Actionable and evidence-based running rehab and performance advice from doctors of physical therapy and running-specialists, AJ Cohen and Adam Schwerdt. This podcast offers answers to the most misinterpreted questions in the running rehab and performance world. Whether injured or looking for ways to maximize your performance, this podcast will prove invaluable to all runners looking to enjoy and maximize their running experience for decades to come.
In this episode of the Making Strides Podcast, we're joined by Dr. Vikash Sharma, founder of Perfect Stride PT in New York City and Running for Life Education, to break down one of the most frustrating topics for injured runners: returning to running. Return to run can feel confusing. Some runners try to come back too fast the moment their pain settles down. Others shut everything down for weeks…
At 40 years old, Esteban Trujillo ran 2:14:30 at the California International Marathon, qualifying for the 2028 U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials. Five months later, he ran 2:16 at the Boston Marathon for second place masters. But the part of his story most podcasts miss is what happened in between college and his comeback. At 28, after years of training in the shadow of his Olympian twin brother…
In this episode of Making Strides , AJ and Adam dive into a study that surveyed more than 700 recreational runners before a local race. The results were eye-opening and, honestly, a little concerning. You'll hear the two break down what runners think causes injuries, what actually matters, and how these beliefs shape training behavior and mindset. They walk through each slide from the post that…
In episode 33 of the Making Strides podcast, AJ and Adam welcome back Ty Mangum, a prominent sports science researcher, to discuss the critical topic of air quality, wildfire smoke, and its impact on athletic training. The episode delves into how fine particulate pollution affects vascular function and overall health, especially for outdoor athletes. Listeners will gain practical insights on…
Even physical therapists get injured... and when we do, it's often messy, humbling, and full of doubt. In this episode, AJ, Adam, and returning guest Dr. Stephanie Mundt open up about their most frustrating injuries and what they've learned about rehab, resilience, and redefining what running means at different life stages. We cover: The emotional toll of persistent or confusing injuries When…
In this episode of the Making Strides podcast, hosts AJ and Adam delve into the crucial topic of knowing when to seek professional help for running injuries and performance plateaus. As running coaches and physical therapists, they share their expertise on the indicators that suggest it's time to get professional support, whether it's due to persistent pain, stiffness, or a plateau in performance.…
In this episode of the Making Strides Podcast, hosts Adam, AJ, and special guest Chase, a seasoned physical therapist and competitive swimmer, delve into the world of cross-training for runners. They discuss why runners are drawn to cross-training, debunk common myths, and provide actionable advice to enhance your running journey. Topics include injury prevention, enhancing performance, and the…
In this episode of the Making Strides Podcast, co-hosts AJ Cohen and Adam Schwerdt discuss the intricacies of running form. They emphasize the misconception of a 'perfect' running form and explore the individuality of running styles, likening them to unique signatures. They also debunk common myths like the negative perception of heel striking and explore under-discussed topics like how changes in…
In this episode of the Making Strides Podcast, AJ chats with Lisa Zagorski, PT, DPT, OCS to talk about " Things PTs Need to Stop Telling Patients ". Here are some of the things we talked about: You need to STOP doing XYZ activity. (without offering or trying modifications first) Your XYZ hurts because your XYZ is weak. Your XYZ hurts because your XYZ [enter biomechanical reason]. You need to do…
In this episode of the Making Strides Podcast, AJ and Adam sit down with registered dietician, Katie Kissane to talk about iron for endurance athletes. Check it out! —— 5:00 Katie's story and journey into dietetics 12:00 Supplementing without prior testing 14:30 AJ's story of being anemic 15:30 Sex difference with anemia and definitions 19:45 AJ's crazy supplement protocol 26:00 Inhibitors of…