Have questions about running, training, recovery, an individual race, or anything else?
Or, are you looking for a recommendation on a great book to read on running, or a podcast/audiobook that you might love listening to on your run?
Drop your questions in the thread below by leaving a comment, and I’ll do my best to answer them — and, I’m sure, the amazing community of runners we’ve gathered here from around the world will also chime in. (If you’re reading this, that means you!)
One of the things I’ve found from writing The Half Marathoner these past few years is that you all know just as much — and many of you, more! — about running as I do. So instead of asking a specific question today, I thought I’d throw it open so everyone can feel free to ask/answer questions as they like.
If you don’t get your chance to contribute today, don’t worry — we’ll do this again next Friday, at the same time and place. — Terrell
What is a good long run distance for a taper? I have 3 weeks until my 25 mile trail race, and am officially on my taper. My peak long run was 20 miles last Sat, but I'm not sure the best way to schedule my next 2 long runs in a way that will keep me strong for race day, and reduce potential for injury or "over-train". Thanks!
Hi Erin! 👋 When I've trained for marathons in the past, I ran a similar peak run about 2-3 weeks before my races, and then scaled it back to no more than 10 miles or so on the week before the race. (I didn't want to risk getting hurt, and wanted to make the marathon special in the sense that I wanted to keep alive that I'm-not-sure-I-can-really-do-this energy.) Have you been using a training plan?
Read an interesting article about the course record for both men & woman running Boston. It said that with the new "Super running shoes" many course records have been broken. They say that if the weather is right, no rain, and if the wind blows in the right direction, someone will break the record... It's the only one that hasn't fallen ... Is it getting to the point where we'll see records broken not by minutes, but a handful of seconds...
Even though it's expensive, I plan top do Disney next year... I live 2 hours away and plan to get a room... having to be in the corral at 5:30, means I'd have to leave by 2:00am... I love to run, but at that time in the morning I can chew nails!!
Hi Lucy! Great, great question. They are definitely among the pricier events, and may actually be the priciest races of all. I've never done a Disney race -- though I've wanted to, and some members of my family have -- but I can see doing one when you combine it with a larger trip to see the parks. My family loves Disney, but I can see why you'd have to be *really* sure you want to do a race there before you decide to pay.
That's a long way of saying, it's a judgement call 😃
I have not, but I'll check the library. . . ours has such good resources. I always need a new book to read! And lo, they have both. The Overstory is on the shelves. . .Bewilderment has a long waiting list. Good excuse to go into and browse the shelves when I go shopping today! Thanks!! :)
If you love the great out doors, I think you will love both books. You might also want to listen to a YouTube interview with the author. Apparently he is not only quite brilliant but likable and humble…
I do love the outdoors and am a bit of a weather and climate geek!! Will check out the books when I go out this afternoon, as well as your recommendations and YouTube on the author.
Thought I'd point out Yale Climate Connections (https://yaleclimateconnections.org/) I subscribed to it when Jeff Masters and Bob Hanson left Wunderground.com weather and instead publish on it. Not only are there articles, there are recommendations for books and plenty of podcasts that you might find interesting. I really enjoy it!
I just ran a half marathon this morning. I have cramps in my feet now. Anything that will help with this? Overall, I feel good but every time I get up, my feet and toes start cramping- which is painful and annoying! Thanks 😊
Try rolling your feet on a tennis or lacrosse ball putting some weight on it. Some people can even use a smaller size metal water bottle for this. Personally, I use the Theragun and go to town on my feet--because they do the same thing. I have to hammer out my feet every few days. I hope this gets better for you :)
I love running movies. I’ve watched many. My favorite is still Chariots of Fire but I’ve enjoyed several more. Good documentaries too. I’d love to hear everyone’s favorite.
If you get a chance, look up Harvey Lewis from Cincinnati. (Where I live) He is an ultra runner and has set records this year at huge events. (24 hr endurance type) He also has won the race across Death Valley several times. He is a 46 yr old Social Studies teacher.
A few years ago I went to a showing of a documentary they did on him. He ran the Appalachian trail, trying to set a record. I believe it is called “Like Harvey Like Son” but can’t remember for sure. His dad was in it. He is good friends with another local runner who is 99 yrs old and still running. Good documentary if you like those.
