Marathon Training Academy

In this episode we interview Henry Abbott -sports journalist and author of the book 'Ballistic, The New Science of Injury-Free Athletic Performance'. Plus, Angie and I run down our 7,000 mile road trip across the USA.

In this episode we visit with Olympic runner and Boston Marathon champion Des Linden. Hear about how she has used the words of doubters to her advantage; her shift to ultra and trail running; her thoughts on super shoes and more! [powerpress] [box] Links Mentioned in This Episode Run Coaching. Work with a MTA running Coach. COROS Watches will help you train according to heart rate. Use code MTA and get an additional free watch band with your purchase! Just pick the band you want, add it to your cart, and use code MTA. Riverbend Ranch -quality beef raised on American Ranches without hormones or antibiotics. Taste the difference for yourself. Use code MTA at checkout to receive $25 off your first order. Joint Health Plus by Previnex -prevention is the best medicine and you need to protect your joint cartilage from breakdown. Use code MTA for 15% off your first order! The Richmond Marathon on November 15, 2024 -America's Friendliest Marathon! AG1 Next Gen -get a FREE bottle of AG D3K2, an AG1 Wel

[powerpress] In this episode Coach Angie and Coach Erin answer question about heart rate training, running in the heat, warm up drills, hydration, electrolyte sources, strength training, anxiety before long runs, finding time to train, and more! Thank you to everyone who send in a question! Coach Angie Spencer has run 70 marathons and ultras, including a marathon in every US state.  She is a RRCA and USATF Certified Running Coach and Registered Nurse. Angie loves books and dark chocolate. Coach Erin Palos is a Certified Running Coach and professional photographer. When she began her running journey it was all she could do to run a mile but she now she is a Boston qualifier, 12X marathoner, ultra runner and Half Ironman finisher. Erin lives in LA and loves to run with her huskies! [box] Linis Mentioned in This Episode Run Coaching. Work with a MTA running Coach. COROS Watches will help you train according to heart rate. Use code MTA and get an additional free watch band with your purchase! Just

In this episode we speak with Ultramarathon Man, Dean Karnazes, about the storied history of the marathon and the land that birthed the legend -Greece. And in the quick tip segment, Coach Angie answers a listener question about how to improve your marathon time as a masters runner. [powerpress] Named by TIME magazine as one of the “100 Most Influential People in the World,” Dean Karnazes has pushed his body and mind to inconceivable limits. Among his many accomplishments, he has run 50 marathons, in all 50 US states, in 50 consecutive days. He’s run across Death Valley in the middle of summer, and he’s run a marathon to the South Pole. On ten separate occasions he’s run a 200-mile relay race solo, racing alongside teams of twelve. His list of competitive achievements include winning the World’s Toughest Footrace, the Badwater Ultramarathon, and winning the 4 Deserts Challenge, racing in the hottest, driest, windiest and coldest places on earth. A New York Times bestselling author, Dean is a frequent

In this episode we talk heart rate training with Dr. Phil Maffetone who is the creator of the MAF Method (180 minus your age) and an internationally recognized researcher in endurance science. Dr. Phil Maffetone has worked with endurance athletes for more than thirty-five years. He is the author of eighteen books on health and fitness. He is perhaps best known for the Maffetone Method of heart rate training. Some of his clients have included running guru Dr. George Sheehan, famed New Zealand coach Arthur Lydiard, marathon great Grete Waitz, and six-time Hawaii Ironman world champion Mark Allen. Outside the sports arena, Dr. Maffetone has coached a variety of people in the entertainment field, including musicians James Taylor and Johnny Cash, The Red Hot Chili Peppers, and producer Rick Rubin. [powerpress] [box] Links Mentioned in This Episode Run Coaching. Work with a MTA running Coach. COROS Watches will help you train according to heart rate. Use code MTA and get an additional free watch band wit

In this episode we speak with Alex Hutchinson author of the book 'The Explorer’s Gene -Why We Seek Big Challenges, New Flavors, and the Blank Spots on the Map'. Alex Hutchinson is the author of the 2018 New York Times bestseller 'Endure' and is a science journalist and Outside magazine’s longtime Sweat Science columnist. He has a PhD in Physics from Cambridge University and a MS in Journalism from Columbia. He was a long-distance runner for the Canadian national team and lives in Toronto. His new book The Explorer’s Gene refutes the myth that the age of exploration is dead. Instead, the itch to discover new things persists in all of us, expressed not just on the slopes of Everest but in the ways we work, play, and live. The Explorer’s Gene combines stories of exploration with cutting-edge insights from behavioral psychology and neuroscience, making a powerful case that our lives are better—more productive, more meaningful, and more fun—when we break our habits and chart a new path. [powerpress] [box]

