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What do the Berlin Marathon, $500 racing shoes, 30,000 burpee broad jumps, and tendon strength have in common? Somehow, they all made it into this week’s Kinda Fast. Claire and Travis kick things off with What Does That Even Mean?, breaking down eccentric vs. concentric muscle contractions and why both matter for runners. Then, it’s time for running news. Tigst Assefa runs an incredible 2:11:04 at the Berlin Marathon, setting a new course record before suffering an Achilles injury in the final kilometers. Plus, Adidas unveils the new Adizero Adios Pro 5 with a completely different carbon design—but all six men’s and women’s podium finishers in Berlin chose to race in the $500 Adizero Adios Pro Evo 3 instead. And because running a normal marathon apparently wasn’t difficult enough, German HYROX athlete Kevin Ociepka covered the entire 26.2-mile marathon distance using burpee broad jumps—about 30,000 of them over more than six and a half days. Finally, in this week’s Deep Dive, Claire and Travis are talking tendons. Why do they matter so much for runners? Why can they take longer to adapt than your muscles and cardiovascular system? And how can you help prepare them for the demands of running? They break down five exercises runners can incorporate into their strength training: calf raises, deadlifts, Bulgarian split squats, speed skaters, and pogo hops. It’s running news, ridiculously expensive shoes, 30,000 burpees, and a little strength training—all in Episode 67 of Kinda Fast. Kinda Fast is powered by Upward Running, a Christian running app with training plans, coaching, daily encouragement, and an incredible community to help you grow in both your faith and fitness.

Is your running form holding you back? In Episode 66 of the Kinda Fast Podcast, Claire and Travis talk heel striking, the myth of “perfect” running form, and four practical ways to become a more efficient runner over time: build consistency, add strides, use drills with a purpose, and strength train. In running news, they discuss research on the benefits of a 10-minute easy run, Keely Hodgkinson’s unusual Nike speed suit, Alphafly 4 resale listings reaching $1,400, and an update on last week’s HYROX story. The Kinda Fast Podcast is powered by Upward Running, a Christian running app with training plans, coaching, daily encouragement, and community. The Fall Challenge begins September 28, with 5K, 10K, half marathon, and marathon options. Download the app at https://upwardrunning.com/download/ and use code KINDAFAST for a two-week free trial.

Episode 65: Kinda Fast Case Files: Mysteries, Scandals, and Controversies The evidence has been collected, the files have been reopened, and Travis has not been told the official rulings. In this special true crime-inspired episode of the Kinda Fast Podcast, Claire and Travis investigate four of the strangest mysteries, scandals, and controversies in running history. We are talking suspicious split times, missing photographs, an unexplained wind reading, and a marathon that may never have happened, Before opening the case files, we explain the new World Athletics Ultimate Championship and how the fast-paced, three-night event differs from the traditional World Championships. We also recap several of its biggest performances, including sprint doubles from Melissa Jefferson-Wooden and Kenny Bednarek. Then, we discuss the Racefaster Half Marathon in New Jersey, where runners crossed waist-deep and, in some places, chest-deep floodwater despite multiple flash flood warnings. At what point should race organizers cancel an event rather than allowing runners to decide whether to continue? We also cover the controversy surrounding HYROX Beijing winner Joanna Wietrzyk. Officials allowed her to continue competing after a bowel-related incident created sanitation concerns involving the shared course and workout equipment. Should officials have stopped her immediately? Finally, it is time to examine the evidence in four unforgettable case files: Case File 1: Rosie Ruiz and the Boston Marathon victory that quickly unraveled. How much of the marathon did she actually run? Case File 2: Flo-Jo’s 10.49-second world record and the wind gauge that officially recorded no measurable wind. Case File 3: Kip Litton, his suspicious marathon performances, and the mysterious West Wyoming Marathon, which may never have taken place. Case File 4: Allyson Felix, Jeneba Tarmoh, and the dead heat that left USA Track & Field without a rule for awarding the final Olympic position. Travis hears the evidence without knowing the verdicts and shares his theories before Claire reveals the official rulings. Can he solve the cases? The Kinda Fast Podcast is powered by Upward Running, a Christian running app offering training plans, coaching, daily encouragement, and a supportive community to help you grow in your faith and fitness. Download the Upward Running app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store, and use code KINDAFAST for a free two-week trial.