I am curious about runners habits of walking during a run. I am familiar with Run-Walk-Run but am speaking of those who just go out for a run. If I’m doing 3 to 5 miles I typical will not stop-and-walk but I wouldn’t say I have never done that. Sometimes a 60 second walk just “feels” right. When I am running longer distances I will take a few minutes to walk, grab a drink and maybe some energy beans. Is this common? Just curious if this is a typical thing for runners?
I stop halfway thru my long run (1 1/2-2+ miles) to drink Nuun & grab a bite or two. No harm in that. I figure I stop during races to grab hydration, bathroom, etc. 👍🏼
I think it's really common, or it should be more common because it's so useful! I use 60-second walk intervals frequently for long runs while training *and* racing (on a set interval and timed for discipline: first watch beep means walk, next watch beep means run, etc), but for shorter distances, I use them as needed in two scenarios: it's hot and I need the walk break to hydrate/eat, or I'm flagging and my form is suffering. A quick walk break recovery really helps me reset on form and reset my mindset about the rest of my run.
I had not thought about form suffering but that is spot on. Your legs get fatigued and form suffers (and possible injury), a shot break defiantly resets that!.
Interesting . I've used the run-walk run method. I worked great until I found out that once I started walking, I kept walking. Now I'm back on the search for just plain running with no walking unless I'm really flagging. Seems to keep my fitness level up. And yes, it is common!
Years ago I read What I Talk About When I Talk About Running: A Memoir by Haruki Murakami. Loved it. Remembering it, I think I might re-read it. It’s a wonderful book
Yes. He has a nice down to earth writing style. At the age of 75, I think it’s time for me to be more concerned about my own thoughts than others. Time to look deeply within and make sure I accomplish all I want to start or finish before it’s too late. We always think we have endless time. Lol.
For nonfiction, I absolutely loved 'Running With Sherman,' by Christopher McDougall (who also wrote 'Born to Run'). They're making a Netflix movie out of it, I think. Also Katie Arnold's 'Running Home' -- that was fantastic.
Loved "Running Home"!! Also the "Inner Runner"by Jason Karp. One you might like that I've just started is "Thinking Body, Dancing Mind" (Tao Sports) by Huang and Lynch (1992). As for historical, the Bunion Derby--the 1928 Footrace Across America by Kastner was fascinating. I could not put it down
It was good. . .as usual, some dry parts, but historical endeavors are something I like to read. Thought you might have read Huang and Lynch. A reader after my own heart! :)
Thought I’d share the following … unrelated to running … related to the holiday that is this weekend: “I saw a bunch of rabbits hopping backwards yesterday … guess it was a receding hare line!”
I enjoy trail running and host a podcast. I'm always looking for new podcasts to listen to and I'm wondering if there are any trail running specific podcasts you all are listening to and would recommend?
Dr. Motion socks which I find at TJMaxx.......whether i need tall socks or the shorter socks they seem to hold my foot and cushion it in all the right places!!! Love Chocolate Milk as a recovery drink.......who knew!!!!
That sounds delightful. Oat milk or even macadamia milk would probably also be delish. I too don't consume much dairy, but when my husband buys the Fairlife lower sugar chocolate milk, it tastes so darn good I do sometimes sneak some. :)
Caroline, I would LOVE to try some cow’s milk straight from the cow, just once in my life! The way my grandparents drank it. :) UNpasteurized, and full of nutrients.
I soak a cup of organic cashews in filtered water for 4-6 hours. Then I rinse with filtered water and throw them into a Nutribullet—the smaller container—with just enough filtered water so they can blend and not get stuck. I blend on low for a whole minute, and it turns into a cream that tastes so good I want to eat it just like that! But I scoop it all into the big Nutribullet blender, add filtered water to the MAX line, and blend on medium for two minutes. I found blending on high makes way too much froth. Then I pour into a pitcher and refrigerate. Makes about 64 ounces, I think. I’ve experimented and added one or two dates for sweetness, but I like a tablespoon of unfiltered honey the best. See what you like best! :)
I have two quick questions? What is the best recovery drink after running? I’ve been using Nuun and it seems to work OK. Second, which is a funny question! What are the best socks to wear, especially on longer runs?
