261. Why Older Runners Can Get FASTER with Coach Carolyn Coffin

Want to know the secret to maintaining your running speed and endurance even as you age?    You may be wondering…Can you STILL run like you’re 20 even at 40?  Why older runners can get faster is what we’re talking about in this episode!   This was such a fun and informative conversation with my friend Carolyn Coffin who is a fellow running coach, podcaster, and physiotherapist.   We're sharing our top age-defying running tips that will have you feeling energetic, strong, and motivated to hit the pavement in your 40’s, 50’s, and beyond!  We know the stereotypes out there with age and running…   ”You shouldn’t be running anymore”... “running is bad for your knees”...“Your too old to run marathons anymore”    The real challenge is understanding how you can get faster at any age.  We will explore factors contributing to older runners' speed, such as experience, training techniques, mental resilience all while sharing real life stories.     Whether you're a seasoned runner or just starting out, these tips will help you defy your age and reach your running goals. So, let's get started and take your running to the next level!   We answer these common questions and so much more:   - Does running keep you healthy as you age - Does age affect how fast you can run - What is the age graded score for running   - Can you run faster after 40 - How to improve sprint speed over 40  - Misconception about getting faster as we age   There are six parts of your running journey that need to be optimized so you can run strong and last long!  Learn them here   [Download] Ultimate Marathon Training Guide to Master Your Marathon Feeling Strong at ANY AGE!   Want Dr. Duane to answer your question on the podcast?  Submit questions here   Related Resources:    Listen to my previous episode on running through menopause here!   Listen to my previous episode with Carolyn as we celebrated 200 episodes here! Listen to my previous episode with Carolyn about running terminology 101 here! Listen to my previous episode with Carolyn about how to set goals for the upcoming year here! Listen to my previous episode with Carolyn about the differences between trail running and road running here! Want a structured run and strength plan with motivation and accountability to reach your highest running potential and continue to get faster in your 40’s? Book a call to learn more about Healthy Runner coaching!   A big thanks to ucan for your support for this episode!   Click here to get a FREE UCAN Edge starter pack (you’ll just pay the cost of shipping), and use code HEALTHYRUNNER for 20% off your next UCAN order.   Connect with Carolyn: Email Carolyn: [email protected] Inspired Soles Instagram: @inspiredsolescast Carolyn's Instagram: @carolyn.c.coffin Connect with Dr. Duane: - Instagram - @sparkhealthyrunner - 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

[Download] The Ultimate Runner’s Knee Guide to Pain Free Running   Knee pain while running?  Here’s what you need to know about runner’s knee or patellofemoral pain syndrome.     No running is not bad for your knees and no you don’t need to stop running with knee pain. In fact, regular running strengthens the joints and actually protects against development of knee arthritis later in life.   If you are feeling achy knee pain along the inside or front of your knee that worsens with running uphill, stairs, squatting, or sitting for a long period of time and you have tried icing, resting (stop running) and a knee brace but you’re frustrated that your pain keeps coming back whenever you try to run faster or build back those long runs again this is for you!   In today’s training, we’re uncovering the truth about Patellofemoral Pain Syndrom…what it is, why it happens, and how you can get back to running pain-free.    I’m going to reveal the top causes and the truth about knee pain in runners and what you should really know about taking up running as an adult!   You will learn:   -What is runner’s knee -How do you know if you have runner’s knee -Why do runners get patellofemoral pain syndrome -Why is runner’s knee not getting better -3 Powerful ways to turn off knee pain while running   Return to Running Program without Knee Pain here   Follow along with my 25 Minute Strength Workout for Runners (TO RUN PAIN FREE)   Listen to my previous episode on knee pain demystified: Is it Runner Knee of IT Band Syndrome? here!   Listen to my previous episode on 5 Mistakes You’re Making to Get Rid of Your Knee Pain here!   Listen to my previous episode with Lindsay who overcame Runner’s Knee to Conquer her Half Marathon PAIN FREE here!   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   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 knee pain 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 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 - 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  

