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The TCS New York City Marathon is a race like none other, and many train for years in expectation of being able to take part, including this episode's featured guest Blair McConnell of New Zealand, who came as part of the Achilles International Delegation from his home country. Having been thwarted by the pandemic in 2020, he waited three years longer to run his ultimate destination race, and first marathon, through the 5 boroughs: starting in Staten Island and proceeding over the Marzano Bridge into Brooklyn, then the Bronx, Queens and Manhattan. In this episode, we have a few live clips from just before and just after the marathon alongside Anton McLean (his guide from Christchurch) and Mark Lane-Holbert (myself, guide from USA). However the majority of the episode is recorded with Blair a few weeks after the marathon with him back in Christchurch, adding some perspective.
We explore what it's like to join an Achilles Chapter and why he runs with them, how he found his guides, and several high points and considerations of traveling internationally for a marathon. We also discuss some of the challenges of being a visually impaired running in a crowded big city marathon, but juxtapose this with the joy and thrill of immense crowds along the course, including the music and languages of many different cultures represented in NYC along each distinct neighborhood.
We also touch on the phenomenon of Park Runs, true to his recent accomplishment of 100 Park Runs! Finally, we ponder his upcoming adventures and what NYC marathon means for what comes next. Needless to say, both of us were extremely grateful for the opportunity and somewhat in awe of the support and organization NYRRs provided us as part of the Achilles International team. If you would like to explore Achilles International, you can visit their website: https://www.achillesinternational.org/ Here, you'll find chapters around the US and the world, and find out more about both athlete and guide opportunities. Finally, you can link to more articles and photos on our blog site: www.runninganthropologist.com
If you have a corner of running culture you are exploring, share with us on FB or Instagram. Until next time, Happy Running! -
Our guest this episode is a talented Physiotherapist and accomplished runner in her own right who has helped many reach their full potential and stay happy and healthy in their running, who also happens to be running a marathon this week! Richelle Weeks specializes in the treatment and prevention of running injuries and has her own practice in Ottawa, Canda. She is trained in Physiotherapy (Masters degree from Dalhousie Univ.), and also holds a degree in Kinesiology degree. Her dual passions of running and Physiotherapy fermented in 2009 as she combined running with her career more intentionally, and began focusing almost exclusively on helping runners achieve their best and avoid injury. She started a popular training program in person and online to help individuals prevent injury, which is how we found her. She also practiced in Goose Bay, Labrador for 10 years at a rural hospital, then in 2018 I moved with her family to Ottawa where I began working in private practice.
As we all know, distance running can strain and damage soft tissue like tendons, ligaments, smaller muscles and nerves. An expert sports physical therapist or physiotherapist can perform soft tissue treatments to relieve swelling and pain in these areas and increase functionality for better running, and can provide elements of strength training and "pre-hab" to prevent injury in problem areas. They may also advise runners on proper form, training methods, strategies for preventing injuries, and proper shoe selection and work with them to develop a plan, tailored to their specific needs, for successful running. This is ideally done in tandem with a trained distance running coach, and in some cases, like today's guest, may be one in the same! She loves finding solutions for others and helping others to become more patient runners, to meet their goals via small pieces in each build. She also helps runners to making running "sustainable, consistent and see the big picture".
We hope that all runners find a Physio or PT they can trust, that specializes in running or can relate as runner to the struggles we have! This episode may be the beginning of the journey. Please feel free to reach out to Richelle with any questions:
Richelle Weeks (@runningwithrichelle)
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/runningwithrichelle/
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/ottawarunningphysio
Facebook Strength Series:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/4045984508874158
** People need to email me or write on FB to join. It'll be open for another 6 weeks.
Website:
https://ottawarunningphysio.org/
Email Holistic Wellness Physiotherapy: [email protected] -
Saknas det avsnitt?
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Cross Country, on grassy fields, golf courses, wooded paths, around ponds, in the mud, in the rain, in the snow...
Moving fast and past autumn leaves, wind blows through my hair around each bend as my shoes grip the curved earth.
We raise our spirits as we empty our lungs. I stretch to keep the pace with finish line in sight.
As soon as I cross, I cannot wait to run again.
And I know I am right where I'm meant to be.
By Mark Lane-Holbert
Inspired by Rock Creek Runner
Today's interview is with KJ Karver, a successful high school runner who is starting his collegiate running career at Emory. We had the pleasure of meeting him on Running Anthropologist just before he entered high school, in an interview with his training partner and dad, Marc Karver. Since then, he has won multiple awards and was among the best cross country athletes in the state of Florida, and now seeking to be the best in his NCAA division. He has had several private coaches but still trained and run with his dad often until leaving for university, and this relationship has instilled a sense of dedication, sometimes friendly competition and always a safe place for conversation.
