Today on the podcast, we’re unpacking the running mistakes that are holding AFL players back — both in-season and during pre-season. From overtraining to under-recovering, poor pacing to bad planning, we’ll cover what’s stalling your progress and how to fix it before it’s too late.

👉 7 DAY FREE TRIAL
www.relaxedrunning.com

Lucy Bartholomew is an accomplished Australian ultrarunner, celebrated for her victories in events like Ultra-Trail Cape Town and Ultra-Trail Australia. Starting her ultrarunning career early, Lucy's dedication to endurance sports has driven her to achieve incredible feats. In 2023, she made history as the second woman to compete in both the Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc and the Ironman World Championships in the same year, demonstrating her versatility. Known for her resilience and determination, Lucy continues to excel across various endurance events, inspiring others in the ultrarunning world with her remarkable success and commitment.

Coaching - 30-Day Free Trial: https://www.relaxedrunning.com/personalrunningcoach

CHAPTERS

00:00 Chilly Runs and Training Insights
03:11 Evolution of Ultra Running Training
05:46 Transitioning Coaches: From David Roche to Jason Coop
08:53 Early Running Journey and Discovering Ultra Running
12:06 Injury Management and Mental Health in Running
14:58 Daily Life of a Professional Ultra Runner
18:11 Strength Training and Its Role in Ultra Running
24:51 The Influence of Parental Role Models
27:20 Navigating Aging and Physical Challenges
30:00 The Importance of Mobility and Strength Training
34:47 Nutrition Insights for Performance
44:03 Preparing for Upcoming Races and Community Engagement

If you're a brand new runner. This is exactly what you need to follow.

8-Week Running Challenge:
https://www.relaxedrunning.com/8weekrunningchallenge

Strength Training Routine:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-LvAwSNlQaE&t=2s

In this episode, I share the biggest lessons I’ve learned from coaching over 300 runners — from first-timers to sub-3-hour marathoners. We’ll dive into what actually moves the needle: smarter form, better habits, and the one thing most runners overlook. Whether you’re chasing a PB or just trying to stay injury-free, this is for you.

Book a Free Coaching Call
https://calendly.com/tyson-popplestone/free-coaching-call

Eliud Kipchoge Strength Routine
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-LvAwSNlQaE

Dr. Duane Scotti is a physical therapist and running coach who helps runners stay injury-free through strength training, tailored plans, and a holistic approach. As the founder of Spark Healthy Runner, he shares practical strategies on mindset, recovery, and performance, especially for middle-aged and beginner runners.

Connect with Dr. Duane Scotti:

- Instagram - @sparkhealthyrunner

- Spark Healthy Runner YouTube Channel

- Download How to Grow as A Runner Blueprint

- www.SparkHealthyRunner.com

- Listen to the Healthy Runner Podcast on Apple

- Listen to the Healthy Runner Podcast on Spotify

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Healthy Running
02:52 Duane's Journey and Injury Experience
06:04 Understanding Running Injuries
09:06 The Importance of a Holistic Approach
12:00 Overcoming Mental Barriers in Running
14:56 The Six Steps to a Healthier Running Journey
18:07 Mindset: The Foundation of Running Success
20:54 Process Goals vs. Outcome Goals
29:42 Reflecting on Growth and Learning
31:48 Building a Strong Foundation: Strength Training for Runners
34:55 The Importance of a Tailored Run Plan
38:02 Understanding Running Frequency and Recovery
45:55 The Role of Recovery in Training
51:27 Nutrition: Fueling for Performance
56:08 Race Strategy: Planning for Success

📆 Improve Your 10km (or run it for the first time!)
https://www.relaxedrunning.com/10km

🏃‍♂️ My First 5k - An 8-Week Running Challenge 
https://www.relaxedrunning.com/8weekrunningchallenge

👟 Become a Relaxed Running Member!
https://www.relaxedrunning.com/membership

✍️ Join Fast Track Friday Newsletter
https://www.relaxedrunning.com/fast-track-friday

Finding the right running shoe can be the difference between a breakthrough and a breakdown. In this episode, we break down what to look for—fit, cushioning, support, and more—to help you choose the perfect shoe for your stride, goals, and training style. Whether you’re racing marathons or jogging your local trail, this guide will help you lace up with confidence.

Ian Sharman is one of the most accomplished and respected ultramarathon runners in the world, known for his consistency, strategic racing, and deep understanding of endurance performance. Originally from the UK and now based in the U.S., Ian has racked up an impressive resume that includes multiple top-10 finishes at the Western States 100, a record-setting Grand Slam of Ultrarunning (the fastest combined time across four of the oldest 100-milers in the U.S.), and victories at numerous ultras across varied terrain. Beyond his personal achievements, he’s a sought-after coach and the founder of Sharman Ultra, where he helps runners of all levels train smarter and race stronger. With a background in sports science and a calm, analytical approach to racing, Ian blends performance, longevity, and enjoyment—making him a unique voice in the ultrarunning world.

CHAPTERS

00:00 Exploring the World of Ultra Running
03:46 Training Philosophy: Volume vs. Intensity
08:12 The Importance of Time on Feet
11:53 Speed Work in Ultra Training
16:12 Mindset and Race Day Strategy
23:50 Confidence, Discipline, and Patience in Racing
28:42 The Art of Racing Tactics
30:36 Training Philosophy: Quality Over Quantity
34:28 Altitude and Heat Training: Preparing for Extremes
43:11 The Foundations of Recovery
49:13 Consistency: The Key to Long-Term Success
50:03 Recommended Reads for Runners

📆 Improve Your 10km (or run it for the first time!)
https://www.relaxedrunning.com/10km

🏃‍♂️ My First 5k - An 8-Week Running Challenge 
https://www.relaxedrunning.com/8weekrunningchallenge

👟 Become a Relaxed Running Member!
https://www.relaxedrunning.com/membership

✍️ Join Fast Track Friday Newsletter
https://www.relaxedrunning.com/fast-track-friday

Today’s guest is Dr. Kate Mihevc Edwards, a physical therapist, author, and speaker who’s reshaping the conversation around runner health and performance. Drawing on more than 15 years of experience and her personal health journey, Kate champions a more complete approach to athlete care—one that values mental and emotional well-being just as much as physical ability.

📆 Improve Your 10km (or run it for the first time!)
https://www.relaxedrunning.com/10km

🏃‍♂️ My First 5k - An 8-Week Running Challenge 
https://www.relaxedrunning.com/8weekrunningchallenge

👟 Become a Relaxed Running Member!
https://www.relaxedrunning.com/membership

✍️ Join Fast Track Friday Newsletter
https://www.relaxedrunning.com/fast-track-friday