The Science of Speed: Why Marathons Are Getting Faster than Ever

The Science of Speed: Why Marathons Are Getting Faster than Ever

July 17, 2026 · 42 min · Episode 99

About this episode

The episode explores the factors contributing to the increasing speed of marathon running, including training, nutrition, and technology.

The contemporary era of marathon running is characterized by unprecedented speed, a phenomenon that we shall meticulously explore in this discourse. We shall delve into the underlying factors contributing to the remarkable acceleration of marathon times, with particular emphasis on the profound implications of training methodologies, nutritional advancements, and innovative footwear technology. Our esteemed guests, Leo Kormanik and Zach Goulet, will elucidate how elite athletes have embraced specialized training regimens that prioritize threshold specificity, thereby enhancing their performance capacities. Furthermore, we will examine the role of nutrition in optimizing recovery and sustaining high-performance outputs over extended distances. As we embark on this analytical journey, we invite you to contemplate the confluence of these elements that has precipitated an extraordinary transformation in marathon racing dynamics. Marathon running has undergone a remarkable evolution, leading to unprecedented speeds and remarkable achievements on race day. During our discussion, we delve into the recent surge in marathon performance, exemplified by the extraordinary feats witnessed at…

People in this episode

Host: Leo Kormanik

Guest: Zach Goulet

Topics covered

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: London Marathon, Boston Marathon

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