Fasted running: Smart strategy or risky habit?


Hi runners, 👋🏼

Katelyn here with newsletter #695!

Based on our latest mailbag episode, today's newsletter dives deeper into some of the thoughtful questions you’ve been sending our way, covering fueling, returning from setbacks, and balancing running with family life.

  • Fasted running: When it actually makes sense: Is running on an empty stomach helpful—or harmful? We break down the science, safety considerations, and who fasted running may (or may not) work for.
  • How to adjust your training plan after injury or illness: A smart, step-by-step guide to rebuilding fitness after time off, without rushing the process or risking another setback.
  • Our bold predictions for the running world in 2026: From marathon majors to records, shoes, and tech, the forces reshaping the sport
  • How to teach your kids to love running: Running can be a healthy, fun family activity. Here’s how to introduce kids to movement in a way that builds confidence and long-term enjoyment.
  • If you missed it: Our biggest mailbag episode of 2025: We tackle your top listener questions on training, fueling, and everything in between in our most wide-ranging Q&A yet.

Happy running! 🏃🏻‍♀️⭐

Katelyn Tocci
Managing Editor
Head Coach

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What’s A Good Marathon Time? Average Marathon Times By Age, Sex + Ability

What’s A Good Marathon Time? Average Marathon Times By Age, Sex + Ability

Fasted Running: Benefits, Risks, And When It Actually Makes Sense

Running on an empty stomach has never worked well for me, but for some runners, fasted runs fit perfectly.

This guide breaks down when fasted running might make sense, when it doesn’t, and how to decide what’s best for your body.

What’s A Good Marathon Time? Average Marathon Times By Age, Sex + Ability

What’s A Good Marathon Time? Average Marathon Times By Age, Sex + Ability

How To Teach Your Kids To Love Running And Exercise

One of our recent listener questions asked how to fit running into life with kids—and Michael’s answer was simple: let them run with you when they can.

We show you how to turn that idea into a positive experience and help your kids genuinely enjoy running and movement.

What’s A Good Marathon Time? Average Marathon Times By Age, Sex + Ability

What’s A Good Marathon Time? Average Marathon Times By Age, Sex + Ability

Our Bold Predictions For The Running World In 2026

Big changes in running don’t arrive overnight. They creep in, then suddenly feel inevitable.

These aren’t wild guesses, but bold predictions built from signals the sport is already sending.

What’s A Good Marathon Time? Average Marathon Times By Age, Sex + Ability

What’s A Good Marathon Time? Average Marathon Times By Age, Sex + Ability

From Setback to Comeback: How to Adjust Your Training Plan After Injury Or Illness

One of our recent viewer questions came from a runner returning after a serious car accident, reminding us how tough it can be to rebuild fitness after forced time off.

This guide breaks down how to return to training safely, rebuild consistency, and avoid rushing the process after injury or illness.

What’s A Good Marathon Time? Average Marathon Times By Age, Sex + Ability

What’s A Good Marathon Time? Average Marathon Times By Age, Sex + Ability

Latest Podcast: Mailbag Episode: Your Training, Fueling, And Racing Questions, Answered

In our biggest mailbag episode of 2025, Michael Doyle, Alex Cyr, and Katelyn Tocci answer dozens of listener questions on training, fueling, mindset, gear, and marathon goals.

Topics include: running and weight fluctuation, fueling strategies, fasted running, Boston Qualifiers, sub-3 marathon planning, winter training, injury comebacks, shoe rotations, confidence before big races, strength training with injuries, and how life changes—like becoming a parent—impact training.

Whether you’re chasing a PB, training through winter, returning from injury, or figuring out your first marathon, this episode is packed with practical advice and honest conversations for runners at every level.

Or listen and subscribe to the show wherever you get your podcasts:

Ready to kick off the new year with a big running goal, but not sure where to start? 🏃‍♀️✨

Meet Katelyn, our UESCA-certified running coach with over a decade of experience guiding runners of all levels—whether you’re chasing your first 5K, aiming for a marathon time goal, or lining up for an ultra. The start of a new year is the perfect time to set a bold goal and build a smart plan to reach it.

As a passionate ultra-runner herself, Katelyn understands the highs, lows, and everything in between. She’ll create a training plan tailored to you—your fitness, your schedule, and your ambitions.

With unlimited messaging, ongoing feedback, and twice-monthly video check-ins, you’ll have the guidance and support to stay consistent all year long.

Your next breakthrough starts now—let’s make this your strongest year yet. 💪🏼

Feedback? Hit reply and start a conversation with our team.

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