Run Studio Blog

Science-based training guides, tips, and insights to help you run smarter and faster.

Military

Military Fitness Test Run Guide: Every Branch Compared

Every branch, one guide. Run distances, scoring standards, and how to train smarter for the Navy PRT, Army AFT, Air Force PFA, and Marine Corps PFT.

10 min read
Science

How We Estimate VO2max (And What Makes It Accurate)

The science behind Run Studio's VO2max calculations—why most calculators overestimate by 10-20%, and how we do it differently.

8 min read
Training

Heart Rate vs RPE Training: The Complete Science-Based Guide

Should you train by the numbers on your watch, or by how your body feels? Here's what the science says about both methods—and when to use each.

10 min read
Race Day

Boston Marathon Qualifying Times 2026-2027: Cutoffs, Standards & Your Real Target

Meeting the BQ standard doesn't guarantee a spot. Learn how the cutoff system works, historical data, and the new 2027 downhill course rules.

8 min read
Race Day

Race Day Fueling: The Complete Science-Backed Guide

From 5K to marathon: how to fuel before, during, and after your race. Evidence-based nutrition strategies for your best performance.

7 min read
Race Day

The Marathon That Humbled a Marine: What Myrtle Beach Taught Me About 26.2

A Marine veteran and Myrtle Beach native shares hard-earned lessons from his first marathon disaster. Course strategy, pacing tips, and what to expect on race day.

8 min read
Science

Treadmill vs Outdoor Running: What the Science Actually Says

A deep dive into the research on treadmill running—energy cost, biomechanics, the 1% incline myth, and how to get the most from your indoor training.

7 min read
Military

USMC CFT Complete Guide + PFT 3-Mile Run Pacing Strategy

Everything you need to know about the Combat Fitness Test and how to crush your PFT run time.

8 min read
Training

Heart Rate Training Zones: The Complete Guide for Runners

How to calculate your training zones, what each zone trains, and how to use heart rate data to run smarter — not just harder.

6 min read
Military

USMC PFT Scoring Guide: How to Maximize Your Score

Everything you need to know about the Marine Corps Physical Fitness Test — scoring tables, class requirements, and strategies to improve each event.

7 min read
Race Day

Race Pacing Strategy: Even Splits vs Negative Splits

The difference between a PR and a death march often comes down to one thing: how you pace the first half.

5 min read
Training

Understanding VDOT: Your Running Fitness Score

VDOT is more than just a number—it's a complete training system that helps you run smarter.

5 min read
Science

How Altitude Affects Your Running Performance

Running at elevation slows your pace because the air contains less oxygen. Your effort level stays the same, but your pace drops.

4 min read
Science

How Heat and Humidity Affect Your Running Pace

Your effort level doesn't just feel harder in warm conditions—your body is working harder to cool itself, which directly slows your pace.

4 min read