In this interview with Kirin solo, we spend a great deal of time discussing what went right in his high school career, what he learned the hard way, and what he would recommend doing differently. He gives some simple tips that represent a treasure trove of knowledge in training for any age, but especially for the unbounded energy of high school runners. We also touch on some youth specific topics, including the basics of college recruiting and how to think about the process ahead of time. Hope you enjoy this peek into what makes a successful runner transitioning to college, both in attitude and practical skills. We are very grateful and wish KJ luck in all his endeavours! Please visit our blogsite or leave us a message on FB/Instagram, at www.RunningAnthropologist.com
Here are a few resources to read more about cross country in general, from Runners World and Marathon Handbook: https://www.runnersworld.com/training/a20825636/cross-country-specific-training-tips/
https://marathonhandbook.com/how-to-train-for-cross-country/
Another great resource for workouts and coaches is LetsRun.com
Until next time, Happy Running! -
Do you ever wish you could get a birds-eye view into all the cool stuff going on with trails around the globe? The Trail Running Film Fest thought of just that, and has films from independent filmmakers covering people in every walk(-run) of life! In this episode, the Trail Running Film Festival's executive producer Mathias Eichler and I discuss it all, how it started and he shares about the "why" behind their work. We also discuss how it all comes together, and a bit about the films featured this year.
This year, a focus on diversity both in terms of runners culture and geographic landscapes makes for a beautiful lineup. Many stories and voices that are not traditionally found in the cinema can now be seen in cities everywhere through their host-sponsored Global Tour. Check the website for a location near you, 50+ cities including Tampa Bay's USF in mid-April. After the tour ends at the end of April, one can also purchase a home pass and watch the entire film festival from the comfort of home, if you cannot make it to one of the theater venues.
Mathias also shares his own background and how he got into trail running and fell in love with the pacific Northwest of the US. He gives us the best places to run and some insider tips for how to avoid crowds and find the best trails at two national park areas in Washington state, near Olympia! Below is a quick announcement of what you can expect in the film fest this year:
"The Trail Running Film Festival is back on tour around the world, and coming to somewhere near you for a great night of films, inspiration, and community.
You're invited to celebrate with us running as a universal practice. Come explore our collective and individual potential, and let's pursue our wildest dreams.
We're excited to bring you stories from around the world by filmmakers sharing their work of adventure, inclusivity, wilderness, art, and diversity across the trail and ultra community!
More information at: trailfilmfest.com
You can also of course find us to explore more at our blog site: www.runninganthropologist.com
Learn and share about unique corners of running culture, or your favorite trail runs. Follow & DM @runninganthropologist on IG or Facebook!
Until then, Happy Running! -
What is this Ragnar exactly and where does it fit in the running world?
Well, that's a surprisingly difficult question to answer, it turns out... In old norse it means "warrior", yet today it means so many different things to different people, and the experience is not the same from one team to the next either, which heavily depends on the particular location and event. There were over 30 this year to choose from. One thing is the same across them all, "experiencing true camaraderie", according to Ragnar. And lest I forget: you get to run, and see some places you would probably never see by foot.
This included the end-of-the-year Florida Trail Ragnar, which I had the opportunity to participate in December 2nd-3rd, 2022. Could this be an Ultra with a team of 4, or be a marathon with a team of 6, or something more fun with a team of 8?
Yes, yes, and yes. That's one of the reasons Ragnar is so hard to understand from the outside, with so many possibilities and combinations of skill, experience, and speed, each story is unique on the other side of the relay experience. We formed a team of 8 to accomplish the Florida Trail Ragnar in about 24 hours held outside of Tampa Bay at Alafia State Park, but our team dropped down to 7 after an early ankle injury. Those who accepted this challenge included Team Captain Mike Grinnell (interviewed for this episode, Justin Yarbrough, Justin Morris, Joe Bridges, Tito Velasquez, Igor Kornienko and our in-house musician / volunteer, Bob Shea.
In this episode, I interview a veteran team captain to see what it takes and how one gets into this Ragnar thing initially, and keeps it going for years. I also interview a relatively new Ragnar runner who is also volunteering to make coffee and hot cocoa as she keep the troops energized, just around the corner from the all night campfire and exchange zone where one "hands off the baton" between runners. We then talk to one of the organizers facilitating the sprawling event, informing us about topics from Ragnar route setup to "circus travels". And lastly we touch base with a group of folks known as "immortals" (note the norse mythology continuation), as they have earned the title by completing over 12 of these Ragnar events in one year, and find out from them some of their lessons learned and favorites. Forty-five time Ragnar alum Rick Harold told me while cheering on fellow "immortals" that it wasn't really about finishing or times or even running necessarily, but about the community and feeling of challenge accomplishment together, after he had just finished cheering for over 24 hours!
