Podcasts - One for the runners out there.

On my longer runs, I often listen to podcasts, this can range from religion, current affairs, comedy and business.  But the ones that I particularly go back to are the running based ones. If you are technically minded then a podcast is a non-streamed webcast based on a series of digital media files (either audio or video) that are released episodically and often downloaded through web syndication. The word usurped webcast in common vernacular, the word podcast is made famous from iPod due to rising popularity and the innovation of web feeds. For the less technically minded indeed the average 'joe' a podcast is basically conversation and/or dialogue that is downloaded and played in the same way that music is (using a MP3 player). I thought it would be good to write a small piece on what I listened to from time to time and why.

http://www.steverunner.com/ The description on one site is 'thoughts, opinions, observations and rambling diatribes composed during distance long runs'. Actually Steve Runner is a great podcast to listen to. His podcast, Phedippidations is a very informative and interesting listen. Full of stores, personal trials and tribulations as well as the musings of a middle-of-the-pack distance runner. Its well worth a listen.  I love this one, although it is a little 'American' (no offence meant).  

http://hearzenrun.blogspot.com/ Adam Tinkoff is also commonly known as the ‘The Zen Runner’.  He has, like Steve Runner, a very funny and has a conversational approach to his work. It draws you in. It has a slight American bias again, but you still get to feel what it is like to share a journey with someone who is training for a marathon (or two). Let him join you on your runs - do it together.

http://www.marathontalk.com/ This show is about and for marathon runners. Their description covers it perfectly. 'Hear from other marathon runners, race directors, medical professionals and suppliers about running marathons'. The show features segments that are dedicated to upcoming races, training programs, equipment and stories about how the marathon has changed people’s lives. Very inspirational stuff.

So there you go. If you are interested in having a change from listening to the same old music tracks and fancy having some one along for the ride (and the long runs), then check out the podcasts above. In fact you could, if you are inspired, take it one stage further and have a go yourself down the line.