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As you lace up your running shoes, you’ll have to make an important decision, especially for longer runs. What will you listen to? Do you want to enjoy the sounds of nature and connect to the earth with every step? Do you want to turn on the tunes to give each step rhythm as you pound the pavement? Or do you want to give your brain the best running podcast to pass the time? 

All of these are great options. And you may come to a different decision for each run. The next question is, which playlist or podcast? We’ll save the playlists for another day. For today, let’s look at the best running podcasts to keep you company as you run. 

Whether you’re looking for some extra motivation to push through extra miles, are just looking for a good laugh to bring more joy into your run, or are eager to learn something new about running or the world around you, there’s a perfect running podcast for you.

We’ve rounded up some of our favorites—some are focused on the sport of running. Others are just fun to listen to as you go the distance. 

The Best Running Podcasts for Laughs

If you’re looking for laughs, Marathon Talk is a popular podcast that balances banter with valuable advice. Hosted by Martin Yelling and Tom Williams, it’s ideal for runners who want entertainment, some laughs, and practical tips for their marathon training. 

Another lighthearted running podcast that provides plenty of laughs is Running Commentary. Comedians Paul Tonkinson and Rob Derring literally run while chatting about life, running, and everything in between. If you are looking for a relaxed vibe while learning about running, you’ll likely enjoy your time with these virtual running companions. 

The Best Running Podcasts for Learning

If you want expert advice on training techniques, injury prevention, and performance enhancement, The Strength Running Podcast with Jason Fitzgerald is one of the best running podcasts you can find, but it isn’t the only one. 

The Running Explained Podcast, hosted by certified running coach Elisabeth Scott, makes complex running concepts easy to understand. She provides clear and practical explanations on everything from training plans to injury prevention and helps runners understand the “why” behind training techniques.

For ultra-endurance athletes, the Science of Ultra is the one for you. This podcast delves deep into the science of pushing your body to the limit. It provides expert interviews and detailed discussions of what it takes for ultra-endurance training and performance. 

The Best Running Podcasts for Motivation

For runners from all walks of life who are looking for a little extra motivation, Ali Feller in Ali on the Run Show has you covered. She interviews everyday runners and elite athletes who share their inspiring stories to uplift and motivate anyone in the running community looking to feel connected while on the run. 

Another can’t-miss running podcast is Running for Real with Tina Muir. Hosted by a former elite runner, this running podcast focuses on the real and raw aspects of running. It includes everything from body image to mental health to overcoming personal challenges. It is perfect for runners who appreciate an honest and supportive take on the challenges of the sport. 

The Best Podcasts While Running

Just because you’re running doesn’t mean you want to listen to a podcast about running. Maybe you just want to laugh away the miles. Conon O’Brien Needs a Friend provides hilarious conversations with celebrities for a nice distraction on challenging runs. The show’s witty banter will keep you smiling every mile.

Another outrageously funny running podcast is My Dad Wrote a Prono. If you are looking for a laugh-out-out experience, this podcast delivers as the hosts read and react to a bizarre erotic novel written by one of their dads.

You can also use your running time to learn something new. Try Stuff You Should Know as hosts Josh and Chuck tackle a wide range of fascinating topics. It’s informative and fun and covers everything from science to history in an easy-to-digest format. 

Or learn how entrepreneurs and innovators built some of the world’s most recognizable brands with Guy Raz in the How I Built This podcast. You’ll discover helpful information on business as well as personal growth with inspiring stories of perseverance and success to keep your runs interesting.

Perhaps you just want to stay up to date on the latest news. The New York Times provides The Daily—a quick, easy listen to keep you in the news loop without having to dedicate too much mental energy. 

Want to feel like you’re part of a fascinating conversation as you run? Check out Dax Shepard’s thoughtful interviews with celebrities and experts in Armchair Expert. The long-form episodes provide hours of entertainment for endurance training.

You can also find heartwarming or dramatic stories from real people as they tell unscripted, heartfelt stories on stage in The Moth. You’ll gain new perspectives and perhaps greater appreciation with every episode.  

Known for its gripping investigative storytelling, Serial is a must-listen for true crime enthusiasts. The episodic format can keep you hooked on your run as they uncover new twists in the case. 

The Perfect Running Podcast

It doesn’t matter if you’re out for a casual jog or training for your next marathon or ultra-endurance event. The right playlist or podcast can transform a decent run into a fantastic one. You can learn something new, get inspired, laugh, or discover how to improve your next run. All you need to do is pick your pleasure, lace up your shoes, and pop in (or on) your headphones before hitting the pavement, trail, or beach to stay entertained throughout your run. The right running playlist may even have you excited for your next run as soon as you finish this one. 

Neuropathy is a condition that affects millions of people worldwide and causes debilitating pain and discomfort in the feet. When searching for relief, finding the right insoles for neuropathy is one way to help significantly lessen symptoms and improve quality of life. 

Before deciding on which insoles for neuropathy are right for you and how quality insoles can help provide much-needed relief, let’s dig into what neuropathy is, what causes it, and the different types and symptoms. 

