Masters Running and Running in Kenya Discussion with Dr. Leo Running Expert and accomplished runner Aaron Rowe

Mind Body Marathon

1.) On the MindBodyMarathon podcast, Dr. Leo Running Expert interviews Aaron Rowe, a masters runner who recently won the Subaru four-miler in Buffalo. They discuss the challenges and joys of masters running, reminisce about their college days, and share insights into their training routines. Both agree that the love for running and the joy of competition drive them to continue racing, despite the physical challenges of aging. They also touch on the importance of routine and the ritual of race day in maintaining their passion for the sport.

2.) In this conversation, they further discuss the evolution of running shoes, particularly focusing on the impact of super shoes on performance. They reminisce about past shoe trends like the Spira shoes with springs and discuss the controversy surrounding the use of super shoes in races. They touch on the importance of knowing what works for your body, the role of technology in training and recovery, and the significance of having a supportive team to help maintain physical health as a masters runner. They also highlight the importance of self-care, balancing competition with preserving the body, and approaching running with a focus on enjoyment rather than chasing specific goals.

3.) The conversation continues on many topics and including the evolution of running shoes, the impact of super shoes on performance, and the importance of knowing what works for your body. They reminisce about past shoe trends and discuss the controversy surrounding super shoes in races. They also touch on the role of technology in training and recovery, the significance of having a supportive team as a masters runner, and the importance of self-care and balancing competition with preserving the body.

4.) Aaron shares his experience of traveling to Kenya in 2018 to challenge himself and explore the world of Kenyan running. He describes participating in a challenging half marathon run up a mountain, the Fluorspar run, where he pushed himself to his limits. The conversation highlights the dedication and toughness of Kenyan runners, the camaraderie among international participants, and the memorable experience of visiting Eliud Kipchoge's camp.

5.) Aaron Rowe recounts his experience visiting Eliud Kipchoge's camp in Kenya before he became globally famous. He describes the simplicity of the camp, where everyone, including Kipchoge, had to clean the bathrooms and focus on training. The camp had a library instead of TV, emphasizing a simple and focused lifestyle. Aaron also mentions meeting other runners in the camp. Finn, the author of "Way of the Runner," shared stories and insights about Japanese running culture with Aaron. Aaron reflects on his deep connection to Kenya, feeling at home there due to the love for running, the beautiful scenery, and the warm interactions with locals. The conversation transitions to potential future trips to Uganda and Japan to explore their respective running cultures.

6.) Aaron also shares his experience visiting Brazil, where he connected with local runners in Porto Alegre and experienced the vibrant running scene there. The speaker further reflects on his experiences traveling to Kenya and Brazil, where he encountered incredibly hospitable people who treated him like family. He emphasizes the importance of enjoying the process of running as a Masters athlete, focusing on consistent training and recovery.

7.) They share insights from conversations with other experienced runners, such as Bernard Lagat, who emphasized the importance of staying healthy and adapting training as you age. The speaker also highlights the significance of having the right support system and friends to encourage and push you in your running journey. Overall, he stresses the value of embracing where you are in your running journey and enjoying the process without putting too much pressure on yourself.