In this episode we bring you a conversation with Robin Walters -who just completed the Boston Marathon. This is a story about overcoming an acute injury, training through winter conditions, and what it's like to accomplish a goal many years in the making! [powerpress] [box] Links Mentioned in This Episode Run Coaching. Work with a MTA running Coach. Run the London Marathon in 2026! Preregister now for a travel package with Sports Tours International. UCAN -we have been fueling with UCAN since 2013. As a listener to the podcast you can try UCAN Edge gels for FREE! all you pay is the cost of shipping. You can also get 20% off anything in their store with the code MTA. AG1 Next Gen -get a FREE bottle of AG D3K2, an AG1 Welcome Kit, AND 5 of the upgraded AG1 travel packs with your first order. [/box]

In this episode we play an interview we did on the 'I’ll Have Another Podcast' with Lyndsey Hein. Lyndsey invited us to participate in her Behind the Mic series -where she interviews fellow podcasters in the running space. Hear us discuss podcasting, parenting, travel, books, our favorite marathons, and more! [powerpress] Lindsey Hein lives in North Carolina with her husband of 15 years, Glenn and their four boys. She’s the founder of the podcast network SandyBoy Productions and host of I’ll Have Another and Why is Everyone Yelling? with Lindsey Hein. Lindsey has run 17 marathons and one half ironman. She loves podcasting, hosting live interviews and coaching runners! [box] Mentioned in This Episode Work with a Running Coach in 2025 or join the Academy and use a MTA training plan. Joint Health Plus! -Protect your joint cartilage from breakdown. Use code MTA for 15% off your first order. MetPro Nutrition Coaching -speak with a Metabolic Expert about your goals and get actionable steps toward

In this episode we speak with Brad Culp -author of the book The Norwegian Method. Plus, Coach Angie discusses the value of Zone 2 Training. Brad Culp is a sports journalist who has contributed to many triathlon publications. Culp has finished more than 100 races (including 15 marathons). He currently resides in Illinois with his wife and two children. His new book is titled The Norwegian Method-The Culture, Science & Humans Behind the Groundbreaking Approach to Elite Endurance Performance. [powerpress] [box] Links Mentioned in This Episode Lagoon Sleep -take their awesome 2 minute sleep quiz to find your match.  Use the code “MTA” for 15% off your first purchase. AG1 -It’s the perfect time to start a new healthy habit and AG1 is offering new subscribers a FREE $76 gift when you sign up. You’ll get a Welcome Kit, a bottle of D3K2 AND 5 free travel packs in your first box. IQBAR -brain and body-boosting bars, hydration mixes, and mushroom coffees. Their Ultimate Sampler Pack includes all three! Get

In this episode we celebrate the 15 Year Anniversary of the Podcast! Listeners call in to tell us what running marathons and half marathons has taught them about life. Runners from all over the world shared their inspiring stories, mantras, and advice. Thanks to everyone who sent in a voicemail, and THANK YOU ALL for supporting the podcast for the last 15 years! [powerpress] [box] Sponsor Links Drury Hotels -our longest running sponsor! They have over 150 locations in 25 states; free food and drinks (the 530 kickback), clean rooms, great locations, indoor/outdoor pools, popcorn, reasonable rates. Get 10% off your stay with our link! UCAN -we have been fueling with UCAN since 2013. As a listener to the podcast you can try UCAN Edge gels for FREE! all you pay is the cost of shipping. You can also get 20% off anything in their store with the code MTA. Speak with a Running Coach about one-on-one coaching or join the Academy and use a MTA training plan. [/box]

[powerpress] In this podcast episode we talk about why you should run the World Marathon Majors; and how to get into the Berlin, Chicago, and NYC Marathons. Plus we share a special announcement about a trip we are hosting to Dublin, Ireland! The Abbott World Marathon Majors is the most prestigious marathon series in the world, hosting over 250,000 runners per year, and millions applying for a bib. There are basically 4 ways to get into each marathon as a non-elite runner. Enter the lottery Run for charity Qualify with a fast time Travel with a tour company   But as you will hear, there are many exceptions, nuances, and backdoor ways to get into the Majors. [box] Links Mentioned in This Episode Sports Tours International USA -Join us at the Dublin Marathon! Get a race bib and 3 nights at a 4-start hotel. Use code MTA when you book your spot. Joint Health Plus! -Protect your joint cartilage from breakdown. Use code MTA for 15% off your first order. AG1 -It’s the perfect time to start a new h

