The Extra Mile! I Want To Run A Race, How Long Should I Allow To Train?

This week on RunPod, Jenni Falconer is joined by the brilliant Fern Britton - broadcaster, author, and proud runner. Fern shares her uplifting journey with running, proving that you can always start now, at any age. She opens up about how running has transformed her life, making her feel stronger in both mind and spirit than she has in years.From the joy of a sweaty run to the emotional clarity it brings, Fern talks honestly about how running helps her through life’s tougher moments - reminding us all that difficult things will pass. She might not always have the words to explain just how much it gives her, but one thing’s clear: running has become an essential part of who she is.Plus, Fern chats about her brand-new book, A Cornish Legacy - available now.

A health and wellness performance coach, meditation teacher, mental health first aider, and endurance fundraising athlete, James Cooper is the embodiment of mind, body, and spirit.In 2024, he ran 366 marathons in 366 days for the Samaritans - but what does he listen to to power every stride? Tune in to the RunPod Power Playlist to find out.And don’t forget to catch up on the main episode of RunPod with James, a.k.a. the Smilinggg Man - out now!

So, you’ve signed up for a race - amazing! But how long do you really need to train? The truth is, it depends. Whether you're a complete beginner or getting back into the groove, everyone is on their own timeline. In this Extra Mile episode, Jenni explores why giving yourself enough time - and a bit of wiggle room - can make all the difference. Life happens, and building flexibility into your plan keeps the pressure off!Discover how to build a training plan that works for you, so you can enjoy the process and reach the start line feeling prepared.

Join Jenni on RunPod for an extraordinary conversation with the incredible James Cooper-better known in the running world as “Smilinggg Man.” In 2024, James humbled us all by running 366 marathons in 366 days to raise funds and awareness for the Samaritans, driven by the heartbreak of losing his uncle to suicide.A health and wellness performance coach, meditation teacher, mental health first aider, and endurance fundraising athlete, James is the living embodiment of mind, body, and spirit. He lives by a simple creed: “Sometimes I need to put myself in the fire and see who I can become in the process.”Discover how he turned personal tragedy into a global mission, developing the Smilinggg Daily Practice around the three G’s- Gratitude, Generosity, and Growth- to help others build healthier, happier lives. Since launching Smilinggg on May 17, 2015, James has inspired thousands to take one step-and share one smile-at a time.Listen to this uplifting episode packed with grit, grace, and game-changing insights on resilience, community, and the power of a single smile. You won’t want to miss it!This episode contains discussions about suicide. Listener discretion is advised. If you have been affected by any of the themes in this episode, please consider contacting the following resources: The Samaritans helpline: 116 123 Confidential Emotional Support Line: 01708 765200 Sane mental health line: 0300 304 7000

This episode of the RunPod Power Playlist features Luke Willett, World Cup-winning Speed Golfer and self-proclaimed ‘Rock Ness Monster’. His go-to tracks? High-octane drum and bass and anything that amps up the energy.Built for speed, focus, and fuelling his fire - Luke's playlist is perfect for powering through a run, or getting around the golf course!Make sure to listen to Luke's Main Episode of RunPod - it's available now!

Is there such a thing as too much running? In this episode of RunPod: The Extra Mile, Jenni explores the hidden costs of overtraining and the myth that more miles always mean better results. From persistent pain to chronic fatigue, Jenni dives into why pushing harder isn't always smarter - and how listening to your body can lead to better performance and longevity in your running journey. Because running should challenge you, not break you.Main Episodes of RunPod featuring guests are released every Friday!

In this special episode of RunPod, Jenni combines her two great loves - running and golf - for an inspiring and adrenaline-fueled chat with none other than the star of the speed golf world, Luke Willett.Luke isn't just a professional golfer - he's a world record holder, having completed 18 holes faster than anyone else on the planet. Oh, and did we mention he runs a 5K in just 16 and a half minutes? Yep, seriously fast.From the mental challenge of combining endurance with precision to the joy of pushing physical limits, this episode is a unique celebration of sport, speed, and passion. Whether you're a runner, a golfer, or just love hearing about extraordinary achievements, this one’s for you.For RunPod updates you can follow Jenni on Instagram @jennifalconer

Want to know what’s been powering Mark Pougatch’s runs for over a decade? This week on the RunPod Power Playlist, Jenni finds out what’s on Mark’s running soundtrack - a playlist he proudly hasn’t updated in 11 years! Expect classic energy from legends like A-ha, Eurythmics, and Blondie as Mark shares the timeless tunes that keep his feet moving.Mark's brand new Global Original podcast, How It All Played Out — available now on Global Player.If Smooth Radio’s playlist sounds like your kind of thing, you can listen to Jenni on Smooth Breakfast every morning, Monday to Saturday, from 6 to 10am.Press play and get inspired to run with rhythm!

In this episode of RunPod: The Extra Mile, Jenni explores the power of discipline in running. It’s not always exciting or glamorous-but consistency is what delivers real results. Learn how to make your runs a non-negotiable, start removing your mental barriers, and understand why discipline might just be the most important tool in your kit.New Episodes of RunPod with guests are released every Friday!

This week on RunPod, Jenni is joined by none other than Mark Pougatch - Chief Sports Presenter for ITV Sport and co-host of the brand-new Global Original Podcast 'How It All Played Out'. Mark shares how running sets the tone for his day: if he’s ticked off his morning run, everything else feels like a bonus! Whether it’s hitting the trails with his wife and one of their three dogs or soaking in the Cotswolds countryside, running has become an essential part of his routine.Mark talks about his goal to get fitter, the importance of mobility, and his incredible career in sport. He also gives us a sneak peek into How It All Played Out, where he and Paul Hayward dive deep into the victories, controversies, and unforgettable moments that shaped the sporting world.Tune in for a chat full of inspiration, passion for sport, and the undeniable joy of putting one foot in front of the other.How It All Played Out is out now on Global Player