Running News Daily

For many of us, the COVID-19 pandemic has changed our daily routines dramatically. Instead of heading into the office, we’re working from home. Rather than running with friends, we’re logging all our miles solo. Without gyms to go to, we’re trying to work out in our houses and apartments. These lifestyle changes are starting to show up in our bodies, and physiotherapists are beginning to see these changes reflected in the types of injuries showing up in their clinics. We spoke with Lindsay Scott, runner and physiotherapist at the Runner’s Academy in Toronto, to find out what types of COVID-related injuries runners are experiencing, and what they should do to avoid them.

Scott explains that many of us are spending hours huddling over computers, working from couches or beds and losing the small amounts of daily movement that come with leaving the house. Coupled with a sudden change in access to gym facilities, these lifestyle changes initially caused things like headaches, neck and jaw pain and lower back pain.

She says they’re now seeing two trends: beginner runners or those who have increased their mileage significantly, and runners who are just simply burnt out. Runners in the first group have increased the demand on their bodies faster than they can adapt, and this is leading to an increase in complaints like shin splints and patella-femoral pain syndrome (runner’s knee)

For runners in the second group, burnout can translate into all kinds of injuries, including bone stress injuries, pain in the SI joint area, plantar fasciitis, Achilles issues and the return of previous injuries. Scott says one reason for this is because stress of all kinds can increase our risk for injury.

“Any stress, whether it’s physical, mental or emotional, will play into our resilience on therun,” she says. 

Additionally, she says that without any races on the calendar this past year, many runners didn’t take any downtime or plan to have a recovery season the way they would after a race. It is not possible to be at peak fitness all year, and it isn’t sustainable to continue to train without taking a period of intentional rest. The issue, of course, is that many of us use running as a way to relieve stress, and so taking time off during such a difficult time doesn’t seem all that appealing.

"As we use running as a coping strategy, an anchor in our daily routine, and a reason to leave the house for some fresh air, we’re seeing the effects of insufficient recovery in the form of more injuries,” Scott says

Scott uses the visual of a hurricane to explain the factors that contribute to injury: at any given time, you have a number of factors swirling around that are contributing to your health (like good technique, good coping mechanisms and a supportive environment) and factors swirling around that are detracting from it (like poor mobility, stress, fatigue or unhealthy ideas about training). Every day, the pull of a given factor may be more or less than the previous day.

“In the event that the factors that drive you towards injury begin to outweigh the healthy factors, you move closer and closer to a tipping point, at which point, you begin to experience symptoms,” she explains. “So while it may seem as though something as simple as neglecting your post-run routine after that last workout created symptoms, the reality is that you had likely been building towards that tipping point and that one change was simply the final straw.

If you’re experiencing pain that lasts more than a few runs, or that seems to be getting worse, Scott recommends seeking out a physiotherapist or other healthcare professional, particularly one who has experience with runners. Even during the lockdown, many healthcare practitioners have been deemed essential and remain open to support runners. She adds that virtual care is also an excellent option for those who can’t or don’t feel comfortable with an in-person appointment, and can still produce similar results as face-to-face care

Scott’s guidelines for running during COVID-19

First, Scott advises runners to adjust their expectations around running based on the positive and negative factors that contribute to their ability to tolerate the demands of running. If your stress levels are rising and you feel the need to head out for a run, first check to make sure that it is the right thing for your body. Second, she reminds runners to give their bodies plenty of time to recover and to build up mileage and intensity gradually.

Scott also advises runners to think about what it looks and feels like when they’re running through fatigue, and to be aware of those signs of overtraining and burnout. You should also keep up with a regular mobility practice and strength training program to keep your body moving well. She says this is also useful as an early indicator if something isn’t moving well long before symptoms develop.

Finally, if you’re someone who tends to get competitive with others or yourself, Scott suggests muting or turning off tools like Strava or the ‘productivity’ feature on your Garmin

“Clinically, I see many runners who ignore warning signs from their body in order to keep up with these often arbitrary indicators of success on the run. Both of those tools can have immense value to runners in certain circumstances, but they can also push you to enter dangerous territory if you lose sight of the need to listen to your body.”