[Download] The Ultimate Marathon Training Guide   How early should you start training for a marathon?...How about now!?   I had the opportunity to talk with the amazing Carolyn Coffin on the Inspired Soles Podcast on what we can do as runners when we are not officially "marathon training".   Carolyn Coffin is not only a friend of the show (episodes 108, 160, 200, 213) but she has a 3:21 marathon PB and recently ran a 3:24 in Chicago this past fall 9 years later!     In this episode, we discuss the importance of year-round training for marathon success and why Marathon Training technically starts way before your 16 or 20 week training cycle.   So if you are feeling a bit in a rut after the holidays and during the colder winter months but you still have big marathon goals in 2025 (like I do) then this is the episode for you!   We dive deep into mindset, strength training, and following a properly structured run plan so that you’re not starting back at square one when you decide to officially begin your next training cycle.   Want Dr. Duane to answer your question on the podcast?  Submit questions here!    Listen to my previous episode with Carolyn as we celebrated 200 episodes here! Listen to my previous episode with Carolyn about running terminology 101 here! Listen to my previous episode with Carolyn about how to set goals for the upcoming year here! Listen to my previous episode with Carolyn about the differences between trail running and road running here! Want the structured run and strength plan with motivation and accountability to reach your highest running potential and crush your 2025 marathon running goal? Book a call to learn more about Healthy Runner coaching!   A big thanks to ucan for your support for this episode!   Click here to get a FREE UCAN Edge starter pack (you’ll just pay the cost of shipping), and use code HEALTHYRUNNER for 20% off your next UCAN order.   Connect with Carolyn: Email Carolyn: [email protected] Inspired Soles Instagram: @inspiredsolescast Carolyn's Instagram: @carolyn.c.coffin Connect with Dr. Duane: - Instagram - @sparkhealthyrunner - 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  

[DOWNLOAD] The Ultimate Beginner Guide for Runners   If I was going to start running in 2025 this is the exact 6-Step process that I would follow!   Our runners have actually been using this for years to start running and stick with it so they could improve their health and feel better not only physically but mentally as well!   Over the past 5 years, I have created and redefined the #1 way to stay healthy while running well into your 40’s, 50’s, and beyond.  Our services and community have helped over 500 runners hit their running goals (even if they were a beginner or recovering from an injury).     But I have a disclaimer for you…this system isn’t some magic pill.   You actually have to…run consistently, you’re going to have to stop procrastinating and take the plunge into the deep end of the pool and commit at least a few hours a week into doing specific runs, exercises, and learning about nutrition in order to take up running as an adult.   If you follow this system, you might be surprised at how quickly you enjoy running and how quickly you can start feeling stronger and running longer   In this episode, I will break down the entire process of how to start running using this 6-Step process and I will also share with you 3 common mistakes beginner runners make when starting out.   Listen to my previous episode on beginner running tips with coach Cat here!   Listen to my previous episode on why strength training is your foundation for running here!   Listen to my previous episode on how to build a solid foundation for your race with base training here!   Follow along with my 25 Minute Strength Workout for Runners (TO RUN PAIN FREE)   Want Dr. Duane to answer your question on the podcast?  Submit questions here   Spark off your running journey with a 4 month strong body transformation!   Want to fast track your growth in strengthening your body for running and get clarity and focus to enjoy lifelong injury free running?     Book a call and learn more about Strong Body 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 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 - 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

[Download] Beginner Running Training Guide   Happy new year and welcome to our healthy runner community!  Today, we will dive into the essential etiquette tips every runner should know to enhance their experience and the experience of those around them.     Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner or just starting out, avoiding common running mistakes can make a big difference!   Coach Whitney LaCombe from our Spark Healthy Runner team is back to share vital tips to ensure a respectful and enjoyable running environment for everyone.   In this episode, coach Whitney and Dr. Duane Scotti dive into the do’s and don’ts of running etiquette which will serve as a guide for all runners!   You will learn: - The importance of awareness on the trail - How to share the road safely with cyclists and pedestrians - Proper pacing and passing techniques - The etiquette of running in groups - Tips for running on a track as well as race etiquette   Once you master these training and racing etiquette tips you will be a more considerate runner and run with respect within your community!   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   Related Resources:    Listen or watch all of coach Whitney’s previous episodes   Listen to our previous episode on how to start running here!  Listen to our previous episode on a 16 week marathon training for beginners here Listen to our previous episode on running gear for your marathon race here   Want the structured run and strength plan with motivation and accountability to reach your highest running potential and crush your running goal? Book a call to learn more about Healthy Runner coaching   A big thanks to ucan for your support for this episode!   Click here to get a FREE UCAN Edge starter pack (you’ll just pay the cost of shipping), and use code HEALTHYRUNNER for 20% off your next UCAN order.   Connect with coach Whitney: - Instagram: @runwhitspark - Email: [email protected] - Healthy Runner Facebook Community   Connect with Dr. Duane: - Instagram - @sparkhealthyrunner - 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  

