWhy the 10% rule may be flawed—and what to do insteadHow to know if you're progressing or pushing too far👤 About Greg LehmanGreg is a Canadian physiotherapist, chiropractor, and strength & conditioning specialist with a Master’s in Biomechanics. He teaches internationally on pain, rehab, and movement—blending science with practical application. Greg is well known for his humorous, evidence-based takes on rehab myths and frequently posts on Twitter.🕒 Episode Highlights & Timestamps:00:00 – Welcome and intro to Greg Lehman 04:12 – What does “Running is Rehab” actually mean? 08:36 – Should you have to “earn the right to run”? 12:44 – When running should be your primary rehab tool 18:40 – The risks of rest: deconditioning, fear, and setbacks 23:30 – Pain, hypervigilance & learning to run with discomfort 29:40 – How to know when running is too painful 36:55 – The role (and limits) of strength work in running rehab 43:00 – Advice on speedwork, hills, and returning to higher mileage 52:22 – Do braces, tape, or orthotics help with return to run? 56:20 – Debunking poor form & muscle imbalance fears 01:00:10 – Should you still follow the 10% rule? 01:03:30 – Closing advice: Be flexible. Progress isn't always linear.💬 Quotes to Remember“The best way to get better at running is… running.” – Greg Lehman “Pain is okay. We just need to poke the bear—don’t hump the shit out of it.” “You don’t have to be 100% pain-free to start running again.”You can find Greg's website, twitter & instagram here along with his website on OA for runners. For MORE Run Smarter Resources 🏃‍♂️📚- Including Free Injury Prevention Courses 🩹🎓- The Run Smarter Book 📖- Access to Research Papers 📄🔍- & Ways to Work with Brodie 🤝👟👉 CLICK HERE! 🎉✨

Learn more about Brodie's Research Database & AI Assistant 📄🔍🧠 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Join Brodie as he breaks down the latest running research from May 2025, giving you science-backed insights to run smarter, reduce injury risk, and boost performance. In this episode, you’ll explore:📌 Featured Research Summaries:1. Biomechanical Strategies to Improve RunningHow increasing your cadence by 10% can reduce knee pain — especially patellofemoral pain.Why combining cadence, footwear (lower heel drop), and orthoses yields the best biomechanical results.Why cadence alone might be the most powerful, accessible change you can make.2. Foot Strike & Tibial LoadingForefoot striking increases tibial stress by 15–16%—why this matters for runners with a history of shin splints or stress fractures.How exaggerating a heel strike decreased tibial load—especially useful for runners recovering from bone stress injuries.Don’t be fooled by impact forces: internal loading tells a more important story.3. Diagnosing Iliopsoas TendinopathyA new test (the HEC Test) combining hip flexion + external rotation had a 94% sensitivity and 88% specificity.Why this figure-4 movement is now one of the best clinical tools for groin pain.How a guided injection was used to confirm accuracy — and what this means for runners with chronic hip pain.4. Trail Running Safety InsightsBased on real-world fatal incidents reported in the news.Top causes of death: hypothermia, cardiac arrest, and falls.Actionable tips for recreational trail runners:Plan your route and let someone know.Bring layers and an emergency blanket — even for short runs.Use a GPS tracker and whistle.Know the symptoms of heatstroke and hyponatremia.For MORE Run Smarter Resources 🏃‍♂️📚- Including Free Injury Prevention Courses 🩹🎓- The Run Smarter Book 📖- Access to Research Papers 📄🔍- & Ways to Work with Brodie 🤝👟👉 CLICK HERE! 🎉✨

