
The She Runs Strong Podcast
73 episodes — Page 1 of 2
Marathon Prep Mistakes Women Over 45 Don’t See Coming
The Marathon Training Shift That Saved Her Season
Female Runners Over 45: What Your Heart Rate Is Trying to Tell You
What Female Runners Over 45 NEED To Know About Long Runs
The Truth About Ultra Running as a Female Athlete
Ep 69Why Strong Legs Aren’t Enough (The Missing Link for Runners Over 45)
This episode of She Runs Strong is brought to you by Active Forever. Use STRONG at checkout to get 10% off your first order.Got any questions you'd like answered on the podcast, ask them here: https://www.videoask.com/feuaut9xoResources: Grab your spot in our upcoming masterclass: https://coachparry.com/at4y-MasterclassHave you ever been told to “engage your core” while running… but had no idea what that actually means?In this episode, we unpack one of the most misunderstood concepts in running... your core.And here’s the truth:👉 It’s not about abs👉 It’s not about doing more planks👉 And it might be the reason you’re getting injuredWe’re joined by physio Rachel Evans, who breaks down:What your core actually is (hint: way more than abs)Why runners, especially women, struggle with core strengthHow poor core function leads to injuries, inefficiency, and fatigueThe biggest mistakes people make with exercises like planksSimple, effective core exercises you can start todayIf you’ve been dealing with niggles, lower back pain, or your form falling apart on long runs… this episode could be a game-changer.
Ep 68Why Running Feels HARD (And What To Do About It)
This episode of She Runs Strong is brought to you by Active Forever. Use STRONG at checkout to get 10% off your first order.Got any questions you'd like answered on the podcast, ask them here: https://www.videoask.com/feuaut9xoResources: Grab your spot in our upcoming masterclass: https://coachparry.com/at4y-MasterclassEver finished a race and thought, “Why did I go out so fast?” Or wondered if losing weight will actually make you a better runner… or just leave you exhausted?In this episode of She Runs Strong, we answer real runner questions from around the world, covering:How to pace your race properly (and avoid blowing up)Does losing weight actually improve performance?Why running suddenly feels harder (and motivation dips)Do you really need electrolytes... or is water enough?Bonus: Heat training & sauna tips before race dayIf you’ve ever struggled with pacing, energy, or consistency… this episode is for you.
Ep 67Female Runners Over 45: Fix Fatigue, Weight Gain & Performance
This episode of She Runs Strong is brought to you by Active Forever. Use STRONG at checkout to get 10% off your first order.Got any questions you'd like answered on the podcast, ask them here: https://www.videoask.com/feuaut9xoResources: Grab your spot in our upcoming masterclass: https://coachparry.com/at4y-MasterclassIf you’re a female runner over 45 and suddenly feeling more tired, gaining weight, or struggling to improve… you’re not alone.In this coaching call, we break down exactly what’s going on and what you can do about it.We dive into:- Why running starts to feel harder after 45- The impact of fatigue, iron levels, and recovery- Weight gain during marathon training (and how to manage it)- How to structure your training for better performance- Simple strategies to improve energy, endurance, and recovery
Ep 66Female Runners: 3 Training Questions You Can’t Afford to Ignore
This episode of She Runs Strong is brought to you by Active Forever. Use STRONG at checkout to get 10% off your first order.Got any questions you'd like answered on the podcast, ask them here: https://www.videoask.com/feuaut9xoResources: Grab your spot in our upcoming masterclass: https://coachparry.com/at4y-MasterclassFrom race day shoes to side stitches to heart rate training, we’re answering the running questions so many women have but don’t always ask. Nicky and Shona share practical advice to help you feel more confident in your training, your gear, and your race-day decisions.
Ep 65Feeling Exhausted, Slower, and Stuck? Here’s Why
This episode of She Runs Strong is brought to you by Active Forever. Use STRONG at checkout to get 10% off your first order.Got any questions you'd like answered on the podcast, ask them here: https://www.videoask.com/feuaut9xoResources: Grab your spot in our upcoming masterclass: https://coachparry.com/at4y-MasterclassWhat if you’re not stuck because you’re not trying hard enough, but because your training strategy needs to change?In this Q&A episode, Shona and Nicky answer real questions from female runners on marathon training, strength work, menopause, injury niggles, performance plateaus, and how to keep progressing without burning out. From balancing running and strength to whether marathon pace belongs in long runs, this is honest, practical coaching with no fluff.
