Marathon Handbook Podcast

In this Mailbag Madness episode of the Marathon Handbook Podcast, Michael Doyle, Alex Cyr, and Katelyn Tocci answer listener questions about training, racing, injuries, and running gear.SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS:Saysky makes incredible running gear that our team love. Use code MARATHON15 for 15% off your purchase at https://saysky.comThis episode is presented by Momentous. Use promo code MARATHON for up to 35% off your first order: https://⁠livemomentous.comTopics include building a long-term plan to qualify for the Boston Marathon, whether runners should race a half marathon before their goal marathon, and how hard workouts should feel during a training block.We also discuss returning to running after Achilles and plantar fasciitis injuries, fueling strategies for long runs, and whether runners actually need a shoe rotation to improve performance and reduce injury risk.Questions answered in this episode:How should I structure a multi-year Boston qualifying plan?Is racing a half marathon 8 weeks before a marathon a good idea?How fatigued should you feel during training?How do you safely rebuild mileage after injury?Do runners really need multiple pairs of running shoes?Plus: running stories, weird animal encounters on the run, and Alex’s now-infamous runner feet.Have a question for the show?Email podcast@marathonhandbook.com

This week on The Running Story, Michael Doyle and Jessy Carveth break down the five biggest stories shaping the running world.First up: Jacob Kiplimo runs 57:20 at the Lisbon Half Marathon, potentially reclaiming the half marathon world record pending ratification after last year’s controversy over pacing vehicles. Next, Eliud Kipchoge announces he’ll run the Cape Town Marathon, marking the first time the marathon legend will race on African soil in a marathon — and possibly positioning him to become the first eight-star finisher if Cape Town becomes a World Marathon Major. We also dive into two major LA Marathon controversies:A stunning 0.01-second finish after the race leader was misdirected off course near the finishA heated debate after runners who took a heat-relief shortcut at mile 18 were still awarded finisher medals. Finally, the NYC Marathon lottery results are out — and the odds are tougher than ever, with around 1% of applicants accepted.

Connor Mantz is the American marathon record holder, but his journey to the top hasn’t been straightforward.After a breakout 2025 season that included a record-breaking 2:04:43 at the Chicago Marathon, Mantz looked poised for even bigger things. But a sacrum stress fracture forced him off running for nearly three months.In this episode, Alex Cyr sits down with Mantz to talk about his recovery, his build toward the 2026 Boston Marathon, and what it takes to compete with the best marathoners in the world.SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS:Saysky makes incredible running gear that our team love. Use code MARATHON15 for 15% off your purchase at https://saysky.comLagoon pillows help us sleep better, so we run better. Want to try? You can save 15% with code MARATHON. Go to https://LagoonSleep.com/marathonhandbook and take the 2-minute sleep quiz to find your match. They discuss:Setting the American marathon record in ChicagoThe injuries that derailed his trainingHow elite runners approach recovery and cross-trainingWhether Americans are closing the gap on East African runnersSuper shoes and how they’ve changed racingDoping concerns in professional runningWhy Utah produces so many elite distance runnersHis long-term goal of winning an Olympic medal in 2028Plus a rapid-fire round covering shoe rotations, breaking two hours in the marathon, and who he trusts most to babysit his future child.00:00 Intro00:47 Meet American Marathon Record Holder Conner Mantz02:30 Injury After Chicago & The Road Back04:30 Running Through Injuries06:30 The Sacrum Stress Fracture Explained11:00 Cross Training While Injured14:30 Returning to Running After 12 Weeks Off17:40 Boston Marathon Build & Training Strategy22:00 Benchmark Workouts Before a Marathon24:00 Can Conner Mantz Win Boston?25:30 Choosing Marathons: Legacy vs Prize Money28:30 Olympic Gold vs Winning a Major31:00 The Sour Patch Kids Doping Scare36:00 Doping in Elite Running44:30 The Enhanced Games Debate49:00 Are Americans Catching East African Runners?54:00 The Super Shoe Effect57:00 Why Some Runners Improve So Fast58:30 What Makes Conner Mantz a Great Marathoner1:00:30 Why Utah Produces So Many Elite Runners1:04:00 Goals for 2026 & Olympic Dreams1:06:00 Rapid Fire Questions1:15:00 Where to Follow Conner Mantz