Learn more about Brodie's Research Database & AI Assistant 📄🔍In this episode, Brodie Sharpe sits down with Sara to share her inspiring journey of overcoming Proximal Hamstring Tendinopathy (PHT) after struggling with it for several years. Sara's story is filled with ups and downs, from navigating misdiagnoses and passive treatments to discovering the power of strength training and the mind-body connection. Whether you’re currently battling PHT or looking for guidance on chronic pain, this episode offers valuable insights and hope.Episode Highlights:00:00 – Introduction to today’s episode and Sara’s success story00:33 – Background on Sara’s PHT journey and how it developed over the years01:07 – Sara shares the onset of her symptoms dating back to 200902:34 – The chronic resurgence in 2017 and the role of life transitions03:54 – Seeking treatment: from passive treatments to sports medicine05:49 – Ineffective treatments: PRP, dry needling, and acupuncture06:48 – Diagnosis of PHT and later gluteal tendinopathy08:15 – Attempting different procedures: Tenex, injections, and shockwave therapy09:43 – The mental and emotional toll of chronic pain10:41 – Finding Brodie’s podcast and beginning strength training12:18 – The importance of slow, heavy progressive strength training in recovery14:13 – Balancing treatment approaches and avoiding unnecessary interventions16:29 – Returning to running: overcoming fear and rebuilding confidence19:22 – A pivotal moment: discovering ‘Think Away Your Pain’ and the mind-body connection24:27 – The impact of personality traits on chronic pain and recovery27:53 – How stress and responsibility play a role in pain persistence31:36 – Understanding the emotional component of pain and its management34:27 – Key strategies for overcoming hypervigilance and overanalysis37:45 – How to shift treatment strategies when progress plateaus41:02 – Sara’s current status: running again and symptom management42:51 – Final advice for PHT sufferers and key takeawaysKey Takeaways: ✔ Passive treatments like PRP, dry needling, and injections may not provide long-term relief for PHT. ✔ Strength training, specifically slow, heavy progressive loading, is a crucial foundation for recovery. ✔ Addressing the mind-body connection can be a game-changer in managing chronic pain. ✔ Hypervigilance and fear of movement can perpetuate pain—learning to reframe these thoughts is essential. ✔ Recovery is a journey—adjusting your approach when progress stalls is key to success. ✔ Stress and personality traits (perfectionism, responsibility, self-criticism) can influence chronic pain.Resources Mentioned:Sara's email: sarashaff@gmail.comThink Away Your Pain – David SchechterHealing Back Pain – Dr. John SarnoEmily's TMS InstagramDan’s YouTube Channel: Pain Free YouFor MORE Run Smarter Resources 🏃‍♂️📚- Including Free Injury Prevention Courses 🩹🎓- The Run Smarter Book 📖- Access to Research Papers 📄🔍- & Ways to Work with Brodie 🤝👟👉 CLICK HERE! 🎉✨

Learn more about Brodie's Research Database & AI Assistant 📄🔍Guest: Dr. Ian Seels | Specialist Musculoskeletal Physiotherapist🧠 Episode SummaryIn this thought-provoking episode, Brodie chats with Dr. Ian Seels, a private musculoskeletal physiotherapist with over 35 years of experience and a co-author of the paper The Relevance of Diet in Musculoskeletal Clinical Practice – A Narrative Review. Together, they explore the emerging science behind how diet influences inflammation, pain, and injury recovery—with a particular focus on what this means for recreational runners.If you're battling persistent niggles, chronic tendon pain, or just want to run pain-free into your later years, this episode offers a fresh perspective you might not have considered: what you eat could be the missing link in your recovery journey.🔍 What You’ll LearnWhy inflammation matters more than weight when it comes to injury and painHow a high-carb Western diet may be quietly sabotaging your recoveryThe 3 pillars of "active management" for injury: mechanical, mental, and metabolicThe basics of an anti-inflammatory diet (very low carb, high fat, moderate protein)The difference between nutritional ketosis vs. metabolic acidosisHow to train your body to burn fat instead of carbs for enduranceSimple ways to reduce oxidative stress and support your gut healthWhy omega-3 to omega-6 balance is critical for joint and tendon healthLabel-reading tips that might surprise even the most health-conscious runnersWhether CRP and ketone testing is worth doing to track inflammation🧪 Practical Takeaways for RunnersA 4–6 week anti-inflammatory diet “trial” could help reduce pain and improve energyReducing processed foods and increasing healthy fats can shift you into a less inflamed stateBerries, leafy greens, herbs, and spices are powerful sources of antioxidantsKetone testing can “gamify” your dietary changes and provide real-time feedbackOmega-3s from oily fish, grass-fed meats, and free-range eggs support healing🛠️ Resources Mentioned📄 Paper: The Relevance of Diet in Musculoskeletal Clinical Practice – A Narrative Review📺 YouTube: Diet, Health and the Wisdom of Crowds (2018)🌐 LowCarbDownUnder.com.au – A go-to hub for evidence-based low-carb/keto nutritionFor MORE Run Smarter Resources 🏃‍♂️📚- Including Free Injury Prevention Courses 🩹🎓- The Run Smarter Book 📖- Access to Research Papers 📄🔍- & Ways to Work with Brodie 🤝👟👉 CLICK HERE! 🎉✨