Ep 64The Ultimate Female 45+ Marathon Guide
This episode of She Runs Strong is brought to you by Active Forever. Use STRONG at checkout to get 10% off your first order.Got any questions you'd like answered on the podcast, ask them here: https://www.videoask.com/feuaut9xoResources: Grab your spot in our upcoming masterclass: https://coachparry.com/at4y-MasterclassIf you’re a woman 45+ training for a marathon and questioning your plan, this episode is for you.Why are the long runs slow?Why are intervals added so early?Where does strength training fit in?And how do you avoid burnout?We break down exactly how to structure your marathon training: Base → Build → Peak → Taper... so you arrive at race day strong, confident, and injury-free.
Ep 63Why Female Runners Over 45 Feel Exhausted (It’s Not What You Think)
This episode of She Runs Strong is brought to you by Active Forever. Use STRONG at checkout to get 10% off your first order.Got any questions you'd like answered on the podcast, ask them here: https://www.videoask.com/feuaut9xoResources: Grab your spot in our upcoming masterclass: https://coachparry.com/at4y-MasterclassWhat if the thing holding you back right now isn’t discipline… but clarity?In this episode, Nicky and Shona answer 5 brilliant questions from female runners dealing with sugar cravings, fueling confusion (including the 100g carbs/hour debate), menopause performance shifts, marathon fears at 59, and that very stubborn high hamstring injury.You’ll walk away with practical guidance on fueling for your body, managing training load, prioritising recovery, and building strength so you can run stronger, especially through midlife and beyond.
Ep 62The Fueling Mistake Female Runners Over 45 Keep Making
This episode of She Runs Strong is brought to you by Active Forever. Use STRONG at checkout to get 10% off your first order.Got any questions you'd like answered on the podcast, ask them here: https://www.videoask.com/feuaut9xoResources: Grab your spot in our upcoming masterclass: https://coachparry.com/at4y-MasterclassElite runners are now fueling at 120–170g carbs an hour... but what does that mean for recreational marathon and ultra runners?In this episode, sports nutritionist Rebecca Paulser breaks down what’s real vs hype, how to fuel when mileage ramps up, what to do if you can’t stomach gels, and why practice is the difference between a strong finish and a brutal bonk.
Ep 60The Protein Rule Every Female Runner Over 45 Needs
This episode of She Runs Strong is brought to you by Active Forever. Use STRONG at checkout to get 10% off your first order.Got any questions you'd like answered on the podcast, ask them here: https://www.videoask.com/feuaut9xoResources: Grab your spot in our upcoming masterclass: https://coachparry.com/at4y-MasterclassAre you training… or just addicted to training?In this coaching-call episode, Shona and Nicky unpack the uncomfortable truth behind running every day...when it helps your mental health… and when it quietly starts hurting it.Plus:🔥 How to return to running after chronic Achilles tendinopathy (especially in perimenopause)🦠 What to do when a nasty winter bug derails your London Marathon build🏋️♀️ The real balance between heavy lifting + running (without dead legs)🥩 And how much protein active menopausal women actually need (without the confusion.)If you’ve ever thought, “I should rest… but I can’t,” this one’s for you.
Ep 61The Truth About Qualifying for Boston as an Over-45 Female Runner
This episode of She Runs Strong is brought to you by Active Forever. Use STRONG at checkout to get 10% off your first order.Got any questions you'd like answered on the podcast, ask them here: https://www.videoask.com/feuaut9xoResources: Grab your spot in our upcoming masterclass: https://coachparry.com/at4y-MasterclassShe qualified for Boston… and still didn’t get in.So what changed between missing the BQ buffer in 2024 and running a confident 4:09 in 2025?In this She Run Strong coaching call, Gretchen Fermann breaks down the real shift: smarter pacing, year-on-year consistency, strength that actually stuck, and the “invisible” factor too many women ignore... sleep + hormones in the menopause transition.If you’re chasing a Boston qualifier while juggling life, work stress, and a body that’s changing… this episode will show you what it really takes to turn “almost” into “I did it.”