This week on The Running Story, Michael Doyle and Jessy Carveth unpack one of the most dramatic weeks in running so far this year.We start in Tokyo, where the first World Marathon Major of 2026 delivered a blistering three-man sprint finish and a stunning women’s course record performance.Then we dive into the chaos at the US Half Marathon Championships in Atlanta, where a lead vehicle reportedly took a wrong turn — costing Jess McClain a national title and a potential automatic World Championships spot.Plus:Ironman bans on-course photography, phones, GoPros, and wearable camera glasses — is this about safety or squeezing athletes into buying official photos?Olympic superstar Eileen Gu’s surprisingly strong running résuméHonoring the legacy of Jeff Galloway, 1972 Olympian and pioneer of the run-walk methodIt’s a packed episode covering controversy, brilliance, and legacy in the running world.Follow the show for weekly deep dives into the biggest stories in running.Read Amby Burfoot's interview with Jess McClain.00:00 Intro2:00 Tokyo Marathon 2026 Recap5:06 Jeff Galloway Remembered (1945–2026)8:15 Eileen Gu: The Elite Runner That Never Was11:25 US Half Marathon Championships Controversy17:54 Ironman Bans On-Course Photography

Recorded moments after the elite races finished, we break down everything from the 2026 Tokyo Marathon. Brigid Kosgei stormed back into world-class form with a stunning 2:14:29 course record (14:25), while Tadesse Takele defended his title in a 2:03:37 thriller that came down to the final meters (23:51). We unpack the women’s race coverage issues and what we missed early (06:16), the bold front-running move that shaped the men’s race (17:58), the Japanese national record battle (26:40), standout performances and surprises (31:03), and what the shoe wars looked like on both podiums (40:00). Plus: our honest take on the broadcast, the app frustrations, and whether Tokyo just moved up — or stayed put — on our personal majors bucket lists (46:24).#tokyomarathon #WMM #WorldMarathonMajors #marathon #running

In this episode of the Marathon Handbook Podcast, Michael Doyle, Alex Cyr, and Katelyn Tocci break down everything you need to know about the first World Marathon Major of 2026: the Tokyo Marathon.We deliver a complete race preview — from course strategy and congestion to race-day weather, elite storylines, and bold predictions. If you’re racing Tokyo, chasing a marathon PR, or just love major marathon season, this is your full guide.We cover race basics and how to watch live (04:37), including start times and logistics, plus just how hard it is to get into Tokyo’s infamous 2% lottery (09:00). Then we dive into a full course breakdown (12:30), race etiquette and on-course rules (17:30), and Tokyo’s unique aid stations and fueling setup (29:10). We analyze the race-day weather forecast and conditions (32:20), and explore Tokyo Marathon history and course records (35:57).On the elite side, we break down the women’s field (41:52), including whether Sutume Kebede can three-peat (43:00), and what Sara Hall racing both Tokyo and Boston means (45:00). We debate why Tokyo still hasn’t produced a world record (48:50) before turning to the men’s field (51:52), the Japanese national record showdown (53:30), and dark horse breakout potential (56:00).Finally, we make our official predictions for the winners (1:02:55) and close with our World Marathon Majors Power Rankings — PB edition (1:09:56), before final thoughts and how to follow the race live (1:18:30).Topics include:• Elite field predictions (men’s & women’s)• Course record potential• The Japanese national record battle• Why Tokyo hasn’t produced a world record• Course strategy & race-day tips• Weather forecast analysis• Is Tokyo secretly the fastest major?• Could Cam Levins break the North American record?If you’re running Tokyo, planning your next major, or gearing up for marathon season — this is your complete race preview.Subscribe, rate, and follow the Marathon Handbook Podcast for weekly running news and marathon analysis.SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS:Saysky makes incredible running gear that our team love. Use code MARATHON15 for 15% off your purchase at https://saysky.comThis episode is presented by Momentous. Use promo code MARATHON for up to 35% off your first order: https://⁠livemomentous.com#tokyomarathon #WMM #WorldMarathonMajors #HarryStyles #marathon #running

