This is a podcast about how runners can live better lives through consistent self-improvement. Unlike other running brands, The 1% Better Runner focuses on how small, daily habit improvements ripple into broader life success, helping runners perform better both on and off the road, track, or dirt. I’m Daren DLake: Certified running and nutrition coach, Sub-3-hour marathoner and 10-hour Ironman finisher. Since 1996, I’ve been helping other self-coached runners, researching, and experimenting ...
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Imagine running faster and stronger but with less effort and all from one small adjustment. What is it? Increasing your run cadence - But how do you actually do it? Listen on to find out. Discover how to unlock your full running potential with one small yet powerful adjustment—your cadence. Learn why it matters for efficiency, injury prevention, an…
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Want to make every run feel a little easier? Try this approach for 1% better results. In this episode, you’ll learn why small, intentional adjustments in your training can create massive improvements in the long run. From understanding the science behind beta-alanine as an endurance booster to rethinking the way you approach fartlek workouts, this …
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Training inconsistently? Here’s how that might be holding back your race goals. In this episode, we dive into what separates fast runners from the fastest: consistency. Learn from Audrey’s journey to shave time off her 5K and uncover what training habits might be keeping you from your personal best. We’ll cover her favorite dynamic warm-ups, interv…
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Are you too mindful on your runs? It might be time to dial it back. I dive into the surprising downside of being too mindful during your runs and how it can disrupt your flow and performance. We explore the fine line between conscious awareness and muscle memory, revealing how to harness mindfulness effectively without letting it derail your progre…
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What if running farther wasn’t about speed, but strategy? In this episode, we dive into the essential strategies to keep you running stronger and longer, without the burnout. Learn the time-tested techniques that focus on stamina over speed, including how to prevent injuries, fuel your body effectively, and make the right adjustments in your routin…
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Is it possible to run faster with a low heart rate? Here's how it works. Download the free 1% Better runner 30 day plan to run faster with a low heart rate Want to take your running to the next level while avoiding burnout? This will help you. In this episode, you'll join me on a journey through Zone 2 training—learning how to build endurance, impr…
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This is how 1% incremental changes and an Olympic mindset can make you a stronger runner—at any level. In this episode, we dive into what it truly takes to become a better runner, not just through physical training but by harnessing a purpose-driven mindset. Roberto shares his journey as an Olympic athlete, the key lessons he’s learned about resili…
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Watch and read this here How do you feel after this sentence; "Running isn’t a real sport because real sports require skill" Is running really just a challenging competition with yourself? Does an activity like bowling take more skill than running? Does that make it harder to do?! In this episode, we’re getting extra existential on this one and goi…
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Ever wondered what the perfect running shoe feels like? Let me tell you about mine. In this episode, you’ll discover the gear that’s transforming my runs, including my favorite all-around running shoe, an unexpected heart rate monitor upgrade, and a singlet designed to stay in place no matter how fast you go. I’ll explain why the Altra Escalante 3 …
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Want to run your fastest marathon at 60? Here’s how Ron did it. In this episode, you’ll discover how a 64-year-old marathoner has completed 82 marathons by focusing on consistency, recovery, and mindset. Learn how you can apply the same principles to improve your own running performance, no matter your age. We explore why age is just a number, how …
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Imagine a tool that could instantly upgrade your running game—here it is. As a bonus, we’ll explain Vo2 Max for running to you simply. In this episode, discover how to turn your VO2 max workouts from frustrating guesswork into precision training that delivers real results. You’ll learn how to use a simple yet powerful tool to nail your paces, avoid…
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Watch and read this here The following African proverb is cliche, but cliche for a reason “Want to fast - go alone Want to go far - go together” In this episode, you will be convinced whether training in a group or training solo is the best thing for you. Explore the unique benefits of each training style, from the control and focus of solo runs to…
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Ever wonder how just 1% better daily can transform your running journey? In this episode, you’ll learn the art of becoming 1% better... every single day... for a decade. We dive deep into the mindsets, strategies, and core principles that transform running into a powerful tool for growth in every part of your life. You’ll discover how to pick the r…
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Watch & Read This Here Looking for a cheat code to get pretty fit without suffering? Welcome to the easiest of the hard workout sessions for runners: the 12x400 interval workout. In this episode, you'll dive into the 12x400 interval workout, a powerful tool for any runner looking to improve their speed, endurance, and overall performance. We break …
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Watch and Read This Episode Here This is the toolkit that you need to understand everything about strength training so you can perform your best. Strength training like most things in life is super confusing and nuanced. Information is everywhere and with so many options and variations depending on each person. It’s no wonder why us runners tend to…
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Curious if you're using the best method for your training? Find out now! At some point or another, you've been told by your training plan, smartwatch or coach to train by effort, pace and or heart rate. But have you stopped to consider if one is better than the other? If so, does the situation matter when you use the one or the other? Is there anot…
