12 Months to Marathon
Hi, I'm John Hill. I host 12 Months to Marathon—the running podcast for people over 35 with marathon dreams. Whether you are looking for a personal best or want to run a marathon, my story and regular tips should help you get there.
I didn't run my first marathon until I was 36. I ran my first sub-3 marathon at the age of 45. If I can do it, so can you!
For even more daily tips, make sure to follow me on Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/12monthstomarathon/
Thanks for listening.
12 Months to Marathon
12 Months to Marathon - Episode 83 - Naked Running
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Episode 83 — Naked Running (Minimalist Running & Why It Might Make You Better)
Ever heard of “naked running”? Don’t worry, you’re not getting arrested.
In this episode, I’m talking about running without the extras: no headphones, no watch, no constant tracking… just you and the run.
As I record this, I’m in week 9 of marathon training, right in the belly of the beast (weeks 8–14), where the mileage ramps up, fatigue builds, and you’ve got to manage your energy properly. And it’s got me thinking about something I’m passionate about — minimalism in running.
Because the more tired you get, the more you realise: distraction is the enemy.
In this episode, we cover:
- What “naked running” actually means (and why it matters)
- The difference between what you need versus what you’ve just got used to
- Whydo some runners feel like they have to run with music, a vest, a phone, or gadgets
- How external crutches can quietly limit your confidence and performance
- Why learning to run “with yourself” is a superpower — especially for marathon training
- How simplifying your setup can help you focus, race better, and enjoy the experience more
This isn’t about being anti-tech or anti-Strava — it’s about asking one simple question:
Is this helping your running, or just feeding the noise?
If you’re training for a spring marathon (or just want to feel more in control of your running), this one will get you thinking.
Follow me on Instagram: @12monthstomarathon
And if you’re over 35, you can join my free running community via the link in my bio.
