Rust Belt Running

Rust Belt Running

By Rust Belt RunningHealth & Fitness
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Rust Belt Running episodes

  • Episode 191 - Remembering Kelvin Kiptum

    This week we remember the world record holder, Kelvin Kiptum. It's not an episode we wanted to record, but one we felt we needed to. We are grieving the loss of not just a world record holder, but this young man's future in our sport. This is enormous loss that leaves a hole in our sport, and we will never truly know how big his impact would have been.In a much shorter episode than usual, we take a few moments to offer just a few of our thoughts on the loss of Kelvin Kiptum.Our hearts are with our community, the country of Kenya, and Kelvin's friends and family.

    15 min
  • Episode 190 - A Review of the Tokyo Marathon with Jonathan Greenwald

    Summary

    Jonathan Greenwald shares his experience running the Tokyo Marathon, including the challenges of traveling to Tokyo, finding food options, and navigating COVID-19 protocols. He discusses the underwhelming expo experience and the logistics of race day, including getting to the start and dealing with congestion. Jonathan also highlights the unique porta potty setup on the course. Jonathan shares his experience running the Tokyo Marathon, discussing race logistics, water stops, crowd support, course organization, and the finish line experience. He also reflects on running after the pandemic and offers words of encouragement to fellow runners.

    Takeaways

    • Traveling to Tokyo for the marathon can be challenging, with multiple deferrals and uncertainty due to COVID-19.

    • Finding food options in Tokyo is not a problem, with convenience stores offering high-quality meals and a variety of cuisines available.

    • The Tokyo Marathon expo can be underwhelming compared to other major marathons, with limited merchandise and long lines for popular items.

    • Race day logistics, including getting to the start and dealing with congestion, can be challenging but well-organized.

    • The unique porta potty setup on the course ensures runners have access to facilities without disrupting the race. The Tokyo Marathon has well-organized logistics and frequent water stops every few miles.

    • Crowd support in Tokyo is minimal, with spectators offering golf claps and quiet encouragement.

    • The course is clearly marked and offers scenic views of the city, including Akihabara and shrines.

    • The final 200 meters of the race are emotional and rewarding, with enthusiastic volunteers and a sense of accomplishment.

    • Running after the pandemic can be mentally challenging, but staying motivated and continuing to run can lead to future successes.

      • Chapters

      00:00 Introduction and Support

      05:36 Choosing Tokyo Marathon

      07:23 Traveling to Tokyo

      09:25 Food in Tokyo

      10:41 Entering Japan

      12:20 Hotel and Accommodation

      14:18 Food Options in Tokyo

      16:54 COVID-19 Protocols

      19:47 Expo Experience

      22:16 Race Day Logistics

      25:30 Getting to the Start

      26:53 Gear Check and Porta Potties

      38:55 Congestion at the Start

      40:23 Race Logistics and Water Stops

      42:21 Crowd Support and Quiet Moments

      48:35 Course Organization and Markings

      53:51 Final 200 Meters and Finish Line Experience

      1:02:43 Running After the Pandemic

      1:04:48 Closing Remarks

      1 hr 6 min
    • Episode 189 - Sid Garza-Hillman

      In this episode, Adam interviews Sid Garza-Hillman about his book 'Ultra Running for Normal People.' They discuss Sid's journey into trail and ultra running, the importance of disconnecting from a connected world, the perception of ultra running, the camaraderie in the ultra running community, overcoming fear and challenges, and the mindset and training required for ultra running. In this episode, Sid Garza-Hillman discusses his book 'Ultra Running for Normal People' and shares insights on mindset, longevity, and the Mendocino 50K race. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining a baseline level of training and finding joy in the sport. Sid also highlights the unique aspects of the Mendocino 50K race, including its family-friendly atmosphere and focus on providing a great experience for participants. The book offers a philosophy and guidebook for ultra running, encouraging runners to take charge of their training and listen to their bodies.

      Takeaways

      Ultra running is accessible to normal people and not just elite athletes.

