Runners love a good debate. Whether it's the best shoes, the ideal training plan, or how much recovery you really need, there's always something to question. Over the years, running has been shaped by conventional wisdom, but that doesn't mean the status quo is always right. Some of the best breakthroughs come from challenging long-held beliefs.
So, let's talk about five hot takes in the running world—ideas that go against the grain but might just get you thinking differently about your training.
1. Barefoot Running is the Future
Modern running shoes are packed with features—extra cushioning, carbon plates, arch support. But what if they're actually hurting your form? Some argue that heavily cushioned shoes have changed the way we run, encouraging heel striking and making us more prone to injury. Barefoot or minimalist running forces better mechanics, engages stabilizing muscles, and might even make you a more efficient runner.
Does that mean you should ditch your shoes tomorrow? Not necessarily. But easing into minimalist footwear or doing some barefoot strides on grass could help you reconnect with natural movement patterns.
2. Marathon Training Without Long Runs
For decades, long runs have been the cornerstone of marathon training. But some coaches question whether they’re really necessary. Traditional thinking says you need multiple 20+ mile runs to prepare for race day. A newer school of thought suggests that high-intensity interval training (HIIT), shorter frequent runs, and cumulative mileage throughout the week could be just as effective—without the risk of injury or burnout.
It’s not that long runs don’t have value, but they shouldn’t come at the cost of overall training quality. If you’re always exhausted or nursing small injuries, it might be time to rethink how you’re structuring your mileage.
3. Tech-Free Running is Better
Runners love their data. Pace, heart rate, cadence, VO2 max—it’s all at our fingertips. But what if constantly tracking every metric is actually making us worse? Running without a GPS watch or fitness tracker forces you to tune into your body rather than obsessing over numbers.
If you’ve ever felt frustrated because your pace was “too slow” or your heart rate was “too high,” ask yourself—how did you actually feel? Many runners get so caught up in data that they ignore how their body is responding in real time. A simple experiment: leave the watch at home once a week and run entirely by feel. You might surprise yourself.
4. Chi Running Works—Even If Some Call It Pseudoscience
Chi Running gets dismissed as pseudoscience by some, but those who practice it know it works. It blends principles of Tai Chi with running, emphasizing posture, efficiency, and relaxation to reduce injury and improve endurance. While skeptics question its scientific backing, many runners find that it helps them move more smoothly, recover faster, and avoid common running injuries.
Like anything in running, there’s no single right way to do things. But if your training feels like a constant battle against tightness, soreness, or inefficient movement, Chi Running might be worth exploring. The best proof? Try it for yourself.
5. Rest Days Are Overrated
Traditional training plans always include one or two full rest days each week. But some runners swear by active recovery instead—opting for an easy run, mobility work, or cross-training instead of complete downtime. The argument is that keeping the body moving helps blood flow, prevents stiffness, and maintains momentum.
Of course, rest is essential, but what if you don’t need full days off as often as you think? Paying attention to your energy levels is key. If you feel great on a day when your plan calls for rest, consider swapping in an easy movement session instead of skipping activity altogether.
Ready to Rethink Your Running?
Running isn’t a one-size-fits-all sport. What works for one person might not work for another, and sometimes, shaking up conventional wisdom is what leads to breakthroughs. If any of these hot takes got you thinking, you’re in the right place.
I work with runners who want to train smarter—not just harder. Whether it’s dialing in your form, building strength, or figuring out the best way to train for your next race, I can help you find what works for you.
Let’s get to work. Reach out and let’s make a plan.