Debunking the biggest fallacies in running

In this episode, the hosts delve into prevalent myths and misconceptions within the running community, aiming to clarify misinformation that often confuses new runners. They start by addressing the classic saying that 'the marathon begins at 20 miles,' arguing that it's a misleading statement as the difficulty of the marathon is present from the start. They discuss how the physical and mental strains increase gradually and how the 20-mile mark is merely when things get tougher.

They move on to the perception of ultra running being merely an eating competition. The hosts clarify that while nutrition is crucial in ultra events, running is still the primary focus, and efforts should not be trivialized to just eating.

Next, they tackle the myth around 'hitting the wall' in marathons, asserting that often what causes the wall is not an inevitable occurrence but rather issues with fueling and pacing. They contend that many runners experience it not necessarily around 20 miles but due to different factors.

The episode also challenges the idea that negative splitting is the optimal race strategy for everyone, emphasizing that it's more realistic for many amateur runners to experience a slight positive split instead. They mention the comparative performance in ultra marathons, noting that while women can outperform men, to suggest women are simply better at it undermines their achievements.

One notable point made is regarding the perception of running as cheaper than therapy, with the hosts stressing that running should not be viewed as a replacement for professional mental health support.

Ultimately, they remind listeners that everyone's journey in running is unique, encouraging new runners to embrace their pace and experience, fostering a more inclusive definition of what it means to be a runner.