Oh, and there are Road Ragnars and Sprint Ragnars as well. Perhaps more on that in a future episode, when I'm tempted to travel in a team van for 24 hours plus trading non-van time to run in who knows where! To summarize, a quote from Ragnar webpage: "Set a crazy goal. Gather your tribe. Divide and conquer. Bask in the joy of achieving something together that you could never do alone (very true). With more cowbell, baby. Always more cowbell. "
Please reach out and share, connect with us on Facebook or IG: RunningAnthropologist www.runninganthropologist.com -
This episode focuses on the work of Terrell Johnson, running-focused author and journalist, founder of The Half Marathoner, which covers the most unique half marathons across the US, and beyond. For many runners, half marathons are much more manageable for goalsetting and running multiple races throughout the year than 26.2. One can for example work in a small, unique half marathon at a national park vacation, or find one in just about any state any weekend of the year!
Tens of thousands of runners read his weekly posts on Substack, contribute and explore for themselves. He is not able to run all of these, but does his homework, and makes it to as many as he can. This episode is less about specific half marathons, and more about the process of researching, writing about and building the community around Half Marathoner over the 17 years. He often focuses on the internal life of runners in his work, and how running helps improve our lives all around. At times, his Substack newsletter reads as not just about half marathons or directly about running at all, but about our shared humanity and what inspires us, that runners also happen to be a part of.
For any aspiring writers, this episode also has some hidden gems. For anyone hoping to run a half marathon, he explains why and how to find a good one- including using his own Substack site weekly to learn and share our own favorites! While this episode is certainly not a how-to guide of half marathons, there are some useful resources in his training plan and half marathoner online community.
Terrell fills a void in those of us searching to find corners of running culture, that is the half marathon is often neglected in articles and writing. In fact, before he started one in 2006, there was not website dedicated to half marathons specifically. Most of the content of his newsletters are completely free, although one can subscribe and get much deeper if you find you like it and want more.
You can find Terrell's The Half Marathoner Substack at www.thehalfmarathoner.com and you can find us on www.RunningAnthropologist.com or IG / Facebook @RunningAnthropologist -
Welcome to episode #68, in the middle of the summer training season! It's hot, so here are a few of the topics discussed in this episode to keep you moving!LogotherapyThe podcast this month is primarily recorded from a talk after my recent recent run-walk pilgrimage in Portugal/Spain along the Camino de Santiago, and outlines how identifying our purpose can help us to have the courage and willingness to begin difficult things, grow and change, in all aspects of life. A few years ago, I set out to answer these questions as I started training in something which would transform the way I see the world: logotherapy. It is the psychology of purpose and meaning-making amidst difficulty. It is especially useful in recovery from past trauma, current suffering and addictions, and is part of many inter-religious chaplains' training. The Power of PurposeMany of us have goals and dreams, and maybe even good habits to make them happen. However, research has shown that life purpose and values are much more a director of our actions than these arbitrary goals we set, and our latent higher purpose determines many of our daily habits. In other words, we will live out the actions and attitude that we purposefully choose.The Ultimate Goal of Recovery and LogotherapyWhen we consider our purpose, those on the path of recovery often understand the 12th step as asking, "How can I love fully and be of maximum service to others?", which forms part of our life purpose. However, each person does so in unique ways that only they are capable of, based upon their life experience and values. Some reflection and coaching/guidance from another may be useful in doing so. I have found I'm never disappointed by the results; as a logotherapist, in my coaching, running, teaching and family life. I would love to share this with you...If you'd like to learn more, please navigate to my Insight Timer Teacher Page https://insighttimer.com/laneholbert, where I have a 3-part course on logotherapy, recovery meditations, and several short Guided Meditations for Runners.I also invite you to join our Running Anthropologist and Recovery Camino fellowship online www.runninganthropologist.com OR @runninganthropologist on IG/Facebook.And to check out LIKE THE WIND magazine, "Why We Run", which I like to call the national geographic of running, with photos and stories from across the globe. Our pilgrimage was featured in this upcoming issue #32! www.likethewindmagazine.comHappy Running & Look forward to seeing you soon along "the way"!- Mark Lane-Holbert
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How can I cultivate and balance energy in my running, and in life? What is mindful running? What is the difference between Tai Chi, Qigong, and other martial arts? All these questions and much more are answered in this interview conducted between Tampa, Florida and Ponte de Lima, Portugal- shortly after our chance meeting while I was on pilgrimage along the "Camino de Santiago". For more about that, listen to upcoming and past episodes on the Camino!
Dr. Larry Cammarata is a self-described "Chi Runner" and Mindful Movement Teacher, which means he applies the eastern traditional concepts of chi energy work to his running, notably techniques of relaxation and energy balance to injury-free running, developed by Danny and Katherine Dreyer. He knows eastern traditions of wellness, and is in fact an instructor of Tai Chi Chuan and Qigong, and has received advanced training in these arts, as well as being a practitioner over the past several decades. In our conversation, we discuss mindfulness practices and the joy of running in the classic methodology of Danny Dreyer, Chi Running, which is described as "a revolutionary approach to effortless, injury free running". Perhaps not completely effortless or now completely new, this method relaxes the body and allows the energy to flow in such a way that posture and mindful movement align, breathing is integrated with ease, and there is overall less stress on the body.
