Running Terms Explained: VO₂ Max, Lactate Threshold, Bonking & More!

Hayles and Jussie are officially running the Tokyo Marathon in 2027 and have their eyes on a big goal: chasing a Boston Qualifier for 2028! And, of course, Disneyland is firmly locked in as the C goal. 😂

They’re kicking off their 20-week training block with a look at week one, chatting easy runs, hill repeats, intervals, strength sessions, a 16K long run and the little habits that can make a big difference to recovery.

Then it’s time to break down some of those running terms that can sound a little intimidating. What actually is lactate threshold? What does VO₂ max tell us? And what is running economy? Hayles and Jussie explain what these terms mean, how they relate to performance, and why you absolutely don't need to understand every running metric to be a runner.

They also get into negative splits, chafing (because running isn't always glamorous), bonking versus hitting the wall, and why fuelling properly matters so much. Plus, a chat about RED-S and the risks of under-fuelling.

As always, there are plenty of real-life running stories, recommendations and a few things you can try yourself. And they wrap up with an invitation to join them for a free, women-only 5K track night at Homebush!

Whether you're chasing a PB, training for your first race or just trying to figure out what everyone means when they say VO₂ max, this one's for you. 💛

00:00 Welcome and Catch Up

00:40 Tokyo 2027 Announcement

01:25 Chasing a Boston Qualifier

04:04 Training Block Week One

05:14 Sleep and Recovery Check

06:07 Running Jargon Explained

08:22 Lactate Threshold Basics

13:15 VO₂ Max and Fitness Myths

16:33 Running Economy Secrets

19:05 Negative Splits and Pacing

22:03 Chafing War Stories

24:05 Preventing Chafe Tips

25:08 Bonking Explained

29:09 Fueling and RED-S

30:08 Bonk Myths and Kona Collapse

32:03 Wrap-Up and Quick Recap

33:29 Quick-Fire Definitions

34:44 Recommendations Break

34:55 Vagisil for Runners

36:22 Physio and Strength Plan

38:30 Monday Treadmill Habit

39:36 Women’s Track Night Invite

40:51 Final Sign-Off

Come run with us! 💛 Follow the Women’s Running Collective for more honest conversations, running tips and community for women at every pace and every stage of their running journey.