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Going Down the Running Podcast (and Blog) Rabbit-Hole

Recently, I started looking for some new podcasts.  I listen to podcasts when I work and when I run, but none of the ones I listen to are about running.  Kind of odd, when I stepped back and thought about it.  I think this newly found interest in running podcasts was sparked by a friend of mine who recently appeared on The Ultrarunner Podcast.  It was pretty cool to hear her talk to the host about places and people that I know.  Then, as I sometimes do, I jumped on the Train of Thought and rode it to the next stop.

I knew that there had to be more stuff out there that would interest me, so I did a quick search on iTunes.  That turned up a LOT of results.  The first podcast episode I listened to was from Back of Pack Endurance.  The episode was an interview with John "The Penguin" Bingham.  I was familiar with Bingham from his stint as a contributor for Runner's World magazine, so I figured this would be a good entry into this particular podcast.  Turns out I was right!  I really enjoyed the conversational tone of the podcast, and how much I enjoyed listening to the hosts.  Both of the hosts are, by their own account, Adult Onset Athletes.  I think Bingham may have coined that term.  Regardless of the origin of the term, I really related to it.  I didn't participate in organized sports as a kid, and didn't run my first race (a local 5k) until I was 38.  So, yeah, I get where they're coming from.

Fast-forward to a couple of days later.  The term "Adult Onset Athlete" is making a home inside my brain, so I get back on the Train of Thought and take it to Google Junction.  All Aboard!

The first hit on Google for my search was from a blog called "Matters of Course".  The article is titled "Ode to Adult Onset Runners", and, a few spelling/grammar errors aside, it hit the bullseye.  It also stoked the fires of the Train of Thought, which is currently reminding me of the running blogs I used to read once I started running more consistently.  Shut Up & Run, Skinny Runner (who, as it turns out, doesn't blog anymore, but is still active on Twitter  and other social media), the Newbie Chronicles from Runner's World magazine, among other good reads.  

I'm getting a little nostalgic.  I only wish I had more free time to really dig into what's out there.

What are you reading or listening to, as far as running-related blogs and podcasts go?  Let me know over at my Facebook page .

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Spring Training

It seems like a cruel joke that most of the local training groups that prepare Louisville-area runners for the Triple Crown and the Kentucky Derby Festival Marathon and Mini-Marathon kick off their programs at such a bleak time of year, but when your target race is at the end of April, then you have no choice but to get started in January.  The good news is that with plenty of great local groups to choose from, you should have no trouble finding one to help get you to the starting (and finish) line!

Since we are talking about the Kentucky Derby Festival Marathon and Mini, let's start with their official training program.  Once again, KDF has partnered with Norton Sports Health, as well as Swags Sport Shoes and 102.3 The Max FM.  It's a 14-week training program with information for everyone from beginners to more experienced runners.  Group runs are scheduled every week.  The program is free, and there is a kickoff event on Thursday, January 15th at 6pm at Bellarmine's Knights Hall.  More info can be found here 

Another popular training option is Fleet Feet Sports Louisville.  They offer a lot for their fee ($100 for either the Half or Full Marathon training program), including 3 weekly group runs, coaching, clinics with dietitians/ chiropractors/ health professionals/ physical therapists, vendor-sponsored runs with giveaways, a training tee-shirt, and weekly encouragement via email.  They also offer training specifically for the Triple Crown races.  You can find out more at their website.

Louisville Strength and Endurance is also offering a training program, in addition to massage, PT and Yoga.  $150 for the training plan, weekly group runs with Pace Coaches, weekly emails, and also post-run educational clinics on Saturdays that focus on rehab and injury prevention.  Find out more here.

YMCA of Greater Louisville offers a training program to prepare runners and walkers for the Triple Crown races AND the Mini or Full Marathon.  Registration is open to YMCA members and also non-members (members can register for $40, non-members for $75).  It is a 14 week program with scheduled weekly group runs, coaching, a dri-fit shirt, and plenty of support from the Y staff.  To register, visit the Y's website.

BlueMile has, if I read this right, a $40 LIFETIME fee.  Pay once, train FOREVER!  Not entirely sure what all that gets you, but it could be worth looking into.  Check it out!

So, who am I forgetting or overlooking?  Visit me on Facebook and let me know.

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Lea Newton is a fucking god.

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