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Running while listening to music is nothing new, but podcast running can elevate your runs to a whole new level. Whether you’re new to running podcasts or just looking for a new favorite show, here’s a rundown, pun intended, of 15 of the best podcasts for running — wherever and however you like to hit the road. Read on to discover:
Ready to level up your training? These podcasts are your audio coaches, offering expert advice on everything from pacing to injury prevention. Here you can learn about training methodologies, biomechanics and performance enhancement.
Hosted by Jason Fitzgerald, this running podcast focuses on injury prevention and performance improvement through strength training and mental toughness. It’s unique for its emphasis on strength and conditioning as key components of successful running.
This podcast by Steve Carmichael aims to provide practical training, nutrition and mindset tips for everyday runners with busy lifestyles. It distinguishes itself through case studies and interviews with both experts and ordinary runners.
From Runners Connect, this show delivers actionable advice from leading runners, researchers and coaches. It stands out by offering practical lessons you can apply to your training, wherever and however your running takes place.
Do you have what it takes to run a marathon? Yes — and co-hosts Angie and Trevor will soon have you believing that. This show aims to unleash the marathon runner inside everyone, offering tips, advice and training wisdom, with a good dose of podcast running humor too.
There’s a lot of information in this podcast, including technique, nutrition and training strategies, plus a wide perspective on the art and science of running. It’s valuable for runners at all levels but is especially loved by endurance runners.
Need a boost to get you out the door? Fuel your passion for running with these podcasts — your running cheerleaders, reminding you why you love to run.
This podcast focuses on moms who run — the why and the how. It has a unique perspective, tackling the challenges and the joys of combining running with motherhood. It’s relatable, engaging and always encouraging.
Hosted by Ali Feller, this popular podcast features conversations with inspiring people, both on and off the run. It explores the why behind running, diving deep into the decisions and motivations that shape each individual runner’s journey.
This show offers everyday runners plenty of running tips, personal stories and fitness information. Host Richard Conner interviews experts, trainers and ordinary people, providing podcast running motivation and guidance for runners at all levels.
Mario Fraioli’s podcast stands out for thoughtful conversation about the world of running. Listeners love the depth and quality of the thought-provoking discussions, which offer deep insights and inspiration from athletes, coaches and personalities in the sport.
Hosted by David Roche, this podcast is geared toward average recreational runners over 50. It offers tips, motivation and interviews with the target audience, focusing on enjoying the sport and encouraging those who want to get into running.
If you prefer dirt over asphalt, embrace the wild side of running with these shows. Podcast trail running is a great way to celebrate the unique rewards and challenges of off-road running. Here you can get insights into techniques, gear and the sheer thrill of the backcountry.
Sharing the unique perspective of East Coast/New England runners, this trail running podcast is known for being raw and irreverent. It distinguishes itself by discussing the fun and quirky aspects of trail running that most people don’t talk about.
This podcast provides lighthearted conversations about trail running and ultra running. It is noted for its humor and its focus on ordinary runners, providing an engaging and relatable listening experience and a wide range of content. Podcast trail running with mirth.
This trail running podcast is an easy listen with a humorous approach. It is helpful for both beginner and experienced trail runners, featuring actionable advice, a range of interviews with coaches and athletes, and inspirational stories.
In this podcast, trail running gets the in-depth treatment through interviews with athletes and figures shaping the trail and ultra running scene. Host Finn Melanson provides insight and engaging coverage of topics often not covered elsewhere.
Focusing on the experiences of average trail runners, this show offers relatable stories and advice. It’s especially loved by those who identify as “midpacker” or back of the pack, and many find the discussions motivating and inspiring.
Podcast running is a matter of personal choice — and hot debate — in the running community. Some runners swear by it, while others prefer to listen to music or nothing at all. If you’re interested in the science behind the question, however, there is evidence that listening to a podcast while running could help:
Studies have consistently shown that listening to music during exercise significantly reduces perceived exertion due to a dissociative effect. This draws attention away from bodily sensations like fatigue and towards the external stimulus of the music. Research has also demonstrated that music can enhance athletic performance and recovery times.
Although most research so far has focused on music rather than podcasts, it is clear that similar effects are likely to occur when listening to your favorite shows.
If you run mostly on a treadmill, podcasts can be especially important. The lack of sensory stimulation on a gym-based run can lead to psychological endurance issues and reduced motivation, so the mood-boosting effects of a podcast can really help.
The best podcasts for running will most likely decrease perceived exertion, make time pass faster and provide additional motivation and enjoyment. So the evidence suggests that podcast running can significantly enhance your running experience. If you have never tried it before, give it a go and see if it gels with your own preferences and running style.
Still thinking about it? Here are some answers to other questions people ask.
Podcast running is simply the term for running while listening to a podcast. It’s a popular way to make runs more enjoyable, informative or motivating. Podcasts can be a great way to learn about running techniques, hear inspiring stories or simply pass the time on a run.
Yes — with the caveat that all runners should always remain aware of their surroundings. For safer running, try using only one earbud. Alternatively, lower the volume sufficiently that you can still hear noise from your surroundings.
The 15 podcasts listed above are leaders in the field, but there are hundreds of running podcasts out there. If you’re new to podcast running, start with this list, but don’t be afraid to try something new, too. Listing the best podcasts for running is highly subjective — through trial and error, you will find your own go-to shows.
It’s a French-language running podcast hosted by Benoit Boutron. It’s noted for interviews with famous athletes and tips on how to improve your running. If you speak French, give it a go!
It’s similar to podcast running, but typically focuses on listening to podcasts about fitness training or overall health and wellness. These are good shows to listen to while you’re working out at the gym, for example.
There’s only one way to find out! Next time you hit the road or the trails, dial into one of these popular running podcasts and see what you think. The best podcasts for running are the ones that keep you motivated, engaged, and moving ahead. You never know, podcast running could turn out to be just the boost you need.
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