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56. Marathon Training, Injuries & Mental Health: Coaching, Community & Consistency
01:23:36||Season 4, Ep. 56After a short break, Rob, Ben and Emma are back — catching up on life, running, and everything in between.In this episode, the trio reconnect to talk openly about work–life balance, coaching, and how injuries, setbacks, and winter training can shape both performance and mindset.The conversation centres on Ben’s recent running journey, including injury frustrations, marathon training adjustments, and the mental challenges that come with interrupted plans. Alongside this, Rob and Emma share coaching insights on feedback, accountability, and why strength training and sensible progression are non-negotiables for endurance athletes.They also dive into the psychology of training — from heart rate zones and long-run lessons to managing expectations, pressure, and enjoyment. With reflections on Christmas, snowy runs, local routes, and the balance between competition and community, the episode highlights how mental health, connection, and consistency underpin long-term progress.Honest, thoughtful, and grounded in real coaching experience, this episode is a reminder to run your own race, adjust when needed, and lean on community when training gets tough.HighlightsReconnecting after a break and resetting prioritiesWork–life balance and managing training alongside real lifeBen’s injury setbacks and marathon training reflectionsThe role of coaching, feedback, and accountabilityStrength training and injury prevention for runnersHeart rate training and endurance developmentThe psychology of running and managing pressureCommunity support vs competitionWinter training challenges (including snowy runs)Running for mental health, enjoyment, and longevityRemember to follow us on Instagram, subscribe on YouTube, and watch us LIVE every Monday.And don’t forget — join the Couch to Coached Strava run club by searching Couch to Coached on Strava.
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55. Christmas Day special
27:35||Season 4, Ep. 55ITS CHRISTMAS!!!!🎄 Christmas Day Special – Couch to Coached Running Podcast 🎄Merry Christmas, everyone! 🎅✨In this festive Christmas Day episode of the Couch to Coached Running Podcast, Rob, Ben, and Emma settle in for a relaxed end-of-year chat and answer three fun (and slightly reflective) questions to wrap up 2025 in style.They look back on their highlights from 2025, sharing the moments, milestones, and memories that made the year special. Then it’s eyes forward as they talk about what they’re most looking forward to in 2026, both on the running front and beyond. Finally, things get a little playful as they reveal what’s on their Christmas lists this year — running-related or otherwise. 🎁🏃♂️It’s a light-hearted, feel-good episode full of laughs, gratitude, and festive cheer — the perfect companion for a Christmas Day walk, run, or food-coma recovery jog.🎄🎙️ MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE — and thank you for being part of the Couch to Coached Running community!
54. Couch to Coached Gold: Mental health Wanderer
21:50||Season 4, Ep. 54Couch to Coached Gold: Mental health WandererWelcome back to Couch to Coached Gold, where we dust off the classics and bring you the very best moments from the early days of the podcast.In this special Gold episode, we revisit one of our most powerful and meaningful conversations during our mental health week — our chat with Gareth Jones, also known as The Mental Health Wanderer.Gareth joined Rob and Ben to talk openly about mental health, vulnerability, and why something as simple as walking can be a lifeline. Through honest storytelling and lived experience, he shares how movement, nature, and connection have shaped his own mental health journey — and why creating safe spaces for conversation matters more than ever.If you’re navigating your own mental health, supporting someone else, or simply looking for a quieter, more thoughtful listen — this Gold episode is one worth revisiting.