How did running go from a survival skill to one of the world’s most popular sports? In Episode 64, Claire and Travis travel through the history of running, from early humans hunting for food and ancient messengers delivering critical news to the first Olympic footrace, professional pedestrianism, and the creation of the modern marathon. They also explain why a marathon is exactly 26.2 miles and how the running boom made the sport accessible to everyday athletes. In What Does That Even Mean?, learn about the ancient Greek stadion and how it gave us the modern word “stadium.” In running news, Claire and Travis share the powerful story of Keith Palmer and his father, FDNY Battalion Chief Orio Palmer. They also discuss the Edmonton Marathon course error that cost 13 runners their Boston qualifying times and Clayton Young’s attempt to break Conner Mantz’s American marathon record at the Chicago Marathon. Finally, they explore the important place running holds in the Bible, from Old Testament messengers and the race to the empty tomb to Paul’s instructions to run with purpose, discipline, and perseverance. The Kinda Fast Podcast is powered by Upward Running, a Christian running app featuring training plans, expert coaching, daily encouragement, and a faith-filled community. Download the Upward Running RunClub App from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store today!

Do runners actually love running...or do we just love proving we can do hard things? This week, Claire and Travis explore why runners willingly choose discomfort, complain through every mile and then wake up and do it all over again. They break down how the brain interprets pain, why running with friends makes suffering easier and how to stop a difficult run from turning into a mental spiral. Plus, they explain eccentric loading, test their knowledge of college football speed, cover a professional runner’s dog-assisted 4:31 mile and recap Ben Dhiman’s incredible UTMB victory and the record-breaking 2026 Sydney Marathon. Kinda Fast is powered by Upward Running. Try the app free for two weeks with code KINDAFAST at upwardrunning.com/kindafast.

This week on the Kinda Fast Podcast, Claire and Travis are talking about something runners hear a lot less about than overtraining: undertraining. How do you know if you’re actually doing enough to reach the goal you’ve set? We break down some of the biggest signs you may not be training enough, why adding more miles is not always the answer, and how to make sure your training actually matches what you’re trying to accomplish. Before the Deep Dive, we get into some wild running news, including the Sydney Marathon’s major medal mix-up, a woman allegedly throwing eggs at runners during the Edmonton Marathon, and Yomif Kejelcha’s incredible 56:51 half marathon in Buenos Aires. We also explain what “pending ratification” really means when a runner breaks a world record, including the course, drug testing, equipment, and shoe checks that have to happen before a record officially goes into the books. Plus, we talk about consistency, training plateaus, motivation, and why the goal isn’t to finish every workout exhausted. The goal is to get better. Kinda Undertrained: Medal Mistakes, World Records, and Not Running Enough The Kinda Fast Podcast is powered by Upward Running, a Christian running community with training plans, coaching, daily encouragement, and a community to help you grow in both faith and fitness. Try Upward Running free for two weeks with code KINDAFAST at upwardrunning.com/kindafast.

