284. Never Get Bored Running Again: 3 Route Planning Secrets with Coach Lu

Do you find yourself running the same loop over and over… and getting bored? In this episode, Coach Duane sits down with coach Lufeng Zou from our Spark Healthy Runner team to uncover the secret to keeping running exciting, purposeful, and fun through smart route planning.   You’ll learn the 3 types of running routes every runner needs: - Routine Runs — familiar loops that make recovery days stress-free - Workout Routes — purposeful paths for speedwork, hills, and long runs - Exploration Runs — fun adventures (yes, even Strava Art 🎨) that bring joy back to running Whether you’re training for your next half marathon or just trying to stay consistent without burning out, this episode will show you how to plan routes that build strength, keep you motivated, and help you run injury-free for life. Hit play, and let’s make your running anything but boring! Want to run stronger, faster, and injury-free? The Healthy Runner Academy provides you the step-by-step system to finally stay consistent, avoid burnout, and prevent nagging injuries — all with expert coaching and a supportive community behind you.   Perfect for adult runners who want to: - Stop nagging injuries - Build a resilient running body - Get faster and stronger - Enjoy pain-free, consistent training   Join the waitlist today and be first in line when doors open (only 3x/year) + get a special bonus to strengthen your running journey!   Episodes and Resources mentioned in this episode:   Listen to coach Lu’s story on getting a sub 3 hour marathon in Boston here!   Sign up for Free Healthy Runner Newsletter here! ➡︎ https://sparkhealthyrunner.com/newsletter/   A big thanks to Naboso for your support for this episode!   Want to know how I prioritize achilles and foot health to prevent & heal achilles tendonitis?  Kinesis board and toe splays from Naboso!   Naboso’s product, the Kinesis board, features dual sensory stimulation, a micro-wobble system and a single-leg platform to improve my stability for running!   Click here and use code HEALTHYRUNNER for 20% off your entire Naboso order!    Connect with coach Lu: - Follow coach Lu on Instagram  - Email: [email protected] - Healthy Runner Facebook Community   Connect with Dr. Duane: - Instagram - @sparkhealthyrunner - Sign up for the Healthy Runner Newsletter - Join our Healthy Runner Facebook Community - Subscribe to our YouTube Channel - [email protected] - www.sparkhealthyrunner.com   Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Amazon Music Website  

[Download] The Ultimate Marathon Guide to Master Your Marathon Feeling Strong! Back-to-back world majors — Chicago and NYC — just three weeks apart. How can you train, recover, and show up strong for both without breaking down? In this episode, I sit down with returning guest Rhonda Hunt — run coach, personal trainer, lululemon ambassador, Hyrox coach, and expert in the physiology of menopause. Rhonda is an incredible leader and inspiration for women chasing big running goals beyond menopause, and she’s here to share how she’s preparing to tackle Chicago and NYC back-to-back. You’ll learn: - How to safely train and adjust your plan for multiple marathons close together - Recovery, nutrition, and sleep hacks for masters runners - Age-specific strategies for staying injury-free in your 40s, 50s, and beyond - Strength training and cross-training tips to balance performance and recovery - Real-world lessons from Rhonda’s own journey of doubling up on fall marathons If you’re a masters runner with ambitious goals — whether it’s two marathons or your next big PR — this episode will give you the strategies to train smarter, recover better, and keep running strong for life. 👉 Plus, grab your free Ultimate Marathon Training Guide to Master Your Marathon Feeling Strong!  Want to run stronger, faster, and injury-free for your Marathon? The Healthy Runner Academy provides you the step-by-step system to finally stay consistent, avoid burnout, and prevent nagging injuries — all with expert coaching and a supportive community behind you.   Perfect for adult runners who want to: - Stop nagging injuries - Build a resilient running body - Get faster and stronger - Enjoy pain-free, consistent training   Join the waitlist today and be first in line when doors open (only 3x/year) + get a special bonus to strengthen your running journey!   Episodes and Resources mentioned in this episode:   Listen to my previous episode with Rhonda about Running Through Menopause here!   Listen to my previous episode on Beginner Marathon Training here!   Listen to my previous episode on Advanced Marathon Training here!   Listen to my previous episode on injury prevention for marathon training here!   