Welcome to Episode 26 of the Kinda Fast Podcast, where we talk running, real life, and everything in between.

This week, Claire and Travis break down one of the most important—and misunderstood—phrases in running: “Hold Your Line.” We explain what it actually means, why it matters, and how this one habit can make running safer and more enjoyable for everyone sharing the road, trail, or track.

We kick things off by changing up the format with a holiday-themed running This or That, covering everything from Christmas morning runs and festive gear to treadmill debates, cold-weather struggles, and post-run treats.

Then it’s time for NEWS, and the running world is busy.

We dive into major running trends coming in 2026, straight from The Running Event (TRE), including the rise of gravel shoes, a renewed push for durability, the growing overlap of fashion and performance, and why small brands are leading the most interesting innovation in the sport right now.

Next, we break down a huge Boston Marathon announcement: both American marathon record holders—Conner Mantz and Emily Sisson—are set to race the 2026 Boston Marathon. It’s a rare and historic moment that’s already shaping Boston into one of the most compelling fields in recent memory.

And finally, we unpack the ongoing World Athletics Athlete of the Year debate, discussing Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone, Mondo Duplantis, and the growing controversy around whether marathon dominance, distance records, and cultural impact are being fully recognized.

In the deep dive, Claire and Travis cover the unwritten rules of running etiquette—the things no one teaches you, but everyone benefits from knowing. From holding your line and announcing passes to track rules, race-day courtesy, and shared-space awareness, this conversation is especially helpful for beginners and longtime runners alike.

This episode is practical, informative, and a reminder that while running is an individual sport, the space we run in is shared.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

• What “hold your line” really means and why it matters • How small etiquette habits prevent collisions and confusion • The biggest running gear and footwear trends coming in 2026 • Why durability and gravel shoes are gaining momentum • What makes the 2026 Boston Marathon historically significant • Why the Honolulu Marathon medal is truly one of a kind • The controversy behind World Athletics’ Athlete of the Year awards • The most important unspoken rules of running etiquette • Why predictable, polite running makes a difference

Who This Episode Is For

• Beginner runners who want to feel more confident • Runners navigating busy paths, sidewalks, or trails • Anyone confused by running “rules” no one explains • Runners interested in where the sport is headed next • Boston Marathon fans and running news junkies • Holiday runners fitting miles into a busy season • Anyone who shares space with other runners

Learn More / Join the Community

👉 https://www.upwardrunning.com/kindafast

Use code KINDAFAST for two weeks free inside the RunClub App.

New episodes drop every Friday, covering training, real life, community, and everything that happens between the start line and the finish.