In Episode 61 of the Kinda Fast Podcast, Claire and Travis are answering a question every runner eventually asks: When is it actually time to increase your mileage? But first, they kick things off with What Does That Even Mean? and finally settle the question of what exactly a running singlet is—and whether it’s really any different from a tank top. Then it’s time for running news! The Tokyo Marathon 2027 lottery is officially open, and Claire and Travis break down the important dates, entry fees, and just how tough it is to land a bib. They also test out a viral running hack involving Aquaphor on your eyebrows to keep sweat out of your eyes. It sounds ridiculous…but apparently there’s actually some science behind it. And the Jakob Ingebrigtsen vs. Josh Kerr rivalry is back. After returning from 11 months away from racing, Jakob says athletes who skip major championships are “ruining the sport”—and yes, he was talking about Josh Kerr. Then, in today’s Deep Dive: Kinda Want to Run More Miles? Claire and Travis talk about how to know when your body is actually ready for more mileage, including: Whether you’re consistently handling your current mileageHow well you’re recovering between workoutsWhat your easy pace can tell you about your fitnessWhy mileage increases should support a long-term goalHow structured training plans can help take the guesswork out of adding milesWhen the 10% rule can be usefulWhy you should spread extra mileage throughout the weekWhy adding mileage AND intensity at the same time can be a mistakeWhy you should never try to “make up” missed milesThe biggest takeaway? More mileage isn’t automatically better mileage. The goal isn’t to run the most miles you possibly can. It’s to find the amount of mileage you can train from, recover from, and consistently repeat. Ready to run with purpose and find your community? Join Upward Running at upwardrunning.com/kindafast and use code KINDAFAST for 2 weeks free!

It’s Episode 60 of the Kinda Fast Podcast! 🎉 This week, Claire and Travis celebrate with 60 Seconds of Running Mad Gab, break down the difference between a niggle and an actual injury, and remind you that Upward Running’s 12-Week Back-to-School Challenge kicks off August 17. In running news, they dive into the growing conversation around drug testing in professional trail running as prize money and sponsorships continue to grow. Plus, they share the incredible story of Paralympian Mohamed Lahna, who completed a 3,300-mile Triathlon Across America—including a 300-mile run on a prosthetic leg. Then, it’s time for the Deep Dive: GROUP RUNS! Kinda want to join one...but also kinda terrified to show up? Claire and Travis are talking about what to expect at your first group run, how to find the right pace group, the unwritten etiquette you should know, whether you should bring a friend, and why finding the right running community can make a huge difference. Because at the end of the day, group runs aren't just about the miles. They're about accountability, encouragement, friendships, and finding your people. In this episode: Niggle vs. injury: how to tell the difference60 Seconds of Running Mad Gab!The Back-to-School Challenge starting August 17Drug testing and anti-doping in professional trail runningMohamed Lahna’s 3,300-mile Triathlon Across AmericaHow to make your first group run less intimidatingFinding the right pace groupGroup-run etiquette nobody tells youBringing a friend vs. showing up aloneFinding a run club that fits your personalityWhy running together can make you a better runnerHow group runs can turn into real friendships and communityReady to run with purpose and find your community? Join Upward Running at: https://upwardrunning.com/kindafast Use code KINDAFAST for 2 weeks free!

Episode 59: Heat Acclimation, Cheese Rolling, Garmin's New Cirqa & Sauna Training for Runners What exactly is heat acclimation, and can sitting in a sauna actually make you a better runner? In Episode 59 of the Kinda Fast Podcast, Claire and Travis explain how your body adapts to running in the heat, introduce Upward Running's new 12-Week Back-to-School Challenge, and dive into some of the biggest stories in the running world. From the wild Cooper's Hill Cheese Rolling Race in England to Garmin's brand-new Cirqa fitness band and the return of the Commonwealth Mile, there's plenty to catch up on before tackling this week's deep dive. The episode wraps up with a science-backed discussion on sauna training—how it may improve endurance, recovery, heat adaptation, mental toughness, and overall performance, plus practical tips for safely incorporating sauna sessions into your routine. In This Episode: What heat acclimation is and why it matters for runnersUpward Running's 12-Week Back-to-School Challenge beginning August 17The legendary Cooper's Hill Cheese Rolling RaceGarmin's new subscription-free Cirqa fitness bandHighlights from the 2026 Commonwealth GamesHow sauna training may improve endurance, recovery, and race performanceBest practices for using a sauna safely as part of your trainingWhether you're preparing for fall racing, looking to improve your training, or simply love keeping up with the running world, this episode has something for you. Ready to run with purpose? Join the Upward Running community at upwardrunning.com/kindafast and use code KINDAFAST for 2 weeks free.