      Trail running provides an opportunity to disconnect from a connected world and be present in nature.

      The ultra running community is supportive and inclusive, with a focus on camaraderie.

      Overcoming fear and challenges is an important aspect of ultra running.

      Consistent training and a mindset of always being in training are key to success in ultra running. Maintaining a baseline level of training is important for longevity in ultra running.

      Finding joy in the sport is crucial for long-term commitment.

      The Mendocino 50K race offers a unique and family-friendly experience.

      The book 'Ultra Running for Normal People' provides a philosophy and guidebook for ultra running, emphasizing personal responsibility and listening to one's body.

      Chapters

      00:00 Introduction and Background

      08:26 Discovering Trail Running and Ultra Running

      09:26 Disconnecting from a Connected World

      15:26 Ultra Running for Normal People

      17:56 Perception of Ultra Running

      24:26 Connection and Camaraderie in Ultra Running

      28:26 Fear and Overcoming Challenges

      33:56 Training and Mindset

      37:42 Mindset and Longevity in Ultra Running

      42:33 The Mendocino 50K Race

      49:40 The Philosophy of Ultra Running for Normal People

      50:33 Where to Find the Book

      52 min
    • Episode 188 - Review of the Mohawk Hudson River Marathon with Todd

      Summary

      Todd shares his experience running the Mohawk Hudson Marathon in Schenectady, New York. He discusses the race background, his decision to run it, and the reasons for choosing this race over others. Todd provides insights into the travel and accommodation options, as well as the local restaurants in the area. He talks about the expo experience and the organization at the start line. Todd describes the course, including the trail surface and the scenic views along the way. He also mentions the train crossing and the finish line experience. Todd highlights the beauty of Albany and recommends the race for its scenic route and affordable cost.

      Takeaways

      • Consider smaller races like the Mohawk Hudson Marathon for a laid-back and less crowded experience.

      • The Mohawk Hudson Marathon offers a scenic course with beautiful fall foliage.

      • The race is well-organized and provides a good opportunity for a PR.

      • Albany, New York, offers a variety of attractions and is a great city to explore.

        • Chapters

        00:00 Introduction and Support

        04:50 Race Background and Decision

        05:36 Reasons for Choosing the Race

        06:30 Travel and Accommodation

        07:21 Local Restaurants

        08:24 Expo Experience

        10:49 Start Line Organization

        12:26 Course Description

        13:43 Trail Surface and Scenery

        15:28 Train Crossing

        16:45 Finish Line Experience

        20:20 Scenic Albany

        24:25 Highlights of the Race

        28:14 Recommendation and Cost

        30:35 Things to Do in Albany

        31:23 Closing Remarks

        33 min
      • Episode 187 - A Review of California International Marathon with Cris Gutierrez

        Summary

        In this episode, Cris shares his experience running the California International Marathon (CIM) in Sacramento. He discusses his reasons for choosing CIM as his race, the travel and accommodation logistics, and the expo experience. Cris also talks about the transportation to the start line, the warm-up and corral organization, and the water stops on the course. He highlights the congestion at the water stops and offers advice for managing it. Cris also mentions the weather and humidity during the race and the level of crowd support in Sacramento. In this conversation, Cris Gutierrez shares his experience running the California International Marathon (CIM) and his pursuit of an Olympic Trials Qualifier (OTQ). He discusses the race course, the finish line organization, and the post-race party. Cris also reflects on the emotional finish and the camaraderie among runners. He offers advice for marathon runners and shares his future race plans.

        Takeaways

        • CIM is a popular race for runners aiming for an OTQ (Olympic Trials Qualifier) or BQ (Boston Qualifier).

        • Travel and accommodation options are plentiful in Sacramento, and staying outside the city can provide a more relaxed experience.

        • The expo at CIM offers a variety of vendors and merchandise, and the race organizers provide an opportunity to watch the course and listen to podcasts.