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy (aka peripheral neuropathy) refers to a condition in which the peripheral nerves are damaged. This is troubling as these nerves transmit the signals from the brain through the rest of the body. And if damaged, it can lead to complications, some of which are quite serious. Peripheral neuropathy affects the feet, legs, hands, and arms. Other types of neuropathy, like autonomic, proximal, and focal, impact different parts of the body, such as the autonomic nervous system, thighs, hips, and butt, or specific nerves.

What causes this condition? There are several factors, including diabetes. This is one of the most common causes and is due to prolonged high blood sugar levels. Infections and other diseases, such as Lyme disease, HIV/AIDS, and autoimmune diseases, can also lead to nerve damage. In addition, physical injuries that affect the nerves can lead to this condition. Other causes include genetic disorders, toxins, and some medications. 

Symptoms of neuropathy include numbness or tingling, often starting in the hands or feet and spreading upward. It can also cause burning pain sensations that can be severe and long-lasting. It can also lead to weakness and potentially paralysis of affected muscles and difficulty with balance and coordination. 

For people with neuropathy, it’s important to regularly inspect the feet for any signs of injury, blisters, or sores, as neuropathy can reduce sensation. So you may not notice issues. Keep the feet clean and dry, and use this time to look at your feet closely. 

It can also help to moisturize your feet daily to prevent dry, cracked skin, which can open up the risk of infection. Choose a non-irritating, hypoallergenic lotion and apply it over the entire foot, including between the toes, to prevent fungal infections. If your feet are prone to sweating, you may want to try foot powders to absorb excess moisture.

Getting Relief from Neuropathy

Managing neuropathy takes a multifaceted approach that may include medications, such as pain relievers, physical or occupational therapy to work on improving strength and coordination, and lifestyle changes, like addressing the diet, a consistent exercise program, and a smoking cessation plan to not only reduce symptoms but improve overall health.

In addition to making lifestyle changes, some people find quality footwear and insoles crucial. Quality footwear can provide cushioning and support to reduce pressure on the feet, which may alleviate pain. Insoles that minimize impact on the feet while walking, standing, working, or exercising can help prevent further nerve damage. 

Finally, insoles that protect the feet from extreme temperatures, like Strikesol inserts, can be beneficial. You see, neuropathy can make the feet significantly more sensitive to temperature changes, and Strikesol inserts help maintain a comfortable foot environment without crowding the feet. 

In addition to the right insoles, choosing footwear that accommodates the unique needs of people who suffer from neuropathy can significantly reduce discomfort and prevent further complications. 

For example, look for shoes that have a wider toe box so your feet have ample room. This helps reduce pressure points and allows for better circulation. Shoes with extra depth are also beneficial as they can comfortably accommodate insoles without crowing the feet. 

Additionally, consider choosing footwear with soft, seamless interiors, which can prevent irritation and blisters that can be a particular issue for people with reduced foot sensation. Shoes designed with adjustable closures (e.g., laces or Velcro) allow you to customize the fit of your shoe. This can help secure the foot and prevent slipping.

Finally, choosing shoes that provide good cushioning and shock absorption in the sole can help minimize the impact on your feet, further protecting the sensitive nerves and providing much-appreciated comfort. Wearing socks with your shoes can also help reduce friction and, again, help protect the feet.

What to Look for in Insoles for Neuropathy

When choosing the best insoles for neuropathy, several features can be beneficial, including: 

• Arch support to help distribute weight evenly across the feet
• Cushioning, which reduces pressure points for greater comfort
• Fit and comfort, ensuring the insoles don’t crowd the feet or increase pain or pressure on the foot
• Temperature regulation to keep the feet comfortable.

Are Insoles Effective for Neuropathy?

While insoles can’t cure neuropathy, they may significantly reduce symptoms and improve foot comfort and health. Strikesols (formerly known as Blusols) may be particularly effective due to their unique design. In addition to providing support and cushioning with a slim design for unhindered performance, they offer protection against extreme temperatures. So, they’re an excellent choice for people who may suffer from neuropathy or other conditions that make the feet sensitive.

Remember, however, that it’s always essential to work closely with your healthcare provider to manage neuropathy effectively and ensure you’re taking the best steps (no pun intended) to care for your feet. They can help tailor a treatment plan that includes the appropriate therapies, lifestyle changes, and medications. Incorporating healthy habits, such as maintaining a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding toxins, may also help manage symptoms and help prevent further damage. Elevating the feet whenever possible may also help improve circulation, as can regular, gentle foot exercises to maintain mobility and strength in the feet.

Neuropathy can be a challenging condition. Fortunately, with the right care and tools, such as quality insoles for neuropathy, you can better manage symptoms to improve your overall quality of life. 

Brady Elliott- SIM Science & Engineering Fair, Gold Winner

   Brady Elliott is an 8th grader who has a passion for both science and soccer. Brady has been in the US’s DA Soccer program since he was 8, and has practiced on synthetic turf every day. For Brady’s 8th-grade science fair project, he decided to combine the two things he loved most, and chose to do his project on a solution to an issue he and his teammates had to deal with every year. Turn burns and blisters.

   For his science project, Brady chose a couple of different materials he believed would help reduce the heat player experience when playing on turf. Some of these materials were tin foil, engine heat shield material, and even Strikesol Heat Sheild Inserts. To his amazing, Strikesol Heat Sheild Inserts performed better than any of the other material Brady had experimented on. To read more about Brady’s testimonial, visit our blog post, How to Keep Your Kids Feet Safe From Turn Burn.

   After completing his science fair project, Brady wanted to present it to more people. Brady received 1st place at his middle school science fair, then 1st place at Snowline Joint Unified School District, Gold at the SIM Science & Engineering Fair (San Bernardino County), and also received The Broadcom Masters Award & the Lemelson Early Inventor Prize.

Brady’s mother stated:

“You’ll notice Brady is in his soccer uniform in the pictures because he refuses to miss practice, so he rushed to the awards assembly after practice just making it to the last award.”

   Brady’s passion for soccer and science paid off. We are so excited and happy for Brady and his accomplishment. We wish him the best as he moves on to the Stae of California’s Science and Engineering competition on April 29th.

How to Keep Your Kids Feet Safe From Turf Burn & Heat Blisters

As a parent, nothing is worse than seeing your child in pain. Every year, thousands of children playing sports are exposed to heat blisters, peeling skin, and other forms of turf burn. So how are we supposed to keep our kids feet safe from these types of injuries? You could use tin foil, engine heat shield material, or other DIY heat shields, but do they actually work? And are those really your best options?

One kid from Phelan, California was eager to find out. He decided to test out a couple of different materials, including our BluSol Heat Shield Inserts and sent in this testimonial.

“My name is Brady Elliott and I am an 8th Grader at Heritage School in Phelan, CA. I have been playing in the US Soccer Development Academy Program for Golden State FC Academy since I was 8 years old. My passion is not only soccer but math and science and this year I wanted to bring my love for soccer, math, and science and focus my science project on something that addresses the ongoing problem that the soccer athletes face daily. This problem is the dangerous temperatures synthetic turf can reach and its impact on players. With more fields turning to synthetic grass over a cooler natural grass, players are on fields that can reach up to 170 degrees, thus putting them at risk for burns, blisters, and more injuries. 

Unfortunately, I practice year round, 5 days a week, on synthetic turf. Especially during the summer months, my teammates and I have suffered blisters and other injuries related to the temperatures. As you know, with higher-level soccer, athletes pick a cleat that may be lighter, but with lighter cleats means little to protect the foot from heat.

I have spent over five months gathering research and conducting various tests on which material would reduce these dangerous temperatures produced by synthetic turf. For my science project, I bought a pair of your BluSol inserts and included them in the materials that were being tested.

I believe you will be happy with your product’s results and its success. While the amount of athletes playing on synthetic turf increases every day, the hazardous temperatures that the synthetic turf gives off will not change. One thing that can change is the use of a protective insole insert such as BluSol to protect us athletes. After seeing how BluSol held up in my science project, I know I will be purchasing some pairs to use in my own cleats in the future.”

Incredible right? What an amazing testimonial! At BluSol, we strive to keep your children’s feet safe from burns and blisters. If your child is suffering from blisters, burns, and peeling skin, try our heat shield inserts and see what a difference it can make in their comfort.

Heat Index Chart

 Synthetic turf surfaces have long been regarded as a lower maintenance alternative to natural turf. However, synthetic surfaces like natural turf have their shortcomings. In the spring of 2002 a Field Turf synthetic surface was installed on one half of Brigham Young University’s Football Practice Field. The other half of the installation is a sand-based natural turf field. Shortly after the Field Turf was installed football camps were started. The coaches noticed the surface of the synthetic turf was very hot. One of the coaches got blisters on the bottom of his feet through his tennis shoes. An investigation was launched to determine the range of the temperatures, the effect water for cooling of the surfaces, and how the temperatures compared to other surfaces. 

Download full study.

An article from insidelacrosse.com:

Burn your competition not your feet. Keep your players at peak performance with Strikesol Heat Shield Insert.  Strikesol is the ULTIMATE Solution for burning feet on turf and other hot surfaces!

Inside Lacrosse is proud to partner with Strikesol and bring their Heat Shield inserts to the lacrosse world.

Strikesol Heat Shield is an adhesive insert, that fits in any cleat or shoe. By using temperature regulating technology, Strikesol reduces the amount of heat that is being transferred from the turf to the athlete’s feet. Strikesol is The ULTIMATE solution for burning feet on turf and other hot surfaces.

• No more heat blisters
• Temperature Regulating Technology
• One Size Fits All
• Additional padding and comfort
• Shoe size is not altered
• Durability.  Will outlast your shoe
• Over 25-degree differential from surface to foot
• Even protects against cold harsh elements

Developed by Stanford athletics coach Rob Beccera, Rob was noticing his players complaining of foot pain and blisters while playing and training on turf fields.  Since there wasn’t any solution to this major problem, nor a product on the market , Rob decided to focus his attention on creating one. Rob has spent the last 8 years developing and testing the Strikesol Heat Shield Insert, and it is now available!

Strikesol was created to help every athlete win. There has long been a demand for a product like this, and it is finally here.