# Ep 73: Rethinking the 20-Mile Long Run - What Matters in Marathon Training, with Coach Michelle Quirk of Mindful Marathon

Page: https://stenobird.com/podcast/mindful-marathon-podcast-7011584/ep-73-rethinking-the-20-mile-long-run-what-matters-in-marathon-training-with-coach-michelle-quirk-of-mindful-marathon
Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/mindful-marathon-podcast-7011584/ep-73-rethinking-the-20-mile-long-run-what-matters-in-marathon-training-with-coach-michelle-quirk-of-mindful-marathon.md
Podcast: [Mindful Marathon Podcast](https://stenobird.com/podcast/mindful-marathon-podcast-7011584)
Published: 2026-02-02T12:00:00+00:00
Episode link: https://mindfulmarathon.podbean.com/e/ep-73-rethinking-the-20-mile-long-run-what-matters-in-marathon-training-with-coach-michelle-quirk-of-mindful-marathon/
Audio file: https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/s9sh3zhz5fcdkzgx/Ep_73_Rethinking_the_20-Mile_Long_Run7aght.mp3
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Duration seconds: 1271

## Resource

Do You Really Need a 20-Mile Long Run to Train for a Marathon? For decades, marathon training advice has centered around one idea: you must run 20 miles before race day.But is that actually true? In this episode of the Mindful Marathon Podcast, we take a closer look at where the 20-mile long run came from, who it was designed for, and how to determine if you need to be running a 20-miler in training. You’ll learn how marathon fitness is built through consistent, cumulative training, and how a mindful, time-based approach can help you train smarter, reduce injury risk, and arrive at the start line confident and healthy. In this episode, we cover: The historical origins of the 20-mile long run and why it stuck Why time on feet matters more than distance for long runs How to train for 26.2 miles without ever running 20 in one go How to build mental confidence without chasing a “20-mile badge” When a 20-miler makes sense for your training, and when it doesn’t If you’ve ever felt anxious, behind, or “not marathon ready” because you didn’t hit 20 miles in training, this episode is for you. You don’t need to prove anything in training. You’re allowed to train in a way that supports your body and your life. If you have questions about your own training, reach out on Coach Michelle's website, and let's explore working together for personalized support. https://mindful-marathon.com Follow Coach Michelle on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Mindful.Marathon *** The information contained in this podcast is intended to serve as educational information and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. You should consult your primary care physician before undertaking any fitness regimen or exercise, which can pose serious he…

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