We announce a new series we are calling FUNdaMENTALS, where we break down a specific topic that we hold as fundamental or foundational for all runners, regardless of your pace or race (or lack there of). These will be shorter episodes & we'll be weaving these in every other episode. We hope that these are helpful to runners of all levels who want to improve their running over the long term. 
This week we cover the importance of the easy run. 
What is an easy run?

• The easy run is where all running begins. It is where all training begins.
• Conversational 
• Different for beginners & advanced runners?
• The easy run makes you fitter, not slower. 
• Can you run too easy, too long? No. 
• What happens when we want our easy run to be faster? Don't. 
• Now that marathon training sessions tend to be longer, recovery easy runs become more important. 
• Doubling easy days.
• Why the 10% Rule is bullshit. Consider using the Bump & Hold method. 
• Nose Breathing for the win. 
• Our take on Phil Maffetone's method. 
• The Running Rogue podcast episode (Episode #97 - The Maffetone Method-Oct 2018) referenced by Steve. Evidently there was another episode cut in 2020 (Episode #178 - Maffetone Method REDUX - April 2020). We have not listened to this second episode & have no idea what they say there. 
• Why neuromuscular work is critical. It's essential that biomechanics & speed be considered with the MM. 
• "What you don't use, you lose." 
• James Nestor's Breath
• "Easy is as easy does."
• Why Steve & John are pro-effort based training.