Author Archives: Matt Golembeski

The Dastardly Implications of Running Too Fast

For most of us, we run because we enjoy the feeling of getting outside and pushing our bodies to the limit. It’s exhilarating to run fast. It’s an accomplishment to finish a threshold or tempo run and see that you were able to hold an even faster pace over a set distance. As runners, weContinue reading “The Dastardly Implications of Running Too Fast”

Consistency in Running: Accountability Matters!

What is the most important thing you can do right now to get better at running? It’s no secret, but the simple act of turning the doorknob, getting out onto the pavement, and getting a run in – regardless of the distance – is the easiest way to progress. I’ve written before about the importanceContinue reading “Consistency in Running: Accountability Matters!”

Strength Training: Why I Lift Weights as a Runner

One misconception runners can fall into is that the only thing they need to be doing in training is running. Certainly, there is some truth to the idea that in order to get better at running you should run. But this can easily lead people to believe that the only thing that makes you betterContinue reading “Strength Training: Why I Lift Weights as a Runner”

How to Make (And Use) Chia Fresca: A Runner’s Recipe

I first heard about this ancient, natural element of running nutrition when I read Born to Run by Christopher McDougall. Besides being a must-read for anyone doing their own research on running mechanics and optimization, the book constantly refers to a drink called Iskiate, or Chia Fresca. I would bet that if you’re reading thisContinue reading “How to Make (And Use) Chia Fresca: A Runner’s Recipe”

What’s the Deal with Carbon-Plated Running Shoes?

You’ve probably seen them, or at least heard about them. The Nike Vaporfly Next%. The Brooks Hyperion. The Hoka One One Carbon X. These carbon-plated running shoes are the fastest on the market and, for the last two years, have been worn by every record breaker in nearly every distance. In 2019 Eliud Kipchoge becameContinue reading “What’s the Deal with Carbon-Plated Running Shoes?”

What Happens When You Don’t Run?

One of the most common questions among new runners is “how often should I run?” This question can be answered in several different ways depending on the athlete’s goals and current fitness level. As a rule, you should start out running fewer days a week (around three) and progress to running five or six daysContinue reading “What Happens When You Don’t Run?”

When the Weather Gets Rough: Running Inside

Let’s get one thing straight: I firmly believe that running outside is superior to running inside, especially when running inside means running on a treadmill. Running outside on a track, a trail, or pavement is better in nearly all aspects, from maintaining form to reducing impact and stress on joints. But let’s get another thing straight: running at all is better than not running and there are some days when running outside just isn’t realistic for most people.

Make Running a Habit (Not a Chore)

When you’re starting out as a runner, just the process of making running a habit can be a struggle. In these first few weeks the quality of your workout doesn’t matter as much as just getting out and running. Depending on your fitness level, this might not mean running the entire time. It’s okay to mix running and walking, the important thing is that you’re getting outside and forming the pattern so that the next time it’s a little bit easier to turn the doorknob and get into your workout.