"Mindfulness" has been used much more often in practical ways throughout society in recent years, and applied to many facets of life. Larry is on the peaceful edge of this work, and is encouraged by the movement to slow down and bring awareness to our daily practices, including running, something he fosters in his work and life. He and his wife Linda (RN, RYT) are a dynamic team who also happen to run mindfulness retreats exploring different cultures and places across the globe: www.mindfulnesstravels.com - In his work as a licensed psychologist who specializes in mindfulness-based therapy and education, he includes the science and practice of mindful movement!
If you would like to know more about the above retreats or his ongoing travels and running adventures, Larry welcomes you to reach out through his own website, or link to all the methodologies and info we discuss at the Running Anthropologist blogsite: www.runninganthropologist.com
You can also message or follow us @RunningAntropologist on Instagram and Facebook! -
Gretchen Schoenstein has dealt with autoimmune disease questions regularly, and many more, during her battle with several autoimmune disorders in her running lifetime, including one which attacks her lungs. The diagnoses she has received would normally mean an end to distance running, and truth be told she heard this from doctors... However, having a purpose to run 100 half marathons and give back to autoimmune disease research was a worthy enough goal to keep her running, even during the pandemic. And spoiler alert: she made it, just under her 10 year goal! She did so on her own schedule and with the support of an intentional village she has built, and also with intention in every mile.
However, remarkably this is not the most impressive part of Gretchen's life or Gretchen as a person, rather it's her attitude and gratitude which shine through in every word, as she recounts stories and life lessons during this lifelong battle. It is as if running were the tap through which this force de vivre lives and shines, rather than "the answer". In our conversation, we examine how perhaps running is best as a catalyst for community, strength and purpose building, i.e. finding out what running can teach us about life, and vice versa. It has been part of the solution, for her and for me. Among the best interviews I have done at Running Anthropologist, she demonstrates what it means to truly be grateful for each step and each breath, with her mantra "Every mile, every step, counts". She has so many good ones. Below are just a sample of what she shares in the episode.
Tips/Life hacks:
1) Have grace for yourself. Best way to do so? Pause and breathe.
2) Have a light, nimble touch on goals - know that you can pivot when need to.
3) Every. Step. Counts. (as does every mile) With each step is the possibility of joy and awe.
4) Listen to your body - *you* know best. Find that voice that tells you when to push and when to let off the gas.
5) Create your own finish lines - set smaller goals to achieve to keep the momentum going.
Last but not least, there is a worthy cause. She has both fundraised and raised awareness around autoimmune disease and autoimmune system disorders this entire journey, for "Operation Shooting Star" and "Benaroya Research Institute", who are on the cutting edge of treating, research and hopeful for the future of curing autoimmune diseases. Links to both of these organizations, and all the organizations and sponsors mentioned in the podcast can be found below under "services", provided directly by Gretchen (bottom of page).
Gretchen can also be found on her IG account @rungrateful
To read more about fundraising/awareness building efforts specifically and about her struggle and story of finishing an unexpected 100 half marathons journey, I encourage you to go to check out article:
https://www.benaroyaresearch.org/blog/post/one-pandemic-three-autoimmune-diseases-and-100-half-marathons
Please find more links to all resources mentioned at our blogsite: www.runninganthropologist.com
As always, Message us @runninganthropologist on Facebook or Instagram with ideas, inspiration and input! -
In this episode we discuss all things Achilles with US Chapters Development Director Eleanor Cox-Nihill, and she shared magical stories: including their work with athletes of all abilities, empowering athletes with disabilities and supporting relationships between individuals. Ellie has been in many positions with Achilles, including her start as a volunteer local club member guiding an athlete from Central Park in NYC! Both participants learn and grow as a result of these partnerships, athletes and volunteer guides (also athletes themselves). The magic begins is in the local clubs, the practice, hard work and fun together throughout the year building up to a major event, like NYC Marathon, Boston Marathon, local races or Disney!
Ellie has a great deal to share too, as she has been with the organization since 2008, and since 2011 was in charge of US Chapters development and the online virtual clubs who meet for those who do not have local chapters. I am the direct beneficiary of this new virtual space, and connect with athletes from across the country learning to run through a training program, and inspiring one another. I might add that volunteers learn as much if not more from the experience, and as anyone who has been a guide will tell you: it transforms their run/walking and their relationship with the sport.
Ellie also shares about the history of Achilles, how she became inspired by her local New York City chapter, and what she has learned along the way supporting athletes for over a decade, thru events many dream of completing. What some thought was unimaginable are empowered to line up toe to toe with the elite athletes of the world, and learn from each other, overcoming challenges and sharing joy and hope! This success is carried through into everyday life and challenges faced therein with renewed confidence; Everyone has their own “Achilles” to cope with in life, and the parallels are not lost by Ellie in this interview. This episode is special as Achilles bids her a gradual fond farewell as she retires from her full time position this spring, and we know her legacy and positivity will carry forward to many!