Ep 55The SIMPLE Strategy for When Running Feels Harder After 45
This episode of She Runs Strong is brought to you by Active Forever. Use STRONG at checkout to get 10% off your first order.Got any questions you'd like answered on the podcast, ask them here: https://www.videoask.com/feuaut9xoResources: Grab your spot in our upcoming masterclass: https://coachparry.com/at4y-MasterclassTreadmills on holiday, “easy” runs that feel anything but, running with knee arthritis, and where netball or triathlon fits into your training... this Q&A is for female runners 45+ who want to train smart, protect their joints, and still have fun with sport.
Ep 59The EXACT routine that stops knee & hip pain in female runners over 45
This episode of She Runs Strong is brought to you by Active Forever. Use STRONG at checkout to get 10% off your first order.Got any questions you'd like answered on the podcast, ask them here: https://www.videoask.com/feuaut9xoResources: Grab your spot in our upcoming masterclass: https://coachparry.com/at4y-MasterclassYou train your calves, your glutes, your core… but when last did you train the muscles inside your feet? In this episode, we unpack “foot core” (the hidden strength most runners ignore), why it could be the missing link behind recurring Achilles, plantar fascia and lower-leg niggles, and the simple at-home drills you can start tonight... while you’re watching Netflix.
Ep 58The CRITICAL Rule Female Runners Ignore
This episode of She Runs Strong is brought to you by Active Forever. Use STRONG at checkout to get 10% off your first order.Got any questions you'd like answered on the podcast, ask them here: https://www.videoask.com/feuaut9xoResources: Grab your spot in our upcoming masterclass: https://coachparry.com/at4y-MasterclassNew year, new questions. We unpack the goals that actually stick, the fueling mistake most women over 40 are making, why recovery suddenly feels slower in peri/menopause, and what to do when your training is consistent… but your results aren’t. Plus a real, honest chat on mental health and running confidence.
Ep 563 vitamin D lessons every 45+ female runner must know
This episode of She Runs Strong is brought to you by Active Forever. Use STRONG at checkout to get 10% off your first order.Got any questions you'd like answered on the podcast, ask them here: https://www.videoask.com/feuaut9xoResources: Grab your spot in our upcoming masterclass: https://coachparry.com/at4y-MasterclassA festive-season Q&A diving into HYROX hype, holiday training guilt, and the tough truth about death in endurance sport, all wrapped in honest, relatable coaching you won’t hear anywhere else.
Ep 57I Wish I Knew This Before Using Run Walk in a Marathon After 45
This episode of She Runs Strong is brought to you by Active Forever. Use STRONG at checkout to get 10% off your first order.Got any questions you'd like answered on the podcast, ask them here: https://www.videoask.com/feuaut9xoResources: Grab your spot in our upcoming masterclass: https://coachparry.com/at4y-MasterclassA different kind of coaching call: Nicky’s back from Valencia with a shiny medal, big breakthroughs (hello, sub-3:30!), and a powerful story of training through chronic anaemia, fatigue, and setbacks, plus Shona gets coached for her marathon that’s just 6 weeks away.
Ep 543 Cramp-Prevention Lessons Every Female Runner 45+ Needs to Know
This episode of She Runs Strong is brought to you by Active Forever. Use STRONG at checkout to get 10% off your first order.Got any questions you'd like answered on the podcast, ask them here: https://www.videoask.com/feuaut9xoResources: Grab your spot in our upcoming masterclass: https://coachparry.com/at4y-MasterclassIn this episode of the She Runs Strong podcast powered by Coach Parry, UK run coach Nicky and sports scientist Shona unpack why up to 50% of runners cramp, why it’s not just about electrolytes, how pacing, strength, and training load really drive cramps, and what actually helps on race day, from smarter training to breathing, walk breaks, and even pickle-juice-style “cramp stop” tricks.
Ep 48Collagen vs Creatine: Which Actually Works?
This episode of She Runs Strong is brought to you by Active Forever. Use STRONG at checkout to get 10% off your first order.Got any questions you'd like answered on the podcast, ask them here: https://www.videoask.com/feuaut9xoResources: Grab your spot in our upcoming masterclass: https://coachparry.com/at4y-MasterclassDid you know the wrong sports bra can cost you minutes in a marathon? Nicky and Shona break down why bra fit, fabric, and support matter more than you think, for comfort, health, and performance. From breast movement science to their top bra recommendations, this chat could change how you run forever.Plus, they answer your other burning questions: how to train between New York and Tokyo, why your Garmin always shows extra distance, how to run strong with autoimmune conditions, and whether collagen really helps runners.
