The Endurance Lab Podcast

Dr. Bill Evans

We cover the science of running with elite coaches, olympians, and scientists. You'll find a candid blend of banter and deep science, and training tips to help you navigate and reframe your training

Episodes

  1. 15H AGO

    Episode 3: Hobbs Kessler

    Keywords Hobbs Kessler, running, coaching, professional athlete, training philosophy, workouts, Olympic aspirations, recovery, competition, role models Summary In this episode of the Endurance Lab podcast, Dr. Bill Evans and Stephanie Brokaw interview Hobbs Kessler, a remarkable young athlete and world record holder. They discuss Hobbs' journey from high school to professional running, his coaching experiences, and the pivotal decision to turn pro instead of attending college. The conversation delves into his training philosophy, favorite and least favorite workouts, and the importance of recovery. Hobbs shares insights on the balance between competition and camaraderie in the running community, his inspirations, and his aspirations for the future, including his desire to continue improving and enjoying the sport. Takeaways Hobbs Kessler is a world record holder and professional runner.He is coached by Pat Henner, a mentor to many top NCAA coaches.Hobbs transitioned to professional running after high school, guided by his coach.He reflects on the decision to go pro instead of attending college.Hobbs emphasizes the importance of recovery in training.He prefers shorter, quality workouts over long runs.Hobbs believes in the significance of training intensity and proper fueling.He looks up to athletes who balance competitiveness with a fun attitude.Hobbs values camaraderie among competitors in the running community.His ultimate goal is to continue improving and enjoying running throughout his career. Titles The Fastest Man with a Mullet: Hobbs KesslerFrom High School to Pro: Hobbs Kessler's Journey  sound bites "Running is kind of pointless.""I love talking about myself.""Don't train fasted." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Hobbs Kessler02:19 Coaching Journey and Transition to Professional Running06:48 Reflections on College vs. Professional Running09:50 Training Philosophy and Favorite Workouts17:23 Least Favorite Workouts and Training Specificity25:49 Training Philosophy: The Shift from VO2 Max to Threshold Work29:11 Inspiration and Mentorship in Running30:57 The Balance of Seriousness and Fun in Athletics35:39 Rivalries and Friendly Competition37:05 The Importance of Team Dynamics in Running38:41 Personal Background and Early Influences41:07 Future Aspirations and Defining Success45:53 Final Thoughts: Training Advice and Reflections

    39 min

  2. FEB 12

    The Physiology of the Mile

    Keywords elite miler, sub-4 mile, training, physiology, gender differences, lactate threshold, critical power, speed endurance, running, exercise science Summary In this episode of the Endurance Lab podcast, Dr. Bill Evans and Stephanie Brokaw delve into the physiology of elite milers, particularly focusing on the sub-4 mile. They discuss the differences in training, metabolic pathways, and gender comparisons in mile times. The conversation also covers the importance of lactate threshold and critical power in running performance, as well as the complexities of training for the mile event. With insights from their own training experiences and upcoming races, they provide a comprehensive overview of what it takes to excel in middle-distance running. Takeaways The mile is a challenging event that requires both speed and endurance.Training for the mile involves understanding metabolic pathways and lactate threshold.Gender differences in running performance highlight the need for tailored training approaches.Elite milers often have a stiffer lower leg, contributing to their efficiency.Speed endurance is becoming increasingly important in middle-distance events.The lactate threshold is crucial for understanding fatigue during races.Training should focus on both aerobic and anaerobic systems for optimal performance.The mile exposes weaknesses in a runner's training and conditioning.Comparing mile and 1500m events reveals different physiological demands.Effective training for the mile requires a balance of various systems.  sound bites "The mile will expose you immediately.""The mile is a cruel, cruel event.""The mile is a mind game too." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Elite Miler Physiology01:49 Training Insights and Experiences05:37 Racing Goals and Comparisons12:30 Physiological Differences in Male and Female Runners18:04 Metabolic Systems and Their Impact on Performance23:57 Understanding Lactate Testing and Its Implications26:22 The Science of Lactate Threshold and Critical Power30:15 The Importance of Speed in Middle-Distance Running34:23 Gender Differences in Running Performance38:06 Physiological Differences and Training Considerations41:14 The Complexity of Mile Training and Performance

    45 min

  3. FEB 6

    The Endurance Lab Podcast: The Science of the Runner's High, and How It Makes You More Resilient

    Keywords Endurance Lab, running, exercise science, runner's high, mood and exercise, coaching, elite runners, neurobiology, training, performance Summary In this episode of the Endurance Lab Podcast, hosts Dr. Bill Evans and Stephanie Brown explore the fascinating connection between mood and exercise, particularly focusing on the phenomenon known as the runner's high. They discuss Stephanie's journey from a young runner to an elite athlete and coach, the differences between track and marathon running, and the neurobiological mechanisms that contribute to the euphoric feelings associated with running. The conversation also touches on the challenges faced by new runners, the importance of community in training, and the impact of training on mood and performance. Listeners gain insights into the science of running and practical tips for enhancing their own running experiences. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Endurance Lab Podcast02:11 The Runner's High: Understanding Mood and Exercise05:54 Stephanie's Journey: From Track to Coaching11:56 The Science of Running: Track vs. Marathon17:58 Exploring the Neurobiology of the Runner's High24:00 The Impact of Training on Mood and Performance30:01 Overcoming Challenges in Training35:49 Current Training Regimens and Goals

    49 min
  • 3 Episodes

5
out of 5
5 Ratings

About

We cover the science of running with elite coaches, olympians, and scientists. You'll find a candid blend of banter and deep science, and training tips to help you navigate and reframe your training

Information

  • Creator
    Dr. Bill Evans
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    3
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Dr. Bill Evans
  • Show Website
    The Endurance Lab Podcast