Among the many resources mentioned in the podcast, one can learn more, find out how to get involved, or contribute at www.achillesinternational.org ———Below are the essentials, at a glance about their mission and programs:
“Achilles International, a global organization operating in 18 countries including the US, transforms the lives of people with disabilities through athletic programs and social connection. Since our founding in 1983, we have empowered over 150,000 athletes of all ages and ability levels to participate in endurance events around the globe.”
Reach out to us with questions or share your own stories of running culture and inspiration, at our blogsite: www.RunningAnthropologist.com - or on Facebook or Instagram @runninganthropologist -
In this episode, we interview a prominent marathoner and coach in the Ukrainian running community, Eugen Godun. He is from Kharkiv (recently taken over by the Russian army) and his current hometown of the last 2 years is Kyiv, which is currently under siege with the entire world hanging on edge. As might be expected, we talk less about running, and more about what things have been like this pat week for him, his family and friends. We get a pulse for the thoughts of Ukrainians right now, discuss the challenges of balancing one's family safety with the desire to fight back against unbelievable odds (a powerful and mostly uninformed Russia due to lack of press freedom under the de facto dictatorship of Putin).
Did we mention Eugen is an incredibly talented runner and supports other aspiring runners throughout the region? He has run the Kharkiv marathon and multiple long distance events across Ukraine (Sumy, Poltava, Odesa and Kyiv), along with 5 of the world majors and was slated to be in Boston a month from now, but this future is uncertain due to the current situation in his home country.
We in the running community from all I know are praying for a peaceful solution, yet are realistic that autocracies seldom yield to the welfare of others, and the rights of those they believe they can control. History has proven otherwise, and we would encourage anyone to work towards helping the autonomous people of Ukraine to again prevail, have the right to determine their own destiny, and suffer as little as possible in that quest. Here are some causes / things you can do RIGHT NOW to help, in an article published by NPR: https://www.npr.org/2022/02/25/1082992947/ukraine-support-help
You can also stay up to date on everything happening in Eastern Europe via New York Times Live Updates. and make comments/post questions here. Feel free to share with us also, or reach out on our social media @runninganthropolgist. Our hearts go out to all those suffering needlessly. May peace come quickly!
You can find this episode just about anywhere you find podcasts, including Apple, Google, & Spotify Apps. Follow/ Message us @RunningAnthropologist on Instagram or Facebook. Or www.runninganthropologist.com for more on this and all our episodes, on the culture of running!
You can also find Eugen Godun @jimmy_marathon on Instagram, and follow his runs on Strava. -
Georges Gonzalez and Jonathan Rushnak admit they were unlikely candidates to take on this life-changing challenge, but made magic together in their lifetime achievement this past January, as they completed their 50th marathon across 50 states in the U.S.! This began as a pipe dream 7 years ago, and thousands of miles ago (on feet and in the air traveling!).
In this episode, we spend a great deal of time discussing the HOW and WHY behind such an attempt, including the communities that supported them, and the contribution it has made to their lives overall. They also give us their "tops lists" for unique marathons, marathons harboring hidden gems of culture, most challenging marathons, and most surprising, among others!
You may be surprised by the "lessons learned" portion of our talk as well, which includes tips and tricks for the 50 states challenge, but also planning and destination races in general. Some of the resources we discuss are: the 50 states club Facebook Group, the official entry process (only after completing 10 races), the process they went through deciding which marathons to run, and how to organize them around a yearly calendar to not go crazy or suffer injury.
You can hear the joy and gratitude in their voices, and at times the emotions that accompany a heart-changing race such as the Marine Corps Marathon in Washington, DC. While such a challenge is not for the faint of heart, it should also not be mistaken to be only for an "elite" or expert runners experience, as they admit at the beginning of it (at least Georges) did not even consider himself marathon material and had to be talked into his first. A decade ago, he would quip "I am not a runner", and now has much evidence to the contrary...
