What To Eat Before Running Early In The Day

July 16, 2025

There’s a lot of confusion out there about whether you should eat before running — especially first thing in the morning. Some runners swear by fasted runs, while others can’t imagine hitting the pavement without a bite to eat. The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Learning how to fuel your body properly is a ...

What To Eat Before Running Early In The Day
Process vs. Outcome Goals: A Smarter Way to Set Running Goals

July 16, 2025

Whether you’re training for your first 5K or chasing a marathon PR, setting the right kind of goals can make or break your running journey. In this post, we’re diving into process vs. outcome goals—two types of goals every runner should understand. It’s a simple shift in mindset that can help you stay consistent, motivated, ...

Process vs. Outcome Goals: A Smarter Way to Set Running Goals
Why Base Training Is the Key to Marathon Success

July 11, 2025

When it comes to marathon training, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of speed workouts, long runs, and race-day strategies. But behind every successful marathon performance lies a less glamorous, often overlooked phase: base training. This 6-12 week foundational period, typically made up of steady, lower-intensity mileage, is where endurance is built, ...

Why Base Training Is the Key to Marathon Success
How To Qualify For The 2026 Boston Marathon

May 9, 2025

The 2026 Boston Marathon is just around the corner. The 130th edition of the most prestigious marathon in the world is set to again...

How To Qualify For The 2026 Boston Marathon
previous arrow
next arrow
ABOUT ME

Hey, I’m Kyle. I’ve been running for years—not always perfectly, but always learning. I started The Optimal Runner to share what’s worked (and what hasn’t) in my own training, with the hope that it helps you find your own rhythm.

I’m all about taking a thoughtful, well-rounded approach to running—balancing data, mindset, and real life. Whether you’re chasing a PR or just trying to stay consistent, I’m right there with you. Let’s figure this out together.

LATEST POSTS