More Miles or More Speed? How to Actually Get Faster as a Runner

More Miles or More Speed? How to Actually Get Faster as a Runner

From Marathon Handbook Podcast by Marathon Handbook

August 20, 2026 · 1h 50m · Episode 8

About this episode

The episode discusses whether increasing mileage or speed is more effective for improving running performance, featuring insights from a listener's marathon experience and various training tips.

Is it more volume or more speed that makes you a faster runner? This week Michael, Alex, and Katelyn dig into a listener's massive marathon breakthrough (2:47 → 2:30!) after he dropped threshold work and leaned into high weekly mileage instead — and unpack whether that trade-off actually holds up for the rest of us. Plus: how to keep your training on track while traveling, lifting heavy before race day, choosing between a safe Boston Qualifier and a sub-3 goal, how many miles you should really get out of a pair of running shoes, decoding the "super trainer" shoe category, and Michael finally opens up his own training log. SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS: Lagoon pillows help us sleep better, so we run better. Want to try? You can save 15% with code MARATHON. Go to https://LagoonSleep.com/marathonhandbook and take the 2-minute sleep quiz to find your match. Custom insoles made with supershoe foam: visit kilarun.com and use code “marathon” to get $80 off your first order. Orion is a personlized cooling sleep system. Right now, Orion is offering our listeners 15% off at orionsleep.com/marathon Join Marathon Handbook’s RunClub for access to our members-only podcast, training plans, community…

People in this episode

Hosts: Michael, Alex, Katelyn

Topics covered

Keywords

Sponsors

Lagoon, Kilarun, Orion

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Marathon Handbook

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