To learn more about each marathon on their list and explore what each has to offer (and IF they are being run during the ongoing pandemic, restrictions, etc.) you will have to visit their websites! Explore all of their marathons in a list at our website: www.runninganthropologist.com
You can also explore Georges and Jonathan's recommended 50 States facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/74142960795/
Note: There is also a Half Marathon 50 States challenge group! That being said, in order to join/apply for either, see rules or officially become a member of the 50 States Marathon Club, you'll have to go to the 50 States Marathon Club website: http://www.50statesmarathonclub.com
Please share and give us a rating on your favorite podcast app! You can also find us, follow us, or send us a message on Instagram or Facebook @RunningAnthropologist -
Chris Twiggs is the Chief Training Officer & National Program Director at Jeff Galloway Productions. He has the inside track on the magic of Walt Disney Word races, and has run every Disney marathon himself since its start. He also knows the Galloway method top to bottom, as he has used it in every marathon since his first one! And countless other races, including 100 mile ultra marathons. In this episode, we discuss all things pacing, and specifically why it is so important in distance running, but especially by reflecting on this past week at the WDW Marathon Weekend and Galloway training/groups. Run-walk-run adjusts to one's desired speed using walk:run ratios to fit any pace/goal, and has a nation-wide support network of training groups for support. I had the honor of pacing the 4 hour Galloway marathon group this year, and it was one of the best experiences in my 20+ year running career; the positivity and spirit among the runners was palpable the entire way, as we supported and cheered on one another. Notably, Jeff Galloway's son Westin Galloway also ran a sub-3 hour marathon using only Galloway training plan and run-walk-run method throughout this past weekend!Chris also offers individualized training plans to those who do not have a local Galloway running club to lean on. You can also check to see if there's a Galloway chapter/club nearby , and then contact him if you have a goal race coming up or just want to get started! Start at: www.jeffgalloway.comEnjoy challenges and local running? We also discussed the upcoming Phidippides interactive challenge starting January 15th, that Jeff Galloway is doing along with Dean Karnazes: https://runsignup.com/Race/GA/AnyState/PhidippidesChallenge"It is a great cultural running experience to do from anywhere... Run, walk, hike and move back to 490 BCE when the founder of our sport, Phidippides, changed the course of history with this run."Please follow us @runninganthropologist on Instagram or Facebook, or you can read more about this episode/send us a message at www.runninganthropologist.com -- Until then, we hope to see or hear you on the road and trails, and Happy Running!
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In this episode, we sit down to discuss Ultra running from a relative newbie who has had tremendous success, my friend Newton McCollum. We talk all things running that someone new to trail running and ultra running might need to know, including some of the differences between flatland running and mountain running. Newton also recently moved to Boulder, Colorado, so we discuss some of the differences in running culture and training. We also talk patience and pacing, which are perhaps the most difficult aspects of distances beyond the marathon, known as an "Ultra". This might include popular 50k, 50 milers or 100 milers, or beyond!
We also discuss the difference between time and distance goal events, including the Florida-based events: Tick Tock Ultra, Croom trail races, and of the Long Haul (100 Miler), Daytona 100! We finally talk about nationally known races such as the goal race for many ultra athletes: "Western States", the Leadville 100 Miler (which he ran in 2019), and his upcoming Moab Arches Ultra. To be sure, mountain training has been a huge adjustment for Newton, but one which he revels in as he clocks thousands of miles in elevation some weeks in Colorado. You can follow Newton @newtscootandboogie on Instagram, and check out his recent adventures and upcoming ones on Ultrasignup!
Please message us @runninganthropologist on Instagram or Facebook, or you can send us a message in the comments section at our website: www.RunningAnthropologist.com —Until then, hope to see you on the road and trails, and Happy Running! -
Our guest Susan Harmeling has been at the helm of the Gasparilla Distance Classic for 30 years here in Tampa Bay, and guided it from a small local race to one of the largest events in this part of the country. It is close to our hearts as it truly highlights some of Tampa's best views and character, as part of the Gasparilla Festivities each year. Like most events across the globe, it has been sidelined by Covid and run virtually, and its community running and youth programs put on pause as a result.
In this episode, Susan gives us some hope for the future and a look at things to come in 2022. She also describes what it's like to put on a world-class expo and harness the incredible power of volunteers, without which no modern race could realistically take place. She thanks the running community for their continued support, and reveals the new mascot's name (Pepperjack) as a result of a naming contest the past few months! Finally, she shares what a hobby runner with a passion for organization and the running community can do. She started at Run Gasparilla just after her first marathon, and literally had to "read the book" on race organizing, and has since accumulated wisdom and been the recipient of knowledge from some of the best! We share some of this in this episode, and of course a dose of cheer to carry us into the new year... ready or not, here we come, 2022!
Run Gasparilla: https://rungasparilla.com/
Volunteer: https://rungasparilla.com/race-weekend-volunteers/
Need some R&R over the holidays? We might suggest trying some of our runner-focused guided meditations and affirmations pre/post-run: https://insighttimer.com/laneholbert
As always, we'd love to hear from you! @runninganthropologist on social media, or our blog site... learn more about this episode and all of our previous ones at: www.runninganthropologist.com -
In this episode we sat down with famed NY marathon coach Glen Wiener, who has been with Team for Kids and New York Road Runners since 2008, coaching thousands of runners training for their first NYC Marathon. In this episode, he shares with us about what the NYC marathon experience is like, what makes it unique: from the early morning Staten Island Ferry to cheers along mile 18-25. Some nuggets of simple wisdom from empowering so many to finish their first marathon, and specifically on a difficult parts of the course in New York, are the highlight of the podcast! As a Team for Kids Coach, he also gets to see the life-changing work T4K does on the ground every day in the New York City area and across the country, and for this reason has remained with T4K so long.