During already stressful times, the last thing you want is to add an additional stressor into your life in the form of an injury. Listening to your body, backing off the volume or intensity when necessary and taking a few days off if you need them will ensure that running can continue to add something positive into your daily life

Exactly one month ago, at the TCS London Marathon the sport of marathon running experienced a moment so extraordinary that it permanently altered the limits of human endurance. What unfolded that historic day was not simply fast racing — it was the complete rewriting of what the athletics world believed was possible over 42.195 kilometers.

The headlines alone sounded almost fictional.

Kenya’s Sabastian Sawe delivered the performance of a lifetime, storming into history as the first athlete ever to break the two-hour barrier in an official marathon race. His astonishing 1:59:30 shattered one of the final frontiers in distance running and instantly became one of the greatest athletic achievements ever witnessed on the roads.

For decades, the sub-two-hour marathon had existed as an almost mythical benchmark — discussed by scientists, coaches and legends of the sport as the ultimate human endurance challenge. Sawe did not just cross that barrier; he obliterated the psychological wall surrounding it with fearless pacing, ruthless consistency and unmatched composure under pressure.

Yet the drama was only beginning.

In one of the most remarkable marathon debuts the sport has ever seen, Ethiopia’s Yomif Kejelcha stunned the world by becoming the second man in history to run under two hours — clocking an extraordinary 1:59:41 in his very first marathon appearance. To achieve such a performance without prior marathon experience elevated the race from historic to almost surreal.

Kejelcha’s transition from track and half marathon brilliance to immediate marathon greatness showcased a rare combination of speed, efficiency and tactical intelligence. Most athletes spend years mastering the marathon. He conquered it on his first attempt.

And somehow, the race still had more history to offer.

Uganda’s Jacob Kiplimo finished third in an astonishing 2:00:28 — a performance that, incredibly, was faster than the previous marathon world record of 2:00:35. On nearly any other day in athletics history, Kiplimo’s run would have dominated global headlines. Instead, it became part of a once-in-a-generation showcase of endurance greatness.

The depth of quality in the men’s race was unprecedented. Three athletes produced times once considered impossible within the same event, transforming the marathon from a race against rivals into a collective assault on history itself.

The women’s race was equally unforgettable.

Ethiopia’s Tigst Assefa once again proved why she remains one of the defining marathon athletes of this era. Defending her London crown in dominant fashion, Assefa surged to a sensational women’s-only world record of 2:15:41, combining elegance, strength and relentless rhythm from start to finish.

Her performance reinforced the rapid evolution of women’s marathon running, where barriers continue to fall and records are being pushed into territory previously unimaginable.

What made that day truly special was not only the records, but the feeling surrounding the races. Fans across the globe were witnessing history unfold in real time — a sporting spectacle where every split seemed impossible, every kilometer carried anticipation, and every finish line delivered another shock to the athletics world.

One month later, the echoes of that extraordinary day still resonate throughout global sport.

It was the day marathon running entered a new era. The day limits disappeared. The day history was rewritten kilometer after kilometer. And perhaps, the greatest single day the marathon has ever seen.

Kenya’s middle-distance sensation Lilian Odira is set to light up the track once again after confirming her participation at the prestigious Rabat Diamond League on May 31 in Rabat.

The reigning world 800m champion heads into the Moroccan showdown carrying growing momentum and the confidence of an athlete rapidly establishing herself among the elite names in global middle-distance running. Rabat will mark Odira’s second-ever appearance on the Diamond League stage, another major step in what has become one of the most exciting breakthroughs in world athletics.

Her first taste of Diamond League competition came at the Silesia Diamond League, where she delivered a remarkable performance against a world-class field. Odira stormed to a brilliant second-place finish in 1:56.52, announcing herself on the international stage with authority, composure, and fearless racing instincts.