Ep 53The TRUTH About Ozempic & Female Runners Over 45
This episode of She Runs Strong is brought to you by Active Forever. Use STRONG at checkout to get 10% off your first order.Got any questions you'd like answered on the podcast, ask them here: https://www.videoask.com/feuaut9xoResources: Grab your spot in our upcoming masterclass: https://coachparry.com/at4y-MasterclassGLP-1 meds (think Ozempic) are everywhere... but what do they mean for female runners? Sports dietitian Dr Linia Patel joins Shona to unpack how GLP-1s impact energy, muscle, bones, gut health, and training, and exactly how to fuel, lift, and adjust sessions to stay strong.
Ep 50Knee Pain, Brain Fog, High HR? Here’s the Fix
This episode of She Runs Strong is brought to you by Active Forever. Use STRONG at checkout to get 10% off your first order.Got any questions you'd like answered on the podcast, ask them here: https://www.videoask.com/feuaut9xoResources: Grab your spot in our upcoming masterclass: https://coachparry.com/at4y-MasterclassFeeling “off” on the run? In this She Run Strong Q&A, Shona and Nicky break down cardiac drift (in plain English!), how to read your heart-rate data from interval sessions, quick fixes for ITB/lateral knee pain, and tackling brain fog & peri/menopause symptoms. Plus: getting back to training after a cold, why “phantom pains” pop up in taper week, and smart fueling/hydration so you don’t fizzle at 60 minutes.
Ep 51She Qualified for Boston at 58. Here’s How.
This episode of She Runs Strong is brought to you by Active Forever. Use STRONG at checkout to get 10% off your first order.Got any questions you'd like answered on the podcast, ask them here: https://www.videoask.com/feuaut9xoResources: Grab your spot in our upcoming masterclass: https://coachparry.com/at4y-MasterclassToday’s episode is all about proving that age is just a number and speed is still very much on the table. Nicky and Shona chat with Jackie, a 58-year-old runner who swapped hockey sticks for start lines and qualified for the Boston Marathon after taking up running seriously in her 50s. From parkruns to personal bests, consistency to confidence, this episode dives into how small, smart changes can lead to huge breakthroughs... no matter when you start.It’s the perfect listen for anyone who’s ever thought: “One day when I’m big… I’ll run Boston.”
Ep 52The Truth About Reformer Pilates for Runners
This episode of She Runs Strong is brought to you by Active Forever. Use STRONG at checkout to get 10% off your first order.Got any questions you'd like answered on the podcast, ask them here: https://www.videoask.com/feuaut9xoResources: Grab your spot in our upcoming masterclass: https://coachparry.com/at4y-MasterclassReformer Pilates is everywhere right now, but does it actually make you a better runner? In this episode, Nicky and Shona dig into whether Reformer really counts as strength training, what it helps with (and what it doesn’t), and how to fit it into your weekly plan. They also tackle listener questions on building time on feet for marathon training, managing niggles before race day, and how to train through perimenopause. Real answers, zero fluff... just smart running talk for women who want to train stronger and stay injury-free.
Ep 46The Secret Workout That Builds Speed AND Stamina
This episode of She Runs Strong is brought to you by Active Forever. Use STRONG at checkout to get 10% off your first order.Got any questions you'd like answered on the podcast, ask them here: https://www.videoask.com/feuaut9xoResources: Grab your spot in our upcoming masterclass: https://coachparry.com/at4y-MasterclassTempo vs. Threshold: the confusing terms finally explained. Nicky and Shona break down the science, the purpose, and the “how” of these essential workouts - so you know exactly when, why, and how hard to run them to build speed, endurance, and strength without burning out.
Ep 45Caffeine & Cramping: The Truth You Need to Know
This episode of She Runs Strong is brought to you by Active Forever. Use STRONG at checkout to get 10% off your first order.Got any questions you'd like answered on the podcast, ask them here: https://www.videoask.com/feuaut9xoResources: Grab your spot in our upcoming masterclass: https://coachparry.com/at4y-MasterclassCaffeine, cramping, wearables, and warm-ups - oh my! Nicky and Shona tackle your most pressing questions: does caffeine really trigger cramps, what those Garmin “anaerobic scores” mean (and when to ignore them), and how to warm up properly for different runs. With practical advice, myth-busting, and a few laughs, this episode is your toolkit for smarter, stronger running.
