Cover art for Tread Lightly Running Science Podcast
Training & science

Tread Lightly Running Science Podcast

Tread Lightly Running Science Podcast is a running training and science podcast hosted by Amanda Brooks and Laura Norris. Weekly co-host episodes that each take one training, fueling or health question through the research, with an occasional expert guest; episodes run about 30 to 45 minutes.

Episodes
192
Since
2023
Last 6 months
26 episodes
Latest
Nov 7, 2026

What it is

Two running coaches take one question a week, such as whether zone 2 is overrated or how long it takes to get faster, and work through what the studies say. Topics stay close to everyday training: half and marathon plans, tapering, heat, iron, fueling and recovery tools. Guest episodes bring in dietitians, sports psychologists and physical therapists.

Why listen

  • Short, single-topic episodes that fit an easy run.
  • Reviews of trending claims, like 120 grams of carbs per hour, sodium bicarbonate and recovery gadgets, against the published research.
  • Practical race topics for half marathoners and marathoners: comparing well-known training plans, tune-up races, tapering and the week after a race.

Start here

  1. Is Zone 2 Running Overrated? Understanding the Backlash Against and Science of Easy Running Sep 12, 2026
    Weighs the competing social-media claims about easy running against the science.
  2. Understanding Common Half Marathon Training Plans, From Hal Higdon to Hansons Oct 10, 2026
    Compares popular half marathon plans such as Galloway, Hansons, Hal Higdon and Daniels.

Hosts

  • Amanda Brooks Running coach and co-host; the show's description credits the two hosts with over 20 years of combined coaching experience.
  • Laura Norris Running coach (MSc) and co-host who works with runners one-on-one and in group training, per the show's description.

Recent guests

GuestEpisodeDate
Duncan SimpsonMental Skills That Get You Through the Hard Miles with Sports Psychologist Dr. Duncan SimpsonOct 17, 2026
Alex LarsonGLP-1s, Nomio, UCAN Gels, and Other Trendy Supplements with Dietitian Alex LarsenSep 19, 2026
Trent ClaypoolThe Psychology Behind Peak Running Performance with Dr. Trent ClaypoolAug 8, 2026
Claire ShorensteinGut Training for Runners: How to Fuel Without Stomach Problems with Claire Shorenstein, MS CSSDJul 11, 2026
Gaby GoWhat Does "Wake Up Your Glutes" Actually Mean? Dr. Gaby Go, DPT Explains Glute ActivationJun 6, 2026
Taylor KruseThe Neuroscience of Pain (And How to Use It) with Kruse EliteMay 16, 2026

Good for

  • half marathon and marathon training
  • fueling questions
  • checking running myths

Listen

Apple Podcasts Show website RSS

Checked Nov 12, 2026 against the show's own feed and pages. Something wrong? Send a correction. Host of this show? Claim it free.