        • Transportation to the start line is well-organized, with buses available from different rally points.

        • The warm-up and corral organization at CIM can be a bit confusing, but the timers and signs help runners find their designated pace groups.

        • Water stops on the course are frequent, but congestion can make it challenging to grab cups. Carrying a handheld water bottle can be helpful.

        • The weather at CIM is generally mild, with temperatures around 40-50 degrees Fahrenheit and low humidity.

        • The crowd support at CIM is enthusiastic, with spectators cheering on the runners throughout the course. The California International Marathon (CIM) offers a scenic and well-supported course, with people cheering throughout the race.

        • The finish line organization at CIM can be improved, with some confusion about the correct finish line and issues with accessing the post-race area.

        • The post-race party at CIM provides an opportunity to celebrate with fellow runners and enjoy refreshments.

        • Cris Gutierrez emphasizes the importance of showing emotion and appreciating the opportunity to pursue running goals.

        • Cris advises marathon runners to stay aware of their body during the race and learn from each experience.

        • Cris plans to participate in future races, including the Boston Marathon and the Mad City 50k.

          • Chapters

          11:20Travel and Accommodation

          13:36 Expo Experience

          17:02 Race Day Transportation

          19:16 Race Day Preparation

          21:58 Bus Ride to the Start Line

          25:24 Warm-up and Corrals

          27:36 Water Stops and Congestion

          43:43 Crowd Support

          37:59 Race Experience and Course

          45:28 Finish Line Organization

          47:28Post-Race Party

          53:22 Camaraderie and Emotional Finish

          1:04:19 Lessons Learned and Advice

          1:14:02 Future Race Plans

          1 hr 16 min
        • Episode 186 - Review of the Detroit Free Press Marathon with Cleveland Racing's Marissa Ward

          Summary

          Marissa Ward shares her experience running the Detroit Freep Marathon, a unique race that crosses the border into Canada. She discusses the expo experience, accommodations, and the check-in process. Marissa highlights the excitement of running through downtown Detroit and crossing the Ambassador Bridge into Canada. She also mentions the tunnel that runners pass through on their way back to the United States. Marissa describes the crowd support, water stops, and the finish line experience. She concludes by sharing her memorable moments from the race and offering tips for those considering running the Detroit Freep Marathon.

          Takeaways

          • The Detroit Freep Marathon is a unique race that crosses the border into Canada, offering a one-of-a-kind experience for runners.

          • The expo experience and check-in process for the Detroit Freep Marathon are well-organized and convenient.

          • The race course includes iconic landmarks such as downtown Detroit and the Ambassador Bridge.

          • Runners can expect great crowd support, well-manned water stops, and a memorable finish line experience at the Detroit Freep Marathon.

            • Chapters

            00:00 Introduction and Support 

            05:53 Choosing the Detroit Freep Marathon

            07:18 Accommodations in Detroit

            08:32 Expo Experience and Check-In Process

            09:59 Crossing the Border into Canada

            11:19 Expo Experience and Swag

            13:26 Race Morning and Transportation

            14:45 Start Line Logistics

            15:39 Corrals and Congestion at the Start

            16:41 Course Description and Downtown Stretches

            18:16 Crossing the Ambassador Bridge

            20:59 Canada Aspect and Course Markings

            23:50 Crowd Support in Canada and Michigan

            24:10 Water Stops on the Course

            25:41 Unique Aspects of the Race

            27:10 Finish Line Experience

            28:57 Post-Race Results

            30:11 Finish Line Festivities

            32:45 Memorable Moments from the Race

            33:40 Considerations for Running the Race Again

            35:30 Final Thoughts and Tips

            37:31 Conclusion and Call to Support

            39 min
          • Episode 185 - A Review of Grandma's Marathon with Athlete Jamie Johnston

            Summary

            Jamie shares her experience running Grandma's Marathon in Duluth, Minnesota. She discusses the challenges of finding a hotel due to limited options and high prices. Jamie talks about the expo experience and the swag available. She also shares insights on transportation to the race start and the congestion at the beginning of the race. Jamie describes the course, including the rolling hills and the support from the town. She highlights the finish line experience and the post-race celebration. Jamie offers tips for running in June and expresses her future goals.


