Marathon Running Podcast by Marathon Journal · Episode 309 · April 13, 2026 · 27 min
309. 4 Most Googled Questions by Runners of 2026
Is every step you take a "withdrawal" from your joint bank account? In this high-stakes episode, Letty and Ryan tackle the 4 Most Googled Questions of 2026 and burn the old rulebook to the ground. We dive into the mind-blowing MRI research that proves running doesn't thin your cartilage—it can actually make it thicker and stronger . Ryan breaks down the "Thicker Cartilage Paradox" and the "Sponge Effect" that keeps your joints oiled, while Letty discusses the 120g carb-loading revolution and her final preparations for the Boston Marathon. If you’ve been running in fear of injury or hitting the wall, this episode is your biological wake-up call. Your body isn't a machine that wears out; it’s a system that levels up. In this episode: The Hypertrophy Reveal: Why runners' knees often look healthier on an MRI than non-runners'. The 120g Carb Ceiling: the new gold standard of fueling. The 50mm Stack Height Trap: Is your "super-shoe" sabotaging your stability? Heavy Lifting for Speed: Why the strongest runners are becoming the fastest runners. Boston Updates Stop guessing. Start adapting. Get the full research links and the Boston Marathon event schedule at MarathonJournal.com .