This week on The Running Story, Michael Doyle and Jessy Carveth break down five of the biggest headlines in distance running.The NYC Half Marathon elite fields are officially set, and the matchups are electric. Grant Fisher makes his highly anticipated half marathon debut, while Sharon Lokedi and Hellen Obiri renew one of the sport’s fiercest rivalries.On the track, Keely Hodgkinson takes down a long-standing 800m indoor world record in dominant fashion.In ultrarunning, Ashley Paulson runs 12:19:34 to break the women’s 100-mile world record — but her past suspension raises questions that the sport can’t ignore.Plus, a Florida man is federally indicted under the Rodchenko Anti-Doping Act in connection with an Olympic sprinter — a case that could have serious implications for elite sport.And finally, the Boston Marathon unveils its 2026 finisher medal. Is it a classic… or a step backward? We debate.Subscribe for weekly breakdowns of the biggest stories in the running world.0:00 Intro1:15 NYC Half Marathon Preview5:36 Florida Doping Indictment8:05 100-Mile World Record10:51 800m Indoor World Record13:15 Boston Marathon 2026 Medal Debate📩 Questions about training, race previews, or to send us your hot takes? Email us at podcast@marathonhandbook.com.🎤 Leave us a voice memo for our mailbag episodes: marathonhandbook.com/podcast📸 Instagram: @marathon.handbook📰 Join 265,000+ runners getting our daily newsletter: marathonhandbook.com/newsletter📬 Subscribe to the Marathon Handbook newsletter for daily training insights

What’s next in running shoes — and are we entering a new era?In this episode, Michael Doyle, Alex Cyr, and Katelyn Tocci break down the biggest Spring 2026 shoe releases and the state of the super shoe arms race.SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS:Saysky makes incredible running gear that our team love. Use code MARATHON15 for 15% off your purchase at https://saysky.comLagoon pillows help us sleep better, so we run better. Want to try? You can save 15% with code MARATHON. Go to https://LagoonSleep.com/marathonhandbook and take the 2-minute sleep quiz to find your match. We cover:• ASICS Superblast 3 and the “do-it-all” trainer debate• Salomon’s aerodynamic Phantasm 3 — does aero matter for runners?• On’s LightSpray expansion and what it means for performance footwear• The latest super shoe developments from Adidas, Nike, ASICS, and Puma• Why elite marathoners may be racing in shoes you can’t buy• The rapid evolution of daily trainers• Buy, Hold, or Sell: Our quick takes on the newest releasesWe also discuss whether brands are innovating too fast, if super shoes are becoming inaccessible, and what everyday runners should actually buy in 2026.If you're training for a spring marathon, planning a fall race, or just trying to keep up with the latest shoe tech, this episode is your complete 2026 preview.Follow Marathon Handbook for weekly running news, race coverage, gear reviews, and training insights.Chapters:00:00 Intro – Spring 2026 Running Shoe Preview01:30 ASICS Superblast 3 Deep Dive07:30 Superblast 3 vs Mega Blast – What’s the Difference?11:40 Salomon S/Lab Phantasm 3 (Aerodynamic Super Shoe?)20:30 On LightSpray Update & Cloudmonster 3 Hyper26:00 2026 Running Shoe Trends27:00 Creative Daily Trainers (Brooks, Nike, Saucony, ASICS)33:30 Is the Classic Daily Trainer Dead?38:40 Are Super Shoes Advancing Too Fast?50:30 Super Shoe Watch – Nike Update53:30 On Racing Shoe Updates55:00 Adidas Pro Evo & Mystery 97g Shoe57:00 ASICS MetaSpeed Developments58:30 Puma Fast-R Nitro Elite 401:00:00 Saucony, Brooks, New Balance & HOKA Super Shoes01:07:00 Buy, Hold, or Sell – Rapid Fire Shoe Takes01:27:00 Wrap-Up & Where Shoes Are Headed in 2026

