In this episode of Your Running Coach with GMacSpurr, Coach G challenges one of the most common beliefs in running: that a run only “counts” if it feels hard. From fitness culture to online trends, society has painted a picture that workouts need to be punishing to be effective, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. What if the real power of running came from letting it be easy, especially in the beginning?
Coach G explores how effort and ease can work together, why “harder isn’t always better,” and the surprising benefits that come from running with less pressure. She shares clear scenarios on how to integrate more ease into your training, powerful journal prompts like “What would letting it be easy look like for me this week?”, and a personal story from her Toronto Women’s Race that sheds light on the importance of shifting this mindset.
Whether you’re new to running or seasoned but stuck in the “it has to hurt” mentality, this episode is your reminder that easier doesn’t mean less effective; it means more sustainable, more enjoyable, and more freeing.