97 episodes

You’ve already made two of the best decisions of your life as a plant-based runner. Now it’s time to get better at both every week. I’m Coach Claire Bartholic, and I went from not running at all to finishing a marathon in 2:58 at age 42, all on a plant-based diet. I’ve coached hundreds of vegan, vegetarian, and plant-curious runners of all ages and abilities with science-backed training, plant-based nutrition, and proven mental strength techniques. Whether you are training for your first 5k or your 50th marathon, you can start exactly where you are right now, and get better today.

The Planted Runner Evergreen Podcasts

    • Sports
    • 4.9 • 322 Ratings

You’ve already made two of the best decisions of your life as a plant-based runner. Now it’s time to get better at both every week. I’m Coach Claire Bartholic, and I went from not running at all to finishing a marathon in 2:58 at age 42, all on a plant-based diet. I’ve coached hundreds of vegan, vegetarian, and plant-curious runners of all ages and abilities with science-backed training, plant-based nutrition, and proven mental strength techniques. Whether you are training for your first 5k or your 50th marathon, you can start exactly where you are right now, and get better today.

    The Simple, Proven Way to Supercharge Your Running: Start Walking More

    The Simple, Proven Way to Supercharge Your Running: Start Walking More

    Walking can actually be your super power to better running.  That’s right, walking can make you a better runner.
    And I don’t just mean taking the dog out for a walk, which is a literal step in the right direction. I’m talking about the power of incorporating intentional walking before, during, and after your runs.
    And this is not just for beginner runners. It’s for everyone.
    How can this possibly help your running?
    Let’s find out.
    On today’s show, I’m going to explore the ways walking can help you upgrade your running fitness. We’ll go over how:

    the run/walk method can be used by more than just beginner runners,

    walking can actually lead to more running for even the fastest runners, and

    getting in more walking into the rest of your day can boost your overall fitness.


    If you want a super simple way to get fitter without much effort, this is the show for you.

    Want to see me demonstrate this in person?   Here’s your chance! This September, join me and a small group of runners for an incredible running vacation here in Asheville, NC. All paces are welcome, even if you are mostly walking. We’re staying in deluxe riverfront cabins right where we can run right out our doors. We’ll feast on chef-catered plant-based meals, enjoy classes and coaching, and so much more. To learn more about all the cool things we’ve got planned go to www.theplantedrunner.com/retreat. We’ve got just a few spots left so sign up today.

    Welcome to the Planted Runner. I’m Coach Claire Bartholic and my mission is to help you improve your running, your mindset, and your life with science-backed training and plant-based nutrition.
    If you need more help, you can order my book The Planted Runner: Running Your Best With Plant-Based Nutrition wherever you get books or request a copy from your local library. 
    ➡️Enter our Apple Podcast review contest and win one of Coach Claire’s Sprint Sessions Masterclasses. To learn more and sign up, head to theplantedrunner.com/sprint. Or you can enter to win one for free just by writing an Apple Podcast Review. We choose a new winner every month.
    Don’t forget to stay tuned all the way to the end of the episode for another Mental Strength Minute. Fortify your mind in 60 seconds or less.

    LINKS:
    If you’d like help directly from me, you can check out my freebies, personal coaching, and sign up for my PR Team at https://www.theplantedrunner.com/link.
    For my recommendations for at-home strength equipment and other running products I love, check out my curated list on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/shop/theplantedrunner

    EARTH BREEZE:
    Get even your stinkiest running clothes clean without the ugly plastic jug. Save 40% with free shipping at https://www.earthbreeze.com/plantedrunner

    NOURIFY PLUS from PREVINEX:
    Simply the highest quality, best tasting plant-based protein powder you can buy.
    If you are ready to simplify your nutrition and optimize your fueling, you can try Nourify for 15% off the regular price with my code PR15. That’s PR15 at previnex.com. https://www.previnex.com/shop-now/nourify-plus-shakes

    RECENT REVIEWS:
    ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Great podcast!
    “Love listening to the podcast while running! There is a lot of great information!”
    Sleepy opossum
    ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Great content
    “Super informative and educational. Really enjoy the content.”
    Sara75001
    ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Informative and down to earth
    “Claire helps to educate her audience on the science of running but does so in a down to earth way. She makes complex things easy to understand. Her ability to understand her audience and passion for running makes this a podcast a must listen for those interested in better understanding running.”
    SK CND
    Music Credits:
    Music from Uppbeat

    • 17 min
    PRTL: "Can I Run a 1:30 Half Marathon?"

