Mind Body Marathon: Running, Health & Human Performance cover art

Mind Body Marathon: Running, Health & Human Performance

Mind Body Marathon: Running, Health & Human Performance

Written by: Dr. Leo Kormanik
Listen for free

About this listen

Running is more than just putting one foot in front of the other. It’s about discovering the connection between your body, your mind, and your potential. The Mind Body Marathon Podcast is where running performance, sports psychology, injury prevention, strength training, recovery strategies, nutrition, and mindset coaching all come together to help you become the strongest, healthiest, and most resilient version of yourself. Hosted by Dr. Leo Kormanik, a sports chiropractor, running coach, and former elite marathoner who competed at the 2012 U.S. Olympic Trials with a personal best of 2:18, this show is built on decades of experience in both running and treating athletes. As founder of Ohio Sports Chiropractic and Rehab and creator of Faster Without Fail, Leo has worked with runners from beginners to Olympians, helping them overcome injuries, train smarter, and unlock their potential. His perspective is unique, blending clinical knowledge, coaching insight, and personal lessons learned from years of chasing high performance while battling setbacks along the way. Each episode explores the full spectrum of endurance sports and wellness. You’ll hear conversations about marathon training strategies that fit into real life, the science of injury prevention, the role of sports psychology in performance, and the importance of strength and conditioning for distance runners. You’ll learn recovery strategies ranging from cold plunges and sleep optimization to mental resets that restore balance. Nutrition is covered in a practical, athlete-friendly way, from fueling long runs to racing with confidence. Mental health and overall fitness are never ignored, as we explore how mindset, lifestyle, and performance are all intertwined. What makes the Mind Body Marathon Podcast different is the way it connects all of these elements. Running is not just about mileage and splits; it’s about sustaining your health, building resilience, and developing an endurance mindset that impacts every area of your life. This show goes deeper than workouts and race results. It’s about equipping you with evidence-based tools and real-world insights that help you train with purpose, recover with intention, and push your limits without breaking down. Episodes include solo deep dives from Dr. Leo where he breaks down the latest science in running, training, and rehab, as well as interviews with athletes, coaches, nutritionists, sports psychologists, and medical professionals. Guests have included Olympic qualifiers, national champions, and respected voices across the endurance world, each sharing stories of triumph, lessons from setbacks, and strategies that listeners can immediately apply. At its core, this podcast is about empowerment. Running teaches discipline, resilience, and the ability to face challenges head-on, but it also connects us to a larger community of people striving for similar goals. The Mind Body Marathon Podcast offers not just practical knowledge but also encouragement and motivation. Whether you are chasing a personal best, battling back from injury, balancing training with work and family, or simply curious about the science of human performance, this podcast is designed for you. If you’re ready to go beyond logging miles, if you want to train with intention, race with confidence, and build resilience that extends far past the finish line, then this podcast is for you. Tune in each week and join a growing community of runners and athletes who are redefining what it means to pursue health, performance, and personal excellence. The Mind Body Marathon Podcast is your guide to running, wellness, and human performance — a place where science meets story, and where your journey as a runner becomes a path toward living stronger in both body and mind.Copyright 2026 Dr. Leo Kormanik Hygiene & Healthy Living Physical Illness & Disease Running & Jogging
Episodes
  • 48.6 Miles of Disney Magic: A Reflection on the Dopey Challenge Experience with Dr. Leo Kormanik and Samua Kormanik
    Jan 13 2026

    Ever wonder what it's like to do a marathon in Disney World? Or run the Dopey Challenge of 48.6 miles in 4 days?

