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    Tread Lightly Running Podcast

    Tread Lightly Running Podcast

    About

    The Tread Lightly Running Podcast provides data-driven, evidence-based running advice in a practical, accessible, and inclusive manner. . You'll learn about how to run faster, marathon training, the latest fueling science, how to prevent running injury, and more. Tread Lightly Running Podcast is co-hosted by Amanda Brooks and Laura Norris, MSc. Together, they have over 20 years of coaching experience and have helped thousands of runners reach their goals through 1:1 coaching and group training. They've appeared in Runner's World, SELF, NPR, Outside, and other major media.

    Hosted By

    Amanda Brooks and Laura Norris

    Half Marathon Taper: It’s Not Just Less Running

    Half Marathon Taper: It’s Not Just Less Running

    March 28, 2026
    38m

    The taper is not solely reserved for the marathon. When you are racing a half marathon as your goal race, a gradual and deliberate taper will prepare you to run your strongest, fastest race. In this episode, we discuss how to taper for a half marathon, including common taper mistakes and more.


    Thank you to our sponsors:

    ✨Title Nine: Comfortable sports bras that actually fit, from a women-owned company. Use code RUNTOTHEFINISH for free shipping at https://runtothefinish.com/title-nine/

    ✨Probio: NSF-certified, clinically dosed, all-in-one supplement. Use this link for 40% off your order and an additional 10% and free shipping on a subscription.

    ✨Wahoo KICKR RUN: A treadmill that feels like running outdoors. Shop here: http://bit.ly/4nai73H and read the full review: https://runtothefinish.com/wahoo-kickr-run-treadmill/

    ✨Join us on Patreon.com/treadlightlyrunning or subscribe on Apple Podcasts for special subscriber-only content!


    In this episode, you’ll learn:

    ✅ Common taper mistakes to avoid

    ✅ The physiological benefits of a taper

    ✅  How to structure a half marathon taper

    ✅ When to stop lifting weights before a half marathon

    ✅ How much you should run the week of a half marathon

    ✅ Should you carb load before a half?

    ✅ What to do if you have aches and pains on race week

    ✅ Should you do a shakeout run before your race?

    References:

    🔬 PMID: 34651125

    🔬PMID: 17762369


    Tread Lightly Running is hosted and researched by Amanda Brooks and Laura Norris, MSc. Production, show notes, and graphics by Laura Norris.


    Let’s stay connected:

    ➡️ Tread Lightly Running Podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/treadlightlyrunning/

    ➡️ Laura Norris Running on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauranorrisrunning/

    ➡️ Subscribe for weekly evidence-based newsletters, straight to your inbox, on https://lauranorrisrunning.substack.com/

    ➡️ Run to the Finish on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/runtothefinish/?hl=en

    ➡️ Thousands of running gear reviews and training guides: https://runtothefinish.com/

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