The Long Run: Training Smarter, Not Harder episode artwork

EPISODE · Feb 13, 2026 · 34 MIN

The Long Run: Training Smarter, Not Harder

from Back of the Pack Podcast · host Kyle Walker

This week, we move deeper into our Running & Aging series by getting practical about what training actually needs to look like as we get older. As runners in our mid-40s and beyond, we can’t rely on brute force or outdated plans anymore, but that doesn’t mean we’re slowing down or giving anything up. We break down what physically changes as we age, the most common mistakes masters runners make, and how to train smarter through better structure, strength work, recovery, and intentional intensity. From building weekly schedules that respect recovery to understanding why strength training and sleep are no longer optional, this episode is all about keeping us healthy, consistent, and running strong for years to come. This isn’t about chasing who we used to be—it’s about building the best version of who we are now.

This week, we move deeper into our Running & Aging series by getting practical about what training actually needs to look like as we get older. As runners in our mid-40s and beyond, we can’t rely on brute force or outdated plans anymore, but that doesn’t mean we’re slowing down or giving anything up. We break down what physically changes as we age, the most common mistakes masters runners make, and how to train smarter through better structure, strength work, recovery, and intentional intensity. From building weekly schedules that respect recovery to understanding why strength training and sleep are no longer optional, this episode is all about keeping us healthy, consistent, and running strong for years to come. This isn’t about chasing who we used to be—it’s about building the best version of who we are now.

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The Long Run: Training Smarter, Not Harder

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This episode was published on February 13, 2026.

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This week, we move deeper into our Running & Aging series by getting practical about what training actually needs to look like as we get older. As runners in our mid-40s and beyond, we can’t rely on brute force or outdated plans anymore, but that...

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