Glen is a lifelong runner with an undeniable passion for the sport and coaching others, and has ran over 25 marathons, including Boston five times, New York, Chicago, and Philadelphia. While he found running early and was a collegiate runner, he took up marathons later in life (25 years after college). Glen is a Road Runner’s Club of America and Jack Daniel’s VDOT certified coach, part of the USA Track & Field coaching program as a Level 2 Endurance Coach. In 2009 Glen’s training program was featured in the New York Times alongside the programs of luminaries Grete Waitz, Jeff Galloway, and Greg McMillan. He believes that “coaching is an art based on science and works closely with runners of all abilities to help them achieve goals they never thought possible”(1).
*If you’d like to contribute to Team for Kids this year or consider running/fundraising for them in a future major marathon (New York, London, Boston, etc.), check out my fundraiser page to contribute, learn more, or just see what the platform is like: https://runwithtfk.org/Profile/PublicPage/92722
As always, we’d love if you would reach out to us and let us know more about your corner of running culture, share inspiration and learning! Leave a comment here below or DM on Instagram or Facebook @RunningAnthropologist
--Happy Running-- Mark Lane-Holbert
*Team for Kids Coaches Profiles (October, 2021). https://www.runwithtfk.org/Profile/OurCoaches -
Tom Dean is one of those rare individuals who are able to connect their life work to their passion areas, in creating synergy between running, faith and work (publishing) life! He sets the bar high for those of us exploring running culture and what it is to make a good life. From the perspective of a running anthropologist, this is not one to miss! Hear about some of Tom’s favorite runs, books, and join us as we journey through a few decades of devotion to running.
For Tom, the ability to work with and publish the likes of Ryan Hall (Run the Mile You’re In: Finding God in Every Step) and Sanya Richard Ross (Chasing Grace) has been a gift and learning experience he has applied many lessons to his faith and personal life. With an incredible background and skill set in book publishing and marketing, Tom then took this and applied it to sharing the gospel (of running and his faith). Integration of various aspects of our being and what we value may seem hard to do at times, yet running is a passion which parallels so many other life and happiness factors. This is a reminder of one of my favorite spiritual psychology quotes, “Happiness cannot be sought, but must ensue from the search for meaning.” --Dr. Viktor Frankl
In this conversation, we cover a wide range of topics in work and running, but focus on his most recent Hood to Coast endeavour and meeting his goal of 1,000 miles per year for over a decade! What motivates him, allows him to reach his goals and keeps him running each day? Well, some of it you’ll have to listen to find out, but one tip is setting a monthly goal and having target races, and not getting too distraught if ‘our best-made plans don’t turn out the first time’. For Tom, the important thing is setting both reasonable and attainable goals that we can build on over time, and keeping his spiritual life at the center of all he does. Reflecting on our conversation, I realize this applies to not only running, also career challenges and life transitions, which we’ve all had a lot of the past 2 years during Covid! And his wisdom shared here certainly translates to family and other relationships we value.
Tom can be found on social media @thomaspdean or find his publishing company at https://www.adropofink.pub/ As always, look forward to hearing your impressions and what you have to share in the world of running, spirituality and running as therapy! Please private message us @runninganthropologist on IG or FB, or leave a message in the comments section of our blogsite: www.runninganthropologist.com Until next time, Happy Running! -
Did you know that over 4,400 paralympians competed in the Tokyo games, with over 1,800 female athletes across 22 sports and 23 disciplines? And that this was the biggest field ever for women in the Paralympics as well? It also saw the introduction of the 4x100 Universal Relay in track and field, which symbolizes the true diversity of athletic abilities at the games. Team USA has participated in every Summer and Winter Paralympic Games since 1960 and is currently first on the all-time medal table. A whopping 60% of the medals brought home this year at the Olympic games were from women...
Twenty two-year-old Jaleen Roberts, our guest today, brought home medals in two track and field events, specifically the long jump and 100m silver medals. She competes in the T-37 category for those with some abulatory disability, and also boasts multiple World Championship medals in 2017 and 2019, including a gold in the universal relay, mentioned above, at its international debut. Jaleen is originally from Washington state and began para competition late in her high school career, where she "took a chance" and followed the advice of her coaches when someone from the local para-sports club reached out to her. She went on to attend college at Eastern Wash State University in physical/health education, where she continued training with the Spokane-based ParaSport club and international competitions.
We caught up with Jaleen for this interview took place just over a week after her return home and move to San Diego, where she is completing her student teaching and starting a new life as an independent athlete, and training with a new club soon. She reflects on her racing and jumping origins/roots (which involved wrestling), and the culture around those who want to have the highest level of competition but also have a disability. Jaleen was born with cerebral palsy, but was always competitive among all fully-abled athletes growing up. She enjoys sharing the origins of competing and how she found the sports she has now mastered, running and long jump. And many other events and sports in between that led her to this, learning the dedication it takes to succeed, from soccer to wrestling to basketball, to name a few.
