Training Tuesday: Why Has Running Become So Dang Fast??
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In this episode of Training Tuesday, Bracken Crocker and Kirk DeWint dive deep into the unprecedented surge in marathon performance, sparked by a historic weekend where three men broke the world record and two ran under two hours. They analyze the confluence of factors behind these record-breaking runs: cutting-edge super shoes (notably the 3.42-ounce Evo Pro 3), ideal weather conditions, advanced fueling protocols, and the psychological shift from fear of failure to confidence in pacing. The hosts debate whether this represents a sustainable trend or a one-off anomaly, with Kirk emphasizing the perfect storm of conditions while Bracken argues that human potential has been unlocked and will continue to evolve. They also explore the ethical gray area around doping, the transparency of testing, and the role of coaching history. Beyond the records, they reflect on how training has evolved—more volume, less suffering, smarter programming—and how modern science, shoes, and recovery have made elite performance more accessible. The conversation ends with speculation about future races, particularly in Chicago and Berlin, and a philosophical musing on the nature of records, fairness, and the human capacity for improvement.
Super shoes have reduced running impact and increased efficiency, contributing significantly to faster marathon times.
Ideal weather conditions (tailwinds, calm, cool temps) played a crucial role in the record-breaking performances.
Advanced fueling strategies allow elite runners to maintain high intensity throughout the marathon without gastrointestinal distress.
The training philosophy has shifted from 'train harder' to 'train smarter'—higher volume with lower perceived effort and reduced injury risk.
The psychological shift from fear of blowing up to confidence in pacing has enabled more aggressive racing.
…and 2 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Opening: Training Tuesday & Concordia University Run
The hosts kick off the episode with a nostalgic reflection on a recent Strava long run at Concordia University, highlighting its stunning bluff views, 100-foot vertical gain, and its value as a training spot for quality work and impact. They discuss the mental and physical benefits of the location and the strategic timing of such efforts three weeks before a race.
The Record-Breaking Marathon Weekend: A Perfect Storm
“When you're threading the needle like this, I think conditions really, really, really matter.”
Debate: Is This a One-Off or the New Normal?
“I think it's going to happen again. I just don't know if it's going to be a cascade of like, we'll see it in Chicago, then we're going to see it in all the majors.”
The Role of Super Shoes and Technology
“It's more than cut in half. Wow. I didn't know that shoe was that light.”
Doping, Transparency, and the Ethics of Performance
“All we know is that he didn't test positive. Like you can't prove someone's clean. You can prove they haven't been caught.”
“All we know is that he didn't test positive. Like you can't prove someone's clean. You can prove they haven't been caught.”
“If you are the fastest woman in the world, you should be able to compete up at the bed. Why not?”
“When you're threading the needle like this, I think conditions really, really, really matter.”
Hosts
bracken crocker
person
kirk dewint
person
london marathon
other
concordia university
organization
boston marathon
other
adidas
brand
evo pro 3
product
sebastian sowies
person
claudio berardelli
person
frank shorter
person
Episode 602: Jake Prusha
The Running Public • 1h 8m • 4/1/2026
Training Tuesday: Kirk’s Q&A Session
The Running Public • 1h 2m • 4/9/2026
Episode 604: Talkin’ Shop!
The Running Public • 54m • 4/11/2026
Training Tuesday: Fueling for Ultras
The Running Public • 1h 8m • 4/16/2026
Training Tuesday: Overuse Injuries & Lower Body Strengthening with Dr Patrick
The Running Public • 1h 5m • 4/23/2026
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