Run with Fitpage

In this special milestone episode of Run with Fitpage, we celebrate our 250th episode with an in-depth conversation on one of the most misunderstood aspects of running — fatigue.

Joining us is Prof Philipp Baumert, an expert in exercise physiology and injury prevention.  He breaks down the science behind why runners feel tired, why performance drops, and what actually happens inside the body during long runs particularly marathons.

From central fatigue (brain-driven) to peripheral fatigue (muscle-level), this episode explores how your body regulates effort, why some runners recover faster than others, and what leads to that dre...

Sarthak Malani is not the runner next door who chases PBs.  Rather, he changes how running is viewed—he runs barefoot and backward. He is much liked by runners in the community and he inspired many others to take up running (backwards). 

In this episode, Vikas sits down with Sarthak to discuss what inspired Sarthak to take up running backwards:

In this episode, they cover:

• How Sarthak transitioned from shoes to barefoot running over 6 to 8 months
• Why backward running works, how it gave relief to his runner’s knee, and how he got back to...

Welcome back to Run with Fitpage!

As the 130th Boston Marathon approaches on April 20, 2026, we are bringing back one of our most cherished conversations — our episode with Jack Fultz, the 1976 Boston Marathon champion.

This year marks the Golden Jubilee of Jack Fultz's legendary victory — 50 years since one of the most iconic and grueling races in marathon history. On that day, temperatures had already crossed 100 degrees an hour before the noon start. Spectators lined the course with garden hoses to cool down the runners, earning the race its legendary name, "The Run for the Hoses." With fewe...

Most people see running as just a fitness activity. For Dr. Sonia Haboub, it became a powerful tool for healing, resilience, and personal transformation. After overcoming early-stage cancer and leaving a high-profile corporate career, she discovered that running not only helped her recover but also gave her a new purpose: inspiring others to push beyond their limits.

In this episode, Sonia shares her journey from Italy’s snow-covered Alps to the UAE and explains how running helped her build mental strength, self-awareness, and inner peace. She also talks about how complete beginners can start running by focusing on...

Dr. Michael Fredericson works at Stanford University as a Professor of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation. He is widely recognized for his research and clinical work in running injuries, biomechanics, and endurance athlete care, helping runners and athletes worldwide improve performance while staying injury-free.

In the conversation today, he discusses running injuries with Vikas. The conversation explores shin splints, knee pain, achilles tendon and flat foot - how to recognize early warning signs, manage training loads, and prioritize recovery. He also breaks down the role of biomechanics, footwear, foot structure, and running form in preventing injuries and improving running...

In today’s discussion, we will be covering everything you need to know for TMM 2026. This content will include race-week nutrition, race-day fueling, and sleep strategy for the entire week. How to get to the expo and collect your bib, what to keep in mind and what not to, apparel and shoe selection, and recommended do’s and don’ts for race week. I would recommend you all go through each of these points in detail and make a note, as these might come in handy as you prepare for the race. Good luck, and I’m sure you will do...

Smelling onions and shoes are two of the biggest myths as a treatment for Epilepsy.  There is still a stigma to discuss about the condition.  People still hide the condition and think of it as a curse.  

In this episode, we are joined by Dr Manjari Tripathi, Professor in the Department of Neurology at AIIMS Delhi, where she heads the Centre of Excellence for Epilepsy. A pioneering neurologist with over 350 publications, she has advanced epilepsy surgery techniques and trained generations of neurologists across India. Vikas & Dr Tripathi discussed in detail what epilepsy really is. Why does rural Ind...

In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Prabhat Jha, Nuffield Professor at the University of Oxford and Professor of Global Health at the University of Toronto. A world-leading epidemiologist who led the Million Death Study tracking premature deaths across India, he discovered that quitting before age 40 avoids nearly all smoking risks. Vikas & Dr. Jha discussed in detail the massive underestimation of smoking dangers, why cigarettes are lethal, how the tobacco industry engineers addiction, and the surprising speed at which your body repairs itself after quitting.

Here are some key takeaways:

A typical smoker loses a...

In this episode, we are joined by Dr. David Nieman, Professor in the department of biology at Appalachian State University and director of the Human Performance Laboratory. A pioneer in exercise immunology with decades of research, he discovered why marathon runners get sick after races and how to prevent it. Vikas & Dr. Nieman discussed in detail about the immune system's response to heavy training, why marathons can suppress immunity, optimal fueling strategies, and how to find your training sweet spot without falling off the overtraining cliff.

Here are some key takeaways:

Marathon running temporarily crashes your...

In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Stuart M. McGill, distinguished professor, emeritus of Spine Biomechanics at the University of Waterloo. With over 40 years of research and 245+ peer-reviewed publications, he has helped everyone from Olympic athletes to everyday people overcome back pain. Vikas & Dr. McGill discussed in detail about spine biomechanics, how the body works as an elastic system for running, why most runners don't need heavy deadlifts, and practical strategies to build a resilient, pain-free back.

Here are some key takeaways:

Distance runners are elastic athletes, not strength athletes - Great runners store and...

