Some weeks, I struggle to find content for RunLetters. Other weeks, I have so much to share. This is one of those weeks. So let’s dive right into it ⤵️

Matt realized he’d been neglecting his cardio for far too long.

So he decided it was time to do something about it, and run 1 mile every day, for 30 days (4 laps around an Olympic track).

You may know Matt D’Avella from his documentary “Minimalism” which trended on Netflix, or his many YouTube videos. With 4 million subscribers, he’s not new to the game.

You can see that in this video. It’s well put together and tells a good story.

But what I love most about it is how relatable Matt’s story of getting (back) into running is for most of us. The mental struggles, the wanting to quit.

I’m also happy Matt shows the realistic side of a 30-day challenge like this: it’s not the best idea. “Better to make the right choice than stick to the challenge just because.”

He ultimately finds true joy in running. And that’s great to see.

Nat’s probably one of the most creative, incredible creators I’ve seen in the running space in a while.

He’s a fast runner, has got some dance moves, and a story to tell. But he is also an absolutely remarkable editor.

I swear to the running Gods, this guy’s account is going to explode. Soon. Because Nat is putting in the work, the grind, on the track as well as in his editing (Davinci Resolve, for the creators here).

Right now, he’s training to run (a crazy good) 10k cross country. I’m excited to see how his journey further unfolds.

One of my pet peeves about many races is that they are not a loop. So many races are an out-and-back. And let’s be honest… that’s no fun.

Good news, though! Lake Garda’s (half) marathon (Lake Garda 42) is anything but an out-and-back, as you can see on the route map down below. This honestly looks like a gorgeous race.

Besides that, Lake Garda is worth a trip anyway. This is such a beautiful region of Italy. With the race being in Spring 2027 (April 11), there’s still plenty of time to train. Registrations open soon.

There are three types of gear/gadgets I get asked about the most: shoes, watches, and… shorts.

Especially shorts with plenty of pockets. Storage capabilities. Yes please.

The RunLetters audience is full of both road and trail runners. And while the shorts down below are marketed as “trail shorts” (as they have loops for poles), I think they’re also incredible for road races.

Imagine you’re running a (half) marathon. You want to take your phone, gels, and maybe some headphones. Heck, you might even need to bring your own water (Paris, anyone?)!

These Nedao shorts can carry it all. Besides what you see in the pictures above, the built-in liner has two more pockets, perfect for storing your phone and some extra gels.

The shorts even have a bib attachment system. And the reflective details are great for (training) runs in the early morning or late evenings.

And I can vouch for these shorts, because I have them myself, and think they’re great.

P.S. They’re available in a variety of colors, too!

I have seen so many good posts on Instagram over the last few weeks. I’ve saved them all and will share them over the next editions.

Starting with… COMMS to Matt’s marathon 😂

This one cracked me up.

Next week, I’ll be running the Midnight Sun Marathon in Tromsø, Norway (though I may switch to the half distance!). Who else will be there?

Two weeks after that, I’ll run a local trail race, and then… no races until September. The summer heat implies a break in racing season here in Portugal. Yet for many of us, it also signifies the start of a new training season.

I’m extremely excited to be guiding so many of you to the starting line of your next half marathon. Sign-ups for my program will open next week!

Here’s to a great weekend ahead ☀️

Caroline

P.S. Make sure you’re on that waiting list. Remember, there is a 7-day free trial so you can check if it’s the right fit for you.