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Episode 84 – Why Everyone Should Be Talking About Splits

If you want to get better at running, we need to talk about splits.

In this episode, I break down one of the most overlooked, yet most powerful, concepts in distance running: controlling your mile or kilometre splits.

Whether you're training for your first marathon or chasing a PB, your splits tell the real story of your control, focus, and discipline across the distance.

We cover:

• What splits actually are (and why they matter more than average pace)
• Why so many marathoners start too fast, especially in big races
• The difference between an “enjoyment runner” and a “performance runner.”
• How tighter splits build confidence and endurance
• Why managing effort — not emotion — wins marathons

Distance running is about control.

If your fastest split is your first 5K in a marathon, that’s not pacing — that’s excitement.

If you’re in the middle of marathon training right now, this episode will help you sharpen your focus and take ownership of your performance.

Follow @12monthstomarathon on Instagram for daily tips, and join the free Over 35 Running Community via the link in the bio.

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Episode 83 — Naked Running (Minimalist Running & Why It Might Make You Better)

Ever heard of “naked running”? Don’t worry, you’re not getting arrested.

In this episode, I’m talking about running without the extras: no headphones, no watch, no constant tracking… just you and the run.

As I record this, I’m in week 9 of marathon training, right in the belly of the beast (weeks 8–14), where the mileage ramps up, fatigue builds, and you’ve got to manage your energy properly. And it’s got me thinking about something I’m passionate about — minimalism in running.

Because the more tired you get, the more you realise: distraction is the enemy.

In this episode, we cover:

• What “naked running” actually means (and why it matters)
• The difference between what you need versus what you’ve just got used to
• Whydo some runners feel like they have to run with music, a vest, a phone, or gadgets
• How external crutches can quietly limit your confidence and performance
• Why learning to run “with yourself” is a superpower — especially for marathon training
• How simplifying your setup can help you focus, race better, and enjoy the experience more

This isn’t about being anti-tech or anti-Strava — it’s about asking one simple question:

Is this helping your running, or just feeding the noise?

If you’re training for a spring marathon (or just want to feel more in control of your running), this one will get you thinking.

Follow me on Instagram: @12monthstomarathon
And if you’re over 35, you can join my free running community via the link in my bio.

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Episode 82 – How Important Is Weekly Mileage?

When it comes to marathon training, how much do your weekly miles actually matter?

In this episode, I dive into one of the most common questions I get from runners: “How important is hitting my weekly mileage target?” Whether you're training for your first 26.2 or chasing a PB, this solo episode is full of honest talk on how to approach your mileage when life gets in the way, your legs feel heavy, or the plan needs tweaking.

We cover:
🗓 Why weekly mileage matters—but isn’t everything
⚖️ How to balance quality sessions vs. volume
🧠 Why you need to understand your training plan, not just follow it
🔁 How to adapt when things go off script
🧩 Why skipping one speed session won’t derail your race

If you're in the thick of marathon prep—weeks 8 to 14, where things get tough—this one’s for you. Get ready to stop panicking over missed runs and start thinking long-term.

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