Runversation

Runversation

By Rochelle Di MasiSportsRunning
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Runversation episodes

  • Setting Realistic Goals for Runners of all Ages.

    This conversation delves into the complexities of athlete fatigue, recovery, and goal setting in running. Rochelle and Sarah discuss the importance of understanding normal fatigue versus serious fatigue, the significance of setting realistic and meaningful goals, and the necessity of listening to one's body to prevent injuries. They emphasize redefining success beyond personal bests and the importance of balancing ambition with enjoyment in running, especially as athletes age. The discussion also highlights the need for patience and adaptability in training, particularly when returning to running after a break or injury.

    Takeaways

    • Healthy training should fit into life without complicating it.
    • You should never be chasing how someone else achieves it.
    • Normal fatigue is still quite hard but manageable.
    • It's not just about personal bests; enjoyment matters too.
    • Goals should enhance life, not compete with it.
    • You will end up taking longer off if you ignore your body.
    • Ambition should not come with strict deadlines.
    • As we age, we need to move the goalposts for our running.
    • Listening to your body is crucial for long-term success.
    • Red flags for injury include night pain and sharp localized pain.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Running Goals
    02:53 Understanding SMART Goals
    08:06 The Importance of Personal Meaning in Goals
    10:59 Balancing Ambition and Sustainability
    13:16 The Impact of Goal Setting on Injury Rates
    15:40 Understanding Fitness and Durability
    18:28 Navigating Overuse Injuries in Runners
    20:50 The Role of Age in Running Performance
    23:58 Collagen and Its Importance for Runners
    26:45 Evolving Coaching Philosophies for Older Runners
    29:10 Setting Realistic Goals for Aging Runners
    31:21 The Importance of Trusting the Process
    34:13 Adapting Goals for Longevity in Running
    36:44 Recognizing Warning Signs of Overuse Injuries
    38:27 Understanding Pain and Load Management
    42:07 Redefining Success in Running
    45:03 The Importance of Rest and Recovery

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    48 min
  • Running Towards the Finish Line: A Marathon Journey

    In this engaging conversation, Stevie and Rochelle discuss their experiences with marathon training, including the challenges of balancing family life, managing injuries, and the mental strategies that help them stay focused. They share personal anecdotes from their first marathons, the importance of proper training, and the lessons learned along the way. The discussion also touches on the significance of community in running and the need for self-care as a parent. Overall, the conversation provides valuable insights for both seasoned runners and those preparing for their first marathon.

    takeaways

    • Stevie is preparing for her first marathon after overcoming a stress fracture.
    • Rochelle emphasizes the importance of enjoying the journey of marathon training.
    • Both speakers highlight the need for proper injury management and recovery.
    • Time management is crucial for balancing running with family responsibilities.
    • Mental strategies play a significant role in overcoming challenges during training.
    • Community support is vital for motivation and accountability in running.
    • Listening to your body is essential for preventing injuries.
    • Setting realistic goals can help reduce pressure during training.
    • Nutrition and hydration are key components of successful marathon training.
    • It's important to find joy in running and not let external pressures dictate your experience.

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    46 min
  • Meet Sarah. Another new voice. This episode is about the intersection of running and physiotherapy

    In this episode of Runversation, hosts Rochelle welcomes physiotherapist Sarah Denford, who specializes in helping runners and athletes maintain their health and performance. They discuss Sarah's journey into physiotherapy, her work with elite athletes, the importance of recovery and nutrition, and the community aspect of running. The conversation also touches on common mistakes runners make, the inspiration drawn from older athletes, and concludes with a quickfire round of questions.

    takeaways

    • Sarah Denford emphasizes the importance of injury prevention for runners.
    • Runners often change too many variables at once, leading to injuries.
    • Community plays a significant role in a runner's journey.
    • Recovery and nutrition are crucial for performance, especially for elite athletes.
    • Older athletes can inspire younger generations with their achievements.
    • Gradual progression in training is essential for longevity in running.
    • Sleep is a fundamental aspect of recovery that shouldn't be overlooked.
    • Strength training should complement running to build capacity.
    • Runners should focus on maintaining independence as they age.
    • Running can be an expensive sport, but the community aspect makes it worthwhile.

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    32 min
  • Meet Stevie, a new voice for your easy paced running journey.

    In this episode of Runversation, hosts Rochelle welcome Stevie as a new co-host. They explore Stevie's journey as a runner and coach, discussing her experiences, challenges, and the joy of helping others in their running journeys. The conversation delves into the importance of mindset, the balance of life and training, and the role of community in running. Stevie shares her insights on coaching, the significance of long runs, and the impact of tools like Strava on runners' mentalities. The episode concludes with light-hearted quickfire questions, revealing personal preferences and fun anecdotes.

    takeaways

    • Stevie brings a wealth of experience to the podcast.
    • Running serves as a personal escape for Stevie.
    • Training for a marathon involves more than just running.
    • Coaching is influenced by personal experiences and challenges.
    • Community plays a vital role in the running experience.
    • Progression and mindset are key in coaching runners.
    • Every runner's journey is unique and should be respected.
    • Strava can be a double-edged sword for runners.
    • Balancing life and training is essential for success.
    • Coaching should be tailored to individual lifestyles and goals.

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    29 min
  • Conquering Running Fatigue: Strategies for Success

    In this conversation, Rochelle and Kate explore the multifaceted topic of running fatigue, discussing both mental and physical strategies to combat it. They delve into the importance of nutrition, hydration, and strength training, as well as the role of super shoes in enhancing performance. The discussion emphasizes the need for runners to understand their bodies, adapt their training, and maintain a positive mindset to overcome challenges during runs.

