New to Running? The Best Podcasts to Motivate You to Move

best running podcasts

The gyms are closed, but the great outdoors is wide open. During lockdown, we’ve had to get creative when it comes to our workouts. Since traditional sports institutes have temporarily shut their doors, we’ve had to look at alternatives. One of the most popular ways to stay fit is running. Whether you’re new to this sport or a seasoned professional, listening to a podcast is sure to motivate you. Let’s take a look at some of the best.

Couch to 5K

If you’re more of a couch potato than a pro runner, let’s start with the basics. Couch to 5K does exactly what it says on the tin. The nine-week program gradually builds up your fitness and stamina. By the end of the course, you should be able to easily run 5K or for 30 minutes without much hassle. Don’t panic. The first week is simple, with 60-second intervals followed by recovery. Either subscribe to the podcast or download the app.

The Running for Real Podcast

Tina Muir, professional runner, hosts this interesting running podcast. During each episode of The Running for Real Podcast, she talks about her personal experiences of running and offers tips to help you motivate yourself and train harder. What’s more, she also interviews other big names in the sport and experts, such as sports psychologists and scientists. The result is a balanced and informative view of how to take your running game far.

UltrarunnerPodcast

Interested in trail running? You might want to try the UltrarunnerPodcast. Hosted by Eric Schranz, this podcast takes you through everything you will need to know to start your journey. Throughout the episodes, Schranz talks to a variety of experts including dieticians and elite athletics on the topic of trial running. Not only will this podcast help you perfect your running, but it’s also sure to entertain you along the way.

podcasts for new runners

Run, Selfie, Repeat

Fusing inspiration with technique, the Run, Selfie, Repeat podcast has it all. Hosted by Kelly Roberts, these short and sweet episodes will help you through your midweek sprints. When you’re looking for some entertainment, pick the episodes that focus on the art of becoming a runner, such as ‘Why I Kept Running’. However, the moment you’ve pulled your trainers on, opt for the guided runs. Choose intervals that suit you and your ability.

The Rambling Runner

You don’t have to be a pro runner to listen to the Rambling Runner Podcast. This is a show dedicated to amateurs all around the world. Host Matt Chittim takes you through the basics of balancing your love of running with your busy lifestyle. Expect episodes focussed on how to train when you’re working full-time and the science of recovery. No matter what your current fitness level is, you’re sure to find this informative podcast useful.

Running Commentary

Looking for something to take your mind off your next gruelling run? Running Commentary should be your elixir of choice. The comic-running hybrid podcast is a must-listen. Paul Tonkinson and Rob Deering deliver each podcast as they run. (Yes, you read that correctly!) Throughout each show, the pair of comedians talk about comedy, life and, of course, running. You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, but you won’t feel alone while running.

podcasts for running motivation

Diz Runs

Denny Krahe believes that the best conversations take place when running with others. That’s the premise of the Diz Runs podcast. In each episode, he speaks to a new guest in the same way he would if they were his new running partner. The podcast covers a range of important running topics, such as strength training, how to manage fatigue and how to get faster. If you’re looking for a way to boost your workouts, you’ve found it.

Cook Eat Run

To become a great runner, you need to fuel your body. Registered Dietitian, Charlie Watson, helps you solve that problem in her podcast, Cook Eat Run. The entertaining episodes offer a mixture of running advice and nutrition expertise. From ‘Intuitive Eating for Runners’ to ‘Sustainable Running’, there are many topics you’re sure to love. What’s more, the podcast only started a few months ago, which means you can easily catch up on it.

The Morning Shakeout

Released every Tuesday morning, this podcast by Mario Fraioli is an insightful look into the world of running. Taking an analytical approach to the topic, the host delves into the running community and how you can improve your workouts. The Morning Shakeout also features a variety of interesting guests, from pro runners to coaches. If you’re already a decent runner and want to learn more about the sport, it’s well worth listening to this one.

running podcasts to listen to

The Takeaway!

It’s time to start listening. If you’re lacking the motivation you need to get out there, let these shows guide the way. Of course, the type of podcast that suits you will depend on your unique style of running. With that in mind, it’s worth subscribing to a few and seeing which ones motivate your workouts. Figure out what works for you and take things from there. Ready, steady, get running!