Ep 49The REAL Reason You Get Tired Running
This episode of She Runs Strong is brought to you by Active Forever. Use STRONG at checkout to get 10% off your first order.Got any questions you'd like answered on the podcast, ask them here: https://www.videoask.com/feuaut9xoResources: Grab your spot in our upcoming masterclass: https://coachparry.com/at4y-MasterclassIn this episode, we unpack one of running’s most misunderstood topics—fatigue—and set the record straight on lactate with exercise physiologist and Coach Parry coach Ntutu Letseka.You’ll learn what actually drives that burning sensation, how the brain (the central governor) paces you, and the practical training/recovery moves that boost performance—especially for female runners 45+.What you’ll learn:- Lactic acid vs. lactate: why lactate is a fuel and not the villain- Energy systems 101: ATP, glycolysis, aerobic metabolism & where fatigue really comes from- The brain’s role: how the central governor protects you (and why you can still sprint at the end)- Lactate thresholds (LT1 & LT2): what they mean and how they predict performance- Training that works: build an aerobic base, then add smart threshold work (cruise intervals, controlled tempos)- Recovery that sticks: fueling, sleep, cool-downs & truly easy active recovery (what counts—and what doesn’t)
Ep 4762, Sub-2 Half & Still Getting Faster: Beth’s Late-Start Running Story
This episode of She Runs Strong is brought to you by Active Forever. Use STRONG at checkout to get 10% off your first order.Got any questions you'd like answered on the podcast, ask them here: https://www.videoask.com/feuaut9xoResources: Grab your spot in our upcoming masterclass: https://coachparry.com/at4y-MasterclassThis week, Shona Hendricks & Nikki Friedman chat with Beth Groh, a Coach Parry community member who started running in her late 50s, broke 2 hours for the half marathon at 62, snagged age-group wins, and is now eyeing the Athens Original Marathon. Beth’s story is a masterclass in mindset, smart training, and why strength work is non-negotiable for women 45+.You’ll hear how Beth:- Shifted identity from “I’m not an athlete” to “I am a runner.”- Came back from a femur stress fracture by slowing down, training smart, and building strength.- Cracked a sub 2 hour half marathon (and a 52-minute 10K) with balanced training.Learned key marathon lessons on pacing, hydration, gut management, and travel—and how she’s applying them for Athens.
Ep 44Water Weight or Weight Gain? Creatine, Clarified (And Other Questions Answered)
This episode of She Runs Strong is brought to you by Active Forever. Use STRONG at checkout to get 10% off your first order.Got any questions you'd like answered on the podcast, ask them here: https://www.videoask.com/feuaut9xoResources: Grab your spot in our upcoming masterclass: https://coachparry.com/at4y-MasterclassCreatine myths busted, figure skating as cross-training, footcore timing, Achilles-safe speed, and the weird marathon packing hacks you’ll actually use. Nicky & Shona answer your Qs with practical, no-fluff tips you can try this week.
Ep 43HRT & Running: How Long Is Actually OK?
This episode of She Runs Strong is brought to you by Active Forever. Use STRONG at checkout to get 10% off your first order.Got any questions you'd like answered on the podcast, ask them here: https://www.videoask.com/feuaut9xoResources: Grab your spot in our upcoming masterclass: https://coachparry.com/at4y-MasterclassHot flashes, cold fronts, and real talk. Shona & Nicky bust HRT myths (hello, “second spring”), tackle time-trial plateaus, pick the right shoes for speed vs. long runs, and show you how to juggle a Saturday party with a Sunday long run... without breaking your training or your spirit.
Ep 41The TRUTH About Women Runners and Weight Loss
This episode of She Runs Strong is brought to you by Active Forever. Use STRONG at checkout to get 10% off your first order.Got any questions you'd like answered on the podcast, ask them here: https://www.videoask.com/feuaut9xoResources: Grab your spot in our upcoming masterclass: https://coachparry.com/at4y-MasterclassSo many women start running to lose weight... only to find themselves exhausted, hungrier than ever, and sometimes even gaining weight during marathon training. In this honest chat, we unpack why that happens, how hormones, stress, sleep, and fueling play a role, and what strategies actually help women feel lighter, stronger, and in love with running again.