I'm prone to blisters so have gone through many different brands of socks and have discovered that I love Balega socks, which you can get both on Amazon and at REI or EMS. The Balega socks have specific types that either provide more arch support, anti-blister (called Glide socks) and even anti-stink lol. In the winter I love the SmartWool running socks. Not super thick but do provide a nice layer of mild heat retention for those cold winter runs.
Also in terms of recovery drinks, if it's a very long run I will often have a post-run smoothie of plant based protein powder, berries, sometimes almond/peanut butter. If it's warm and I've been perspiring a lot, I keep frozen packets of coconut milk blocks meant specifically for smoothies (found them at Wegmans if you have that near you) and toss in one of those for electrolytes. I've known other runners who swore by plain old chocolate milk also.
Socks … I go for cushion … thick high socks sold at Walmart have been my go to socks for years . Chocolate milk is a great post race drink but since I’m in South Florida where it’s warm 50 weeks a year, there’s nothing like Gatorade or any similar sports drink.
I like these socks I got from Amazon—FACOOL. They are a little thicker in the heel and forefoot, and they have a wonderful little tab on the ankle that keeps the sock from slipping down into the shoe. I’ve worn these on all my runs for the past 4 years, including half marathons, and they do great.😊
Dave, the simple answer is the one that works best for you. I use SiS for hydration during the run. I just drink water and eat fruit and nuts after a run. a short period latter about an hour I will have chicken I was never a fan of the "shakes"
As for the socks I use compression socks, they seem to help with my shim splints
Personally, I like chocolate milk as a recovery drink -- I would never have guessed it would be good for that until I read a book by Gretchen Reynolds, the New York Times health reporter, a couple of years ago called "The First Twenty Minutes." Here's a post I wrote about it three years ago: https://www.thehalfmarathoner.com/p/chocolate-milk-better-for-runners
On socks, that is a great question. I tend to stick with the same socks I wear all the time (they're Hanes athletic socks), but I'm not running the really long distances lately. In the past, I've found that super-thin socks tend to make my feet slip around inside my shoes, which is distracting. What has worked (or not worked) for you?
Dave, I use Injinji sox. I like the toe separation, so no blisters on long runs. Regular sox with the toes pressed together do not work for me. Injinji has varieties, from no shows to compression to hiking. . . True, they are expensive, but they last for years, take up a bit more room in your shoes, but they sure save your toes and feet. Another choice is Darn Tough out of Vermont. They replace for free. Run a little bit on the slim side, but great for long distance. It's the Merino wool that does it.
What is a good long run distance for a taper? I have 3 weeks until my 25 mile trail race, and am officially on my taper. My peak long run was 20 miles last Sat, but I'm not sure the best way to schedule my next 2 long runs in a way that will keep me strong for race day, and reduce potential for injury or "over-train". Thanks!
Hi Erin! 👋 When I've trained for marathons in the past, I ran a similar peak run about 2-3 weeks before my races, and then scaled it back to no more than 10 miles or so on the week before the race. (I didn't want to risk getting hurt, and wanted to make the marathon special in the sense that I wanted to keep alive that I'm-not-sure-I-can-really-do-this energy.) Have you been using a training plan?
Also, in case this helps, we had a great Friday discussion about tapering a couple of years ago -- a number of readers had great suggestions. You can find it here: https://www.thehalfmarathoner.com/p/friday-open-thread-the-right-way/comments
Awesome! Thanks Terrell. :)
Read an interesting article about the course record for both men & woman running Boston. It said that with the new "Super running shoes" many course records have been broken. They say that if the weather is right, no rain, and if the wind blows in the right direction, someone will break the record... It's the only one that hasn't fallen ... Is it getting to the point where we'll see records broken not by minutes, but a handful of seconds...
Hi ! I want to do run Disney but I find it very price ! Is it worth it ? I happen to love Disney but I don’t like giving them all my money lol
Even though it's expensive, I plan top do Disney next year... I live 2 hours away and plan to get a room... having to be in the corral at 5:30, means I'd have to leave by 2:00am... I love to run, but at that time in the morning I can chew nails!!
I agree . I’m torn between 26.2 and 13.1 - I think 26.2
Hi Lucy! Great, great question. They are definitely among the pricier events, and may actually be the priciest races of all. I've never done a Disney race -- though I've wanted to, and some members of my family have -- but I can see doing one when you combine it with a larger trip to see the parks. My family loves Disney, but I can see why you'd have to be *really* sure you want to do a race there before you decide to pay.