Listen to my previous episode on marathon strength training guide: run stronger with these 3 essentials here!   Sign up for Free Healthy Runner Newsletter here! ➡︎ https://sparkhealthyrunner.com/newsletter/   A big thanks to CurraNz for your support for this episode!   Want to know my favorite recovery supplement for runners?  CurraNz is New Zealand’s natural running supplement made of a strong antioxidant (polyphenol anthocyanin) found within blackcurrants.     Learn more about the real science behind blackcurrant extract in my interview with Fleur Cushman in episode 233 on the Healthy Runner Podcast.    Click here and use code HEALTHYRUNNER for 20% off your first order!    Connect with Rhonda Hunt: - Instagram: @rhondahuntfitness - Website: rhondahuntfitness.com - Email: [email protected] Connect with Dr. Duane:   - Instagram - @sparkhealthyrunner - Sign up for the Healthy Runner Newsletter - Join our Healthy Runner Facebook Community - Subscribe to our YouTube Channel - [email protected] - www.sparkhealthyrunner.com   Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Amazon Music Website  

[Download] 6-Step Plan to Grow in Your Running Journey  Most runners skip one of the simplest, fastest ways to get quicker, smoother, and more injury-resistant — strides. In this episode of the Healthy Runner Podcast, Dr. Duane Scotti breaks down everything you need to know about strides — the most underrated tool in your running toolbox.  Whether you’re chasing a marathon PR, training for your first 5K, or just want to make running feel easier, strides can change the game. You’ll learn: -What strides actually are (and what they are NOT) -Why they improve speed, efficiency, and injury resilience at any age -How to perform strides step-by-step -The biggest mistakes runners make when adding strides -How to progress strides safely into your weekly routine   If you’ve ever wondered how to run faster without risking injury — or how to finally make your form feel smooth and powerful — this episode is for you. 🎧 Press play and unlock the secret weapon pro runners use after easy runs! ✅ Download the Ultimate Marathon Training Guide to Run Pain Free Listen to my previous episode on the top 7 exercises for runners here!   Listen to my previous episode on Proven 5-Step System for Lifelong Healthy Miles here!   Follow along with my 25 Minute Strength Workout for Runners (TO RUN PAIN FREE)   Want to run stronger, faster, and injury-free? The Healthy Runner Academy provides you the step-by-step system to finally stay consistent, avoid burnout, and prevent nagging injuries — all with expert coaching and a supportive community behind you.   Perfect for adult runners who want to: - Stop nagging injuries - Build a resilient running body - Get faster and stronger - Enjoy pain-free, consistent training   Join the waitlist today and be first in line when doors open (only 3x/year) + get a special bonus to reset your running journey!   A big thanks to ucan for your support for this episode!   Want to know what we recommend to our athletes during hard marathon training?  We use EDGE Energy Gels from UCAN for those long runs!    Fuel smarter during a run with the best no sugar energy gel on the market delivering up to 75+ minutes of steady energy to power your best running performance.   Click here and use code HEALTHYRUNNER for 20% off your entire UCAN order!      Connect with Dr. Duane:   - Instagram - @sparkhealthyrunner - Sign up for the Healthy Runner Newsletter - Join our Healthy Runner Facebook Community - Subscribe to our YouTube Channel - [email protected] - www.sparkhealthyrunner.com Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Amazon Music Website  

[Download] The Ultimate Recovery Guide for Runners Are you over 40 and feeling like recovery takes longer than it used to? Struggling with lingering aches, slower bounce-backs, or training fatigue that just won’t quit? You’re not alone — and you don’t have to settle for feeling “past your prime.” In this episode of the Healthy Runner Podcast, Dr. Duane Scotti is joined by Coach Sara Manderscheid, founder of Elevate Your Running Coaching in Boulder, Colorado, to uncover 5 essential recovery secrets every masters runner needs to know. Together, they break down what recovery really looks like in your 40s, 50s, and beyond — and how to shift from frustration to freedom in your running journey. You’ll learn: ✅ The most common recovery mistakes runners over 40 make ✅ Specific strategies to reduce soreness and improve consistency ✅ How to build strength and endurance without burning out ✅ What no one tells you about aging and adaptation ✅ Why recovery is your secret weapon for faster, healthier running Whether you're chasing a marathon PR, coming back from injury, or simply want to feel strong and energized again — this conversation is your mid-run mindset boost and recovery roadmap. 