    PRTL: "Can I Run a 1:30 Half Marathon?"

    Welcome to the PR Training Lab! Go behind the scenes with me as I create a custom training plan for one lucky runner.
    In this episode, we feature Josh. He’s:

    32 years old

    Training for a 1:30 half marathon

    Has recently run a 19:45 5k

    Learn how I create a custom plan for a young, fast runner who doesn’t have a lot of experience at the marathon.
    If you would like to win a free custom training plan and be featured in a future episode, first write a review of the show on Apple Podcast and then enter at https://www.theplantedrunner.com/prlab 
    Welcome to the Planted Runner. I’m Coach Claire Bartholic and my mission is to help you improve your running, your mindset, and your life with science-backed training and plant-based nutrition.
    If you need more help, you can order my book The Planted Runner: Running Your Best With Plant-Based Nutrition wherever you get books or request a copy from your local library. 

    LINKS:
    If you’d like help directly from me, you can check out my freebies, personal coaching, and sign up for my PR Team at https://www.theplantedrunner.com/link.
    EARTH BREEZE:
    Get even your stinkiest running clothes clean without the ugly plastic jug. Save 40% with free shipping at https://www.earthbreeze.com/plantedrunner
    NOURIFY PLUS from PREVINEX:
    Simply the highest quality, best tasting plant-based protein powder you can buy.
    If you are ready to simplify your nutrition and optimize your fueling, you can try Nourify for 15% off the regular price with my code PR15. That’s PR15 at previnex.com. https://www.previnex.com/shop-now/nourify-plus-shakes

    RECENT REVIEWS:
    ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Great content!
    “I have really enjoyed listening to Claire’s topics, tips, and her personal running stories. I was lucky enough to be chosen for a PR lab training plan and I am so excited to put this into place in August as I train for a marathon. thank you for the great information and sharing your time and talent with us!”
    JustRun123

    ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Runners, listen up!
    “In bite-sized chunks, Coach Claire provides great insight & tips on a variety of topics pertaining to running!”
    bty4ashes 

    ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Valuable information for runners!
    “Really enjoyed the latest bonus episode on the PR training lab! Learned a lot about my running journey and what to look for in a good but realistic training plan for a marathon! She explains everything so well and keeps me engaged in most running/nutrition topics! Thank you!”
    MKQ12


    Music Credits:
    Music from Uppbeat

    • 44 min
    Does a Plant-Based Diet Give You A Performance Edge? Maybe

    Does a Plant-Based Diet Give You A Performance Edge? Maybe

    There has never been more evidence that a diet rich in whole plant-foods, high in fiber, and low in saturated fats and animal products is the clear path to human health and longevity.
    But does that mean everyone should immediately go vegan?  And what does this all mean for athletic performance?
    As much as I’d love this to be inarguably true because it works for me, it’s more complicated than that.  And I’m not here to preach my opinions to anyone, but I do love some good science.
    Can a plant-based diet really help you and your running?
    Let’s find out.
    On today’s show, I’m going to go over

    the benefits that a plant-based diet provides runners

    the potential downsides to going plant-based, and I’ll give you 

    a day in the life of a plant-based runner with meal examples that you can try today


    If you’re curious about going plant-based or if you already are, but could use some inspiration, I’ve got you covered.

    Welcome to the Planted Runner. I’m Coach Claire Bartholic and my mission is to help you improve your running, your mindset, and your life with science-backed training and plant-based nutrition.
    If you need more help, you can order my book The Planted Runner: Running Your Best With Plant-Based Nutrition wherever you get books or request a copy from your local library. 
    ➡️Enter our Apple Podcast review contest and win one of Coach Claire’s Sprint Sessions Masterclasses. To learn more and sign up, head to theplantedrunner.com/sprint. Or you can enter to win one for free just by writing an Apple Podcast Review. We choose a new winner every month.
    Don’t forget to stay tuned all the way to the end of the episode for another Mental Strength Minute. Fortify your mind in 60 seconds or less.