    Dr. Leo Kormanik and his wife, Samua Kormanik, recount their recent experience participating in the Dopey Challenge, a remarkable feat that encompasses a total of 48.6 miles over the course of four days. This event, organized by RunDisney, combines a 5K, a 10K, a half marathon, and a full marathon, all infused with the enchanting spirit of Disney. The couple reflects on the unique atmosphere of the race, where participants often prioritize enjoyment and camaraderie over competitive times, resulting in a distinctively festive environment. They discuss the challenges they faced, particularly the demanding early morning wake-up calls, as well as the exhilarating moments of stopping to take photographs with beloved Disney characters along the route. Ultimately, their narrative serves to encourage listeners to consider the Dopey Challenge not merely as a test of endurance, but as an opportunity for joyful engagement within the magical realm of Disney. The Dopey Challenge, a formidable yet exhilarating undertaking, has captivated runners and Disney enthusiasts alike. As I recount my recent experience alongside my wife, Samua Kormanik, we delve into the intricacies of running approximately 48.6 miles over the span of four days, culminating in a unique blend of physical exertion and Disney magic. The challenge encompasses a 5K, a 10K, a half marathon, and a full marathon, each event meticulously designed to traverse the enchanting landscapes of Disney parks. The initial hurdles we faced were not merely the physical demands of the distances, but rather the early morning awakenings that seemed to sap our energy before the races even commenced. However, the vibrant atmosphere, characterized by runners clad in whimsical costumes, transformed the experience into a celebration rather than a mere competition. The essence of the Dopey Challenge lies in its community spirit; it is a gathering of individuals united by a shared passion for running and the joy of Disney. We shared anecdotes of our adventures along the courses, including the strategic stops to engage with beloved characters, turning what could have been a grueling marathon into a delightful escapade filled with laughter and camaraderie. With each mile marked by the exuberant presence of fellow runners and the cheer of bystanders, the race transformed into a cherished memory rather than a singular test of endurance. Our discussions reflect the underlying theme of this episode: the Dopey Challenge is not merely about crossing the finish line but embracing the journey, the friendships forged, and the magical moments experienced along the way.

    Takeaways:

    1. The Dopey Challenge consists of a remarkable total of 48.6 miles over four consecutive days, showcasing a unique blend of endurance and Disney magic.
    2. Participants often experience a different atmosphere at Disney races compared to traditional marathons, emphasizing enjoyment over competitive timings.
    3. The integration of character photo opportunities throughout the race serves as a delightful distraction, enhancing the participants' overall experience.
    4. One of the greatest challenges during the Dopey Challenge is the early morning wake-up calls required for the races, which can be quite taxing on runners.
    5. A notable aspect of the Disney races is the low dropout rate, attributed to the inclusive and supportive environment among the participants.
    6. The
    Show More Show Less
    36 mins
  • Shockwave Treatment: Revolutionizing Recovery in Sports Medicine with Dr. Leo Kormanik
    Jan 6 2026

    Looking for a new treatment to get over those stubborn aches and pains? Have you struggled to get results in traditional physical therapy and sports medicine?

    Shockwave therapy, or extracorporeal shockwave treatment, has emerged as a significant technique within the realms of rehabilitation and sports medicine. In our discussion, we elucidate the mechanics of shockwave therapy, emphasizing its distinctive nature compared to conventional treatments, such as percussion or massage guns. We elaborate on the profound efficacy of this method in addressing various musculoskeletal conditions, including tendinopathies, stress fractures, and degenerative joint issues. Furthermore, we clarify misconceptions surrounding the discomfort associated with this treatment, asserting that, when applied correctly, the experience should not exceed a mild level of discomfort. Moreover, we explore the broader implications of shockwave therapy in preventing surgical interventions, thereby underscoring its potential to enhance patients' quality of life through effective and non-invasive means. The podcast hosted by Dr. Leo Kormanik delves deeply into the realm of shockwave therapy, a treatment modality that has surged in popularity within the rehabilitation and sports medicine sectors. Dr. Kormanik elucidates the underlying principles of extracorporeal shockwave treatment, delineating its stark contrasts with traditional treatment methods, particularly percussion massage devices. He offers an insightful examination of how shockwave therapy functions mechanically, employing high-energy pulses that penetrate several inches into the tissue, a capability that distinguishes it significantly from surface-level treatments. This profound penetration allows for effective treatment of various musculoskeletal injuries, an area where conventional approaches often fall short. Throughout the discourse, Dr. Kormanik addresses prevalent misconceptions regarding the pain associated with shockwave therapy. He reassures listeners that, when administered correctly, the discomfort should remain low, ideally not exceeding a 2 or 3 on a pain scale. This perspective is particularly crucial for those apprehensive about undergoing such treatments. The episode methodically explores a wide array of clinical applications of shockwave therapy, including its efficacy in treating conditions such as Achilles tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, and even stress fractures. Dr. Kormanik provides a historical context to this treatment, tracing its origins back to its initial use in breaking kidney stones, thus illustrating its evolution into a versatile tool for addressing complex musculoskeletal issues. In conclusion, Dr. Kormanik advocates for the incorporation of shockwave therapy into standard rehabilitation practices, emphasizing its potential to significantly enhance patient recovery outcomes. He encourages healthcare providers to invest in high-quality shockwave machines to ensure the effectiveness of the treatment. The episode serves as a crucial educational platform for both practitioners and patients, promoting informed decisions about injury management and the adoption of innovative therapeutic techniques.