In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Bindu Menon, a distinguished Indian neurologist and Professor and Head of the Department of Neurology at Apollo Specialty Hospitals, Nellore. As the founder of the Dr Bindu Menon Foundation and the innovative Neurology-on-Wheels initiative, she brings neurological care to underserved communities across India. Vikas & Dr. Menon discussed in detail about how the brain functions, the impact of digital overload on cognitive health, identifying signs of digital addiction, and practical strategies to protect and enhance brain function through lifestyle modifications.

Here are some key takeaways:

Your brain gets tired...

In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Ebonie Rio. She is a senior Clinical Researcher at La Trobe University's Sport & Exercise Medicine Research Centre in Melbourne. With hands-on experience as a physiotherapist for Olympic and Paralympic teams, the Australian Institute of Sport, and the Australian Ballet Company, she bridges elite sports practice with rigorous scientific research. Vikas & Ebonie discussed in detail about tendons, their role in the body, how to strengthen them & how to avoid running related injuries. 

Here are some key takeaways:

Don't stretch your Achilles when it's sore - Stretching compresses the tendon a...

In this episode, we are joined by Coach Bob Larsen, The recipient of USA Track & Field Hall of Fame with an experience of over 6 decades. His athletes Meb Keflezighi and Deena Kastor went on to win medals in the Olympics and he is responsible for building several athletes to global successes. Vikas & Coach Bob discussed the importance, impact, and the right protocol for threshold and altitude training. We also discussed Coach Bob’s insights from decades of coaching, the importance of aerobic base building & his view on how athletes must train.

Here are some key takeaways: 

Coa...

In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Pradyumna J. Oak. Dr. Oak is a Senior Neurologist and Director of Neurology at Nanavati Super Speciality Hospital, Mumbai. His extensive experience in stroke management and neurocritical care makes him a perfect expert to speak on brain stroke. Vikas & Dr. Oak discussed causes, diagnosis, risk factors, important tests, and primary and secondary prevention.

Here are some key takeaways: 

Blockages in blood vessels supplying blood to the brain may lead to a brain stroke. It is different from a heart attack or cardiac arrest.Diabetes, hypertension, Obesity, smoking, and u...

In this episode, we are joined by Prof. Mark Mattson, adjunct professor of neuroscience at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine.  He is also the former chief of the Laboratory of Neurosciences. Mark is a leading voice in intermittent fasting. Vikas and Mark discussed the impacts of Intermittent fasting on brain function, the types of intermittent fasting, the effects of intermittent fasting on neurotransmitters in our brain, and the proper protocol to practice intermittent fasting.

Here are some key takeaways:

Our bodies need energy, but the evolution from food scarcity to food abundance has made intermittent fasting a...

We discuss Creatine today! Creatine is one of the most researched supplements and yet it carries several myths.  Today, we discuss the keys functions of Creatine, dosage of supplementation and any possible side effects.  This topic is in Hindi and is intended to cover a broader audience.
The key topics covered are:* Creatine & its roles in the human body

Synthesis of creatine in the human body and external sources of consumption.How creatine helps you perform better & makes your muscles look fuller.The ideal type of creatine supplement, the right time & quantity of creatine consumption.Busting myths ar...

In this episode, we are joined by Stuart Biddle. Stuart Biddle is a professor of Physical Activity and Health. His current research interests centre on sedentary behaviour and physical activity, behaviour change strategies, and mental health outcomes. Vikas and Stuart discussed the relationship between physical activity and mental health. We also discussed the determinants, interventions, and well-being strategies for improved physical & mental health.  

Here are some key takeaways:

How the physical environment that allows you to exercise can lead to less stress, depression & improved self-esteem.Dedicating time for physical activity alongside studies has proven to give b...

In this episode, we are joined by Alessio Punzi, the head of Road Running and Mass Participation at World Athletics.  Vikas and Alessio discussed the growth of running events globally and in India, categories of races & how race organizers can take their race to the next level.

The key points discussed in the conversation are :

The role of World Athletics as a governing body for ensuring active participation &  maintaining rules and regulations.The US running boom of the mid-70s and the running culture picking up in India, leading to more youth participation.The ecosystem of Wo...

In this episode, we are joined by Alessio Punzi, the head of Road Running and Mass Participation at World Athletics.  Vikas and Alessio discussed the growth of running events globally and in India, categories of races & how race organizers can take their race to the next level.

The key points discussed in the conversation are :

The role of World Athletics as a governing body for ensuring active participation &  maintaining rules and regulations.The US running boom of the mid-70s and the running culture picking up in India, leading to more youth participation.The ecosystem of Wo...

Renee, now 19Y old, talks about her journey to becoming the youngest female Ironman finisher. She outlines how she prioritizes her sport interests along with her studies.
Renee completed her first Ironman in New Zealand at the age of 18 years and recently also participated in the Ironman Hamburg European Championship. Vikas and Renee discussed how her interest in endurance sport really started and how she balanced her studies while training for ironman.

In this conversation, you will find: 

How Renee transitioned from being a professional gymnast for 10 years to aiming to becoming an Ironman.