That's a long way of saying, it's a judgement call 😃
Lol thanks ! I think I will try at least one. I’m looking for a high five ✋🏽 from Mickey Mouse lol
Thanks Nilima. Have you read “The Overstory” by Richard Powers or Bewilderment by same author. Both intriguing…!
I have not, but I'll check the library. . . ours has such good resources. I always need a new book to read! And lo, they have both. The Overstory is on the shelves. . .Bewilderment has a long waiting list. Good excuse to go into and browse the shelves when I go shopping today! Thanks!! :)
If you love the great out doors, I think you will love both books. You might also want to listen to a YouTube interview with the author. Apparently he is not only quite brilliant but likable and humble…
I do love the outdoors and am a bit of a weather and climate geek!! Will check out the books when I go out this afternoon, as well as your recommendations and YouTube on the author.
Thought I'd point out Yale Climate Connections (https://yaleclimateconnections.org/) I subscribed to it when Jeff Masters and Bob Hanson left Wunderground.com weather and instead publish on it. Not only are there articles, there are recommendations for books and plenty of podcasts that you might find interesting. I really enjoy it!
Much appreciated…!
Enjoy!
I just ran a half marathon this morning. I have cramps in my feet now. Anything that will help with this? Overall, I feel good but every time I get up, my feet and toes start cramping- which is painful and annoying! Thanks 😊
Ice and elevate your feet...
Thank you… I’ve been icing but will try elevating.
Way to go, Gloria! Caroline's advice below is on 🎯
Thanks Terrell!
Try rolling your feet on a tennis or lacrosse ball putting some weight on it. Some people can even use a smaller size metal water bottle for this. Personally, I use the Theragun and go to town on my feet--because they do the same thing. I have to hammer out my feet every few days. I hope this gets better for you :)
Thank you Caroline. I will definitely give it a try!!
I love running movies. I’ve watched many. My favorite is still Chariots of Fire but I’ve enjoyed several more. Good documentaries too. I’d love to hear everyone’s favorite.
If you get a chance, look up Harvey Lewis from Cincinnati. (Where I live) He is an ultra runner and has set records this year at huge events. (24 hr endurance type) He also has won the race across Death Valley several times. He is a 46 yr old Social Studies teacher.
A few years ago I went to a showing of a documentary they did on him. He ran the Appalachian trail, trying to set a record. I believe it is called “Like Harvey Like Son” but can’t remember for sure. His dad was in it. He is good friends with another local runner who is 99 yrs old and still running. Good documentary if you like those.
Thanks! I’ll look for this. I love documentaries
Thanks so much for this, Ben! I’ll check it out.
Running Brave (1983), McFarland, USA (2015), 1 Mile to You (2017), Prefontaine (1997), Run Fatboy Run (2007).
Thank you! Of the five you listed, I’ve seen only one. I’ll look forward to watching the others
I am curious about runners habits of walking during a run. I am familiar with Run-Walk-Run but am speaking of those who just go out for a run. If I’m doing 3 to 5 miles I typical will not stop-and-walk but I wouldn’t say I have never done that. Sometimes a 60 second walk just “feels” right. When I am running longer distances I will take a few minutes to walk, grab a drink and maybe some energy beans. Is this common? Just curious if this is a typical thing for runners?
I'm afraid if I stop for a rest I will lose my momentum... especially on a long run...
99% of the time it gives me a boost. About an hour in I need that little bit of food/GU to keep going strong.
I stop halfway thru my long run (1 1/2-2+ miles) to drink Nuun & grab a bite or two. No harm in that. I figure I stop during races to grab hydration, bathroom, etc. 👍🏼
I think it's really common, or it should be more common because it's so useful! I use 60-second walk intervals frequently for long runs while training *and* racing (on a set interval and timed for discipline: first watch beep means walk, next watch beep means run, etc), but for shorter distances, I use them as needed in two scenarios: it's hot and I need the walk break to hydrate/eat, or I'm flagging and my form is suffering. A quick walk break recovery really helps me reset on form and reset my mindset about the rest of my run.
Yep, they are common--even the Ultra runners say so. One of my Marathon books says "run until you can't run anymore, walk until you feel guilty!" :)
I love that... does that work for chocolate? Eat until you feel guilty!!
