
About this episode
Our editors Alex, Katelyn and Michael delve into the concept of running economy, exploring its definition, significance, and the factors that influence it. They explain the role running form plays, and practical tips for improving running economy.
They also share six ways you can improve your running economy, emphasizing the importance of strides, strength training, building an aerobic base, incorporating VO2 max workouts, running at goal pace, fine-tuning body composition, and the role super shoes can play on race day.
We Cover:
- What is running economy?
- Steve Prefontaine vs. Frank Shorter: a running economy comparison
- Elite runners shows that running economy can compensate for lower VO2 max.
- The role biomechanics and neuromuscular efficiency play in running economy
- Strength training
- Heel striking: good or bad?
- How to test your running economy
- Tip 1: Run strides and hill sprints
- Tip 2: Strength training is essential
- Tip 3: Build an aerobic base
- Tip 4: Run VO2 max workouts
- Tip 5: When to run at goal pace
- Tip 6: Fine-tune your body composition
- Bonus Tip: The role super shoes can play on race day.
Then, Alex and Michael are joined by running legend Amby Burfoot to analyze the crazy half marathon world record, which was set by Jacob Kiplimo last weekend in Barcelona.
------------------------------------------------------
Come see our live podcast at the Boston Run Show! March 1-2. Get tickets here:
https://thebostonrunshow.seetickets.com/event/the-boston-run-show-the-boston-outdoor-expo/boston-hynes-convention-center/3110358
Our free marathon training plans:
https://marathonhandbook.com/trainingplans/marathon-training-plans/
Over 210,000 runners read our newsletter. Sign up here and get our free book The 26 Golden Rules Of Running: https://marathonhandbook.com/newsletter/
Follow us on IG: https://instagram.com/marathon.handbook
Follow us on Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marathon.handbook
Like us on FB: https://facebook.com/marathonhandbook
Follow us on X: https://x.com/MarathonHB
Get every episode summarized
Each time Marathon Handbook Podcast publishes, we email you a written briefing from the transcript — the topics, who appeared, and any specific claims, with the ad reads skipped.
Email me new episodesFree for 3 shows. No card needed.
Hosts & guests
No transcript yet
This episode has not been transcribed. Request it and it moves to the front of the queue.
More episodes
More from Marathon Handbook Podcast

Boston Marathon Mega Preview: Course Strategy, Elite Picks & Your Complete Weeke...
Marathon Handbook Podcast

130th Boston Marathon Preview: 5 Must-Watch Storylines + Our Bold Winner Picks
Marathon Handbook Podcast

Is Gout Gout the Next Usain Bolt? + Des Linden's Ultra Debut, Blind Runner Histo...
Marathon Handbook Podcast

Our 5K Training Journeys: Workouts, Race Day Tips & Running Faster at Every Dist...
Marathon Handbook Podcast