#272 Aisling Ryan: Conquering Half Marathons, Cork Half Marathon, Overcoming ED and more

This week's guest on the Any Given Runday Podcast is Aisling Ryan (@aisling_r on Instagram), Aisling boasts multiple podium finishes in half marathons with a 1:18 PB along with a 35:50 10K. She was also a leader in Cork City Half Marathon 2025 In this episode, Aisling talks about her early love for sports, overcoming a severe illness, and finding her passion for running during COVID. Discover how running became her escape, her experiences with local running clubs, and why she excels in the half marathon race. Aisling also opens up about her struggle with an eating disorder, the road to recovery, and advice for anyone facing similar challenges. 10:10 Introduction to Aisling Ryan 10:45 Aisling's Early Involvement in Sports and Transition to Running During COVID 17:19 Joining a Running Club 23:13 Struggles with an Eating Disorder 26:54 Strength Training and Recovery 32:53 Moving to Switzerland 36:57 Becoming a Leader at Cork City Half Marathon 37:25 Sharing Personal Stories to Inspire Others 39:26 Reflecting on Half Marathons and Future Goals 48:20 Training Structure and Coaching Insights 52:27 Social Media and Perfectionism You can follow us on Instagram: @anygivenrundaypodcast In the intro to this week's episode, Sean talks about the Marathon Strong programme. A 16 week Strength Training programme building you towards the Dublin Marathon. For more details on it and how to sign up (discount code AGR to get 25% off!), click on the link below: https://www.coachseanc.com/marathonstrong Seán also talks about the exercises he's been following to help get him over his Achilles tendonitis that you can watch here: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=qt75npMxk3I The Ultrapure 5K Running Bundle is a must have for your running routine. Shop HERE Get the AGR Ultrapure Sprint Bundle HERE with the exclusive AGR Bobble Hat!! If you've never had your VO₂ max or metabolism measured, there's a good chance you're training at the wrong intensity, missing valuable adaptations, or getting your race nutrition wrong. Health Matters replaces guesswork with data. With over 15 years of experience, they're one of Europe's most experienced performance testing providers. Find out more or book your test at myhealthmatters.ie. ALTAR Speed Dust is engineered to keep fuel in your tank so you can go faster, farther and longer than ever before. Use the code AGR15 to get 15% off at checkout (excludes bundles). altarfuel.com