One thing is clear from our conversation: Just "doing life" can be difficult for an Olympian or Paralympian who are not paid like other professional athletes, as she relates how she juggles work/school commitments, student teaching and training. Jaleen also shares what it was like to compete in Tokyo during Covid restrictions, and what magic the Olympic village held in terms of connecting to her Team USA, Japanese and Chinese fellow competitors especially. She also explains some of the different categories of paralympic competition (see more here), and how she fits into these classifications based upon ability level for ambulatory disability. She also shares the transition from Paralympics to Olympic Games in general, and how much she desires to be a role model as her primary job, even above being an athlete.
How do we succeed in life and in running? Well, in closing, she shares her mantra as an athlete since high school, to be willing to get out of your comfort zone and "take a chance" on something new!
Find more about this episode and other inspiration around running culture at our blogsite: www.runninganthropologist.com Please share your corner of running culture by tagging us @runninganthropologist on Instagram or Facebook, or send us a DM, we'd love to hear from you! -
In this episode, we interview Coach Gary Aldrich about his international coaching career spanning decades, and what it was like to coach with USATF, Team USA Track and Field in the Olympics. Coach Aldrich was specifically responsible for the throwing: javelin, shot put, discus! You know, the things flying around on the infield? We don't get into the technical aspects of the different events, but rather focus on what the Olympic environment was like, the events and the Olympic village spirit. We also discuss the friendly rivalries and the joy of competition, and what it is like being the father of a college distance runner now!
At several points in the interview Coach Aldrich gives advice to younger track and field athletes, about post-high school and post-college life. He asserts that the love and joy of sport should be what carries us, despite our level of competition or ability to turn running or field events into a professional career. While it may be a narrow slice of individuals that ever compete or coach at the Olympics, Coach Aldrich demonstrates that one doesn't have to have an elite attitude, but rather an attitude of flexibility and hard work- and most of all willingness to be dedicated and train through difficult periods. To keep dedicated to a sport when even the Olympics was in question was certainly difficult for many athletes, and we commend them for their strength and stick-to-it-iveness to make to Tokyo and celebrate this international exhibition of sport together. We were proud to watch and even more grateful to share some of the Olympic spirit in this episode with an outstanding coach!
Message us on IG and FB @RunningAnthropologist, & find out/ read more and share on our blogsite: www.runninganthropologist.com -
Welcome back! In our new season's first episode, "Earth Day, Earth Year: Healing & Recovery" we look at ways to heal our planet while healing ourselves, personally and collectively. We feature ultra trail athlete Michael Wardian (about Earth Day 5K and healing for an upcoming 100 goal), Peter Maksimow (on Plogging and sustainability), and a special interview with writer/music therapist Bob Shea about Recovery Camino: "this year brings us back to nature for healing and the path(s) of recovery". In Bob Shea's interview, we approach the purpose of pilgrimage and the importance of connection (to our natural world and fellow pilgrims). As we seek recovery and healing for our planet in 2021, there is a parallel inner journey we can embark upon. Much like multi-day ultras in the running world, a walking pilgrimage is about movement of body-mind-spirit in unison towards a higher or common goal, which presents unexpected difficulties when we meet ourselves and our thoughts full force along "The Way". Reach out to learn more or register for free Summer Recovery as Pilgrimage training!
Michael Wardian describes his journey of healing from an injury, and what slowing down during the pandemic has given him time for. He shares his philosophy towards setbacks/struggle, and why he always returns to the local (and virtual local) events, like Earth Day 5K put on by Little Sesame (in cooperation with planting new life by Casey's Trees) every year. Instagram: @mikewardian
Peter Maksimow is a mountain runner, U.S. Team silver medalist and big part of the global PLOGGING movement: making a physical/mental effort to notice and respond to our earth while run/walking- by picking up trash and recycling. He's the founder of an intense PLOGGING group in the United States, and shares with us his own philosophy as a trail runner/environmentalist, about the key to sustainable growth of this community. Instagram: @petermaksimow
FLIPPING THE TABLES: Lastly, I would also like to share this interview I did with RUN WITH LOVE, an ultra community podcast- which explains the practice of Walk/Running Logotherapy and Running as Therapy in general. I discuss some of the basics of how walk/running helps with recovery from addictions, trauma and loss, as well as granting a daily reprieve through habit formation (treating anxiety and depression). To heal our world, we have to begin with ourselves! https://runwithlove.com/podcast/32-mark-lane-holbert-running-as-therapy
Please Reach out to us @RunningAnthropologist on Facebook or Instagram, blogsite www.runninganthropologist.com and via the RECOVERY CAMINO's website to register for our summer Pilgrims training: www.recoverycamino.com - Visa fler
