Running Smarter: Coaching Advice, Parkrun & Marathon Training

In this week’s episode of the Couch to Coached Running Podcast, Rob, Ben and Emma dive into their latest training weeks with plenty of laughs, reflections, and coach-backed reality checks.

The episode kicks off with light-hearted chaos — sweets, tech issues, and general silliness — before settling into a proper training catch-up. Rob talks through the challenges of introducing swimming into his routine and what leadership really means within running groups. Emma reflects on a fast Parkrun, pacing decisions, and why the social side of running plays such a huge role in her motivation. Meanwhile, Ben steps firmly into coach mode, offering feedback on pacing, consistency, and why strength training can’t keep being pushed to the bottom of the list.

Across the episode, the trio balance fun with honesty as they discuss missed rest days, running streaks, accountability, and the small decisions that make a big difference over time. It’s a reminder that training isn’t about perfection — it’s about learning, adjusting, and enjoying the process with the right people around you.

Whether you’re marathon training, chasing Parkrun progress, or just trying to stay consistent, this episode delivers relatable running chat with a healthy dose of coaching insight.

• Weekly training recaps with honesty (and humour)
• Pacing lessons and why “the numbers don’t lie”
• Parkrun reflections and performance decisions
• The importance of strength and conditioning
• Balancing training with family and real life
• Accountability, missed rest days, and running streaks
• Leadership and responsibility within running groups
• Coaching feedback vs runner instincts
• Keeping running social, sustainable, and enjoyable

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