[powerpress] Here's your guide to getting a race bib for the Tokyo, Boston, London, and Sydney Marathons! Our next episode will focus on Berlin, Chicago, and New York. The Abbott World Marathon Majors is the most prestigious marathon series in the world, hosting over 250,000 runners per year, and millions applying for a bib. Many runners in our audience are working toward their Six Star Medal (Angie only needs 1 more star). There are basically 4 ways to get into each marathon as a non-elite runner. Enter the lottery Run for charity Qualify with a fast time Travel with a tour company   But as you will hear, there are many exceptions, nuances, and backdoor ways to get into the Majors. We hope you enjoy this episode! [box] Links Mentioned in This Episode MetPro + MTA Coaching Deal. Special offer we've never done before limited to the first 30 people, signup for MetPro Nutrition coaching will also get MTA Run coaching included at no additional cost. $200 a month savings. Lagoon Sleep -take th

[powerpress] In this episode we speak with Matt Fitzgerald author of the book 'How to Run the Perfect Race -Better Racing Through Better Pacing'. Matt will explain why many runners struggle with pacing in the marathon. We also take a look at the concept of "Work Rate"; and the central governor theory of fatigue versus Brehm's motivational intensity theory. [box] Links Mentioned in This Episode Joint Health Plus! -Protect your joint cartilage from breakdown. Use code MTA for 15% off your first order. UCAN -try UCAN Edge gels for FREE all you pay is the cost of shipping. You can also get 20% off anything in their store with the code "MTA". Speak with a Running Coach about one-on-one coaching or join the Academy and use a MTA training plan. Book: How to Run the Perfect Race -Better Racing Through Better Pacing [/box] Matt Fitzgerald is a coach, nutritionist, and author of books on endurance sports including Pain & Performance, 80/20 Running, How Bad do you Want it and his most recent book “How to

In this episode we are joined by Coach Amber from MetPro to tackle nutrition questions sent in by listeners. We discuss meal timing, hydration, protein sources, menopause, how to balance performance and fat loss goals, managing cravings, fueling for an ultra, and we even dive into the current buzz around GLP1 medications. Whether you're training for a marathon or an ultra, you'll get practical nutrition advice to help optimize your running. Thanks to everyone who sent in a question! [powerpress] [box] Links Mentioned in This Episode MetPro + MTA Coaching Deal. Special offer we've never done before limited to the first 30 people, signup for MetPro Nutrition coaching will also get MTA Run coaching included at no additional cost. $200 a month savings. AG1 -It’s the perfect time to start a new healthy habit and AG1 is offering new subscribers a FREE $76 gift when you sign up. You’ll get a Welcome Kit, a bottle of D3K2 AND 5 free travel packs in your first box. [/box] Coach Amber Velasquez has a Master of

In this episode we interview a long-time member of our community named Debbie Gelber who has reinvented herself through running. A self-described late bloomer to the sport, she stepped on the treadmill at age 40 with a goal of losing weight, over a decade later she’s training for her 51st marathon! Debbie Gelber is a Fine Arts Instructor at South Plains College in Levelland, Texas. She is currently training for the Tokyo Marathon working with MTA Coach Carrie. [powerpress] [box] Links Mentioned in this Episode Speak with a Running Coach about one-on-one coaching or join the Academy and use a MTA training plan. The Drury Hotels -they have free breakfast and free food and drinks in the evening -something they call the 5:30 kick back. They have more than 150 locations in 26 states. Use our link to save 10% on your stay. AG1 -It’s the perfect time to start a new healthy habit and AG1 is offering new subscribers a FREE $76 gift when you sign up. You’ll get a Welcome Kit, a bottle of D3K2 AND 5 free travel