    Takeaways

    • Mental fatigue can significantly impact running performance.
    • Breaking down runs into manageable segments can help combat fatigue.
    • Nutrition and hydration are crucial for endurance athletes.
    • Strength training can improve running economy and reduce fatigue.
    • Super shoes can enhance performance for many runners.
    • It's important to find a fueling strategy that works for you.
    • Mindset plays a key role in overcoming running challenges.
    • Understanding your body's weaknesses can help improve performance.
    • Regularly practicing race nutrition during training is essential.
    • Embracing the struggle during runs can lead to personal growth. 





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    1 hr 8 min
  • We are back!

    It has been a minute, but we are back! Rochelle finally tells Kate what she saw on her run 4 weeks ago. Kate asks Rochelle all about the Singapore running festival. We chat about Rochelle's success overseas in the 10km event. Kate shares what see saw over the weekend from her front yard. Busso Ironman was a hit. Plus, we got a little inspired about the women's national marathon record being broken by Jess Stenson.  

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    37 min
  • Ep 15: Post-Race Headspace & The Forgotten Half of Your Core

    Rochelle kicks off with a truly wild “What I Saw On My Run” — a woman taking her birds for a walk… in a backpack. From there, the chat shifts to something every runner knows too well: the emotional rollercoaster that hits in the first 20 minutes after a race. Kate and Rochelle unpack how quickly we judge ourselves, the importance of not letting post-race adrenaline write your race report, and why comparing your current self to your 2019 self (or anyone else) is a fast track to misery.

    Kate opens up about her Abu Dhabi marathon lessons, Rochelle shares her Singapore 10K mindset reset, and together they explore how failure teaches us more than perfect races ever could. Then, Kate gets nerdy about the “forgotten half” of the core — your back — explaining why strong erector spinae matter for running economy and how to train them with two simple, brutal-but-brilliant exercises (spoiler: the reverse plank will hurt your soul).

    It’s equal parts relatable runner therapy, science-backed strength chat, and the usual dose of laughs — including painted-on abs, missed high-fives, and an unexpected Backstreet Boys cameo.

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    48 min
  • Ep 14: Where Do I Put My Gels?! Running Clothes That Actually Work (ft. Nick & Matt)

    From snakes on the trail to four adults on one e-scooter, this episode sprints straight into the question every runner asks mid-long run: where do I put all my stuff? Kate and Rochelle are joined by their better (?) halves, Nick and Matt, to road-test what actually works for real runs—not just brand photos. We cover singlets vs tees, why airy fabrics beat “sweaty cling,” the high-waist compression vs tummy-comfort trade-off, and smart carry solutions for phone/keys/gels/water: half-tights with deep side pockets, zippered back pockets, sports bras with secure phone sleeves, and the surprisingly brilliant reflective vest phone stash. We get nerdy on ventilation and evaporation for hot races, socks (ultra-thin vs plush, blister resistance, quarter length for the win), sunnies that don’t bounce or fog, and hats with built-in sunglass docks.

    2nu code 2NUXPRRUN20 - 20% off for all items (including Outlet items)

    Talked about items:

    -Li Ning professional running compression pants men’s tight short 
    -Nike Womens Swift Dri-FIT High Rise 4 Inch Tight Pocket Running
    - WYN WOMEN'S ON CALL BRA - BLACK
    - Balega Hidden comfort socks, silver blisters resistant socks. 
    - 2nu pink boss fancy and Venti air. 
    - 2nu running hat

    - LNDR Femme Fatale Long Line Bra & Pro Short

    - Muscle republic Luxe midrift tank & Lux v2 shorts

    Sponsored by 2nu Vision (floating, ventilated performance sunglasses). and a giveaway at our Busselton Bay Shakeout Run in February. Hit follow, share your gear hacks with us on IG, and stay tuned—back & core strength lands next episode.

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    56 min
  • Episode 13: Safe Miles & Sweet Sips

    This week on Runversation, Rochelle and Kate dive into one of the most important conversations for any runner - staying safe when running alone.
    Prompted by a recent news story where a woman was followed and chased while out walking her dog, the girls unpack how to stay alert, prepared, and confident when heading out solo - whether it’s on trails, through bushlands, or in your local park.
    They cover everything from:
    Pre-run safety habits that actually matter
    Simple gear that can keep you visible and protected
    How to trust your gut when something feels off
    The balance between enjoying solo runs and staying connected
    And because it wouldn’t be Runversation without a tangent, the chat takes a sweet turn into the world of honey water.
    Is it the next natural sports drink? How do runners use it? And does it really work mid or post-run?
    It’s an episode about empowerment, awareness, and a little bit of fuel talk - keeping you safe and hydrated on the run.
    Tune in, share it with a running mate, and let’s keep the conversation (and the trails) safe for everyone.

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    54 min
  • Ep 12: Marathon Training with Fox Sports Kath Loughnan

    In this episode of Runversation, hosts Rochelle and Kate chat with sports commentator Kath about her journey into marathon running. Kath shares her experiences balancing a busy work life with training, the importance of nutrition, and the emotional rollercoaster of race day. She reflects on her debut marathon, the challenges she faced, and the joy of completing the race. The conversation also touches on future running plans and the significance of having a supportive community in the running world.


    Send us Fan Mail

    47 min

About Runversation

From the publisher's feed

You’re listening to Runversation with host Rochelle Di Masi. Co host Sarah Denford and Stevie Donohoe join Rochelle on rotating weeks. We chat about all things Running and Community.