    LINKS:
    If you’d like help directly from me, you can check out my freebies, personal coaching, and sign up for my PR Team at https://www.theplantedrunner.com/link.

    EARTH BREEZE:
    Get even your stinkiest running clothes clean without the ugly plastic jug. Save 40% with free shipping at https://www.earthbreeze.com/plantedrunner

    NOURIFY PLUS from PREVINEX:
    Simply the highest quality, best tasting plant-based protein powder you can buy.

    If you are ready to simplify your nutrition and optimize your fueling, you can try Nourify for 15% off the regular price with my code PR15. That’s PR15 at previnex.com. https://www.previnex.com/shop-now/nourify-plus-shakes

    RECENT REVIEWS:
    ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Great Coach
    “Coach Claire is the real deal. She gives advice and insight to improve your running. Her podcast covers a variety of topics; fueling, pacing and other interesting running topics. If you want to become a better runner then listen to her podcast at the very least. Better yet, checkout her personalized training plans.”
    jharrington4181

    ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Thank you!
    “Thank you for your amazing tips on training, fueling and all things running.”
    MadelineWaters

    ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Great topics!
    “I absolutely love the topics Coach Claire chooses and the fact that the podcasts aren’t super long. She gives you the facts in an easy to digest manner (no pun intended). I’m hooked!”
    kmork83

    Music Credits:
    Music from Uppbeat

    • 25 min
    PRTL: Custom Training Plan For a 56-year-old Runner Half Marathon

    PRTL: Custom Training Plan For a 56-year-old Runner Half Marathon

    Welcome to the PR Training Lab! Go behind the scenes with me as I create a custom training plan for one lucky runner.
    In this episode, we feature Peachy. She’s:

    56 years old

    Training for a half marathon

    Afraid of getting injured and slowing down

    Learn why I have Peachy starting off as run-walk, then progressing to all running.
    If you would like to win a free custom training plan and be featured in a future episode, first write a review of the show on Apple Podcast and then enter at https://www.theplantedrunner.com/prlab 
    Welcome to the Planted Runner. I’m Coach Claire Bartholic and my mission is to help you improve your running, your mindset, and your life with science-backed training and plant-based nutrition.
    If you need more help, you can order my book The Planted Runner: Running Your Best With Plant-Based Nutrition wherever you get books or request a copy from your local library. 

    LINKS:
    If you’d like help directly from me, you can check out my freebies, personal coaching, and sign up for my PR Team at https://www.theplantedrunner.com/link.
    EARTH BREEZE:
    Get even your stinkiest running clothes clean without the ugly plastic jug. Save 40% with free shipping at https://www.earthbreeze.com/plantedrunner
    NOURIFY PLUS from PREVINEX:
    Simply the highest quality, best tasting plant-based protein powder you can buy.
    If you are ready to simplify your nutrition and optimize your fueling, you can try Nourify for 15% off the regular price with my code PR15. That’s PR15 at previnex.com. https://www.previnex.com/shop-now/nourify-plus-shakes

    RECENT REVIEWS:
    ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐I have a Master’s degree in Exercise Science, and approve of this podcast :)
    “Claire brings science and reality together in this engaging podcast. I listen every week. Between the knowledgeable guest appearances and Claire’s extensive knowledge of running, you are always sure to learn something. I especially appreciate her focus on the often neglected mental side of running.”
    run_gin
    ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Thankful for this podcast!!
    “This podcast has totally changed the way I view running as a whole. The tips and tricks that were discussed in the Boston Marathon Training Mistakes episode was eye opening for me as I was training for Boston. It was super helpful to know what I should change and what I should expect. Thank you for always providing the discussions we all want and need!”
    Marceycross 
    ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Encore Run How To Beat the Heat
    “Loved it! I’ll be training for the Chicago Marathon so that means training through the summer. Right now I live in Oregon so not a bad place to train. We will be moving soon for a new job most likely to the midweat so the weather will definitely be a factor. I love all the tips for heat training and what to watch for for heat exhaustion and heat stroke. I’m 59 and this will be my second Marathon. I’m hoping to improve my time from 4:16. I run 4 days a week and bike 1 day. Thanks for all the helpful advice!”
    KC Royals 1983 

    Music Credits:
    Music from Uppbeat

    • 37 min
    Are Your Ankles the True Cause of Your Knee Pain?