This week on The Running Story, Michael Doyle and Jessy Carveth break down the biggest stories in the running world.Cole Hocker runs 3:45.94 to set a new American indoor mile record — the second-fastest indoor mile ever. What does it mean for the global mile scene?Faith Kipyegon surprises everyone by racing her first-ever road 10K in Monaco. After dominating the 1,500m for years, is this the beginning of a move toward the marathon?Check out our Barkley Marathon episode!https://youtu.be/F0XU2NqKCxASuper Shoe Rankings:https://youtu.be/Jbb1KIH-3qIWe also discuss:Sam Ruth’s latest performance on US soilOn’s new super shoe prototype approved by World AthleticsThe Super Bowl halftime performer who logged his show on StravaTruett Hanes running 2:36 at the Austin Marathon — in full-length jeansWhether the “Jeans Guy” can realistically qualify for the US Olympic Marathon TrialsNew episodes of The Running Story drop weekly, covering the biggest stories in track, road racing, and marathoning.00:00 – Intro: This Week in Running News00:30 – Barkley Special Episode Mention01:10 – Story 1: Cole Hocker Breaks Indoor Mile Record02:30 – Sam Ruth’s Big Test Against Elite Milers04:50 – What’s Next for Sam Ruth in 202605:45 – Story 2: Super Bowl Halftime Show Logged on Strava06:30 – Viral Sugar Cane Costume Workout Explained07:30 – How Strava Got Him a NYC Marathon Bib08:45 – Story 3: On’s New Super Shoe Prototype Leak09:30 – World Athletics Approval & Prototype Rules10:15 – Helen Obiri’s London Marathon Opportunity11:00 – New Midsole Tech and Cloudboom Updates13:15 – Can On Compete With Nike & Adidas?14:30 – Story 4: Faith Kipyegon’s Surprise Road 10K Debut15:30 – Negative Split Win in Monaco16:30 – Could Faith Kipyegon Run a Marathon One Day?19:30 – Story 5: Truett Hanes “Jeans Guy” Austin Marathon20:40 – Running 2:36 in Denim: How Serious Is He?21:45 – Olympic Trials Standard: Still a Long Way to Go22:45 – Tearaway Jeans vs Racing Shorts Debate24:50 – Wrap-Up & Subscribe for Weekly Episodes

The 2026 Barkley Marathons delivered one of the most brutal editions in race history — and for the second year in a row, no one finished.In this episode of The Running Story, Michael Doyle and Jessy Carveth unpack everything that happened at this year’s Barkley Marathons in Tennessee’s Frozen Head State Park.They discuss:Why the February start made this year historicHow cold rain, fog, and creek crossings shaped the raceThe shockingly low Loop 1 completion rateThe lone “fun run” finisherThe top women’s performancesThe mysterious reporting style of the BarkleyWhether Lazarus Lake made the race too hardWhat 2027 might look likeIs the Barkley Marathons supposed to be nearly impossible — or has the balance tipped too far?If you love ultrarunning, trail running, and deep race analysis, this episode is for you.Read our feature on Keith Dunn:⁠⁠https://marathonhandbook.com/meet-keith-dunn-the-mad-tweeter-of-the-barkley-marathons/⁠⁠New episodes of The Running Story drop weekly.

If you could run any race in the world next year… what would you choose?SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS:Saysky makes incredible running gear that our team love. Use code MARATHON15 for 15% off your purchase at https://saysky.comThis episode is presented by Momentous. Use promo code MARATHON for up to 35% off your first order: https://⁠livemomentous.comIn this episode, we host our second annual Marathon Handbook Fantasy Race Draft, building the ultimate 2026 race calendar.Each of us must draft:A Spring & Fall 5KA Spring & Fall 10KA Spring & Fall Half MarathonA Spring & Fall MarathonOne true ultra (50K+ trail)One wildcard raceAnd we can only pick one race per country.From the London Marathon and NYC Marathon to UTMB, Valencia, Athens, Patagonia, Japan’s iconic relay culture, and some unexpected 5Ks — we debate speed vs experience, strategy vs bucket list, and which races are truly worth traveling for.Who built the best year of racing?Let us know what YOUR dream race calendar would look like.

