Running Weight, Fueling, Boston Qualifiers & Big Marathon Mindset | Mega Mailbag Episode

In our biggest Mega Mailbag episode of 2025, Michael Doyle, Alex Cyr, and Katelyn Tocci answer dozens of listener questions on training, fueling, mindset, gear, and marathon goals. Topics include: running and weight fluctuation, fueling strategies, fasted running, Boston Qualifiers, sub-3 marathon planning, winter training, injury comebacks, shoe rotations, confidence before big races, strength training with injuries, and how life changes—like becoming a parent—impact training. Whether you’re chasing a PB, training through winter, returning from injury, or figuring out your first marathon, this episode is packed with practical advice and honest conversations for runners at every level. This episode is presented by Momentous. Use promo code MARATHON for up to 35% off your first order: ⁠livemomentous.com Timestamped Chapters: 00:00 – Welcome to the Mega Mailbag 02:10 – The Canadian Tuxedo & running culture 06:50 – Weight fluctuation, fueling & fasted running 22:10 – Jump rope as cross-training 27:40 – Marathon confidence, mindset & trusting training 45:40 – Returning to running after injury 55:20 – Breaking sub-3 & Boston Qualifier strategy 01:08:00 – New runner: when to increase weekly mileage 01:11:30 – First marathon pacing & goal setting 01:21:30 – Strength training with a shoulder injury 01:26:10 – Winter training & cold-weather pacing 01:34:00 – Cold-weather running gear recommendations 01:38:45 – Listener BQ success story 01:41:00 – Can you run sub-3 after 45? 01:45:10 – Training around the menstrual cycle 01:51:00 – Becoming a parent & balancing training 02:00:00 – Choosing spring marathons (Toronto, Jersey City) 02:06:30 – Shoe rotations & super shoe advice 02:15:00 – Final thoughts & listener shoutouts 📩 Questions about training, race previews, or to send us your hot takes? Email us at podcast@marathonhandbook.com. 🎤 Leave us a voice memo for our mailbag episodes: marathonhandbook.com/podcast 📸 Instagram: @marathon.handbook 📘 Facebook: @marathonhandbook 📰 Join 265,000+ runners getting our daily newsletter: marathonhandbook.com/newsletter 👍 Like, subscribe, and drop your questions in the comments. 🎧 Audio version available wherever you get podcasts + watch the video version on Spotify. 📺 Subscribe on YouTube for weekly running deep dives. #Marathon #TrackAndField #RunningNews #MarathonMajors #running #marathon #RunningPodcast #MarathonTraining #BostonQualifier #Sub3Marathon #RunningAdvice #MarathonMindset #RunningShoes #WinterRunning #DistanceRunning #MarathonHandbook