Ari Gononsky (North Jersey, NJ) wrote at 1:03pm I was meaning to write you about something you mentioned on a recent show. You thought that Hal Higdon's plans were too aggressive for a mid-pack runner and that you looking for a better training plan for a mid-packer. I was wondering what you, or one of your guests, thought about the Runner's World Smart Coach plans? Maybe this is something you can discuss on a future show.

I was hoping to do a 12-14 mile run on Sunday. This is my first winter running and I'm thinking the conditions will prohibit this. I'm not usually deterred by rain or cold, but I hesitate to take on the snow plows. Could someone with some experience in this area tell me whether there is a reasonable way to get in my mileage, or do I try to make the mileage up on a treadmill. (Oh god, I can't imagine 12 miles w/o scenery changes).

Rick

Hi Chris and Merry Christmas to you and your family.  I really enjoy your podcast and thanks for answering my question so quickly last week.  Do you have a favorite brand/type of sock?  And do socks have a lifespan, do they “wear out” somehow?  I appreciate your insights!  Jeff/Tampa, FL 

Hi! I will run my second marathon in Boston in April. I am planning to do it under 2 hours and 45 min. But I have a problem with my digestion while I am running. What should I eat (like Ensure?! or shakes) before the race so I don't feel like going to the bathroom while I race?
Thank You!

Audrey Longval

Hi Chris – I really love your podcast!  I’m catching up on back episodes.  I heard that you’ve incorporated short 2 minute walk breaks into your marathon plan including your marathon PR!  You mentioned that this keeps you fresh and avoiding the death shuffle – great advice.  Can you give me some more detail on this?  How long are the walk breaks?  From which mile on?

My PR is 4:04:23 and I really am working to break 4 hours in May at the Lincoln Marathon. 

Thanks in advance for any insights you can send my way and thanks for an awesome show!

Best,

Jeff

Tampa, FL