258. How to Start Running (6 Steps) with Dr. Duane Scotti
Release Date: 01/09/2025
Healthy Runner Podcast
Most runners skip one of the simplest, fastest ways to get quicker, smoother, and more injury-resistant — strides. In this episode of the Healthy Runner Podcast, Dr. Duane Scotti breaks down everything you need to know about strides — the most underrated tool in your running toolbox. Whether you’re chasing a marathon PR, training for your first 5K, or just want to make running feel easier, strides can change the game. You’ll learn: What strides actually are (and what they are NOT) Why they improve speed, efficiency, and injury resilience at any age How to perform strides...
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Are you over 40 and feeling like recovery takes longer than it used to? Struggling with lingering aches, slower bounce-backs, or training fatigue that just won’t quit? You’re not alone — and you don’t have to settle for feeling “past your prime.” In this episode of the Healthy Runner Podcast, Dr. Duane Scotti is joined by Coach Sara Manderscheid, founder of Elevate Your Running Coaching in Boulder, Colorado, to uncover 5 essential recovery secrets every masters runner needs to know. Together, they break down what recovery really looks like in your 40s, 50s, and beyond — and how...
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Still dealing with stubborn Achilles pain — even after trying rest, PT, or all the “right” exercises? You’re not alone… and chances are, you might be making one of the most common mistakes that’s actually stopping your tendon from healing. In this special Q&A episode, Dr. Duane Scotti answers your most asked questions about insertional vs. mid-portion Achilles tendonitis, running with pain, heel drops, shoes, recovery timelines, and more. - Should you stop running completely? - Are heel drops hurting or helping? - How often should you do Achilles exercises? - What’s...
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Ever felt like you did everything right in your training — strength work, recovery, stretching, sleep — and still got injured? You’re not alone… and it’s not your fault. In this powerful episode of the Healthy Runner Podcast, I’m joined by Dr. Victoria Sekely — a fellow running physical therapist and coach — to unpack the real truth about running injuries that social media often leaves out. We dive deep into: ✅ Why runners still get injured even when they follow “perfect” plans ✅ How social media sets unrealistic expectations around injury prevention ✅ The hidden...
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Tired of stretching, foam rolling, or buying new shoes — only to still end up injured? In this episode, Dr. Duane Scotti pulls back the curtain on the real system that helps adult runners stay strong, consistent, and injury-free. You’ll learn the exact 5-stage framework used inside the Healthy Runner Program to prevent injuries before they start — so you can train smarter, avoid setbacks, and hit your race goals with confidence. Whether you’re starting fresh, bouncing back from an injury, or chasing a new PR… this system works because it evolves with you. 🎯 What You’ll Learn: ...
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Is stubborn Achilles pain keeping you from running the way you want to? In this powerful episode, we sit down with a former professional runner and CEO of , Tina Muir who shares her personal journey through insertional Achilles tendinopathy — from the frustration of chronic pain to the difficult decision to undergo surgery, and ultimately, her triumphant return to running. You’ll hear what it really takes to recover both physically and mentally, how she navigated setbacks, and what made the biggest difference in finally running pain-free. Whether you’re managing heel pain now,...
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🏃♂️ Ready to run your strongest marathon yet? In this special episode, Coach Duane shares an exciting announcement: Team 26.2, the only group marathon training program built for lifelong injury-free running, is officially open — but only for 5 days! If you're tired of nagging injuries, confused by cookie-cutter training plans, or just want to feel confident heading into your next marathon… this is for you. Team 26.2 is designed specifically for adult runners who want to train smarter, stay healthy, and finally reach their marathon goals with structure, support, and strength....
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Are you tired of injuries derailing your marathon dreams? You're not alone—70% of runners get injured during marathon training. But it doesn’t have to be that way. In this game-changing episode, Dr. Duane Scotti—physical therapist, running coach, and founder of Spark Healthy Runner—shares the proven 6-step framework he’s used to help thousands of runners train smart, stay strong, and cross the 26.2 finish line pain-free. Whether you’re a first-time marathoner or a seasoned runner who’s been stuck in the injury cycle, this episode will show you exactly what it takes to stay...
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Think running a sub-3 marathon is only for elite athletes? Think again. Whether you're a fast-track competitor, an ultra runner looking to pivot, or a dedicated recreational runner — cracking that 3-hour barrier is possible… with the right plan. In this episode, our marathon training expert, coach from our Spark Healthy Runner coaching team breaks down the exact fitness benchmarks, weekly mileage, and key training strategies you need to finally make that sub-3 dream a reality — plus 6 game-changing training tips and 5 in-race tactics that separate the runners who...
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Ever trained harder than ever for a marathon — nailed every long run, crushed the speed work, felt stronger than ever — only to have race day fall apart? That’s exactly what happened during my 5th marathon at the Steel Rail Marathon. I made one key mistake that completely sabotaged my race… and it had nothing to do with how fit I was. In this episode, I’m sharing what went wrong, why it happened, and how you can avoid making the same costly error — especially if you’re chasing a PR, qualifying time, or just want to run strong and healthy to the finish. 👉 If you believe more...
info_outline[DOWNLOAD] The Ultimate Beginner Guide for Runners
If I was going to start running in 2025 this is the exact 6-Step process that I would follow!
Our runners have actually been using this for years to start running and stick with it so they could improve their health and feel better not only physically but mentally as well!
Over the past 5 years, I have created and redefined the #1 way to stay healthy while running well into your 40’s, 50’s, and beyond. Our services and community have helped over 500 runners hit their running goals (even if they were a beginner or recovering from an injury).
But I have a disclaimer for you…this system isn’t some magic pill.
You actually have to…run consistently, you’re going to have to stop procrastinating and take the plunge into the deep end of the pool and commit at least a few hours a week into doing specific runs, exercises, and learning about nutrition in order to take up running as an adult.
If you follow this system, you might be surprised at how quickly you enjoy running and how quickly you can start feeling stronger and running longer
In this episode, I will break down the entire process of how to start running using this 6-Step process and I will also share with you 3 common mistakes beginner runners make when starting out.
Listen to my previous episode on beginner running tips with coach Cat here!
Listen to my previous episode on why strength training is your foundation for running here!
Listen to my previous episode on how to build a solid foundation for your race with base training here!
Follow along with my 25 Minute Strength Workout for Runners (TO RUN PAIN FREE)
Want Dr. Duane to answer your question on the podcast? Submit questions here
Spark off your running journey with a 4 month strong body transformation!
Want to fast track your growth in strengthening your body for running and get clarity and focus to enjoy lifelong injury free running?
Book a call and learn more about Strong Body Coaching here!
A big thanks to Naboso for your support for this episode!
Want to know how I prioritize achilles and foot health to prevent achilles tendonitis? Kinesis board and toe splays from Naboso!
Naboso’s product, the Kinesis board, features dual sensory stimulation, a micro-wobble system and a single-leg platform to improve my stability for running!
Click here and use code HEALTHYRUNNER for 20% off your entire Naboso order!
Connect with Dr. Duane:
- Instagram - @sparkhealthyrunner
- Join Our Healthy Runner Facebook Community
- Subscribe to our YouTube Channel
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