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We explore the revolutionary world of PNF stretching with Vanessa Lenssen, founder of Stretch Life, and Beverly Analuwa, studio manager and physiotherapist, diving into how this technique can transform a runner's flexibility, prevent injuries, and boost performance.

• PNF stretching works by retraining your nervous system, not just stretching muscles
• Developed in the 1940s, this method is still taught in physiotherapy programmes today
• The technique sends signals to your brain that it's safe to move beyond your natural stretch reflex
• Unlike static stretching, PNF creates muscle memory for sustainable, long-term flexibility
• Benefits include reduced inflammation, better sleep, improved joint alignment, and pain reduction
• Breathing techniques are crucial to achieving deeper stretches and calming the nervous system
• Sessions provide immediate improvements in range of motion without causing pain
• Ideal frequency is a 50-minute session every two weeks
• Perfect for runners of all levels from casual parkrunners to marathon competitors
• One client eliminated shin splints and met his marathon time goals after eight sessions

Come experience how PNF stretching can help you move better, feel taller, and unlock flexibility you never knew you had.

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We welcome back author and ultra-runner Merili Freear who shares her journey from completing a 100-mile race to discovering poetry as a healing practice, along with advice for both new runners and those recovering from injury.

• Merili discusses the unexpected mental challenges she faced after completing her first 100-mile ultramarathon
• How developing a gratitude practice led her to writing poetry as a form of healing
• Her poetry collection "Whispers and Footsteps" explores her journey through doubt and self-discovery
• Advice for new runners: "Start small and don't worry about how it looks - just run for fun first"
• Tips for runners recovering from injury, including cross-training outdoors and writing yourself a sympathy card
• Future ambitions include potentially running a 230-mile national trail across Estonia
• Recommendation for injured runners: "Rebound: Train Your Mind to Bounce Back Stronger from Sport Injuries" by Carrie Jackson and Cindy Kuzma

Brian's Run Pod has become interactive with the audience. If you look at the top of the Episode description tap on "Send us a Text Message". You can tell me what you think of the episode or alternatively what you would like covered. You might even get a mention!
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We welcome back Merili Freear to discuss her remarkable journey since her last appearance, including completing a grueling 100-mile ultra marathon and venturing into poetry.

• Marketing her book helped Merili overcome shame about her depression and mental health struggles
• Digital marketing course provided new skills she wouldn't have pursued without the book
• Training for a 100-mile ultra focuses primarily on mental preparation rather than just physical conditioning
• Robin Hood 100 race features canal paths and two 30-mile woodland loops with strategic aid stations
• Weather extremes during the race (intense heat followed by heavy rain) contributed to nearly half the field dropping out
• Support runners allowed to join after 52 miles helped Morelli through difficult night sections
• Ultra running community is more welcoming with less emphasis on times compared to marathon culture
• Walking during ultras is normalized, creating less pressure than marathons where finish times are scrutinized
• Morelli finds satisfaction in inspiring ordinary runners to attempt extraordinary challenges

Join us next week for the second part of our conversation with Morelli as we explore her future plans and newfound passion for poetry.

Brian's Run Pod has become interactive with the audience. If you look at the top of the Episode description tap on "Send us a Text Message". You can tell me what you think of the episode or alternatively what you would like covered. You might even get a mention!
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