Only British star Keely Hodgkinson finished ahead of her that day, with Hodgkinson producing a commanding 1:54.74 victory. Yet Odira’s performance earned widespread attention across the athletics world, proving she possesses both the tactical intelligence and finishing power required to challenge the sport’s very best.

Now, anticipation continues to build ahead of Rabat, where another high-caliber field is expected to assemble under the lights in Morocco. With the women’s 800m entering a thrilling new era filled with emerging stars and fierce rivalries, Odira’s presence adds even greater excitement to one of the season’s most anticipated meetings.

Athletics fans around the world will be watching closely to see whether the Kenyan champion can produce another statement performance on the Diamond League circuit. At a time when the global women’s 800m is reaching extraordinary levels of depth and speed, Lilian Odira is no longer simply a rising talent — she is becoming one of the defining names of the event.

The 2026 edition of the legendary BOLDERBoulder 10K once again delivered world-class drama as elite athletes battled not only each other, but also the punishing altitude of Boulder, Colorado, during the iconic Memorial Day spectacle.

Under crisp Colorado skies and in front of thousands of roaring spectators, Kenya’s Rebecca Mwangi produced a stunning performance to seize victory in the Women’s International Pro 10K, clocking a brilliant 32:33 in one of the fastest and most fiercely contested races of the day.

Mwangi was pushed all the way to the finish by fellow Kenyan Jesca Chelangat, who remained within striking distance throughout the race before crossing the line just three seconds later in 32:36. The electrifying duel between the two compatriots turned the final stretch into a breathtaking sprint finish, showcasing Kenya’s continued dominance on the international road racing scene.

The American crowd also had reason to celebrate as Rachael Rudel delivered a courageous run to secure third place for USA Red in 32:46. Rudel stayed composed against an elite international field and held off a late challenge from Kenya’s Evaline Chirchir, who finished fourth in 32:48.

Ethiopia also made a strong statement with Axumawit Embaye, Lemlem Nibret, and Buze Diriba all placing inside the top seven in a deep and highly competitive field.

Top 10 Finishers — Women’s International Pro 10K

1. Rebecca Mwangi (KEN) — 32:33

2. Jesca Chelangat (KEN) — 32:36

3. Rachael Rudel (USA) — 32:46

4. Evaline Chirchir (KEN) — 32:48

5. Axumawit Embaye (ETH) — 33:08

6. Lemlem Nibret (ETH) — 33:23

7. Buze Diriba (ETH) — 33:27

8. Adela Honorato (MEX) — 33:45

9. Kassie Parker (USA) — 33:49

10. Biruktayit Degefa (USA) — 34:16

One of the standout performances of the day came from Mexico’s rising talent Adela Honorato. The young star impressed with a fearless run to finish eighth overall in 33:45, underlining the growing strength of Mexican women’s distance running on the world stage. Mexico added further depth through strong performances from Natalí Noemí Mendoza and Anahí Álvarez, both of whom finished inside the top 15.

From the opening miles to the dramatic closing sprint, the women’s race embodied everything that makes the BOLDERBoulder special — speed, resilience, international rivalry, and unforgettable atmosphere. At altitude, where every breath matters, the athletes still produced remarkable times and an unforgettable showcase of elite road racing excellence.

The thin air of Boulder once again delivered a dramatic spectacle as the 2026 BOLDERBoulder 10K lived up to its reputation as one of the world’s most demanding road races. Held during the annual Memorial Day celebrations, the Men’s International Pro 10K unfolded at a relentless pace, with elite athletes battling altitude, fatigue, and each other before an electric stadium finish.

At the heart of the action was Kenya’s Patrick Kiptoo Kiprop, who delivered a commanding performance to capture the title in a brilliant 28:35. Running with authority from the early stages, Kiprop controlled the race with remarkable composure and speed, eventually breaking away to secure an emphatic victory against a world-class field.

Kenya’s dominance was further reinforced by Daniel Simiu Ebenyo, whose trademark consistency earned him second place in 29:06. Ebenyo stayed within striking distance throughout the contest and ensured a memorable one-two finish for the East African powerhouse nation.