Episode 58: Running for Weight Loss Myths, Boston Marathon Changes & What It Means to Get Out-Kicked Can you lose weight and still fuel your running well? In this episode of the Kinda Fast Podcast, Claire and Travis separate fact from fiction as they tackle some of the biggest myths about running for weight loss. They also explain what it means to get out-kicked in a race, break down the Boston Marathon's new qualifying lottery beginning in 2027, discuss the recent conversations surrounding runner safety after a Central Park e-bike crash, and celebrate Claire's exciting announcement that she'll be running the 2027 London Marathon. In This Episode What Does That Even Mean? What it means to get out-kickedWhy finishing speed matters in racingHow runners develop a stronger finishing kickRunning News Boston Marathon adds a new lottery for qualified runners beginning in 2027What the updated Boston qualifying process means for runners chasing a BQThe Central Park e-bike collision and the growing conversation around runner safetyClaire shares the exciting news that she's officially running the 2027 London MarathonDeep Dive: Running for Weight Loss Myths Should runners cut carbs to lose weight?Does running more always lead to more weight loss?Why the scale may go up when you start trainingDoes a lighter body automatically make you a faster runner?Why strength training, recovery, and proper fueling matterBetter ways to measure progress beyond the number on the scaleKey Takeaways ✅ Fuel your running instead of fearing carbohydrates. ✅ Consistency beats extreme training plans. ✅ Weight isn't the only measure of progress. ✅ Strong, healthy runners perform better than under-fueled runners. ✅ Sustainable habits create lasting fitness and long-term health. Ready to run with purpose and find a supportive Christian running community? Visit upwardrunning.com/kindafast and use code KINDAFAST to get 2 weeks free.

Episode 57 of the Kinda Fast Podcast is here! Travis is back on the mic, sharing one of the biggest lessons he learned during his time away from running: running isn't just something he does...it's something that makes him a better version of himself. Claire and Travis also discuss Josh Kerr's historic mile world record, celebrate Connor and Kylie Mantz welcoming their son, explain what a waterfall start is in track racing, and talk about Strava's new partnership with Adidas that rewards runners for staying active. In this episode: • What is a waterfall start? • Why longer track races use waterfall starts • How waterfall starts create a fair and strategic race Running News: • Josh Kerr breaks the mile world record in 3:42.66 • Connor and Kylie Mantz welcome baby William just days after Kylie's viral 38-week-pregnant mile • NASA's Perseverance rover officially completes a marathon distance on Mars • Strava and Adidas launch a new rewards program for runners Deep Dive: Why Running Makes Us Better • Travis shares what his injury taught him about life away from running • How running improves sleep, nutrition, and healthy habits • Why training goals provide structure, motivation, and purpose • The mental benefits of time on the road or trail • The friendships and community built through running • Why injuries often remind us how much running means to us Key Takeaways: • Running transforms more than your fitness—it impacts every area of your life. • Injuries can happen even when you've done everything right. • Healthy habits built through training often carry into everyday life. • Running provides purpose, community, and space to recharge. • Sometimes stepping away from running reminds you just how much it helps you become your best self. Listen now and join the conversation! Join the Upward Running community at https://upwardrunning.com/kindafast Use promo code KINDAFAST to get 2 weeks free.