🎁 Grab your FREE Ultimate Guide to Recovery for Runners: learn.sparkhealthyrunner.com/recovery Listen to my previous episode on the Ultimate Recovery Guide for Running here!   Listen to my previous episode about Running through menopause here!   Listen to my previous episode on marathon recovery here!   Listen to my previous episode on 7 foam roller exercises for running recovery here!   Follow along with my 25 Minute Strength Workout for Runners (TO RUN PAIN FREE)   There are six parts of your running journey that need to be optimized so you can run strong and last long! Learn them here    Want to work with Dr. Duane as your running physical therapist and coach with structured rehab, strength, nutrition, and a run plan with full support and accountability to optimize your recovery as a runner over 40? Book a call and learn more about Healthy Runner coaching here    A big thanks to CurraNz for your support for this episode!   Want to know my favorite recovery supplement for runners?  CurraNz is New Zealand’s natural running supplement made of a strong antioxidant (polyphenol anthocyanin) found within blackcurrants.     Backed by more than 50 studies benefitting recovery and performance, CurraNz helps improve blood flow and has been my go to training partner in my personal running journey and recommend to the athletes in our program!   Learn more about the real science behind blackcurrant extract in my interview with Fleur Cushman in episode 233 on the Healthy Runner Podcast.    Click here and use code HEALTHYRUNNER for 20% off your first order!    Connect with Sara Manderscheid:   Instagram & Threads: @elevateyourrunning and @sayrahrunshappy  Website: https://elevateyourrunning.com The Elevate Your Running Podcast on Apple The Elevate Your Running Podcast on Spotify   Connect with Dr. Duane:   - Instagram - @sparkhealthyrunner - Sign up for the Healthy Runner Newsletter - Join our Healthy Runner Facebook Community - Subscribe to our YouTube Channel - [email protected] - www.sparkhealthyrunner.com Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Amazon Music Website  

[Download] The Ultimate Achilles Guide for Runners  Still dealing with stubborn Achilles pain — even after trying rest, PT, or all the “right” exercises? You’re not alone… and chances are, you might be making one of the most common mistakes that’s actually stopping your tendon from healing. In this special Q&A episode, Dr. Duane Scotti answers your most asked questions about insertional vs. mid-portion Achilles tendonitis, running with pain, heel drops, shoes, recovery timelines, and more. - Should you stop running completely? - Are heel drops hurting or helping? - How often should you do Achilles exercises? - What’s the right way to return to running after a flare-up? You’ll also hear inspiring success stories from real runners like: John (who broke a 30-year injury cycle at age 61), Nupoor (who avoided surgery after 2 years of pain), and Carrie (who returned to running after 13 years off!) If you're confused, frustrated, or just want to make sure you're doing the right things — this is the episode for you! 🎧 Listen now to finally get clarity on your Achilles recovery plan and take the next step toward pain-free running. ✅ Download the Ultimate Guide to Running Healthy Without Achilles Pain  Return to Running Program without Achilles Pain here   Listen to my previous episode on insertional achilles tendinopathy treatment here!   Listen to my previous episode on the Best Running Shoes for Achilles Tendonitis   Listen to my previous episode on Running Again After Insertional Achilles Tendinopathy Surgery with Tina Muir   Listen to my previous episode with Lisa who overcame achilles tendonitis to run double digit long runs for the first time in her life!   Learn how to get rid of achilles pain to run pain free in 5 minutes!   Follow along with my 25 Minute Strength Workout for Runners (TO RUN PAIN FREE)   There are six parts of your running journey that need to be optimized so you can run strong and last long! Learn them here    Want to work with Dr. Duane as your running physical therapist and coach with structured achilles rehab, strength, nutrition, and a run plan with full support and accountability to overcome your achilles tendonitis and keep it from coming back again? Book a call and learn more about Healthy Runner coaching here    💥 Healthy Runner Academy is a membership for runners who want to feel stronger, more confident, and run pain-free all year long — without the overwhelm.   👉 Join the waitlist now and be the first to access our next enrollment and get exclusive bonuses! Don’t miss your chance to reset your running and finish this year stronger than ever.   