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What Runs a RunAuthor: Kamal Datta
Welcome to What Runs a Run podcast where we are exploring the ecosystem that fuels the runners, running communities, organizers and everything in between. This podcast is broken down into mini series diving deep into a specific theme, for example in Tech in 26.2 we chat with entrepreneurs and professionals at the forefront of innovation supporting runners and the running events. If you are a curious athlete, we believe you will enjoy this podcast. Thanks for listening!! Language: en-us Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it |
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The Science of Running: Greg Macmillan on Personalized Training
Saturday, 7 March, 2026
In this episode of What Runs a Run, host Kamal Datta chats with renowned distance coach Greg Macmillan. They discuss Greg's journey from a young runner in rural Tennessee to becoming a leading coach and creator of the Macmillan running calculator. The conversation covers essential coaching philosophies, including the importance of understanding individual runner needs, the concept of 'experiment of one', and strategies for different levels of runners from beginners to elites. Greg emphasizes the significance of listening to one's body, the role of technology in coaching, and the mental aspects of training. The episode concludes with a rapid-fire round, where Greg shares insights on various coaching topics.Key takeawaysStart where you are and build gradually.Listening to your body is crucial to avoid injuries.Excessive soreness is a sign to back off.A good mobility program can prevent injuries.The talk test is a simple way to gauge effort.Run-walk strategies can help beginners.Intermediate runners often hit plateaus due to repetitive training.The four pillars of performance are essential for success.Lactate threshold training is key for performance improvement.Prehab is critical for injury prevention.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Greg Macmillan03:58 The Golden Rule of Running06:08 Understanding the Experiment of One07:38 Challenges for New Runners11:27 Key Indicators for Beginners12:47 The Talk Test and Strategic Walking15:35 Breaking Through Plateaus for Intermediate Runners17:50 The Four Pillars of Performance18:36 Lactate Threshold and Its Importance20:28 The Concept of Prehab22:10 Insights for Elite Runners24:25 Optimizing Performance Through Nutrition and Recovery25:39 The Fast Finish Long Run: A Game Changer30:43 Listening to Your Body: The Key to Injury Prevention33:15 The Evolution of Coaching: From Faxes to AI35:25 Navigating Technology: Data Overload in Running39:54 The Future of Coaching: AI vs Human InsightReference (s):McMillan Running Website https://www.mcmillanrunning.com/