I suppose so. Chocolate has a way of letting you know when you've had enough!
I had not thought about form suffering but that is spot on. Your legs get fatigued and form suffers (and possible injury), a shot break defiantly resets that!.
Count your mind into that, as well! It gets tired, too!
Interesting . I've used the run-walk run method. I worked great until I found out that once I started walking, I kept walking. Now I'm back on the search for just plain running with no walking unless I'm really flagging. Seems to keep my fitness level up. And yes, it is common!
Great Book for Injured runners/athletes is "Rebound" by Cindy Kuzma & Carrie Jackson Cheadle
I'll have to check that one out!
John L. Parker is my favorite author on fictional running books. Any others the group can recommend, fiction or non-fiction.
Years ago I read What I Talk About When I Talk About Running: A Memoir by Haruki Murakami. Loved it. Remembering it, I think I might re-read it. It’s a wonderful book
Yes. He has a nice down to earth writing style. At the age of 75, I think it’s time for me to be more concerned about my own thoughts than others. Time to look deeply within and make sure I accomplish all I want to start or finish before it’s too late. We always think we have endless time. Lol.
For nonfiction, I absolutely loved 'Running With Sherman,' by Christopher McDougall (who also wrote 'Born to Run'). They're making a Netflix movie out of it, I think. Also Katie Arnold's 'Running Home' -- that was fantastic.
Loved "Running Home"!! Also the "Inner Runner"by Jason Karp. One you might like that I've just started is "Thinking Body, Dancing Mind" (Tao Sports) by Huang and Lynch (1992). As for historical, the Bunion Derby--the 1928 Footrace Across America by Kastner was fascinating. I could not put it down
Thanks. I will give Kastner a try. Have enjoyed Huang & Lynch.
It was good. . .as usual, some dry parts, but historical endeavors are something I like to read. Thought you might have read Huang and Lynch. A reader after my own heart! :)
Thought I’d share the following … unrelated to running … related to the holiday that is this weekend: “I saw a bunch of rabbits hopping backwards yesterday … guess it was a receding hare line!”
L.O.L. I just wish I had more hair...
You can have some of mine. . . I have too much and it still grows like a weed!
LOL!
LOVE IT! 🤣 🤣 🤣
I was wondering if any of you lives in the area of Boston or Baltimore and would love to run with me when will be in USA in May 🏃♀️🏃♀️🏃♀️🏃♀️
I live in the Boston area and would join you for a run if our schedules allow.
If I was, I'd definitely meet up with you, Alessandra!
Would kill for some podcast recommendations
Terrell gave me some great recommendations for running podcasts in the thread earlier!
Ooooh podcasts. You're speaking my language. What type? I'm sure I know of at least one from most genres haha
If you are unfamiliar with the Rich Roll podcast you are in for a treat. Best interviews and discussions I have ever come across…
Sure! Podcasts on running, or another topic?
I enjoy trail running and host a podcast. I'm always looking for new podcasts to listen to and I'm wondering if there are any trail running specific podcasts you all are listening to and would recommend?
Happy Easter weekend all!
Hi Adam! One I've enjoyed is For The Long Run, by Jonathan Levitt -- you can find it here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/for-the-long-run/id1453616436
There are also others specific to trail running that are good: Trail Runner Nation - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/trail-runner-nation/id484661268
And the Billy Yang podcast is really good - https://billyyangpodcast.libsyn.com/
Thanks for these recommendations, that's fantastic :)
Dr. Motion socks which I find at TJMaxx.......whether i need tall socks or the shorter socks they seem to hold my foot and cushion it in all the right places!!! Love Chocolate Milk as a recovery drink.......who knew!!!!
I know! Crazy, isn't it? Apparently Mo Farah (one of the best runners in the world!) swears by it.
I have tried several different brands and have the same issue of my feet slipping
Since I don’t drink milk anymore, I make my own cashew milk, and mix some chocolate protein powder into it—SO delightful!!
That sounds delightful. Oat milk or even macadamia milk would probably also be delish. I too don't consume much dairy, but when my husband buys the Fairlife lower sugar chocolate milk, it tastes so darn good I do sometimes sneak some. :)
Caroline, I would LOVE to try some cow’s milk straight from the cow, just once in my life! The way my grandparents drank it. :) UNpasteurized, and full of nutrients.