Ep 42Gut Health For Women Who Run & Why Women Need Fewer Hard Runs
This episode of She Runs Strong is brought to you by Active Forever. Use STRONG at checkout to get 10% off your first order.Got any questions you'd like answered on the podcast, ask them here: https://www.videoask.com/feuaut9xoResources: Grab your spot in our upcoming masterclass: https://coachparry.com/at4y-Masterclass From pea vs whey protein, to tackling GI issues, and why less intensity might actually make you a stronger runner—this Q&A episode of She Run Strong is packed with practical tips you can use in your training today.
Ep 40The TRUTH About HRT for Active Women with Dr Nicky Keay
This episode of She Runs Strong is brought to you by Active Forever. Use STRONG at checkout to get 10% off your first order.Got any questions you'd like answered on the podcast, ask them here: https://www.videoask.com/feuaut9xoResources: Grab your spot in our upcoming masterclass: https://coachparry.com/at4y-MasterclassThis one’s a MUST-LISTEN for every female runner over 40. Hosts Nicky and Shona sit down with world-renowned endocrinologist Dr. Nicky Keay to unpack everything you need to know about hormones, performance, perimenopause, and thriving through midlife and beyond. RESOURCES FROM DR KEAY⬇️⬇️- Dr Keay's website: www.nickykeayfitness.com- Book a hormone coaching appointment: https://nickykeayfitness.com/appointments/ - Dr Keay's new book: https://nickykeayfitness.com/new-book/- Free web-based app validated with our research for those wondering about whether sufficient energy availability and at risk of REDs: https://mypeaq.streamlit.app/
Ep 3860 Years Old. Never Injured. Here’s How. (Ina Donat's INCREDIBLE Running Journey)
This episode of She Runs Strong is brought to you by Active Forever. Use STRONG at checkout to get 10% off your first order.Got any questions you'd like answered on the podcast, ask them here: https://www.videoask.com/feuaut9xoResources: Grab your spot in our upcoming masterclass: https://coachparry.com/at4y-MasterclassAt 60, Ina Donat is chasing big goals: a 65K ultra and a sub-25-minute 5K. In this episode, she shares how she balances ultra training with speedwork, fuels her body with real food (not gels), and stays injury-free through strength and foot core. From sea kayaking to hill running in Edinburgh, Ina’s inspiring journey is packed with wisdom, perspective, and fierce determination.
Ep 39Creatine or Whey Protein: Which Supplement Wins for Female Runners?
This episode of She Runs Strong is brought to you by Active Forever. Use STRONG at checkout to get 10% off your first order.Got any questions you'd like answered on the podcast, ask them here: https://www.videoask.com/feuaut9xoResources: Grab your spot in our upcoming masterclass: https://coachparry.com/at4y-MasterclassFeeling stuck in your running? In this Q&A episode, Coach Nicky & Shona answer your biggest questions, like whether running 6 days a week is helping or hurting, how to handle shin splints with a marathon on the horizon, and what to choose between creatine vs whey protein.
Ep 37Lifting Heavy Feels Confusing (Here’s How to Start)
This episode of She Runs Strong is brought to you by Active Forever. Use STRONG at checkout to get 10% off your first order.Got any questions you'd like answered on the podcast, ask them here: https://www.videoask.com/feuaut9xoResources: Grab your spot in our upcoming masterclass: https://coachparry.com/at4y-MasterclassShould you be lifting heavy as a female runner over 40? It’s a question filled with confusion, conflicting advice, and plenty of Instagram noise. In this episode, we unpack exactly what “lifting heavy” means, why resistance training is essential in your 40s and beyond, and how to start safely without wrecking your recovery or your running.
Ep 36Stop Falling for These Running Myths (Especially If You're Over 45)
This episode of She Runs Strong is brought to you by Active Forever. Use STRONG at checkout to get 10% off your first order.Got any questions you'd like answered on the podcast, ask them here: https://www.videoask.com/feuaut9xoResources: Grab your spot in our upcoming masterclass: https://coachparry.com/at4y-MasterclassIn this episode of She Runs Strong, Shona and Nicky answer listener questions and dive into the world of running pseudoscience. From cold plunges and treadmill myths to weighted vests and essential gear for new female runners, they break down what works, what doesn't, and what Instagram might be misleading you about. If you're a woman over 45 looking to train smarter and skip the fluff - this one’s for you.
