AI-powered running apps and training plans are everywhere right now. With just a few clicks, you can enter your race goal, availability, and recent paces, and instantly get a training plan.

It’s fast, inexpensive, and tempting.

But in this solo episode, Coach Michelle shares why writing a training plan is actually the easiest part of her job, and why AI, no matter how advanced, can’t replace the human side of run coaching.

In this episode, we explore:

• What AI-based training plans can and cannot do

• Why real coaching happens between the workouts, not just on the spreadsheet

• How life stress, illness, poor sleep, and emotional load affect training and why those signals are easy to miss with AI

• The injury and burnout risks of aggressive, context-blind progression

• Why accountability, empathy, and real-time feedback matter more than ever

• What a coach actually does beyond writing a plan

This episode is about understanding the limits of algorithms and the irreplaceable value of human connection, judgment, and support in long-term, sustainable running.

Reflection question for listeners: What’s the ONE thing a coach has done for you that AI never could?

Let Coach Michelle know by sending her a DM on Instagram. https://www.instagram.com/Mindful.Marathon

If you'd like to order custom Mindful Marathon gear, be sure to place your order before 2/15/26 at this link. https://www.varlocustom.com/MM26

If you have questions about your own training, reach out on Coach Michelle's website, and let's explore working together for personalized support. https://mindful-marathon.com

*** The information contained in this podcast is intended to serve as educational information and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. You should consult your primary care physician before undertaking any fitness regimen or exercise, which can pose serious health risks if undertaken or performed improperly. All content, including text, graphics, images, and information, contained in the videos is for general information purposes only and does not replace a consultation with your own doctor/advanced practice provider. ***