Interesting! How do you make your own cashew milk?
I soak a cup of organic cashews in filtered water for 4-6 hours. Then I rinse with filtered water and throw them into a Nutribullet—the smaller container—with just enough filtered water so they can blend and not get stuck. I blend on low for a whole minute, and it turns into a cream that tastes so good I want to eat it just like that! But I scoop it all into the big Nutribullet blender, add filtered water to the MAX line, and blend on medium for two minutes. I found blending on high makes way too much froth. Then I pour into a pitcher and refrigerate. Makes about 64 ounces, I think. I’ve experimented and added one or two dates for sweetness, but I like a tablespoon of unfiltered honey the best. See what you like best! :)
Good morning Terrell,
I have two quick questions? What is the best recovery drink after running? I’ve been using Nuun and it seems to work OK. Second, which is a funny question! What are the best socks to wear, especially on longer runs?
I've run in Bombas socks for the last year... cushion and support...
Favorite recovery drink - chocolate milk
Coconut water has been my go-to for years to replenish electrolytes.
I use coconut Milk in my overnight oats before the event
I've been wearing Balega socks since 2004 and they are THE ONLY socks I will run in. They are high quality and will last years.
I'm prone to blisters so have gone through many different brands of socks and have discovered that I love Balega socks, which you can get both on Amazon and at REI or EMS. The Balega socks have specific types that either provide more arch support, anti-blister (called Glide socks) and even anti-stink lol. In the winter I love the SmartWool running socks. Not super thick but do provide a nice layer of mild heat retention for those cold winter runs.
Also in terms of recovery drinks, if it's a very long run I will often have a post-run smoothie of plant based protein powder, berries, sometimes almond/peanut butter. If it's warm and I've been perspiring a lot, I keep frozen packets of coconut milk blocks meant specifically for smoothies (found them at Wegmans if you have that near you) and toss in one of those for electrolytes. I've known other runners who swore by plain old chocolate milk also.
Socks … I go for cushion … thick high socks sold at Walmart have been my go to socks for years . Chocolate milk is a great post race drink but since I’m in South Florida where it’s warm 50 weeks a year, there’s nothing like Gatorade or any similar sports drink.
I like these socks I got from Amazon—FACOOL. They are a little thicker in the heel and forefoot, and they have a wonderful little tab on the ankle that keeps the sock from slipping down into the shoe. I’ve worn these on all my runs for the past 4 years, including half marathons, and they do great.😊
Here's another great article on the benefits of chocolate milk: https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/the-running-blog/2014/jul/09/secret-powers-chocolate-milk-mo-farah-runners
Dave, the simple answer is the one that works best for you. I use SiS for hydration during the run. I just drink water and eat fruit and nuts after a run. a short period latter about an hour I will have chicken I was never a fan of the "shakes"
As for the socks I use compression socks, they seem to help with my shim splints
Good morning, Dave! Great questions both.
Personally, I like chocolate milk as a recovery drink -- I would never have guessed it would be good for that until I read a book by Gretchen Reynolds, the New York Times health reporter, a couple of years ago called "The First Twenty Minutes." Here's a post I wrote about it three years ago: https://www.thehalfmarathoner.com/p/chocolate-milk-better-for-runners
On socks, that is a great question. I tend to stick with the same socks I wear all the time (they're Hanes athletic socks), but I'm not running the really long distances lately. In the past, I've found that super-thin socks tend to make my feet slip around inside my shoes, which is distracting. What has worked (or not worked) for you?
As I told Dave, above … thick socks work for me … no slippage.
Dave, I use Injinji sox. I like the toe separation, so no blisters on long runs. Regular sox with the toes pressed together do not work for me. Injinji has varieties, from no shows to compression to hiking. . . True, they are expensive, but they last for years, take up a bit more room in your shoes, but they sure save your toes and feet. Another choice is Darn Tough out of Vermont. They replace for free. Run a little bit on the slim side, but great for long distance. It's the Merino wool that does it.
I agree with you about the Injinji socks! The first time I thru-hiked in the Pyrenees, they were an absolute lifesaver for me.
Aren't they great! The no-shows are perfect for running the summer. The crew high hiking socks are just warm enough for long runs in the winter.