logo
episode-header-image
Jun 2024
1h 8m

Nike Running’s Global Head Coach Chris B...

Jason Fitzgerald
About this episode

Chris Bennett is the Nike Running Global Head Coach and Senior Director Nike Global Running. Translation: Chris is an absolute powerhouse of a coach and runner.

I got to chat with Chris about his role at Nike, how runners approach the sport from a variety of angles, what often prevents us from achieving our goals, his message to every runner in the world if he had the opportunity to speak to the global running population, and so much more.

In this episode, Chris and I talk about:

  • The multifaceted nature of coaching (it's not just creating workouts).
  • Don't overcomplicate running; it can be simple and accessible.
  • How runners' motivations have shifted from performance-driven to stress relief and mental wellness.
  • How all runners can explore the sport beyond just competition and time.
  • The growth of running and its perception as a competitive sport.
  • You need more than just time goals.
  • Common obstacles to consistent and effective running training.
  • Adjusting training plans based on the athlete's needs and self-awareness.
  • Don't rely on a coach entirely; listen to your body and mind-- and speak up!
  • Self-sabotaging by "doing" too much without enough recovery.
  • Running with the legendary Joan Benoit Samson.

Send this episode to anyone who could use more play and exploration in their running goals.

Links & Resources from the Show:

Thank you Previnex!

After resisting most supplements for the better part of my life, I’m cautiously changing my tune. I’m now a Masters runner and in my personal life, I’m optimizing for longevity. I want to be my healthiest self for as long as possible and I’m excited to partner with Previnex to make that happen.

Previnex uses the most bioavailable, clinically tested ingredients, the optimal form and dose of each ingredient, pharmaceutical grade manufacturing, testing of raw ingredients and finished products. For every purchase you make, they also donate vitamins to kids in need.

Their new Muscle Health Plus is something I'm now taking. Turning 40 - and having a thin frame - has made me realize that I need to prioritize lean muscle mass to stay healthy and age well. Muscle Health Plus has creatine, essential and branched chain amino acids, and it's designed in a way to maximize protein synthesis and the absorption of amino acids.

Muscle Health Plus will help you prevent muscle damage, which is particularly important for aging runners who want to protect themselves from muscle loss and recover faster after hard workouts. As is true for all of their products, Previnex adheres to the highest of standards: their ingredients are clinically proven to do what they say they’re going to do.

Previnex offers a 30-day money back guarantee. If you don't feel the benefits of their product, you get your money back no questions asked. With their focus on quality and customer satisfaction, I hope you’ll try it! Use code jason15 for 15% off your first order at Previnex!

Thanks to The Performance Training Journal!

The Performance Training Journal is now available on Amazon and debuted as the #4 new release in the running category. Since I started running in 1998, I’ve kept a hardcopy training journal. Holding a tangible log, writing in it daily, and reflecting on the ups and downs of running is a surefire way to improve. 

This hardcopy training journal helps you focus on the training metrics that matter, prioritizes a long-term outlook so you don’t take any shortcuts, and maintains your motivation with strategic self-praise. With a no-frills, functional design, the Performance Training Journal includes coaching advice on racing, injury prevention, strength training, and more. It will guide you through race scheduling, how to plan your race morning, the best workouts for endurance runners, and encourage you to track your personal bests over time. 

You have the space to make this journal your own whether you're a new runner or a professional, a trail or road runner, or a mid-distance specialist or ultra marathoner.⁣ So don't just track your running, learn from it with the Performance Training Journal! Check it out today on Amazon.

 

