Run for Your Life: Why Running Is the Best Drug

Can Running Be for Everyone? Community, Motivation & Smarter Training with PacePalJon is joined by Mike from PacePal — a running app that’s changing how people connect, stay motivated, and build a habit around running. From solo joggers to complete beginners, this episode explores how tech, community and psychology can make running accessible to all.Mike shares how his own marathon journey led to the creation of the app, why group accountability makes all the difference, and what most people get wrong when they start out. From injury prevention to dopamine hits, it’s a goldmine of insight for PTs and runners alike.If your clients say, “I wish I loved running” — this is the episode to send them.00:00 Intro to PacePal01:30 The idea behind the app03:00 Building community through running05:00 The psychology of rewards and social motivation07:00 How PacePal supports beginners10:00 Avoiding burnout and injury12:00 The walk-run method (and why it works)14:00 The 10% rule explained16:00 Marathon journeys and real-life lessons18:00 Why most new runners overdo it20:00 Data, dopamine and social media22:00 The truth about consistency⸻💥 Key Topics: • How to make running more inclusive and sustainable • Motivation hacks for new and lapsed runners • The power of community, connection and group runs • Mistakes most people make when starting out • Mike’s marathon progression and recovery tips • Smart use of running data — and when to ignore it • Why the dopamine from running hits different • How PTs can support clients with ADHD or low intrinsic drive⸻👊 For coaches + PTs:If you’ve got clients who want to start running but never stick with it, this episode gives you tools and talking points that work — from pacing and progressions to motivation and mindset.👍 Like this episode? Hit that thumbs up!🔔 Subscribe for weekly PT tips & expert training content: / @stormfitnessacademyltd⸻🔗 PacePal Links👉 Website: www.pacepal.co.uk👉 Instagram: @pacepaluk👉 TikTok: @pacepaluk👍 Like this episode? Hit that thumbs up!🔔 Subscribe for weekly PT tips & expert training content: / @stormfitnessacademyltd#PacePal#RunningCommunity#RunningMotivation#StartRunning#InclusiveFitness#RunTogether#SmartTraining#RunningForBeginners#10PercentRule#WalkRunMethod#DopamineFix#PTTips#StormFitnessAcademy#MentalHealthRunning#RunClubsUK