USE CODE: STRONG100 for $100 off the Healthy Runner Strength Program   Missed Your Running Goals this Year?  Here’s how to start a new year strong.   Let’s get real about a topic that is often overlooked in the running world - What to do when you don't meet your yearly running goals.  If you’re feeling frustrated or embarrassed right about now, this is for you!   Whether you’re coming up short of your goals (consistency, miles, time on the clock, qualifying for a race) or things really aren’t going as you expected, I’m here to help you navigate this moment with gratitude, resilience, and strategy.   My year didn’t go as I had expected and I had a super tough year in 2017 (during my first marathon), but it led to some of my biggest wins the next 5 years - all because I leaned on these strategies.  You’ll hear how to finish a down year with the right mindset, stay committed to your fitness and health goals, and use this time to reset and refocus so you can adjust to next year’s plan based on this year’s lessons.   And remember, if you’re still staying active, you’re making progress.  I promise you this experience is all part of your journey to success as a runner!   I cover the following and a bit more: - Reminding yourself that every runner faces low years - Mindset shifts to help you show up as an ambassador of health and wellness (even if you’re not feeling your best) - How to make strategic changes to plan for next year - Tips for starting your year as strong as possible - Why gratitude is one of the most important practices -  especially when things aren’t going as you expected   I hope this episode inspires you to stay dedicated to your growth as a runner to maintain a strong mind, a strong body, so you can just keep running!   Structured, consistent strength training specific for runners solves 90% of running performance and injury problems.     My Christmas gift to you for listening to this episode to start the new year strong…   Get $100 off the Healthy Runner Strength Program using code: STRONG100 here!   Reset for the new year and learn How to Grow as a Runner here!   Listen to my previous episode on 6 Steps to Get Winter Strong here!   Listen to my previous episode on why strength training is your foundation for running here!   Listen to my previous episode on how to build a solid foundation for your race with base training here!   Want Dr. Duane to answer your question on the podcast?  Submit questions 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 develop a strong running body?  Book a call and learn more about Strong Body Coaching here!   Connect with Dr. Duane: - Instagram - @sparkhealthyrunner - 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

[Download] The Ultimate Achilles Guide for Runners   Here’s why your achilles tendonitis is not getting better and why you are still not running!   One of the most common reasons why your achilles tendon pain is lingering like an annoying pebble inside your shoe during a long run is because you have a unique form of achilles tendinopathy that is occurring at the insertional site versus the more common type that is in the mid portion of the tendon.     Achilles tendonitis treatment for insertional tendinopathy is different!  Dr. Duane Scotti shares f   In this episode you will learn…   - How to tell if you have insertional achilles tendonitis - Insertional achilles tendonitis bone spurs - Trying quick fixes or misguided treatments - Why you shouldn’t perform achilles strengthening exercises off the edge of a step - How to increase the intensity of exercises enough - Addressing underlying ankle mobility  - How to modify activity level enough - The role of plyometric exercises and running in recovery  - Insertional achilles tendonitis running shoes   Whether you recently are experiencing pain and swelling in the back of your heel bone or you have been frustrated with insertional tendinopathy for months that always flares up with running faster, longer, or doing any type of hill running then this episode is for you!   Avoiding these 6 mistakes in recovery will allow you to fix your insertional achilles tendonitis for good and the best part is you won’t have to stop running in order to properly heal this condition!     YES! YOU CAN actually continue getting in your mental clearing miles and put your achilles tendon pain in the rearview mirror getting back to doing the thing you love most…Running on your terms!   Return to Running Program without Achilles Pain here   [Download] Recovery Blueprint here   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)   Listen to my previous episode on the Best Running Shoes for Achilles Tendonitis   Listen to my previous episode on why your tendon hurts when you run   Listen to my previous episode with Lisa who overcame achilles tendonitis to run double digit long runs for the first time in her life!   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   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 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 - 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  