A big thanks to Naboso for your support for this episode!   Want to know how I prioritize achilles and foot health to prevent & heal achilles tendonitis?  Kinesis board and toe splays from Naboso!   Naboso’s product, the Kinesis board, features dual sensory stimulation, a micro-wobble system and a single-leg platform to improve my stability for running!   Click here and use code HEALTHYRUNNER for 20% off your entire Naboso order!    Connect with Dr. Duane:   - Instagram - @sparkhealthyrunner - Sign up for the Healthy Runner Newsletter - Join our Healthy Runner Facebook Community - Subscribe to our YouTube Channel - [email protected] - www.sparkhealthyrunner.com Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Amazon Music Website  

Ever felt like you did everything right in your training — strength work, recovery, stretching, sleep — and still got injured? You’re not alone… and it’s not your fault. In this powerful episode of the Healthy Runner Podcast, I’m joined by Dr. Victoria Sekely — a fellow running physical therapist and coach — to unpack the real truth about running injuries that social media often leaves out. We dive deep into: ✅ Why runners still get injured even when they follow “perfect” plans ✅ How social media sets unrealistic expectations around injury prevention ✅ The hidden danger of perfectionism in training ✅ What proactive injury prevention really looks like ✅ How to shift your mindset during setbacks so you can keep moving forward If you’re over the guilt, the blame, and the confusion that comes with injuries, this episode will give you a refreshing dose of truth and empowerment. 🎁 Grab my free Ultimate Guide to Returning to Running after Injury here! Listen to my previous episode with Victoria on marathon tips to train smart and run strong here!   Listen to my previous episode on how to prevent running injuries with a 5 step system here!   Listen to my previous episode on marathon injury prevention here! Follow along with my 25 Minute Strength Workout for Runners (TO RUN PAIN FREE)   There are six parts of your running journey that need to be optimized so you can run strong and last long! Learn them here    Want to work with Dr. Duane as your running physical therapist and coach with structured rehab, strength, nutrition, and a run plan with full support and accountability to overcome your stubborn running injury and keep it from coming back again? Book a call and learn more about Healthy Runner coaching here    A big thanks to CurraNz for your support for this episode!   Want to know my favorite recovery supplement for runners?  CurraNz is New Zealand’s natural running supplement made of a strong antioxidant (polyphenol anthocyanin) found within blackcurrants.     Backed by more than 50 studies benefitting recovery and performance, CurraNz helps improve blood flow and has been my go to training partner in my personal running journey and recommend to the athletes in our program!   Learn more about the real science behind blackcurrant extract in my interview with Fleur Cushman in episode 233 on the Healthy Runner Podcast.    Click here and use code HEALTHYRUNNER for 20% off your first order!    Connect with Victoria Sekely:   - Learn more about Victoria and Train Smart Run Strong - Follow Victoria on Instagram and TikTok - Listen to the Train Smart and Run Strong Podcast   Connect with Dr. Duane:   - Instagram - @sparkhealthyrunner - Sign up for the Healthy Runner Newsletter - Join our Healthy Runner Facebook Community - Subscribe to our YouTube Channel - [email protected] - www.sparkhealthyrunner.com Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Amazon Music Website  

Become a member of Healthy Runner Academy here! Tired of stretching, foam rolling, or buying new shoes — only to still end up injured? In this episode, Dr. Duane Scotti pulls back the curtain on the real system that helps adult runners stay strong, consistent, and injury-free. You’ll learn the exact 5-stage framework used inside the Healthy Runner Program to prevent injuries before they start — so you can train smarter, avoid setbacks, and hit your race goals with confidence. Whether you’re starting fresh, bouncing back from an injury, or chasing a new PR… this system works because it evolves with you. 🎯 What You’ll Learn: Why injury prevention isn’t just about stretching or recovery tools How to build a solid foundation before adding mileage or speed The truth about strength training, mobility, and fueling for healthy running A clear 5-stage roadmap you can follow to run for life, pain-free Ready to stop guessing and start running strong? Become a member of Healthy Runner Academy here: https://learn.sparkhealthyrunner.com 👉 Plus, grab your free How to Grow as a Runner Framework! Want the structured strength, nutrition, and a run plan with full support and accountability to develop a stronger running body during your training?     