263. Get READY for Your FIRST Half Marathon with Coach LaToya Felton
Release Date: 02/20/2025
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...
info_outlineHealthy Runner Podcast
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...
info_outlineHealthy Runner Podcast
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...
info_outlineHealthy Runner Podcast
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...
info_outlineHealthy Runner Podcast
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: ...
info_outlineHealthy Runner Podcast
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,...
info_outlineHealthy Runner Podcast
🏃♂️ 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....
info_outlineHealthy Runner Podcast
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...
info_outlineHealthy Runner Podcast
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...
info_outlineHealthy Runner Podcast
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_outlineJOIN Waitlist for Team Half Marathon Coaching!
Did you know that 2 million people completed a half marathon last year? Imagine being part of that community!
Many first-time runners feel overwhelmed by the idea of running 13.1 miles, often unsure where to start or how to stay motivated.
In this episode, you’ll learn everything you need to prepare for your first half marathon, from choosing the right plan to the best strength training during half marathon training. Our comprehensive half marathon training for beginners will set you up for success to conquer YOUR FIRST Half Marathon!
Coach LaToya Felton from our Spark Healthy Runner coaching team covers the essential training plans, running tips, and mental strategies to help you build confidence and endurance as race day approaches.
As a bonus for listening to the full episode, you’ll learn the top three tips that could make or break your half marathon experience, ensuring you cross that finish line with a smile!
We cover this and so much more!
- How many weeks should I train for a half marathon
- How to choose the right half marathon training plan
- How fast should I run for half marathon training
- How many miles should I run for half marathon training
- How many rest days should I take during half marathon training
- How long should your long run be in half marathon training
- Should I strength train while training for a half marathon
- Should I cross-train when training for my first half marathon
- Should I race before my first half marathon
- Top three tips that could make or break your half marathon experience
- Misconception about getting ready for your first half marathon
[Download] Half Marathon Training Kickstart Kit: Start Strong and Stay Injury Free!
There are six parts of your running journey that need to be optimized so you can run strong and last long! Learn them here.
Want Dr. Duane to answer your half marathon question on the podcast? Submit your running and health questions here
Related Resources:
25 Minute Level 1 Strength for Runners “SPARK 7”
Get all of coach LaToya’s previous episodes as well as her full bio here!
Join the Waitlist and learn more about Half Marathon Group Coaching Here
Listen to my previous episode on determining if you are ready to run your first half marathon here!
Listen to my previous episode on half marathon fueling here!
Listen to my previous episode on the top 5 half marathon mistakes to avoid here!
Listen to my previous episode on unlocking my fastest half marathon time in 7 years here!
Listen to my previous episode on half marathon prep the week before your race here!
Want a structured run and strength plan with motivation and accountability to reach your highest running potential and continue to get faster? Book a call to learn more about Healthy Runner coaching!
A big thanks to ucan for your support for this episode!
Click here to get a FREE UCAN Edge starter pack (you’ll just pay the cost of shipping), and use code HEALTHYRUNNER for 20% off your next UCAN order.
Connect with coach LaToya Felton:
- Instagram: @llf423
- Email: [email protected]
- Healthy Runner Facebook Community
Connect with Dr. Duane:
- Instagram - @sparkhealthyrunner
- Join Our Healthy Runner Facebook Community
- Subscribe to our YouTube Channel
Listen & Subscribe: