Send us a text

Running in your 50s is different—and that’s not a bad thing.

In this episode of the I Don’t Know Running Podcast, we talk honestly about what changes as runners get older: slower recovery, new aches and pains, declining speed, shifting motivation, and learning to let go of chasing PRs. We also share what still works, what needs to change, and how adjusting expectations can actually make running more enjoyable and sustainable.

We cover:

- Why speed and VO₂ max decline with age (and why it’s normal)

- Recovery, sleep, and why rest matters more than ever

- Strength, mobility, and training smarter—not harder

- Managing mindset, ego, and expectations as a runner in your 50s

- Finding joy in running beyond pace and race times

- How to keep running for decades without burning out or breaking down

If you’re in your 40s or 50s—or heading there—this episode is about giving yourself grace, adapting your training, and continuing to love running for the long haul.

🎧 Listen, laugh, nod along, and remember: you can’t outrun Father Time—but you can run alongside him.

👉 Follow us on YouTube, Facebook, and Patreon for more conversations about running, aging, and all the things we still don’t know.
🏃‍♂️ Happy running.

Check out our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/IDKR

Support the show

Send us a text

Winter is here, the roads are icy, and somehow our houses are falling apart — so naturally, we decided to talk about Christmas gifts for runners 🎄🏃‍♂️

In this episode of the I Don’t Know Running Podcast, Lewis and Mitch break down the best gift ideas for runners at every price point, from easy stocking stuffers to big-ticket items you only buy for someone you really love (or yourself).

We cover:

Budget-friendly stocking stuffers every runner actually uses

Cold-weather essentials like base layers, gloves, and traction

Mid-range gifts runners won’t buy for themselves (but should)

Big-ticket gear like watches, headphones, hydration vests, and recovery tools

Completely unrealistic, totally necessary “runner fantasy gifts”

Whether you’re shopping for a runner, married to one, or are one trying to “accidentally” share this episode, we’ve got you covered.

🎧 Listen if you’re running through winter, slipping on ice, or just need gift ideas that won’t get returned.

📌 Subscribe for more honest runner conversations
📘 Follow us on Facebook
▶️ Watch on YouTube
🎙 Available on all podcast platforms

Because running is fun…
And sometimes not so fun.

Check out our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/IDKR

Support the show

Send us a text

How far do you really have to go before you’re “remote”?
Spoiler: not as far as you think.

In this episode of the I Don’t Know Running podcast, Lewis and Mitch talk about how quickly a simple run, walk, or short hike can turn into a serious situation when you’re underprepared—whether you’re a mile from the house, on a local trail, or dropping down to the Western States Trail after a race.

What starts as a story about a windy walk with the grandkids and a “quick” hike out west turns into a much bigger conversation about remote preparedness for runners and outdoor lovers.

🧭 What We Cover in This Episode

🧠 Pillar 1: Mindset & Limits

Why a go/no-go decision should be non-negotiable

How to match your route to how your body and mind actually feel that day

Why you don’t need to be 10 miles into the woods to be considered “remote”

🏃 Pillar 2: Knowing Your Body

Hydration isn’t just water—why electrolytes and sodium matter

Training your gut to handle calories over hours, not just miles

Why relying on one food source can wreck your day (hello, bar fatigue)

🚫 Pillar 3: Avoiding Unnecessary Risk

How pace can become a hazard, not a goal, on technical or exposed terrain

Adjusting expectations for climbs, descents, and unfamiliar routes

Real examples where “it’s just a short hike” almost wasn’t so simple

🎒 10 Essentials We Talk Through

We also walk through a practical list of “non-negotiables” to think about for remote runs, hikes, and adventures, including:

Navigation beyond just your watch or phone

Light/illumination if you’re out longer than planned

First aid, repair tape, and emergency blankets

Extra food and water (plus ways to treat water)

Communication plans and tools, from “tell someone where you’re going” to locator beacons

Whether you’re running trails, exploring new routes after a race, or just heading out “for a quick hike,” this episode will help you plan smarter, pack better, and get home safely to the people who care about you.

🎧 Listen, learn, and then go enjoy those adventures—prepared.

Check out our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/IDKR

Support the show