    Are Your Ankles the True Cause of Your Knee Pain?

    Could your ankles be the cause of your knee pain?
    YES. But thankfully, this can be improved for most runners.
    Today we’re going to examine the critical role of your ankle in running. We’ll look at

    the importance of ankle flexibility,

    how it relates to your knees

    and how you can help improve your ankles for better running.


    Even if you’ve never had knee issues from running, the lessons you learn today can help not only prevent them, but it can literally propel you to faster running.

    Welcome to the Planted Runner. I’m Coach Claire Bartholic and my mission is to help you improve your running, your mindset, and your life with science-backed training and plant-based nutrition.
    If you need more help, you can order my book The Planted Runner: Running Your Best With Plant-Based Nutrition wherever you get books or request a copy from your local library. 
    ➡️Enter our Apple Podcast review contest and win one of Coach Claire’s Sprint Sessions Masterclasses. To learn more and sign up, head to theplantedrunner.com/sprint. Or you can enter to win one for free just by writing an Apple Podcast Review. We choose a new winner every month.

    Don’t forget to stay tuned all the way to the end of the episode for another Mental Strength Minute. Fortify your mind in 60 seconds or less.

    LINKS:
    If you’d like help directly from me, you can check out my freebies, personal coaching, and sign up for my PR Team at https://www.theplantedrunner.com/link.

    EARTH BREEZE:
    Get even your stinkiest running clothes clean without the ugly plastic jug. Save 40% with free shipping at https://www.earthbreeze.com/plantedrunner

    NOURIFY PLUS from PREVINEX:
    Simply the highest quality, best tasting plant-based protein powder you can buy.

    If you are ready to simplify your nutrition and optimize your fueling, you can try Nourify for 15% off the regular price with my code PR15. That’s PR15 at previnex.com. https://www.previnex.com/shop-now/nourify-plus-shakes

    RECENT REVIEWS:
    ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Game changer.
    I got into running late; coming up on 7 years ago at the age of 41. I have been steadily making progress. My speeds have gradually increased, and I have just run my 6th marathon. NOTHING has helped me more with my progress than Coach Claire’s tips. I have been using her tips one by one, with each marathon. I went from a 4:52 marathon at the age of 45 in June 2021, to a 4:15 marathon at the age of 48 in May 2024. Hoping to break 4:00 this year in October for my 49th birthday. I just bought her book and I love it. I love this podcast. I can’t imagine the possibilities if I had her as an actual coach. Thanks Coach Claire!
    Carriesian

    ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Practical and pragmatic
    Lots of terrific ideas across every facet of running. Very practical and real-life scenarios. Terrific advice for everyone - not just solely plant-based runners.
    Jkel99 

    ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐5 stars
    Coach Claire’s podcast is fantastic! I enjoy her insight, tips, ideas and of course the mental strength minute on each show. I have recently started using her YouTube videos recently for my workouts also. PRs here I come!?
    BenHennessee 


    Music Credits:
    Music from Uppbeat

    • 14 min
    BONUS: PR Training Lab: Custom Training Plan For a 40-year-old Runner, First-Time Marathon

    BONUS: PR Training Lab: Custom Training Plan For a 40-year-old Runner, First-Time Marathon

    The PR Training Lab is now open! Go behind the scenes with me as I create a custom training plan for one lucky runner.
    In this episode, we feature Justine. She’s:

    40 years old

    Training for her first marathon

    Wants to work on consistent pacing and positive self-talk

    If you would like to win a free custom training plan and be featured in a future episode, first write a review of the show on Apple Podcast and then enter at https://www.theplantedrunner.com/prlab 
    Welcome to the Planted Runner. I’m Coach Claire Bartholic and my mission is to help you improve your running, your mindset, and your life with science-backed training and plant-based nutrition.
    If you need more help, you can order my book The Planted Runner: Running Your Best With Plant-Based Nutrition wherever you get books or request a copy from your local library. 

