The RunSensible Podcast

Chasing Two Hours: The Race That Changed the Marathon

The two-hour marathon barrier has finally fallen. At the 2026 London Marathon, Sabastian Sawe ran 1:59:30, becoming the first athlete to break two hours in an official race. Just seconds behind him, Yomif Kejelcha also dipped under the barrier in his marathon debut. It should be one of the greatest moments in the history of distance running. But the story isn’t that simple. In this episode we break down the performance, the science, and the controversies surrounding the modern marathon. We explore the dominance of Kenyan distance running and the uncomfortable questions raised by the country’s long list of doping bans. We look at the coaching networks behind elite athletes and the scrutiny they face. We also dive into the technology revolution transforming endurance sport from carbon-plated racing shoes like the Nike Vaporfly and Adidas Adizero Adios Pro Evo 3 to the fueling strategies pushing human physiology to new limits. And we revisit the legacy of the controversial Nike Oregon Project and its banned coach Alberto Salazar, whose influence still echoes through elite distance running. Is the sub-2 marathon the greatest endurance breakthrough of all time — or a symbol of how much the sport has changed? This episode explores the science, technology, ethics, and trust behind the fastest marathon ever run.

Inside VO₂ Max Testing with Sean Kinane: The Data That Drives Better Training

In this episode, I sit down in the studio with Sean Kinane from Health Matters for a deep dive into the science of performance testing. With over 13 years of experience and more VO₂ max tests conducted than anyone else in the world, Sean has built an unparalleled understanding of how the body responds to exercise under the microscope. Together we unpack the methodology behind VO₂ max and metabolic testing, how the tests actually work and what the numbers truly mean. We explore the key data points these assessments reveal from aerobic capacity and substrate utilisation to training zones and how athletes, coaches and everyday exercisers can use this information to train smarter, not just harder. If you've ever wondered what happens in a lab test, how accurate your training zones really are, or how metabolic data can transform your performance and health, this conversation breaks it all down in a practical, accessible way. You can follow Sean on Instagram @healthmattersire

When Running Saves You: Helen Ryvar's Extraordinary Story

In this powerful and deeply inspiring episode, I sit down with Helen Ryvar to explore an extraordinary journey of resilience, healing, and rediscovery. After facing profound life challenges, including mental health struggles and the devastating loss of her husband, Helen found herself searching for a way to rebuild her sense of self, her health, and her purpose. What began as a simple step forward through running gradually transformed into something remarkable. Helen went on to complete 1,000 half marathons in 1,000 consecutive days, an achievement that speaks not just to physical endurance but to the strength of the human spirit. In our conversation, Helen shares the raw reality behind the miles: how running helped her reclaim her self-worth, navigate grief, rebuild her mental and physical health and find meaning through movevent and community. This episode is packed with honesty, lived experience and powerful life lessons about perseverance, healing, and the transformative power of putting one foot in front of the other — even when life feels impossible. Whether you're a runner, someone facing your own challenges, or simply looking for inspiration, Helen’s story will stay with you long after the episode ends.

London Marathon 2026 Review: Sub 2, World Records & Shoes

The 2026 London Marathon may go down as one of the greatest races in marathon history. In this episode we break down the stunning performances that redefined what’s possible over 26.2 miles. Kenya’s Sabastian Sawe made history by running 1:59:30, becoming the first athlete to break the two-hour barrier in official race conditions at the London Marathon. Behind him, Yomif Kejelcha also dipped under two hours, while Jacob Kiplimo completed one of the fastest podiums ever assembled. On the women’s side, Tigst Assefa delivered a historic run with a women’s-only world record, holding off marathon stars Hellen Obiri and Joyciline Jepkosgei in an incredibly deep race. We also look at the role of super-shoe technology — including the Adidas Adizero Adios Pro Evo 3 — and how modern racing shoes continue to reshape elite marathon performance. Finally, we tackle the difficult but important conversation around doping in Kenyan athletics. With historic performances and ongoing anti-doping concerns, how should fans interpret these results, and what does it mean for trust in the sport? Topics covered: * The historic men’s race and the first official sub-2 marathon * Women’s podium and the women’s-only world record * The super-shoe arms race in elite marathoning * Doping controversies in Kenyan athletics and the impact on the sport

Boston Marathon 2026: Course Records, Super Shoes & Perfect Conditions

In this episode we break down one of the fastest and most exciting editions of the Boston Marathon in recent memory. I dive into the elite men’s and women’s races, analyse the podium finishers and look at the incredible performances that defined the day on Boylston Street. I also take a closer look at the shoes worn by the top three men and women  from cutting-edge carbon super shoes to unreleased prototypes and how footwear technology continues to shape the modern marathon. With ideal racing conditions and a helpful tailwind, this year’s race produced blistering times and even a historic course record. I discuss how the wind may have influenced the race, key tactical moments from the elite fields, and some standout statistics from the day. If you’re a fan of marathon racing, running technology, or the history of the Boston Marathon, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.