Apply for Winter Strong Coaching here (limited spots)!   Have you struggled with injuries and you’re wondering if cross training will help your running?   Do you want to know if you can get the same benefits cross training on a bike or an elliptical when it’s bad weather or not safe to run outside?   Are you a skeptic when it comes to cross training (I was)?     If you're looking to maintain running fitness or optimize your recovery from running, coach Cat from our Spark Healthy Runner team has got you covered with her ultimate cross training tips for runners!   You will learn about all of this and more in this episode!   - What is cross training - What is the best cross-training for running - What equipment is required for cross training - Should cross training be different for running on the roads vs. trails - Benefits of cross training for running - Does cross training help with recovery - What are the mental benefits of cross training - Can you do too much cross-training - How many times a week should a runner cross-train - Should you cross-train and run on the same day - Can I replace a run day with cross training - Misconception of cross training for runners   There are six steps to growing in your trail running journey so you can enjoy it and stay healthy!  Learn them here!   Get all of coach Cat’s previous trainings here!   Follow along with coach Cat’s 30-Minute Treadmill workout for runners here!   Listen to our previous episode on 6-Steps to get strong this winter here! Listen to our previous episode on how to build a solid foundation with base training here!   Want structured guidance on how to balance your running with cross training with full accountability and support from our team to reach your next running goal?  Learn more about our program here   A big thanks to ucan for your support for this episode!   Do you want to know how I power my runs, strength sessions, AND cross training?  I never run out of energy because I fuel with Energy gels from UCAN.   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 to try 4 EDGE gels for free and use code HEALTHYRUNNER for 20% off your entire UCAN order!    Connect with coach Cat:   - Email: [email protected] - Healthy Runner Facebook Community   Connect with Dr. Duane: - Instagram - @sparkhealthyrunner - 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  

Apply for Winter Strong Coaching here (limited spots)!   [Download] Strong Glute Guide   Here’s how to strengthen your body for better running during the winter months!   If you are struggling with constant injuries or not getting any faster as a runner, I am going to share with you why winter is the best time to finally get over these common sticking points in your running journey with my 6 Steps to building a stronger running body!   In this episode you will learn all about…   Step 1- How to reframe your mindset for winter or offseason Step 2- What strength training do runners need Step 3- Plyometrics in order to run! Step 4- Consistent running and why that is important Step 5- Why running nutrition does matter during the offseason Step 6- 3 ways to improve your running form and efficiency for running Real runners like you got a stronger running body last winter! Limited availability strong body coaching invite   Whether you are looking to stay active this winter or offseason and not sure what to do, have been doing the same things every offseason, keep getting injured, or aren’t getting any faster when you run your spring race these 6 steps will help you!   Let’s get started to unlock your running potential with these 6 essential steps to strengthen your body for better running!   Follow along with my 25 Minute Strength Workout for Runners (TO RUN PAIN FREE)   Learn my 4 running drills to perform before running here!   Learn the basics of nutrition for runners here!   Listen to my previous episode on why strength training is your foundation for running here!   Listen to my previous episode on how to build a solid foundation for your race with base training here!   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   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 develop a strong running body this winter?  Book a call and learn more about Strong Body Coaching here!   A big thanks to ucan for your support for this episode!   Want to know how I prioritize fueling during the winter with my runs and strength training?   Ucan's Edge gels which taste AMAZING and go down so smoothly!   Click here to get a FREE UCAN Edge starter pack (you’ll just pay the cost of shipping), and use code HEALTHYRUNNER for 20% off your entire UCAN order!  Highly recommend you stock up on the energy bars which are gold in between a run and strength session!   Connect with Dr. Duane: - Instagram - @sparkhealthyrunner - 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    

[Download] The Ultimate Achilles Guide for Runners   Achilles tendonitis treatment exercises don't matter if you are running in the wrong shoes.  Dr. Duane Scotti shares 4 key features to look for when shopping for the right running shoe to run pain free!   In this episode you will learn…   - What heel drop is best for achilles pain - Running shoe heel counter cushioning for achilles tendonitis - Runners guide for achilles tendonitis treatment - What is heel counter stiffness - Running shoe heel counter height - What shoe to avoid with achilles tendonitis - Will I ever run again with achilles tendonitis   Whether you have the classic midportion achilles tendinopathy or insertional achilles tendonitis…   Whether you are an experienced marathon runner or a beginner runner and are feeling pain and stiffness along the achilles tendon in the morning that worsens with running hills or going down stairs and you have tried icing, resting (stop running) and taking some anti inflammatory medication and you are frustrated that your pain keeps coming back whenever you try to run faster or build back those long runs again this episode is for you!   The best part is that if you find that right shoe that has all of the 4 features I am going to share with you, you won’t have to stop running and take 4 weeks off to “rehab” your achilles.  You can actually stay running and heal from this injury!   Return to Running Program without Achilles Pain here   [Download] Recovery Blueprint here   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)   Listen to my previous episode on why your tendon hurts when you run here   Listen to my previous episode with Lisa who overcame achilles tendonitis to run double digit long runs for the first time in her life!   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   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 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 - 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