Today we are joined by someone who is quite frankly, a Rugby Legend - Gareth Thomas CBE!

One of the many ways Gareth keeps fit is going for a run. It’s the one time he really lives in the NOW, and if he could live his whole life how he feels when he’s running he certainly would want to.

When he’s not smashing his running PB he’s smashing the stigma attached to HIV along with the amazing people behind Tackle HIV. In fact this episode is being recorded in New York, just a day before Gareth jumps on the microphone to do a TED Talk about Stigma and Shame - something Gareth has had to learn to navigate.

You’re about to learn that imagination is key when it comes to running, and also there’s a lot of good in the running community!

HIV is nothing to be ashamed of

To show some love, and get more information about 'Tackle HIV’ go to: tacklehiv.org

Why not support them at the Cardiff Half Marathon 2022?

If you would like to buy a RunPod t-shirt just go to: link.tree/runpod

Paul Hobrough is arguably one of UK’s finest physiotherapists. He’s a sport’s scientist, best selling author, former team GB athlete, writer for Runner’s World Magazine and is recognised as a leading authority in injury prevention.

Now he’s on RunPod!

We’re honoured to have Paul join us for a series of Bonus Eps helping you - the RunPod Run Club to understand some common injuries and runners niggles

In today’s episode Paul, is giving us some background into his work as a Physio and he also sheds some light of four important components of being a good runner - Hydration, Sleep, Strength Training and Stretching.

Paul is the author of 'Running Free of Injuries: From Pain to Personal Best’ and 'The Runner's Expert Guide to Stretching: Prevent Injury, Build Strength and Enhance Performance'

If you would like to buy a RunPod t-shirt just go to: link.tree/runpod

Tim Minchin is a hugely successful comedian, actor, writer, musician, poet, composer, and songwriter. In recent years he’s written all the music for the smash hit Matilda the Musical, which has now been made into a Netflix Movie starring the incredible Emma Thompson. But did you know aside from all his artistic ventures, Tim is also a runner? When he’s not pounding his fingers on the piano, he’s pounding his feet on the pavement which, as a creative, he finds incredibly meditative. Is there any better way to clear your head than going for a run? The answer dear RunPod listener is no.

If you’re looking for a bit of cadence in your stride, and the dulcet tones of an Australian Legend you’re going to love this episode.

You can now buy a RunPod t-shirt! Just go to: link.tree/runpod

David Jackson used to be the Captain and All-Time Top Scorer of Nottingham Rugby Club until a bad brain injury made him give up the sport at age 31.

Now 10 years later he’s healthier and stronger than ever, and here to equip the RunPod Runclub with his Master breathing techniques that will make your running life (and life in general) much easier.

BREATHE THROUGH THE NOSE GUYS!

If you would like to purchase a RunPod t-shirt click the link: linktr.ee/runpod

When she’s not pulling off a stellar performance on Coronation Street, you can find Jenny Bradley aka Sally Ann Matthews pulling on her activewear and going for a run.

Weeks before her 50th Birthday Sal decided that it was time to take fitness a bit more seriously and started doing couch to 5k. It started with a few walking breaks but then before she knew it she could run for 50 minutes without stopping! Sal loved running so much that she made it her goal to do 50 5ks in her 50th year – an impressive challenge her social media following has got behind. Since her love for running started, Sal’s discovered: park runs, a good routine (that factors in washing her hair) and some sage advice that will take you those next steps forwards: push on, relax your shoulders and use your legs! < you heard the lady!

Looking for a pep in your step? You’re in luck! Today's guest on RunPod is Geoff Wightman – a 2.13.17 marathon runner, commentator, and coach to his son Jake Wightman (who is the second fastest Briton EVER at 1500m)!

Geoff has been running since he was in Cubs, it’s how he met his wife, what all his family does, and in his words is “the best, simplest, nicest and healthiest activity you can do”.

So should you carry water when you’re running? When should you have some rest? What’s the optimum amount of sleep you need before a race? And are Energy Gels actually a good idea? These are the kind of questions we’re asking so you’re prepared for any Race Day or run you’re going on.

As Geoff says, “98% of starters do make it to the finish” – so ignore your doubts, get out there, and just concentrate on having good form! You can do it!

In this episode, you’re going to be put through your paces, with special guest Akram Shalabi!

Akram’s running story is a brilliant one, and the phrase “he’s a natural” definitely springs to mind.

Akram hadn’t done much running since he was younger (maybe 100 and 400-metre sprints), but when a friend had to drop out of the Berlin Marathon he took their place and did the whole thing in 3 hrs 10 minutes with NO TRAINING WHATSOEVER.

In the last 7 years Akram has gone on to do 100 marathons, and now sacrifices his race for other people because he is officially known as a ‘pacer’ - one of those lovely people who keep you motivated, and run beside you until you reach the finish line! So if you’re looking for the motivation to push yourself to the end of your run today, Akram is your guy.

Mark Heyes, Jenni’s long-time friend and the glue of ITV’s Lorraine is our amazing guest of the week. If anyone is going to bring you your daily dose of positive energy, and recommend you some nice athleisure, it’s him.

Mark has come a long way since faking sick notes in PE, and now really enjoys running NAKED (not that kind of naked) at 6 am along the River Thames. He’s even into Marathons… but that may be because his inner Mariah Carey loves people screaming his name.

If you’re looking to train your abs, as well as your legs - you’ll love this one. Mark is hilarious!

On RunPod we discuss the feelgood of running, why we do it, how it makes us feel and what it is that keeps bringing us back for more. We all have our own reasons to run and in this episode, Jenni is joined by someone who is quite simply incredible, inspiring and an absolute action man.

Colour Sergeant Brian Wood MC is a former soldier in the Princess of Wales's Royal Regiment. During his service in Iraq he led the first bayonet charge in 25 years and for his gallantry, he was awarded the Military Cross.

Woody now has set himself a new mission, to help drive and motivate others, to encourage us all to step outside our comfort zone by running a bit further or faster and by pushing ourselves a little more than we’re used to.

If you need a boost to get you out the door and on that run today, then this is absolutely the episode you need.

Happy running.

Today’s guest is the well-loved Helen Thorn - comedian, author and fellow podcaster, widely known for her hilarious take on parenting and being single in mid-life. But is she hilarious when it comes to chatting about running? The fast answer is YES!

Sometimes the catalyst for change is finding out your husband of 22 years has been having an affair behind your back…

At the time it blows up your life, but then one day you wake up, put on your running shoes, and realise life feels better than before. Sure, your boobs may deflate (listen to the episode), but you have grit like no other, and the sudden body confidence to pull off shorter clothes on Instagram.

That’s Helen’s story anyway, and she’s here to tell you that the mental and physical health benefits of running have positively changed her life.

PS. If you need a formal excuse to eat more carbs you should listen now.