53. Running Through Christmas: Training Consistency, Parkrun Goals & Community Support
53:04||Season 4, Ep. 53Running through the holidays isn’t always easy — especially when you’re feeling under the weather.In this episode, Rob and Emma share honest personal updates as they juggle health, training, and the festive season, while still showing up for their running routines.The conversation covers everything from maintaining consistency ahead of marathon training to parkrun goals, segment success, and the small wins that keep motivation high. Emma reflects on building mileage and recent performance highlights, while Rob shares his thoughts on personal progress and why recognising achievements matters — no matter how big or small.Community remains at the heart of the episode, with a big focus on the Run up 2 Christmas initiative and its role in supporting mental health and combating loneliness during the holiday period. Rob and Emma celebrate their team’s success in the challenge, discuss upcoming Christmas runs and parkruns, and finish by sharing inspiring stories from within the running community.Honest, encouraging, and grounded in real life, this episode is a reminder that consistency, community, and connection matter just as much as the miles.HighlightsTraining and running while feeling under the weatherStaying consistent ahead of marathon preparationParkrun goals, performance, and segment successCelebrating personal achievements in runningThe impact of Couch to Coach on mental healthCommunity support and shared motivationChristmas running plans and festive parkrunsTeam success in the Couch to Coach challengeInspiring stories from the wider running communityRemember to follow us on Instagram, subscribe on YouTube, and watch us LIVE every Monday.And don’t forget — join the Couch to Coached Strava run club by searching Couch to Coached on Strava.
52. National Running Show 2026: What to Expect, Speakers, Exhibitors & Community
21:25||Season 4, Ep. 52What makes the National Running Show one of the biggest dates in the running calendar?In this episode, Rob and Emma are joined by Lottie Faulkner to go behind the scenes of the National Running Show and explore what makes it such a standout event for runners of all abilities.Lottie shares insight into how the show comes together—from curating a diverse and inspiring lineup of guest speakers to working with exhibitors and brands that shape the running industry. The conversation highlights the importance of collaboration, networking, and community, and why the show has become far more than just an expo—it’s a true meeting place for the running world.They also discuss what attendees can expect on the day, including family-friendly activities, opportunities to discover new gear, hear from industry voices, and connect with like-minded runners. With ticket information, behind-the-scenes stories, and plenty of excitement for what’s to come, this episode is a must-listen for anyone thinking about attending.Whether you’re new to running or deep into the community, this episode captures the energy, opportunity, and sense of belonging that make the National Running Show so special.HighlightsWhat makes the National Running Show a major event for runnersThe speaker lineup and how guests are selectedWhy exhibitors and brands are key to the show’s successNetworking and collaboration within the running communityBehind-the-scenes challenges of organising guest speakersFamily-friendly elements of the eventTicket information and how to get involvedWhy there’s truly something for every runner
52. NEW 5 with the listeners- Special guest Jenna Lennox
23:04||Season 4, Ep. 52Couch to Coached – AWARD-WINNING Running Podcast5 With The Listeners – Our 5 With The Listeners series has been refreshed and rebooted — new questions, new logo, new vibes.Rob, Ben, and Emma sit down with our latest featured listener to explore their running story in a whole new way. We dig into:What their running shoes would say about themWhat’s in their desert-island running survival kitWhat running has taught themAnd joining us for this exciting relaunch as nominated last week by Claire Allman is Jenna Lennox (chairperson from Audley Striders)Rob and Emma also check in on this week’s Strava leaderboard — who’s on top, who’s rising fast, and of course…who gets the all-important SHOUTOUT OF THE WEEEEEEEEK!Want to support Rob & Ben?They’re fundraising for North Staffordshire Combined Healthcare NHS Trust UK — follow the link to donate.Don’t forget:✅ Follow us on Instagram✅ Subscribe on YouTube✅ Watch LIVE every MondayAnd while you’re at it, join the Couch to Coached Run Club on Strava — just search for “Couch to Coached”.
51. Couch to Coached Gold: Mr Motivator
19:36||Season 4, Ep. 51Couch to Coached Gold: Mr Motivator – The Original Fitness IconWelcome back to Couch to Coached Gold, where we dust off the classics and bring you the very best moments from the early days of the podcast.In this gold episode, Rob and Ben sit down with a true 1990s legend — Mr Motivator.From transforming mornings across the nation in Lycra to spreading a message of movement, positivity, and inclusivity, Mr Motivator shares his journey, his purpose, and why fitness should always be for everyone. It’s uplifting, insightful, and packed with the infectious energy that made him a household name.A timeless conversation with an icon who helped get the UK moving — and still does.Classic. Positive. Pure Gold.