            Takeaways

            Finding a hotel for Grandma's Marathon can be challenging due to limited options and high prices.

            The expo at Grandma's Marathon offers a variety of merchandise to purchase, and there is a pasta dinner available for runners.

            The course at Grandma's Marathon has some rollers, despite being advertised as flat and fast.

            The finish line experience at Grandma's Marathon is described as a party atmosphere with live music and various festivities.

            When running in June, be prepared for unpredictable weather conditions and train in different environments.

            Chapters

            00:00 Introduction and Hotel Challenges

            6:54 Limited Hotel Options and High Prices

            10:59 Expo Experience and Pasta Dinner

            11:58 Swag at the Expo

            13:31 Transportation to the Race Start

            16:28 Start Corrals and Congestion

            17:24 Gear Check at the Start

            20:02 Course Congestion and Markings

            14:09 Course Description and Rollers

            21:03 Support from the Town and Crowd Support

            29:32 Finish Line Experience

            33:34 Post-Race Celebration and Festivities

            36:00 Considerations for Running in June

            38:15 Closing Remarks and Future Goals

            40 min
          • Episode 184 - A Review of the Wineglass Marathon with Athlete Steff Rubel

            In this conversation, Steff Rubel shares her experience running the WineGlass Marathon in Corning, New York. She chose this race for its proximity to Pennsylvania and the beautiful fall foliage in the area. Steff discusses the logistics of the race, including accommodations and transportation. She highlights the expo experience, the swag received, and the support provided along the course. Steff also describes the unique aspects of the race, such as the rolling course and the enthusiastic crowd support. She concludes by sharing her overall experience and whether she would participate in the race again.

            Takeaways

            The WineGlass Marathon is a popular race for runners in Pennsylvania due to its proximity and the beautiful fall foliage in the area.

            The race provides convenient accommodations and transportation options, with partner hotels and bus transportation to the start line.

            The expo experience is low-key but offers wine glass-specific merchandise and exhibits at the glass museum.

            Participants receive unique swag, including a quarter zip shirt, a stemless wine glass, and a bottle of Prosecco.

            Chapters

            00:00 Introduction, Coaching, and News

            05:24 Choosing Wineglass Marathon

            06:19 Accommodations and Partner Hotels

            07:08 Expo Experience

            08:17 Swag and Merchandise

            09:39 Logistics and Transportation

            10:56 Bus Pickup and Start Line

            14:24 Congestion at the Start

            15:30 Water Stops and Support

            16:19 Crowd Support and Spectators

            18:45 Unique Aspects of the Race

            20:02 Finish Line Organization

            23:30 Post-Race Experience

            25:31 Course Challenges

            27:14 Considerations for Future Participation

            28:19 The Medal

            29:26 Closing Remarks

            31 min
          • Episode 183 - Chicago and Columbus Recaps

            This week all three of the boys sit down and discuss the chaos that was the first weeks of October. Andrew ran Chicago and Columbus back to back, and had pretty amazing experiences at both. Matt's wife made moldy pasta, and Matt and Adam are acting like the Browns won the Super Bowl.

            59 min
          • Episode 182 - Akron Review - Chicago Preview - and more!

            This week the three dudes sit down and discuss a ton of good stuff. Recapping their athlete's performances (and Adam's! - and Matt's?) at the Akron Marathon, we get to hear some truly cool stories from the best day of the year in Akron.

            The schedule is packed though, as Andrew and athlete Erica head to Chicago - so we preview that as well.

            56 min

          About Rust Belt Running

          From the publisher's feed

          A podcast about running, sports, and whatever else is on our minds. Mostly running. Join Andrew Hettinger and Adam Wheeler as they discuss running and stuff that's mostly connected to running.