In this episode of the Better with Running podcast, hosts Chris Armstrong and Zac Newman recap their training, including a race update and gold medal performance from Chriso is revealed! Before welcoming Run2PB coach James Telford and his athlete, Zac Collyer, to discuss a year of remarkable transformations. 

A standout moment in the conversation is Zac’s unconventional entry into the Run2PB program, which included a 3:09 rowing machine marathon—a feat that immediately signaled his high level of mental and physical engine. Before joining James, Zac was following a triathlon-based plan heavily focused on heart rate zones and "double threshold" sessions that weren't yielding the specific results he craved. James recalls their early interactions, noting, "There was a bit of a late night chat... and we sort of agreed that what he was doing possibly wasn't the best thing for him".

Under James’s guidance, Zac’s personal bests have seen a drastic overhaul. He has progressed from a 19:54 5km to a sharp 19:00, dropped his 10km from 44:16 to a sub-40-minute 39:57, and brought his half marathon down to 1:30.

Looking ahead, the team is now targeting the Ballarat Marathon, focusing on consistent volume and specific training to see how Zac can go in his debut marthon. The episode concludes with a "Quick-Fire" round and a special gift from sponsor Oat Running Socks to celebrate Zac’s progress.

Before rounding out the show, James talks about the new clinic setup and sweat testing that is available there in partnership with Ben Stolz. "It’s a good time to get it done, because you can then start training, especially your long runs, with your sodium replacement... it's important to practice how you're hoping to play on the day"

With thanks to Oat Running our partner,

Listeners of the show can get a a 15% discount using "run2pb15" at the check out. Visit www⁠.oatrunning.com.au