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The what, why, when and how of tempo runs so you can beast out on your next race (or just run comfortably faster and get better at it… sometimes) Tempo runs are essential for boosting your race times and daily running routine. They are a critical bridge between aerobic endurance efforts (80% easy running) and high-intensity training (20% hard runni…
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How To Avoid and Fix Common Injuries: Runner's Knee, IT Band Syndrome and Achilles Tendinitis
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Watch and Read This Episode Here Ever wondered how the pros manage running injuries? Find out in this episode! Picture this - you’re a runner and you got hurt. You’re searching the internet for quick hacks and fixes so you can keep running but you just get more confused and don’t know who to trust. In this article, we’ll hopefully cut through the s…
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Watch & Read it all here Unpopular opinion. I love running in hot weather, extremely hot weather. It feels amazing. I know I'm the minority, but maybe, just maybe, there is some science and merit to training in the heat, the extreme heat versus the extreme cold. Or maybe I'm just crazy. In this episode, my goal is to slightly convince you of whatev…
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Watch and read this here. The ultimate showdown: Mike Trees takes on AI to create the perfect training plan! In the world of run training, the battle lines between old-school human coaching and high-tech AI guidance are drawn. While AI brings the big guns with its data-crunching skills, delivering precision and convenience, it can't quite replicate…
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Watch and Read This Episode Here If your running sucks, it might be because you're weak AF... just kidding, not really. Look, we all want to be better runners—to run faster for longer and feel like we're cruising while everyone is huddled over a trash can hurling up their GU gels. But here's the hard truth most runners don't want to admit: they are…
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Watch and Read This Episode Here Trigger warning: All runners need to run in the morning. All runners need to run in the afternoon. Which one made you angry? Which one did you agree with? I hope you’re screaming at your screen with your answer and cursing me out. No… I don’t hope that, but yeah, engagement for the algorithm right? In this quick epi…
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Welcome to the one percent better runner. I've spent the last 12 years researching, experimenting on myself and talking to experts to get 1 percent better in my training, racing, and life. All to make it a bit easier for you to try to do it on your own. I'm Daren DLake runs a lifelong runner and all-around performance optimizer of all things. In th…
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Watch and read this here In this episode you’re going to find out what happens at the intersection where science meets the pavement – the quest for ultimate running performance. We’ll dissect the importance of power and speed in your resistance/weight training. I’ll answer the question for runners; where does power, speed, strength, muscle enduranc…
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Read and Watch this HERE As runners and endurance athletes (Hey triathletes and cyclists!), we all love knowing what you should do! But sometimes it’s nice to look at the inverse. Inverse just means the opposite. In the context of running and training, knowing what IS NOT good for you is just as effective as knowing what is. The point of this episo…
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Which is better - run or bicycle commuting? What if I told you that your commute, yeah… that same old route you take every day, could be your new secret weapon in your running arsenal? It's time to change up your mentality on what you think you know about getting from point A to point B. Welcome to the dope world of run commuting, where every step …
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Watch and Read this here The More is More Paradox of Training and Life. If I told you that less is more, you would probably believe me, right? Unfortunately, most people’s brains think more is more. It just makes sense. The more you work the more returns you get out. The hedonic treadmill in its most purest form. As a runner or even in your career/…
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Watch or Read This Here Kickstart your year (or running journey) with dope insights on how running can enhance not just your fitness but your entire life, making you healthy, wealthy, and wise. In this video podcasting, while running a conversation with my American Sydney-sider friend, Stacey Trock, a passionate runner, we delve into how consistent…
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Back when I ran track in college, I had a decent amount of raw genetic talent to run faster. But as I graduated to endurance running, my inefficient overstriding led to some serious knee injuries. Imagine how fast I could have been if I actually worked on my form. In the 80s it was mostly thought good running form was a natural talent and not a ski…
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Get 1% better everyday with deep dive tips and tricks from my FREE newsletter https://dlakecreates.com/news If you want to save 25 years of embarrassing run failures and mistakes, please keep reading (or watch or listen to it here). I decided to return in time to one year ago and finally finish that list of those 40 things about running that I wish…
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Watch and Read this here Most runners know the importance of shoes to run. If you don't know how important they are, try running really fast or long in non-running shoes, and you will quickly find out. But have you ever stopped to wonder the role that feet and in particular, what role shoes play in the quest to perform better as you age? Find out h…
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We are now on Youtube! Watch and/or read it here (if you like to consume your content like that) Are you a short and sweet type of person or do you like to go until you drop? Who’s wrong? Who’s right? What do you do? Does it even matter? This debate has been around for as long as running has existed. In this podcast, we'll dive into the debate and …
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Want to become an endurance machine? Or are you looking to hit a 5k PB? It’s all about the base, ‘bout the base… base training, that is! You can do all the speedwork in the world, but if you’re not putting it on top of a solid foundation of consistent, aerobic base training, you’re wasting your energy. We’re talking with Mike Trees about how everyo…
