Coaching Successfully Series Part 2: Defining Your Training Approach

Coaching Successfully Series Part 2: Defining Your Training Approach

Author: Steve Magness May 12, 2026 Duration: 1:05:21
Steve Magness and Jonathan Marcus discuss how coaches should define a training approach without falling into two traps: having no coherent philosophy by mixing everything, or rigidly copying one system with no flexibility. They argue training must account for environment and reality (altitude, heat/humidity, sea level), athlete population, and psychological constraints, not just physiology or…

Steve Magness brings a coach's eye and a scientist's curiosity to Science of Running, a podcast dedicated to the intricate details of endurance performance. This isn't just about generic training tips; it's a deep, often challenging exploration of the physiological and psychological principles that underpin running. Each episode dissects topics like periodization, recovery, nutrition, and the mental game, translating complex sport science into actionable insights for runners and coaches alike. You'll hear conversations that question conventional wisdom, examine the latest research, and delve into the art of coaching itself. The goal is to move beyond the superficial, fostering a more intelligent and individualized approach to the sport. Whether you're a competitive marathoner, a dedicated trail runner, or simply curious about how your body adapts to stress, this podcast offers a nuanced perspective. It’s for anyone who believes that understanding the "why" behind the workout is just as important as the run itself. Join Steve as he connects the dots between lab findings and the reality of the road, track, and trail, building a comprehensive resource for the thinking athlete.
Author: Language: en-us Episodes: 100

Science of Running
Podcast Episodes
Footwear Insights: From Training Flats to Super Cushions [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 43:33
Mastering the Art of Super Shoe Training In this episode of the On Coaching podcast, Steve Magness and Jon Marcus delve into the timely and highly requested topic of using ‘super shoes’ in training. They revisit the evol…
Exploring the New Era of Training: Embracing Experimentation [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 44:41
In this episode of the On Coaching podcast, Steve Magness and Jon Marcus delve into the current era of training experimentation, inspired by a recent in-depth discussion in the Scholar Program. They explore historical eb…
Keeping Training Fresh: Science, Methods, and Strategies [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 49:10
In this episode of the ‘On Coaching’ podcast, hosts Steve Magness and Jon Marcus discuss the importance of consistency in training and coaching. They delve into how simple, repetitive actions over time foster the capacit…
NCAA Track Champs: Key Takeaways for Racing and Training [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 49:45
Exploring Racing Tactics and Mental Preparation from NCAA Championships In this episode of the On Coaching podcast, hosts Steve Magness and John Marcus dive deep into the insights and lessons from the recent NCAA Champio…
Consistency Creates Capacity: The Power of Simple Wins in Training [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 51:37
In this episode of the ‘On Coaching’ podcast, hosts Steve Magness and Jon Marcus discuss the importance of consistency in training and coaching. They delve into how simple, repetitive actions over time foster the capacit…
Mastering Your Mind: 5 Keys to Stop Self-Sabotaging [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 18:34
The five insights discussed include recognizing self-sabotage, balancing exploration and commitment, building your own home field advantage, balancing caring deeply with letting go, and the importance of belonging over j…
The Truth about Lactate Threshold | Your Comprehensive Guide [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 31:49
In this episode, we dive deep into the concept of lactate threshold, debunking common myths and explaining its significance in athletic performance. We discuss the science behind lactate production and utilization, looki…