In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Jonathan Ho-Youn Kim, who is a professor of medicine & the founding director of sports cardiology at Emory University. His expertise enables him to serve as an advisor to top athletes in the NBA and NFL. Vikas and Dr. Jonathan discussed sudden cardiac incidents that happen during racing. 

Here are the key pointers from the conversation : 
* How does the heart benefit from cardiovascular exercise & VO2 max being an important indicator of good health.
* The most common causes of death among runners who collapse just near the finish line.

 Hyderabad Runners Society and Hyderabad Marathon hold a very special place in our hearts. Today, we sit down with Rajesh Vetcha - the founder of the Hyderabad Runners Society and the race director of the NMDC Hyderabad Marathon. In the conversation, we discuss how the Hyderabad Runners Society was formed, its growth, and how it has reached its popularity today. It is a journey of passion, hard work, and the entire community coming together, and this conversation will take you down memory lane. 

 About Vikas:
Vikas, an MBA from Chicago Booth, worked at Goldman Sachs, Morgan Sta...

In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Aruni Bhatnagar, who is a scientist and a professor at the university of Louisville. He is also an expert in environmental cardiology. Vikas and Dr. Bhatnagar discussed pollution, its impact on running and overall health.

The key points discussed during the conversation are:

- the importance of a good cardiovascular system and how smoking and pollution impacts it

- the role of VO2 max

- PM levels and their meaning in terms of pollution

- how and when should runners go...

We have been focusing on a number of important topics that require detailed attention to it.  In this episode, I discuss the basics of protein, its key functions and the consumption guidelines.  You will learn the sources of protein, how and when to consume protein and is it harmful to you at any stage.  You will also understand more about how vegetarians can fulfil their protein requirements through food and supplements.

About Vikas Singh:
Vikas Singh, an MBA from Chicago Booth, worked at Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley, APGlobale, and Reliance before coming up with the idea of...

Our guest for this episode is Mr. Vishvas Mote, the Deputy Municipal Commissioner, BMC and a fitness enthusiast who has completed a host of marathons, the iconic Comrades Marathon and the ‘Ironman Italy Emilia Romagna’ triathlon.

In our conversation, we discuss Mr. Mote’s childhood, his education, upbringing and his journey to becoming a public servant. We also explored what motivated him to focus on his fitness, his progression in the world of endurance sports and most significantly, we learnt how he managed to balance his demanding professional life along with training for an Ironman. Mr. Mote also d...

This podcast is great for someone wanting to understand the role of energy and strategies to fuel the long runs or racing events.  If you are looking to plan your long runs and fuel appropriately, this podcast is for you.

Vikas talks about the role of energy and of the energy sources.

If you would like to learn the basics of energy, its sources and the ways to use the right energy source, this podcast is for you.

About Vikas:
Vikas, an MBA from Chicago Booth, worked at Goldman Sachs, M...

In this episode, we were in conversation with Sam Scott, author, researcher and entrepreneur driven by a passion to help people, especially athletes, with diabetes. Sam Scott takes us through the basics of diabetes, what it is, how does diabetes present itself in the body, what is type 1 and type 2 diabetes, what could be the probable causes of diabetes, how does it affect everyday life as well as the performance of elite athletes and the intricate relationship between diabetes and exercise. Sam also spoke about his journey of founding enhance-d, a platform that manages your exercise based on your...

In this episode, we were in conversation with Ron Mann, a distinguished coach who has been and still is a guiding force to some of the fastest long distance runners in the world. Coach Ron takes us through his journey of training the Korir brothers, Wesley and John, who went on to win the Boston Marathon in 2012 and 2025 respectively. Coach Ron also touches upon what a training regimen looks like for an elite marathoner and how amateur runners can implement those techniques in their training plans. We also learned about his collaborative initiative in Kenya called the Transcend Talent...

In this episode, we were in conversation with Brady Holmer who has majored in Applied Physiology and Kinesiology from the University of Florida and is a long distance runner himself. This conversation dives into understanding the significance of VO2Max for athletes as well as the general population. How to find out your VO2Max score, how to improve it, whether VO2Max is the key indicator of fitness or are there other factors are a few other topics that also formed part of this conversation. We also dived into Brady’s running journey to becoming a 2:26 marathoner at Bo...

In this episode, we were in conversation with Daniel Vaz, a long distance runner and a Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) from the National Strength Conditioning Association (NSCA), USA. In our conversation, we dive into Dan’s journey as a runner, his self experimentation with training techniques, how to progress from being a beginner runner to an experienced runner, how to set goals as an experienced runner, how to begin retraining after a bout of detraining and how to become a better runner.

About Vikas Singh:
Vikas Singh, an MBA from Chicago Booth, worked at...

In this episode, we are in conversation with renowned sports scientist and physiotherapist, Dr. Nikhil Latey. Dr. Latey has been on the Indian Olympic Team as a physiotherapist, tending to elite athletes and helping them enhance their performance. In this conversation, we discuss what physiotherapy essentially is, how it can improve sporting performance, how your legs work when you run, how to avoid injuries & how to tend to them if they do occur. We also busted a few running myths along the way. This conversation is helpful for beginner runners as well as seasoned athletes.

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