Got feedback about this episode? Send Carolyn a textPacing a marathon is simple in theory but brutally hard in practice. Go out too fast, and the fire-breathing dragons will find you in the final 10K. Go out too cautiously, and you’ll spend the last miles wondering if you left time on the table.In this episode, I’m joined by Jeff Cunningham — a lifelong runner, NCAA Academic All-American, and coach of countless Boston Marathon qualifiers and multiple U.S. Olympic Trials qualifiers. Jeff has a gift for blending humor with hard truths, and today he breaks down why pacing is the most important (and most misunderstood) part of the marathon.We discuss:Why you can undo 16 weeks of training in the first 45 minutes of the raceHow to build trust in your fitness so you don’t panic earlyThe psychology of pacing and emotional momentumWhy finishing strong is far better than blowing upJeff’s signature advice on patience, perspective, and keeping the long viewIf you’re running a fall marathon, this conversation will fire you up and give you the tools to run your smartest race yet.Connect with Jeff:Instagram: @jdcunningham97Bat City Track ClubCunningham RunningResources & Related Episodes:Jeff on Relay with Peter Bromka: Beware of the DragonsInspired Soles Episode with Polly (Jeff’s Canadian elite athlete)Connect with Carolyn & Inspired Soles:Instagram: @inspiredsolescast or @carolyn.c.coffinBrowse 250+ episodes in the archivesSubscribe, rate & review to support the showYou can help spread the running love! The best way to SUPPORT Inspired Soles is to share your favourite episode(s) with friends, subscribe, or leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Connect on Instagram @inspiredsolescast or email guest ideas to inspiredsolescast@gmail.com.