Book a call and learn more about Healthy Runner Coaching here!   Episodes and Resources mentioned in this episode:   Listen to my previous episode on marathon specific injury prevention here!   Listen to my previous episode on preventing IT band syndrome during marathon training   Listen to my previous episode on how to prevent plantar fasciitis this summer here!   Sign up for Free Healthy Runner Newsletter here! ➡︎ https://sparkhealthyrunner.com/newsletter/   Want Dr. Duane to answer your question on the podcast?  Submit questions here   A big thanks to ucan for your support for this episode!   Want to know what we recommend to our athletes during hard marathon training?  We use EDGE Energy Gels from UCAN for those long runs!    Fuel smarter during a run with the best no sugar energy gel on the market delivering up to 75+ minutes of steady energy to power your best running performance.   Click here and use code HEALTHYRUNNER for 20% off your entire UCAN order!    Connect with Dr. Duane: - Instagram - @sparkhealthyrunner - Sign up for the Healthy Runner Newsletter - Join our Healthy Runner Facebook Community - Subscribe to our YouTube Channel - [email protected] - www.sparkhealthyrunner.com Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify iHeartRadio Amazon Music Website 

[Download] The Ultimate Achilles Guide for Runners Is stubborn Achilles pain keeping you from running the way you want to? In this powerful episode, we sit down with a former professional runner and CEO of Running for Real, Tina Muir who shares her personal journey through insertional Achilles tendinopathy — from the frustration of chronic pain to the difficult decision to undergo surgery, and ultimately, her triumphant return to running. You’ll hear what it really takes to recover both physically and mentally, how she navigated setbacks, and what made the biggest difference in finally running pain-free.  Whether you’re managing heel pain now, considering surgery, or want to avoid it altogether, this conversation is filled with real talk, hard-earned wisdom, and hope. 🎯 Plus, don’t miss the free resource we created to help you on your own journey: ✅ Download the Ultimate Guide to Running Healthy Without Achilles Pain  Return to Running Program without Achilles Pain here   Listen to my previous episode with Tina on becoming a sustainable runner here!   Listen to my previous episode on insertional achilles tendinopathy treatment here!   Listen to my previous episode on the Best Running Shoes for Achilles Tendonitis   Listen to my previous episode with Lisa who overcame achilles tendonitis to run double digit long runs for the first time in her life!   Learn how to get rid of achilles pain to run pain free in 5 minutes!   Follow along with my 25 Minute Strength Workout for Runners (TO RUN PAIN FREE)   There are six parts of your running journey that need to be optimized so you can run strong and last long! Learn them here    Want to work with Dr. Duane as your running physical therapist and coach with structured achilles rehab, strength, nutrition, and a run plan with full support and accountability to overcome your achilles tendonitis and keep it from coming back again? Book a call and learn more about Healthy Runner coaching here    A big thanks to Naboso for your support for this episode!   Want to know how I prioritize achilles and foot health to prevent & heal achilles tendonitis?  Kinesis board and toe splays from Naboso!   Naboso’s product, the Kinesis board, features dual sensory stimulation, a micro-wobble system and a single-leg platform to improve my stability for running!   Click here and use code HEALTHYRUNNER for 20% off your entire Naboso order!    Connect with Tina Muir:   - Order your copy of the book Becoming a Sustainable Runner - Learn more about Tina and Running for Real - Follow Tina on Instagram - Listen to the Running for Real Podcast   Connect with Dr. Duane:   - Instagram - @sparkhealthyrunner - Sign up for the Healthy Runner Newsletter - Join our Healthy Runner Facebook Community - Subscribe to our YouTube Channel - [email protected] - www.sparkhealthyrunner.com Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify iHeartRadio Amazon Music Website