    LINKS:
    If you’d like help directly from me, you can check out my freebies, personal coaching, and sign up for my PR Team at https://www.theplantedrunner.com/link.
    NOURIFY PLUS from PREVINEX:
    Simply the highest quality, best tasting plant-based protein powder you can buy.
    If you are ready to simplify your nutrition and optimize your fueling, you can try Nourify for 15% off the regular price with my code PR15. That’s PR15 at previnex.com. https://www.previnex.com/shop-now/nourify-plus-shakes

    RECENT REVIEWS:
    ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Game changer.
    I got into running late; coming up on 7 years ago at the age of 41. I have been steadily making progress. My speeds have gradually increased, and I have just run my 6th marathon. NOTHING has helped me more with my progress than Coach Claire’s tips. I have been using her tips one by one, with each marathon. I went from a 4:52 marathon at the age of 45 in June 2021, to a 4:15 marathon at the age of 48 in May 2024. Hoping to break 4:00 this year in October for my 49th birthday. I just bought her book and I love it. I love this podcast. I can’t imagine the possibilities if I had her as an actual coach. Thanks Coach Claire!
    Carriesian

    ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Practical and pragmatic
    Lots of terrific ideas across every facet of running. Very practical and real-life scenarios. Terrific advice for everyone - not just solely plant-based runners.
    Jkel99 

    ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐5 stars
    Coach Claire’s podcast is fantastic! I enjoy her insight, tips, ideas and of course the mental strength minute on each show. I have recently started using her YouTube videos recently for my workouts also. PRs here I come!?
    BenHennessee 


    Music Credits:
    Music from Uppbeat

    • 43 min

Customer Reviews

4.9 out of 5
322 Ratings

322 Ratings

aborders@film180 ,

The podcast I needed

After a health scare eight years ago, I went plant-based. It changed my life and my health. A year and a half ago, at the now ‘masters’ age of 59, I was out taking a brisk walk as part of my daily exercise and I realized I suddenly wanted to run again. Run like I did when I was a child. It had been so long since I had just taken off and been spontaneous with my physical activity. So I decided then in there ‘I wanna run again.’ I could barely go half a mile without stopping and I had no idea what I was doing. I downloaded a couple of things and finally set a goal; I wanted to run a 5K. Three months later, I finished my 5K and I was hooked on running. I wanted to improve so I went and started looking for podcasts and books. That’s when I found ‘The Planted Runner.’ It spoke to my lifestyle, the way I see the world and gave me instructions that I could follow implement in my day-to-day life. It inspired me at a time of of life when it’s hard to sometimes become inspired. I just recently finished my first 10k at the age of 60 and now I’m training to see if I could possibly do a half marathon. Your podcast in addition to the techniques, recipes, and science-based motivation, has been a game changer. Thank you!

Sleepy opossum ,

Great podcast!

Love listening to the podcast while running! There is a lot of great information!

Sara75001 ,

Great content

Super informative and educational. Really enjoy the content.

Top Podcasts In Sports

Pardon My Take
Barstool Sports
The Bill Simmons Podcast
The Ringer
New Heights with Jason and Travis Kelce
Wave Sports + Entertainment
The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz
Dan Le Batard, Stugotz
Mind the Game with LeBron James and JJ Redick
ThreeFourTwo Productions and UNINTERRUPTED
Club Shay Shay
iHeartPodcasts and The Volume

You Might Also Like

Run to the Top Podcast | The Ultimate Guide to Running
RunnersConnect : Running Coaching Community
Run4PRs
Run4PRs
The Running Explained Podcast
Elisabeth Scott
Tread Lightly Podcast
Amanda Brooks & Laura Norris
The Strength Running Podcast
Jason Fitzgerald
The Run Smarter Podcast
Brodie Sharpe