Episode 56: Running Shoe Foam Explained, Josh Kerr's World Record Chase & Courtney Dauwalter's Hardrock Victory Travis is away on a mission trip this week, so Claire takes the mic solo to dive into one of the biggest topics in running right now: running shoe foam. What exactly is stack height? Do carbon plates really make you faster? Why do some running shoes cost $300? And are they actually worth it? Claire breaks down the technology behind today's running shoes, explains the surprising role foam plays in performance and recovery, and busts several common myths about supershoes. Plus, she previews Josh Kerr's attempt to break the legendary mile world record, recaps Courtney Dauwalter's incredible Hardrock 100 victory after battling through severe stomach issues, and explains stack height in this week's "What Does That Even Mean?" Whether you're training for your first 5K or your next marathon, this episode will help you better understand the shoes carrying you through every mile. Topics Covered: What stack height really meansHigh-stack vs. low-stack running shoesJosh Kerr's mile world record attemptCourtney Dauwalter's Hardrock 100 winThe evolution of running shoe foamCarbon plates vs. superfoamsWhy softer doesn't always mean fasterWhy rotating your running shoes mattersHow long premium racing shoes stay at peak performancePowered by Upward Running Looking for expert training plans, a supportive Christian community, daily encouragement, and faith-based coaching? Start your free 2-week trial today at upwardrunning.com with promo code KINDAFAST.

One of the biggest track meets of the year delivered...and we're breaking it all down. This week, Claire and Travis recap the incredible performances from the Prefontaine Classic, including Cameron Myers' stunning Bowerman Mile victory, Nikki Hiltz ending Faith Kipyegon's five-year winning streak, and the American distance runners making a statement heading into championship season. They also discuss Josh Kerr's unique pursuit of the mile world record (yes, he sleeps in an altitude chamber), Jennifer Lichter's historic win at the Western States 100 in her first-ever 100-mile race, and whether anyone can actually become a morning runner—even if you've always hated early alarms. In this week's "What Does That Even Mean?" segment, they explain glycogen: what it is, why it matters, and how understanding it can help you avoid "hitting the wall" during longer races. Then they dive into one of the most important marathon training topics: the long run. Why are so many runners exhausted after every Saturday run? Should you be running them faster? And could slowing down actually help you race faster? Claire and Travis explain the purpose of the long run, why easy miles matter, how to avoid the dreaded "gray zone," and how to recover so your training actually makes you stronger. Whether you're training for your first 5K or your next marathon, this episode will help you train smarter—not just harder. Join the Upward Running community at upwardrunning.com/kindafast and use code KINDAFAST for 2 weeks free!

In this episode of the Kinda Fast Podcast, Claire and Travis talk Fourth of July running, the Peachtree Road Race, major NCAA eligibility changes, Parker Valby’s comeback, a 14-year-old running phenom, and the wild $1 Ultramarathon in Times Square. Then they dive into practical tips for getting back into running after a long break, including how to rebuild safely, why walking counts, how to check your ego, and why patience matters more than pace. Whether you’re coming back from injury, burnout, busyness, or just a long season away from running, this episode is all about starting where you are and becoming the runner you’re becoming. Ready to run with purpose and find your community? Join us at: https://upwardrunning.com/kindafast Use code KINDAFAST for 2 weeks free!

In this special first-ever solo episode of the Kinda Fast Podcast, Claire shares a personal story about returning to the roads that shaped her as a runner and a person. After traveling to Gaffney, South Carolina for a recent race, Claire spent the morning running through the campus where she attended college. What began as a nostalgic trip down memory lane quickly became an opportunity to reflect on how much God has changed her life over the years. From difficult memories and past mistakes to an unexpected reunion with a former college teammate, Claire shares how revisiting her past helped her see God's faithfulness in a new way. Along the way, she explores themes of identity, redemption, growth, and why we shouldn't allow an old version of ourselves to define who we are today. Whether you're a runner, a walker, or simply someone who has ever wished they could go back and change part of their story, this episode is a reminder that God is still at work—and that sometimes the greatest victories happen far beyond the finish line. Ready to run with purpose and find your community? Join us at upwardrunning.com/kindafast and use code KINDAFAST for 2 weeks free.