Join Team 26.2 before it’s too late! 🏃‍♂️ Ready to run your strongest marathon yet? In this special episode, Coach Duane shares an exciting announcement: Team 26.2, the only group marathon training program built for lifelong injury-free running, is officially open — but only for 5 days! If you're tired of nagging injuries, confused by cookie-cutter training plans, or just want to feel confident heading into your next marathon… this is for you. Team 26.2 is designed specifically for adult runners who want to train smarter, stay healthy, and finally reach their marathon goals with structure, support, and strength. Inside this episode: -Why most marathon training plans fail adult runners -What makes Team 26.2 different from anything else out there -The 3 core elements that will help you run faster and avoid injuries -Why you can’t wait — doors close soon and won’t open again until June 2026 🎯 Join the team before it’s too late →  https://learn.sparkhealthyrunner.com/team26point2   Listen to my previous episode on Beginner Marathon Training here! Listen to my previous episode on Advanced Marathon Training here! Listen to my previous episode on Avoiding Injuries while Marathon Training here! Listen to my previous episode on marathon strength training guide: run stronger with these 3 essentials here!   Sign up for Free Healthy Runner Newsletter here! ➡︎ https://sparkhealthyrunner.com/newsletter/   There are six parts of your running journey that need to be optimized so you can run strong and last long! Learn them here   Want Dr. Duane to answer your question on the podcast?  Submit questions here   Connect with Dr. Duane: - Instagram - @sparkhealthyrunner - Sign up for the Healthy Runner Newsletter - Join our Healthy Runner Facebook Community - Subscribe to our YouTube Channel - [email protected] - www.sparkhealthyrunner.com   Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify iHeartRadio Amazon Music Website

Apply for Marathon Strong Coaching here (limited spots)! Are you tired of injuries derailing your marathon dreams? You're not alone—70% of runners get injured during marathon training. But it doesn’t have to be that way. In this game-changing episode, Dr. Duane Scotti—physical therapist, running coach, and founder of Spark Healthy Runner—shares the proven 6-step framework he’s used to help thousands of runners train smart, stay strong, and cross the 26.2 finish line pain-free. Whether you’re a first-time marathoner or a seasoned runner who’s been stuck in the injury cycle, this episode will show you exactly what it takes to stay healthy from week 1 through race day. No fluff—just science-backed, real-world strategies that work. 🎯 Inside this episode, you’ll learn: Why most marathon injuries happen (hint: it’s not your shoes) The secret to smart training progression The #1 pacing mistake runners make—and how to fix it How to properly taper, fuel, and strength train to injury-proof your body Real stories of runners who broke the injury cycle and crushed their marathon goals 💥 Ready to finally train strong and finish proud? This episode is your blueprint for injury-free marathon success! 👉 Plus, grab your free Ultimate Marathon Training Guide to Master Your Marathon Feeling Strong!  Want the structured strength, nutrition, and a run plan with full support and accountability to develop a stronger running body for your marathon?     Book a call and learn more about Strong Marathon Coaching here!   Episodes and Resources mentioned in this episode:   Listen to my previous episode on Beginner Marathon Training here!   Listen to my previous episode on Advanced Marathon Training here!   Listen to my previous episode on marathon strength training guide: run stronger with these 3 essentials here!   Sign up for Free Healthy Runner Newsletter here! ➡︎ https://sparkhealthyrunner.com/newsletter/   There are six parts of your running journey that need to be optimized so you can run strong and last long! Learn them here   Want Dr. Duane to answer your question on the podcast?  Submit questions here   A big thanks to CurraNz for your support for this episode!   Want to know my favorite recovery supplement for runners?  CurraNz is New Zealand’s natural running supplement made of a strong antioxidant (polyphenol anthocyanin) found within blackcurrants.     Backed by more than 50 studies benefitting recovery and performance, CurraNz helps improve blood flow and has been my go to training partner in my personal running journey and recommend to the athletes in our program!   Learn more about the real science behind blackcurrant extract in my interview with Fleur Cushman in episode 233 on the Healthy Runner Podcast.    Click here and use code HEALTHYRUNNER for 20% off your first order!    Connect with Dr. Duane: - Instagram - @sparkhealthyrunner - Sign up for the Healthy Runner Newsletter - Join our Healthy Runner Facebook Community - Subscribe to our YouTube Channel - [email protected] - www.sparkhealthyrunner.com Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Spotify Stitcher Google Play iHeartRadio Amazon Music Website