This week on The Running Story, Michael Doyle and Jessy Carveth unpack one of the strangest controversies in recent running history.A men’s half marathon world record — the fastest ever run — has officially been disqualified nearly a year later. We break down why World Athletics made the call, how much advantage pacing vehicles really provide, and what it means for the sport moving forward.Plus:Eliud Kipchoge shows up at the Winter Olympics in a surprising Nike activationBrooks posts massive global growth and quietly becomes running’s most dominant brandFemke Bol debuts at 800m and immediately makes historyAndre De Grasse swaps the track for the NBA All-Star Celebrity GameFrom elite performance to brand strategy and Olympic storylines, this episode covers everything runners need to know this week.🎙️ New episodes every week from Marathon Handbook📌 Subscribe for weekly breakdowns of the biggest stories in running, track & field, and endurance sports.📩 Questions about training, race previews, or to send us your hot takes? Email us at podcast@marathonhandbook.com.🎤 Leave us a voice memo for our mailbag episodes: marathonhandbook.com/podcast📸 Instagram: @marathon.handbook📰 Join 265,000+ runners getting our daily newsletter: marathonhandbook.com/newsletter

Running is often called a “cheap” sport — but anyone training seriously knows that’s not the full story.In this episode, the Marathon Handbook team takes on a challenge inspired by listener feedback: build a full year of training, racing, shoes, gear, and nutrition for under $2,000.SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS:Lagoon pillows help us sleep better, so we run better. Want to try? You can save 15% with code MARATHON. Go to https://LagoonSleep.com/marathonhandbook and take the 2-minute sleep quiz to find your match. Saysky makes incredible running gear that our team love. Use code MARATHON15 for 15% off your purchase at https://saysky.comWe cover:Realistic race schedules and entry feesHow many shoes you actually needWhere to save (and where not to)Budget alternatives to expensive nutritionSmart strategies for buying last-year’s gearEach host creates a completely different runner avatar — from beginner to experienced marathoner — and defends every dollar spent.If you’ve ever wondered how to make running more affordable without cutting corners that matter, this episode is for you.Chapters/Topics:3:07 The Rules8:22 Goal Races26:04 Shoes46:26 Apparel1:18:13 Tech1:28:40 Nutrition1:40:57 Grand Totals1:42:42 Biggest Splurges1:46:34 Largest Compromise?1:47:27 What Would You Cut?1:48:39 What Would You Upgrade?1:50:23 Budget Advice for New Runners

Michael Doyle and Jessy Carveth return with five of the most intriguing running stories of the week:King Charles III makes a surprise appearance at a parkrun in Norfolk (0:56).A billionaire pledges $100M to support U.S. Olympic athletes — with delayed payouts and major conditions (6:16).Sha’Carri Richardson faces legal trouble after being clocked at 100 mph (12:00).Triathlon star Kristian Blummenfelt records the highest VO₂ max ever measured (15:34).16-year-old Sam Ruthe shocks the sport with a historic 3:48 mile in Boston (18:36)Plus, Jessy shares his early picks for the London Marathon.New episodes every Monday evening — subscribe and stay caught up on the running world.

Olympian and professional runner Sam Parsons joins Alex Cyr on the Marathon Handbook Podcast for a deep, honest conversation about elite running, creativity, and life beyond racing. Sam reflects on his early days with Tin Man Elite and becoming one of the first elite runners to document his career on YouTube (00:00), balancing wedding planning with professional sport (04:30), and his recent Achilles injury and recovery (06:00). He discusses the realities of moving from track to road racing (14:40), why elite runners need interests beyond performance (18:30), and breaks down FAVES, the athlete-focused tech platform he’s building (20:40). The conversation also covers Sam’s work with Tracksmith (42:10), the truth about super shoes and sponsorship leverage (47:40), his decision to move from Boulder to Los Angeles (56:00), and finishes with a fast-money round and reflections on fulfillment (01:03:10).Follow Sam Parsons on IG: https://www.instagram.com/par_sam_sons/https://www.instagram.com/par_sam_sons/Host: Alex CyrGuest: Sam ParsonsEditor/Producer: A. SmitheeSpecial thanks to Massimo Alpian at Tracksmith