Up next
Yesterday
Inside the Science of Wearable Tech with Dr. Peter Tierney (Hardware, Metrics, & More)
When you get a new smart watch, heart rate monitor, or other type of wearable, do you know how it will help your running, specifically? Dr. Peter Tierney is a health and performance researcher, consultant, and coach who’s worked with many professional sports organizations across ... Show More
1h 12m
Jul 31
Heat Training Q&A: How to Structure & Benefit from Heat Training
Runners are heat training more often with saunas, hot tubs, and hot weather runs. How much do we need to realize the full benefits of heat training? What are the best options and how do we structure it into our training? In this episode, coach Jason Fitzgerald shares how to think ... Show More
27m 19s
Jul 24
Dr. Phil Skiba on Breaking2, How to Build Critical Power, and the Secret to a Fast Kick
Dr. Philip Skiba is a physician, performance consultant for the Breaking 2 project, coach to dozens of world class athletes, and author of Scientific Training for Endurance Athletes. Phil is a world-class expert on running physiology and how to race faster. His groundbreaking res ... Show More
53m 53s
Recommended Episodes
Jun 2024
From 3:51 to 3:24 Marathon, Training and Racing Tips by John B
Thanks to LMNT for sponsoring this video! Head to https://DrinkLMNT.com/FLO to get your free sample pack with any purchase. John Birtchet-Sharpe is a 55 year old runner and member of our Personal Best Running Coaching Program. Over the past 5 years he has improved from being over ... Show More
1h 7m
May 2024
412: Andrew Paul on Performance Concepts for Elastic and Muscular Archetypes
Today's podcast features NBA performance coach Andrew Paul. Andrew is the Director of Performance and Rehabilitation for the Oklahoma City Thunder. He is both a sports performance coach, as well as a physical therapist, and utilizes his wide-ranging expertise in his position. And ... Show More
1h 25m
May 2023
#65: How to start running when you're out of shape? With Slow AF Runner Martinus Evans
Thanks to LMNT for sponsoring this video! Visit https://drinklmnt.com/FLO to get your free LMNT sample pack with any purchase. Martinus Evans is the founder of the Slow AF Run Club, a marathon runner, coach and author. We talk about the back of the pack runners, size inclusivity, ... Show More
57m 53s
Jan 2024
2255: The Smart Way to Improve Speed, Power, & Performance With Brian Kula
The difference between how he applies or approaches training his athletes vs. how other athletes try to improve speed, power, and performance. (2:39) It’s a family business! His background in the training space. (4:52) The components that contribute to speed and how you train for ... Show More
1h 23m
Jul 14
How to Train Like an Athlete - With NBA Trainer Cory Schlesinger
Whether you’re a gym rat, parent, or a professional athlete, we can all find ways to maximize our performance and use our bodies more efficiently. On today’s show, you’re going to gain insights into the world of sports training and performance and how it can improve your strength ... Show More
1h 16m
Dec 2020
234: Dan John on The Art of Letting Go, Relaxation, and Conquering the “Monkey Brain” in Power Performance
Our guest today is Dan John who is a strength coach, track coach, master’s track athlete, best-selling author, and all around sage of wisdom on all-things strength training for athletics and life itself. Dan’s work has been profoundly impactful on my coaching, and training practi ... Show More
1h 6m
May 15
s5/e14 Can Mindfulness Make You A Better Runner?
In this episode of the Running Explained podcast, I’m breaking down a fascinating new study on mindfulness and running performance—and why I think this is something every runner needs to hear!I’ll walk you through the research (don’t worry, it’s not boring!), explain how mindfuln ... Show More
1h 3m
Jan 2025
Andy Galpin: 3 Ways to Lose Weight and Gain Muscle (the Fitness Plan You Will ACTUALLY Stick To)
What’s your biggest challenge with sticking to a fitness plan? What motivates you to stay consistent with workouts? Today, Jay welcomes Dr. Andy Galpin, a leading expert in human performance science, muscle physiology, and strength training, to guide you toward a healthier and mo ... Show More
1h 34m
Feb 2024
398: Mark McLaughlin on The Art of Total Athlete Development
Today’s podcast is with Mark McLaughlin. Mark is the founder of Performance Training Center, and currently works as a physical preparation/strength coach in the Lake Oswego school district. Mark has had a diverse sporting history as a youth, and has been active in the field of ph ... Show More
1h 25m
Nov 2024
This Athlete Skips Pre-Workout Meals, Here's Why | Dr. Shawn Baker & CJ Allen
CJ is a Doctor of Chiropractic, professional Asics athlete and a team USA Olympian in the 400 m hurdles. He also holds the American record in the indoor 400 m hurdles. He predominantly splits his time between his work in sports chiropractic, training for track and field, and spor ... Show More
51m 38s