In this episode we interview Dakotah Popehn who finished as the first American woman at the Olympic Marathon in Paris! There was a time when she couldn’t fathom running 26.2, and actually DNF’d at her debut marathon. But she didn’t give up! Listen as Dakotah shares the lessons she’s learned along the way, tips on building mental strength, and the importance of getting good sleep during training. [powerpress] [box] Sponsor Links Lagoon Sleep -take their awesome 2 minute sleep quiz to find your match.  Use the code “MTA” for 15% off your first purchase. UCAN -try UCAN Edge gels for FREE all you pay is the cost of shipping. You can also get 20% off anything in their store with the code "MTA". Speak with a Running Coach about one-on-one coaching or join the Academy and use a MTA training plan. [/box] Most people first heard of Dakotah Lindwurm at the 2024 Olympic Trails. She has since gotten married and goes by Dakotah Popehn. Dakotah is a 29 year old elite runner from Minnesota who has raced everythin

In this episode we speak with Jeff Horowitz author of the book 'Think Like a Runner -Understanding Why We Run and How to Do It Better'. Learn about the importance of "finding your why"; the difference between chronological age versus training age; and recommended training changes for older runners. Formerly an attorney, Jeff quit law to pursue his passion for endurance sports. He currently teaches running at the George Washington University and has completed over 200 marathons and ultras across six continents. [powerpress] [box] Links Mentioned in This Episode Speak with a Running Coach about one-on-one coaching or join the Academy and use a MTA training plan. Joint Health Plus! -Protect your joint cartilage from breakdown. Use code MTA for 15% off your first order. IQBAR -brain and body-boosting bars, hydration mixes, and mushroom coffees. Their Ultimate Sampler Pack includes all three! Get 20% off plus FREE shipping. Just text "MTA" to 64000. Think Like a Runner book. [/box]

[powerpress] In this episode we speak with Alistair Crompton, a trail guide with Run the Alps, about his latest adventures and what it’s like to run in the Swiss Alps. Plus, Coach Angie shares tips on training for an ultramarathon. [box] Links Mentioned in This Episode Switzerland Running Retreat with Angie, Trevor, and Run the Alps. The Drury Hotels -they have free breakfast and free food and drinks in the evening -something they call the 5:30 kick back. They have more than 150 locations in 26 states. Use our link to save 10% on your stay. AG1 -It’s the perfect time to start a new healthy habit and AG1 is offering new subscribers a FREE $76 gift when you sign up. You’ll get a Welcome Kit, a bottle of D3K2 AND 5 free travel packs in your first box. IQBAR -brain and body-boosting bars, hydration mixes, and mushroom coffees. Their Ultimate Sampler Pack includes all three! Get 20% off plus FREE shipping. Just text "MTA" to 64000. Speak with a Running Coach about one-on-one coaching or join the Acad

[powerpress] In this episode we share tips for achieving your running goals in 2025! Plus, we take a look at what fellow runners (and listeners to the podcast) have planned this year. Good news! You don’t have to figure it out on your own. Get the expert training and accountability you need to be a faster, stronger, runner. Let’s talk about your biggest challenges and see how we can elevate your training. Speak with a coach. [box] Mentioned in This Episode MetPro -Become Your Best Self with their Proven Weight Loss strategies. You can take a free assessment and speak with a Metabolic Expert. Get $500 off their concierge coaching as a lister to the podcast. AG1 -It’s the perfect time to start a new healthy habit and AG1 is offering new subscribers a FREE $76 gift when you sign up. You’ll get a Welcome Kit, a bottle of D3K2 AND 5 free travel packs in your first box. Book - Be Useful by Arnold Schwarzenegger Speak with a Running Coach about one-on-one coaching or join the Academy and use a MT

[powerpress] In this episode we look back on the biggest running news, stories, and records in 2024 . . . the historic, the tragic, the inspirational, and the bizarre. We got it all! [box] Links Mentioned in This Episode Take our Audience Survey! We are always looking for ways to improve the MTA Podcast and better serve our listeners. Speak with a Running Coach about one-on-one coaching or join the Academy and use a MTA training plan. AG1 -is offering new subscribers a FREE $76 gift when you sign up. You’ll get a Welcome Kit, a bottle of D3K2 AND 5 free travel packs in your first box. UCAN Energy -Try their Edge gels for FREE! all you pay is the cost of shipping. You can also get 20% off anything in their store with the code MTA. The Drury Hotels -they have free breakfast and free food and drinks in the evening -something they call the 5:30 kick back. They have more than 150 locations in 26 states. Use our link to save 10% on your stay. [/box]