The half marathon might be the most popular race distance in the world — but is it actually the perfect running event?In this episode of the Marathon Handbook Podcast, Michael Doyle is joined by coaches and athletes Katelyn Tocci and Alex Cyr for a complete deep dive into the half marathon.SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS: This episode is presented by Momentous. Use promo code MARATHON for up to 35% off your first order: ⁠livemomentous.comRocket Money saves you money by cancelling unwanted subscriptions, hassle-free: https://rocketmoney.com/gorunWe discuss:• The surprising origins of the half marathon• Why it feels more like a 10K than a marathon• The key workouts that build half marathon fitness• Long run guidelines for beginners vs advanced runners• Race-week pacing strategy and the “15K wall”• Fueling rules (when gels actually matter)• Strength training mistakes runners make• Best bucket list half marathons: Valencia, Copenhagen, NYC, Super Halves• Should the half marathon be an Olympic event?• And… what should we rename the half marathon?Whether you're racing your first 13.1 or chasing a PR, this is your complete half marathon handbook.Half Marathon Training Plans: https://marathonhandbook.com• Subscribe to the Newsletter: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletterTopics/Chapters:0:00 Intro0:23 Half Marathon Overview2:06 Origins of the Half Marathon9:35 Popularity of the Half Marathon19:11 What Kind of Race is It? (Comparing to 10K and Marathon)28:21 Physiology of the Half36:33 Why the Half is Hard41:51 Why the Half is Misunderstood44:51 Weekly Training Structure48:00 Key Half Marathon Workouts53:59 Common Training Mistakes58:06 Long Runs1:02:01 Fueling During the Race1:04:44 Carb Loading for a Half1:08:59 Post-Race Recovery1:12:27 Are Hot Tubs Overrated?1:15:39 Travel-Worthy Half Marathons1:23:04 Half Marathon and Olympics1:26:29 Rebranding the Half1:33:07 Final Thoughts on the Half

Michael Doyle and Jessy Carveth break down the five most compelling stories in running this week — starting with one of the most bizarre marathon disqualifications ever, after a runner was spotted racing the Hong Kong Marathon with a baby strapped to his chest.From there, they dive into Des Linden’s jaw-dropping spring race schedule, which somehow includes the Marathon des Sables, Boston, and London — all within weeks. The episode also features a standout moment from Boston’s indoor Grand Prix, where a 60-year-old grandmother ran a mile world record, plus two more historic performances on the track.The conversation wraps with elite running politics, world record context, and a lighthearted but surprisingly thorough investigation into which marathon Harry Styles might target in 2026 — with Chicago, London, and New York all in play.Insightful, opinionated, and deeply nerdy in the best way — this is The Running Story.Planning Upcoming Tour Around Marathons?📩 Questions about training, race previews, or to send us your hot takes? Email us at podcast@marathonhandbook.com.🎤 Leave us a voice memo for our mailbag episodes: marathonhandbook.com/podcast📸 Instagram: @marathon.handbook📰 Join 265,000+ runners getting our daily newsletter: marathonhandbook.com/newsletter

In this Winter 2026 Mailbag, the Marathon Handbook crew answers listener questions on some of the toughest — and most misunderstood — topics in marathon running.From runners who missed sub-3 by seconds, to first-time marathoners chasing Boston, to athletes sidelined by injury, this episode dives deep into both the physical and mental side of training.SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS:We love Wahoo’s KICKR RUN treadmill – go to https://⁠wahoofitness.com⁠ and use promo code MHRUN to get a free $319 KICKR Headwind Fan with your treadmill order.Lagoon pillows help us sleep better, so we run better. Want to try? You can save 15% with code MARATHON. Go to https://LagoonSleep.com/marathonhandbook and take the 2-minute sleep quiz to find your match. Rocket Money saves you money by cancelling unwanted subscriptions, hassle-free: https://rocketmoney.com/gorunWe cover:Whether to repeat a sub-3 training block or hire a coachHow much marathon pace should actually hurtLong runs vs. overall volume — what matters more?Shoes for mid-pack marathoners: super shoes or not?Training in extreme heat for cold-weather marathonsInjury, identity, and staying motivated when running is taken awayAlcohol during marathon training: moderation vs. abstinenceFine-tuning pace by seconds per kilometerThis is a must-listen for anyone training for a marathon — whether you’re chasing Boston, your first finish, or a big personal breakthrough.Interview with Pete Pfitzinger, co-author of Advanced Marathoning: https://youtu.be/pw9edKx9Mws?si=1bQ_KYd_dRLdUGUm📩 Questions about training, race previews, or to send us your hot takes? Email us at podcast@marathonhandbook.com.🎤 Leave us a voice memo for our mailbag episodes: marathonhandbook.com/podcast📸 Instagram: @marathon.handbook📰 Join 265,000+ runners getting our daily newsletter: marathonhandbook.com/newsletter🎙 New episodes weekly from Marathon Handbook

