at and t cellular: RLRH: The VO2 Max myth most runners get wrong

Friday, February 13, 2026

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Black and white banner featuring the text "Run Long Run Healthy from Brady Holmer" on the left. On the right, a person wearing a cap and athletic gear is running. The words "Marathon Handbook" are in the bottom right corner.

Here's your free but abridged version of this week's "Run Long, Run Healthy" newsletter. Subscribe here to receive the full edition with more on the latest scientific articles and research on training, nutrition, shoes, injury prevention, and motivation.

The VO2 Max Myth Most Runners Get Wrong

Most runners think VO₂ max is about pushing harder — the real reason you get fitter is far more surprising.

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Podcast: The Ultimate 2026 Race Draft: Building The Perfect Year Of Running

Katelyn, Michael, and Alex are doing their second annual Race Draft — fantasy sports style, but for a full year of real races.

They each have to build a complete 2026 calendar (marathons, halfs, 10Ks, 5Ks, an ultra, plus a wildcard), follow brutal geography/recovery rules, and survive on-air cross-examinations.

Expect big bucket-list picks, ruthless roasting when a schedule gets unrealistic, and one goal by the end: a race year so good you'll want to copy it — then vote for the winner.

WATCH NOW ON YOUTUBE

Also on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube

Train the Norwegian Way: The Science-Backed System Behind the World's Fastest Runners

Norway keeps dominating endurance sports — here's what their coaches are actually doing differently.

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Fueling for the Long Haul—How Carbs Influence Your Durability

The real reason you can't respond to late-race surges might be your fueling — not your fitness.

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Can A Pre-Race Poop Make You Faster?

Most runners obsess over whether to start fast or hold back—but this research suggests the biggest mistake is something far more subtle (and surprisingly common).

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