Should I Run Today?
Should You Run Today?
Deciding whether to run through discomfort is a common challenge for runners. The key is distinguishing between "good pain"—minor stiffness or niggles that improve with movement—and "bad pain," which is sharp, persistent, worsens over time, or affects daily activities.
If your pain is mild and improving, modifying your training (such as adjusting intensity or terrain) may be an option. However, if the pain is severe, persistent, or linked to an old injury, rest, cross-training, or medical advice may be necessary. A small test run can help assess your limits, but gradual adjustments and proper recovery are crucial to staying on track.
Couples who run together…
For nearly a decade, Cody and Viv have shared miles and memories, with Viv leading the way. While running brought them together, their styles couldn’t be more different—she’s dedicated, while he runs mostly for the post-run feast!
Their friendly rivalry sparks playful frustration, especially when Cody wins races with minimal training. But their support for each other runs deep, from Viv’s half marathon dedication to Cody’s strong race finishes. Whether side by side or pushing each other from afar, running remains a special part of their journey together.
Couples who run together…
For nearly 19 years, Nikki has been chasing Brad—literally. What started as her passion soon became his, turning running into something that binds them. Their friendly rivalry keeps things fun, from PB battles to weekly mileage debates.
Brad admires Nikki’s dedication, especially her Comrades Marathon finish, while she finds inspiration in his disciplined training. Whether side by side or pushing each other from afar, running isn’t just a sport for them—it’s a shared journey.
Fast 5 with Merle Want
Merle raised the bat to the crowd recently by completing her 50th marathon! Melbourne was her 51st, and we presented her with a medal after the MM to acknowledge this stellar achievement. Merle is a font of running wisdom, and iI value our occasional chats about our running philosophies. I asked her if she was allowed to pass on only one piece of advice to any runner, what would it be. "To find someone whose advice you trust (too many cooks spoil the broth) and even more importantly always have fun". Can't think of a better time or person to tackle this edition of Fast 5!
Em“bracing” for Winter Running
There is a lot of research out there that reveals that the ideal temperature range for most groups of runners falls somewhere between 7 and 15° degrees. It also suggests that below and above this range, marathon finish times tend to become slower, on average. As a Melburnian surely our training conditions are something to be proud of right?
We also know how to dress run-appropriate for our winter temps. Or do we?
Global Running Day
Every runner has their own unique relationship with running. Sometimes we hate it. Sometimes we are injured. Sometimes we feel like we are invincible. We get nervous. We talk endlessly about gear, nutrition, routes, events and the list goes on. We track our data as if our lives depended on it. We are a weird bunch.
But we have one thing in common - we need to run. Day after day. Because there is something primal about running that delivers optimism and hope. It’s deeply personal but has strong roots in community. It’s competitive but very supportive. You don’t need much equipment.. You can do it alone or in a group. You can do it almost anywhere, anytime. It brings people together.
This is my story.
Fast 5 with the legendary Jane Sturzaker
Jane Sturzaker is a LEGEND of marathon running. Having run more marathons than any other Australian female (and most males), she has plenty of wisdom and running tales to share. Coach Wooly was lucky to be able to ask her a few questions about some of her favourites and what keeps her running.
Fast 5 with Sarah McKay
Marathon training is as much about the mind as it is about the body. So much can go wrong when we are training for 12-16 weeks, and during the event itself. How we deal with these curveballs can change the way we experience these set backs. Sarah McKay talks to us about dealing with injuries, race plans that don’t go to plan and running goals after having a child.
EVENTS ARE BACK!
Eventing is back. We may feel the need to push ourselves to the limit again. But my question is do you know what your new limit is? If not, you are risking pushing way too hard, and getting into the cycle of injury and disappointment I have experienced over the past couple of years.
Fast 5 with Tess Woodland
The theme of the last few years has been disruption and cancellation. Tess experienced this when, after a solid training block, had the GC Marathon cancelled with a few days notice. We asked Tess how she responded to this disappointing news and what she did next to capitalize on all her training.
Fast 5 with Stewart Nickols
Our good friend and runner, Stewart Nickols, has had a tough year, on top of covid he has been dealing with a very complex heart condition, that stopped him running and had him searching for answers. We asked him a few questions to find out what exactly is going on, how he has coped and what’s in store ahead.
Benefits of group training
Starting with a new fitness group can be nerve-wracking. After all, you are putting yourself out there in what can be unfamiliar turf, and your mind can throw in some pretty powerful tricks to make starting something new all the more difficult. But once you’ve made the call to turn up, the benefits can be life-changing an idea.
Winter is coming.
If you master your mindset and training approach in winter you’ll get a brilliant block of running into you and by the time spring hits, you’ll be ahead of where you’d be if you hibernate!
Naked running
If it’s not on Strava, it didn’t happen….we’ve all heard this. However running with no tech, aka ‘naked’ has many benefits. Switching off the watch means switching off from the day, gives you time to process, be on your own, in your own space, away from distractions and something telling you what you need to do.
Events are back
Some of us are experiencing a flat spot right now. And given where we have been over the past 12 months, understandable. Like group training, running in an event brings on so many mental health benefits. Motivation, social connection, that personal sense of pride when that challenge has been met, healthy distraction from the noise around us, accountability, and a massive confidence injection. These are big boxes ticked on your wellbeing journey!