The Running Story is Marathon Handbook’s weekly news recap show with Michael Doyle and Jessy Carveth. This week we break down Des Linden’s big 2026 announcement—she’s heading to the Sahara for the Marathon des Sables (00:35), then celebrate Dot McMahan’s remarkable Houston Marathon performance as the 49-year-old hits the U.S. Olympic Trials qualifying standard for a record sixth Trials appearance (04:29). We also cover a frightening situation at the Winter Spine, where human rights advocate Sarah Porter was removed from the event after death threats were received (06:46). Next up: Molly Seidel storms into the ultra world by winning the Bandera 50K outright and smashing the course record in her ultra debut, plus a look ahead to Black Canyon and the Western States “golden ticket” path (09:58). We wrap with a lighter one—Ed Sheeran revealing he’s a runner, and the bigger trend of pop stars embracing running (14:03). #Running #Marathon #Ultrarunning #TrailRunning #TrackAndField #RunningNews #MarathonHandbook #DesLinden #MollySeidel #EdSheeran

In this Marathon Handbook Podcast episode, Michael Doyle, Katelyn Tocci, and Alex Cyr unpack what actually defines a long run—and how long is “long” for different goals (00:07). After some pre-run chaos (Patriots/Boston accent talk) (01:14), Alex breaks down his Houston Half Marathon PR and the wild sub-elite start experience (07:03), including pacing strategy and the trio finish (21:17). Then the crew goes deep on long-run philosophy: how to structure it across a training block, when to add quality like fast finishes or marathon-pace intervals, and why many runners cap the long run around three hours (30:13) (53:10). They also cover fueling basics—carbs per hour, gels, gut training, and modern trends like hydrogels (1:15:16) (1:23:23), before Coach Katelyn lists common long run mistakes (too fast, skipping fueling, skipping deload weeks, poor recovery, and more) (1:30:22). Mailbag submissions are open at podcast@marathonhandbook.com (1:48:55), and Katelyn teases a 10-mile race update for next week (1:51:46).This episode is presented by Lagoon Sleep – Adjustable, breathable pillows designed to improve sleep and recovery. Take the 2-minute sleep quiz and get 15% off with code MARATHON.👉 https://lagoonsleep.com/marathonhandbook Wahoo KICKR RUN – A smart treadmill that adapts to your pace with RunFree Mode and lateral tilt. Get a FREE Headwind fan with code MHRUN.👉 https://www.wahoofitness.com Momentous – NSF-certified supplements trusted by elite athletes. Get up to 35% off your first order with code MARATHON.👉 https://www.livemomentous.com📩 Questions about training, race previews, or to send us your hot takes? Email us at podcast@marathonhandbook.com.🎤 Leave us a voice memo for our mailbag episodes: marathonhandbook.com/podcast📸 Instagram: @marathon.handbook📘 Facebook: @marathonhandbook📰 Join 265,000+ runners getting our daily newsletter: marathonhandbook.com/newsletter👍 Like, subscribe, and drop your questions in the comments.🎧 Audio version available wherever you get podcasts + watch the video version on Spotify.📺 Subscribe on YouTube for weekly running deep dives.#running #marathontraining #longrun #halfmarathon #10ktraining #5ktraining #runners #runningtips #endurance #fueling