Micronutrient Misconceptions: Sodium and Iron

By Ben Connelly When it comes to micronutrients, the operative question is, “how much?” Too much of a good thing can become a bad thing. While vitamins and minerals are vital to health, some can be harmful in high enough quantities. (Other will not harm you but will not provide any extra benefit.) For marathoners, who need higher ... More

Battle Buddy Series – A Prayer for Those Stuck at a Crossroads

by Darian McIntosh   A few months ago, my husband and I decided to invest in a couple of kayaks. With the summer months coming, we knew it would be an excellent way to spend family time together and give our young daughter a way in which she can appreciate nature in all its glory.    The few times we have been out with ... More

The Long Run

by Ben Connelly The long run holds a special place in marathon lore. Runners who run no other workouts in their entire training (which I do not recommend), will run long runs.  This workout serves a variety of purposes:  It prepares the legs and feet to handle long hours of continuous running It allows runners to practice ... More

Battle Buddy Series – A Day in the Life of the Seriously Unmotivated

A Day in the Life of the Seriously Unmotivated   by Darian McIntosh   10:00 AM -  Got my Covid shot and stopped at the park with my daughter where I am currently relaxing underneath the shade of a weeping willow. I am feeling motivated to get started on my journey.   3:30 PM -  Now we are home and it is ... More

Marathon Diet: Avoiding Nutrient Deficiencies

Marathon Diet: Avoiding Nutrient Deficiencies Ben Connelly Most runners know nutrition matters. But oftentimes, runners focus on macronutrients (carbs, protein, and fat), while neglecting micronutrients. It turns out, micronutrients are far more important. As long as your diet is reasonably balanced between carbohydrates, protein, and ... More

Battle Buddy Series – A Prayer for the Weary, Part 2

Recap from Part 1   Jay Hewitt, diagnosed with terminal brain cancer, had decided to begin training for an Ironman in 2019. He started exercising to build up his endurance as soon as he underwent radiotherapy and chemotherapy treatment. He needed to do this in order to launch into the real training; a grueling 16-week regimen ... More

The Lone Runner Series: Interval Training for Marathon Runners

Interval Training for Marathon Runners by Ben Connelly In a previous post, I introduced the topic of speedwork for marathon runners. I explained that, contrary to common belief, marathoners should not run all their runs at an easy pace. Beginners focused solely on completing the marathon can get away with skipping speedwork (although ... More

Battle Buddy Series: A Prayer for the Complacent

A Prayer for the Complacent by Darian McIntosh   Welcome to part 2 in the continuing saga of my journey, starting with my personal experiences in the world of marathon running. I will be exploring in part what it takes to physically prepare for such a draining endeavor, which can be expected from a blog about marathons. More in ... More

The Lone Runner Series: Why Would You Train for a Marathon?

The Lone Runner Series: Why Would You Train for a Marathon? Runners have many reasons they train for marathons, but many do it because it is rewarding. Today I want to explore a few of the rewards of marathon training.  Training for a marathon demands serious effort. But it also has serious benefits. Moreover, marathon training rewards ... More

Gold Story: Racing The World, Breaking Records, Running Across The Country, Michael Wardian Hopes To Inspire Others With His Feats

What started off as something he wanted to do because he saw his friend’s mom running the Boston Marathon over 20 years ago, has turned into a lifelong obsession for Michael Wardian to see how far he can go. “I’m always trying to see what I’m capable of,” 46-year-old Virginia native and professional runner Michael Wardian said. ... More