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Watch and read the whole episode here Most people start running to lose body fat, right? All their running friends are skinny, so losing body fat is what happens, right? Scientists have been saying for a while now that you can't outrun a bad diet, and I mostly agree. It's like jumping off a cliff and building a plane on the way down. I'm not saying…
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▶️ This is now on YOUTUBE! Watch and read it all here (if you like consuming your content like that) https://dlakecreates.com/veganmeat Some people don’t eat meat for performance - some do. Who’s wrong? Who’s right? What do you do? Does it even matter? Let us know and comment below what you do! Timestamps 02:19 Vegan versus omnivore diet. 04:13 Veg…
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In this episode, you will learn the top three things we think a person new and even experienced to the marathon should focus on that they usually don't. I have a saying, the marathon isn't twice as hard as a half marathon. It is 2 to the 2nd power. It's exponentially harder, so that's 4 times harder than a marathon. I had the privilege of getting e…
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The GREY ZONE for athletes is similar to purgatory in Catholic/Christian religious circles. In the in-between place right after you die, you’re not alive but you’re also not in the afterlife. You’re really only mildly suffering in a hybrid limbo state. Most coaches preach to not stay in the grey zone and if you’re training for a run or endurance ev…
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Subscribe to free newsletter to get 1% better at https://dlakecreates.com/news Listen and read it all here https://dlakecreates.com/opbsep2023 Vo2 Max building and hill workouts is the main focus on this. I go deep and tell you why vo2max building workouts are effective, different types of workouts and what actually makes a vo2max building workout …
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The Weird Reason Why Your Run Breathing Technique Is Holding You Back (Nose vs Mouth Breathing)
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Too many runners train in ‘the grey zone’, too fast for an easy run but too slow for a hard run. Nose breathing is a natural way to ensure your easy runs are easy, because you can not supply enough oxygen to the muscles if you run too fast. A 2018 study published in the International Journal of Exercise Science showed breathing through your nose ma…
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Sign up for the newsletter at https://dlakecreates.com/news Watch and read this at https://dlakecreates.com/opbaug23 Running advice to elevate your life: twice a month What's upcoming: 🧡 Threshold tests for different sports | Present Training Tip for you to try right now 📊Training Updates & Music hacks | Past things to learn from me 🌶 Spicy Slow Te…
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Want to run a faster 5k? Whether you’ve just done your first or you're a serious athlete looking to shave a few seconds off your 5k PR, we’ll tell you what you need to do to run that 5k distance faster. And to all you distance runners, we’re just gonna say it. Love me some distance, but you’d be best gettin’ your 5k time down. It’ll pay off in the …
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⌚️ Body Battery & Smart Watches | Present things you can try right now! 📊 Training Updates & What I’m digging | Past things to learn from me 🎲 Group Dice Workouts & Dosages | Future stuff for you to try Watch, read and sign up for the newsletter here. Welcome! Three Thing Thursday is dead. Long live One Percent Better! The internet’s best-running t…
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Question - want to know someone’s priority? Have them show you their calendar. Better yet, have them show you what they do every night and morning. You’ll then really see what they value the most. If you want more consistency in your run training so you can possibly race your best - listen/watch/read on! What You’ll Learn & Timestamps How to make y…
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I talk about the benefits and downsides of running in the morning to experience one's own city and community. I reference the movie Vanilla Sky and compare waking up early to seeing a city in a new light. Listen on to find out why I'm arguing so damn hard. What you’ll learn (time stamps) 01:07 Morning runs and city exploration. 03:14 Benefits of ea…
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Go here to watch and read the newsletter and get even deeper bombs of knowledge. My newsletter in an audio format because... why not!!! It's 2023 and content is everywhere. Let's see how far I can have it reach. TLDR about what’s coming up; 🥵 Late night runs & 8 great recovery foods | Present things you can try right now! 📊Training Updates & What I…
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In previous war times soldiers were taught to advance cautiously, to stay low and move slowly to avoid enemy fire. But there were those who charged ahead, ignoring the risks and the warnings. They were the ones who often paid the ultimate price. Fast forward to our modern personal, work, school and run lives. We face a constant pressure to hurry an…
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Seasons are everywhere in life: Tax season, weather season, fashion season and yes, RUN SEASON. Like seasons you can’t keep wearing the same Summer clothes in the winter. That aint gonna work. So you gotta switch things and adapt! Just like the clothes in your closet, I’ll teach you how to adapt your eating to support your diff run seasons on this …
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Improving running form is essential for success in any running event or endurance sport. Having good running form can help you run faster, farther, and with less effort. Poor running form can lead to injury, fatigue, and decreased performance. Unfortunately, many runners focus on the appearance of their running form instead of its efficiency. They …
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This was a wild one I almost didn’t put out. But after editing it and realising there was a lot of great information in here I let it slide. The reason why I wasn’t feeling it is that I wanted to talk about Vo2max workouts in this. But then I realised halfway through that we should have clearly explained what Vo2 and Vo2max were (they are different…
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Imagine this, you're a pilot in the cockpit of a plane. You have a destination, but the journey is full of unexpected turbulence and challenges. The key to success is staying on course and making small adjustments as needed. And just like flying a plane, navigating life requires a steady hand and a clear sense of direction. Learn all about cavemen,…
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