Ep 35Shona's Surprising Case Study- I Did Everything Right…and Still Got It Wrong
This episode of She Runs Strong is brought to you by Active Forever. Use STRONG at checkout to get 10% off your first order.Got any questions you'd like answered on the podcast, ask them here: https://www.videoask.com/feuaut9xoResources: Grab your spot in our upcoming masterclass: https://coachparry.com/at4y-MasterclassIn this candid episode of the She Runs Strong podcast, Coach Shona Hendricks becomes the case study herself, sharing personal body composition results that left her surprised—and frustrated. Despite consistent strength training and disciplined running in preparation for the Two Oceans Ultramarathon, Shona lost muscle mass instead of fat.📉 So what went wrong?Together with resident dietician Nicky de Villiers and co-host Nikki Friedman, they unpack the surprising real reason behind muscle loss in female endurance athletes: under-fueling. You’ll learn:✅ Why energy balance matters more than you think✅ The role of protein (and how much you really need)✅ How appetite can be misleading during heavy training✅ Easy ways to prep and plan high-protein meals/snacksIf you’re a female runner over 40, this conversation is a must-listen. It will help you avoid the same mistakes—and keep your training on track without sabotaging your body composition goals.
Ep 30From Menopause to Morocco: Adventure Without Limits with Rachel Holland
This episode of She Runs Strong is brought to you by Active Forever. Use STRONG at checkout to get 10% off your first order.Got any questions you'd like answered on the podcast, ask them here: https://www.videoask.com/feuaut9xoResources: Grab your spot in our upcoming masterclass: https://coachparry.com/at4y-MasterclassIn this episode, Shona and Nicky sit down with Rachel — an inspiring runner who went from managing her shops in rural Wales to running across entire countries with her crew of 50-something women. She opens up about what really changed her running in menopause, how CrossFit gave her strength and confidence, and why community, consistency, and cookies (well, trail mix) matter. From running in the Sahara to pacing easy in Pembrokeshire — Rachel proves that bold adventures don’t stop at 50.
Ep 33The Real Cost of Skipping Recovery
This episode of She Runs Strong is brought to you by Active Forever. Use STRONG at checkout to get 10% off your first order.Got any questions you'd like answered on the podcast, ask them here: https://www.videoask.com/feuaut9xoResources: Grab your spot in our upcoming masterclass: https://coachparry.com/at4y-MasterclassNicky and Shona dive into recovery after marathons and ultras—what happens to your body, why rest matters, and how to come back stronger. If you’ve ever rushed back too soon, this one’s for you.
Ep 34The Only 3 Supplements We Trust (For Female Runners)
This episode of She Runs Strong is brought to you by Active Forever. Use STRONG at checkout to get 10% off your first order.Got any questions you'd like answered on the podcast, ask them here: https://www.videoask.com/feuaut9xoResources: Grab your spot in our upcoming masterclass: https://coachparry.com/at4y-MasterclassThis week on She Runs Strong, Nicky and Shona share their top three go-to supplements, unpack the truth behind recovery times on running watches, and give beginner-friendly advice on how to safely add speed work to your running. If you're ready to run smarter, recover better, and maybe finally nail those intervals—this one's for you.
Ep 31Female Runners Aren’t Just Small Men
This episode of She Runs Strong is brought to you by Active Forever. Use STRONG at checkout to get 10% off your first order.Got any questions you'd like answered on the podcast, ask them here: https://www.videoask.com/feuaut9xoResources: Grab your spot in our upcoming masterclass: https://coachparry.com/at4y-MasterclassIn this powerful episode of She Runs Strong, Shona Hendricks and Nicky Freedman sit down with head coach Lindsey Parry to unpack what it truly means to coach female athletes—through every stage of life. From the early days of training to navigating the complex terrain of perimenopause and post menopause, this conversation is a masterclass in flexibility, empathy, and performance science.
Ep 32Why LESS Running Might Be the Secret to Your Next PB
This episode of She Runs Strong is brought to you by Active Forever. Use STRONG at checkout to get 10% off your first order.Got any questions you'd like answered on the podcast, ask them here: https://www.videoask.com/feuaut9xoResources: Grab your spot in our upcoming masterclass: https://coachparry.com/at4y-MasterclassIn this episode, Shona and Nicky dive into your burning questions! Whether you're navigating marathon training, trying to manage weight in perimenopause, confused about heart rate zones, or wondering if one strength session a week is enough – we’ve got you covered.
