Steve Magness's Blog

Coaching the New Runner. Part 1: In a team setting.

In this episode of the On Coaching podcast, hosts Steve Magness and John Marcus discuss the challenges and strategies of coaching new runners in a team setting. They emphasize the importance of creating an inclusive environment where newcomers feel integrated, see progress, develop intrinsic motivation, and avoid burnout. The hosts share practical tips for introducing…

Footwear Insights: From Training Flats to Super Cushions

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 evolution from traditional trainers to modern super shoes and super-cushioned shoes, discussing their impacts on performance and recovery.…

Exploring the New Era of Training: Embracing Experimentation

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 ebbs and flows in training practices, highlighting the 1960s experimentation period, and draw parallels to today’s innovative landscape influenced by super…

Keeping Training Fresh: Science, Methods, and Strategies

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 capacity to achieve larger goals. Highlighting historical examples such as the training logs of Jack Lovelock, they emphasize the value of…

NCAA Track Champs: Key Takeaways for Racing and Training

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 Championships. They highlight key performances, such as record-breaking steeple chases and tactical 1500 meters races, and discuss the evolving dynamics of…

Consistency Creates Capacity: The Power of Simple Wins in Training

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 capacity to achieve larger goals. Highlighting historical examples such as the training logs of Jack Lovelock, they emphasize the value of…

Double Threshold Training: Applying to Track, Cross-Country, and Marathon

In this episode of the On Coaching Podcast, hosts Steve Magness and John Marcus dive deep into the concept of double threshold training. They discuss its application to track, cross country, and marathon training, and highlight different implementation strategies for various running events. The episode includes a historical perspective on double threshold training, detailed practical…

Putting it All Together: Speed, strength, endurance, recovery for runners of all ages.

In this episode of the On Coaching podcast, hosts Steve Magness and Jon Marcus discuss the complexities of holistic coaching and how to effectively integrate various training components for athletes. They emphasize the difference between stimulating and confirmation workouts, the importance of understanding time horizons for adaptation, and the necessity of balancing multiple training qualities…

The Psychology of the Modern Athlete: The Impact of Social Media and Perception of Reality

In this episode, hosts Steve and Jon dive deep into the psychology of modern athletes, emphasizing the impact of social media on athletes’ perceptions of reality and mental health. They discuss the transition from local to global comparisons and how it has led to increased pressures and altered motivations for young athletes. The conversation covers…

Mastering Your Mind: 5 Keys to Stop Self-Sabotaging

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 just fitting in. The episode highlights these concepts through relatable anecdotes and research studies, aiming to help listeners shift from a survival mode to a thriving…