The home crowd had plenty to celebrate as American runner Aiden Reed fought bravely to claim third place in 29:17. Backed by loud support inside the packed stadium, Reed produced one of the strongest performances of his career to secure a podium finish for Team USA.

Beyond the podium battle, the race showcased exceptional international depth. Morocco’s Mohammed El Youssfi, Japan’s Kiyoto Hirabayashi, and Eritrea’s Amanuel Mesel all delivered impressive runs in the brutal conditions.

Top 10 Finishers — Men’s International Pro 10K

1. Patrick Kiptoo Kiprop (KEN) — 28:35

2. Daniel Simiu Ebenyo (KEN) — 29:06

3. Aiden Reed (USA) — 29:17

4. Casey Clinger (USA) — 29:33

5. Graydon Morris (USA) — 29:35

6. Mohammed El Youssfi (MAR) — 29:48

7. Andy Wacker (USA) — 29:51

8. Athanas Kioko (KEN) — 30:05

9. Kiyoto Hirabayashi (JPN) — 30:14

10. Amanuel Mesel (ERI) — 30:17

Mexico also produced a determined and spirited showing. Julio Alberto Ortiz Ponce led the Mexican contingent with an admirable 18th-place finish in 31:28, closely followed by Luis Vázquez in 19th. Hesiquio Flores added to the team’s strong collective effort with a gritty performance of 33:00.

The 2026 edition of the BOLDERBoulder once again proved why it remains one of the most iconic road races in global athletics. From the punishing altitude to the breathtaking sprint into the stadium, the event delivered an unforgettable celebration of endurance, international rivalry, and elite distance running excellence.

Few athletes have ever dominated the 3000m steeplechase with the brilliance, charisma and longevity of Ezekiel Kemboi. Born on May 25, 1982, in Matira, Kenya, Kemboi grew into one of the most iconic figures the event has ever produced, turning the steeplechase into both a spectacle and an art form.

Inspired by legendary Kenyan steeplechaser Moses Kiptanui and later mentored by Paul Ereng, the 1988 Olympic 800m champion, Kemboi developed the confidence and competitive mentality that would define his extraordinary career.

From the moment he emerged on the international stage, Kemboi brought a fearless approach to the barriers and water jumps. He raced with unmatched courage, often controlling championship finals with tactical intelligence and explosive finishing speed. His style made him one of the most difficult athletes to defeat under pressure.

Kemboi became a two-time Olympic champion in the 3000m steeplechase, winning gold in Athens in 2004 before reclaiming the Olympic crown in London in 2012. His ability to remain at the top for nearly a decade separated him from many great champions before him.

Even more impressive was his dominance at the World Championships, where he won four consecutive world titles in 2009, 2011, 2013 and 2015 — one of the greatest championship streaks in steeplechase history.

Throughout his remarkable journey, Kemboi collected an astonishing 15 major championship medals:

7 gold medals

6 silver medals

2 bronze medals

He collected those medals across the Olympic Games, World Championships, African Championships and Commonwealth Games, consistently proving himself against the very best athletes in the world. His ability to deliver year after year at the highest level highlighted not only his remarkable talent, but also his resilience, longevity and championship mentality.

Beyond the medals, Kemboi became famous for bringing excitement and personality to the event. His unforgettable finish-line dances became iconic moments in athletics, turning victories into celebrations that fans across the world eagerly anticipated. He showed that a champion could dominate fiercely while still expressing joy and individuality.

Kemboi’s brilliance was also reflected in his incredible speed. His personal best of 7:55.76, set in Monaco in 2011, places him among the fastest steeplechasers in history and remains one of the standout performances ever recorded in the event.

For many young athletes, especially in Kenya, Ezekiel Kemboi’s story continues to serve as a powerful source of inspiration. From a small village in Kenya to Olympic and world glory, he proved that discipline, belief and fearlessness can elevate an athlete to legendary status.

Today, his legacy stands far beyond medals and records. Ezekiel Kemboi transformed steeplechase into a global spectacle and inspired an entire generation to dream bigger every time they approach the barriers.