Ep 26Just Show Up: Jen on Running, Loss, and Living Fully at 52
This episode of She Runs Strong is brought to you by Active Forever. Use STRONG at checkout to get 10% off your first order.Got any questions you'd like answered on the podcast, ask them here: https://www.videoask.com/feuaut9xoResources: Grab your spot in our upcoming masterclass: https://coachparry.com/at4y-MasterclassFrom her first jog to smashing PBs and inspiring an entire community, Jen Chaia Frishman shares her remarkable journey from 5K novice to half marathon powerhouse. In this heartwarming and hilarious episode, Jen opens up about grief, grit, strength training, and her goal to run marathons well into her 100s. If you've ever doubted yourself as a runner, Jen’s story is the encouragement you didn’t know you needed.
Ep 28Cold Runs, Broken Bones, & Carb Myths: What Every Female Runner Over 45 Needs to Know
This episode of She Runs Strong is brought to you by Active Forever. Use STRONG at checkout to get 10% off your first order.Got any questions you'd like answered on the podcast, ask them here: https://www.videoask.com/feuaut9xoResources: Grab your spot in our upcoming masterclass: https://coachparry.com/at4y-MasterclassIn this Q&A-packed episode, Shona and Nicky tackle real-world questions from female runners over 45 — from recovering after a broken toe and training through osteopenia, to the truth about high-carb fueling and how to actually get faster after hitting a plateau. Whether you’re injured, frustrated, or freezing in winter weather, this episode is full of practical, honest advice to keep you moving forward.
Ep 25The Truth About Bone Health for Female Runners Over 45
This episode of She Runs Strong is brought to you by Active Forever. Use STRONG at checkout to get 10% off your first order.Got any questions you'd like answered on the podcast, ask them here: https://www.videoask.com/feuaut9xoResources: Grab your spot in our upcoming masterclass: https://coachparry.com/at4y-MasterclassBone health isn't just a post-menopause concern — it's a lifelong priority. In this powerful episode, Shona Hendricks and Nicky Freedman dive deep into the reality of bone loss for female runners. They unpack why your bone density starts dropping as early as your late 20s, the truth about stress fractures and underfueling, and what every woman over 45 must do to protect her long-term health and running future. From nutrition and strength training to essential supplements — this is the episode your bones need you to hear.
Ep 27Are Your Running Heart Rate Zones Wrong?
This episode of She Runs Strong is brought to you by Active Forever. Use STRONG at checkout to get 10% off your first order.Got any questions you'd like answered on the podcast, ask them here: https://www.videoask.com/feuaut9xoResources: Grab your spot in our upcoming masterclass: https://coachparry.com/at4y-MasterclassIn this Q&A episode of the She Runs Strong podcast powered by Coach Parry, we tackle:⌚ How to calculate your heart rate zones (with or without fancy gear)🥱 Why you might still feel fatigued—even with easy runs & proper fueling😴 Can you trust what your watch says about sleep?🍝 Should you cut carbs during your marathon taper?🌞 How to train smart in the summer heat (and why it's okay to slow down)Quick, practical tips for runners over 45 navigating performance, recovery & menopause.🎙️ Hit play and join us for expert advice you can actually use!
Ep 22From Injury to Ultra: How Tanya Reclaimed Her Strength After 50
This episode of She Runs Strong is brought to you by Active Forever. Use STRONG at checkout to get 10% off your first order.Got any questions you'd like answered on the podcast, ask them here: https://www.videoask.com/feuaut9xoResources: Grab your spot in our upcoming masterclass: https://coachparry.com/at4y-MasterclassIn this episode of She Runs Strong, Shona and Nicky sit down with 50-year-old Tanya Zaayman—mother of two and newly minted marathoner—who turned her dream of running the Two Oceans Ultra into a reality. From injury and self-doubt to smashing time trial PBs, qualifying for her first marathon and Ultra, losing 5kg, and finding joy in her running again, this story will leave you inspired, teary-eyed, and ready to lace up your shoes. It’s a must-listen for every woman who thinks it’s too late to go after something big.