    Takeaways:

    1. Shockwave treatment, also known as extracorporeal shockwave therapy, is gaining prominence in the sports rehabilitation field.
    2. The technique employs mechanical energy to penetrate deep into tissues, as opposed to utilizing electrical impulses like traditional devices.
    3. Shockwave therapy can effectively address various musculoskeletal issues, including tendon injuries and stress fractures, offering non-invasive relief.
    4. Patients often...
    Show More Show Less
    18 mins
  • Transforming New Year's Resolutions: Empowering Strategies for Success with Dr. Leo Kormanik
    Dec 30 2025

    Did you know that over 80% of New Year's Resoutions fail? Listen as we dive into some hacks that will help you success in your resolutions!

    The primary focus of this discussion is to elucidate effective strategies for enhancing the likelihood of successfully achieving New Year's resolutions. Dr. Leo Kormanik articulates the notion that rather than concentrating on the elimination of undesirable habits, individuals ought to direct their efforts toward cultivating empowering actions that promote positive behaviors. He emphasizes the significance of self-reflection and understanding the underlying reasons behind one’s habits, thus enabling the individual to develop actionable steps that resonate with their personal aspirations. Furthermore, the episode delves into the utility of creating vision boards and employing habit stacking as methodologies to integrate positive changes into one’s routine, ultimately facilitating the attainment of lofty goals. Through these insights, Dr. Kormanik inspires listeners to reframe their approach to self-improvement, advocating for a more constructive and supportive mindset as they embark on their journeys in the new year. The discourse led by Dr. Leo Kormanik regarding New Year’s resolutions presents an enlightening perspective on the often-frustrating pursuit of self-improvement. Citing a remarkable failure rate of approximately 80-85% for such resolutions by mid-February, Dr. Kormanik assesses the underlying reasons for this phenomenon. He posits that many individuals approach resolutions with a deficit mindset, fixating on perceived inadequacies rather than on a constructive vision for their personal growth. Throughout the episode, listeners are encouraged to engage in meaningful self-reflection to identify the root causes of their resolutions. Dr. Kormanik emphasizes the importance of shifting focus from what needs to be eliminated—such as unhealthy habits—to what can be embraced that promotes overall well-being. For instance, he suggests that rather than merely attempting to cut down on caffeine, individuals should explore alternative sources of energy that can facilitate the desired behavioral change without the negative connotations associated with deprivation. Moreover, Dr. Kormanik introduces practical methodologies for enhancing the effectiveness of New Year’s resolutions, including habit stacking and the utilization of vision boards. By linking new, aspirational habits to existing routines, individuals can create a more seamless integration of positive changes into their lifestyles. Vision boards serve as a visual representation of one’s goals, reinforcing positive thinking and motivation. The episode ultimately serves as a clarion call for a redefined approach to personal improvement, one that emphasizes empowerment, self-awareness, and proactive strategies for lasting transformation.

    Takeaways:

    1. New Year’s resolutions often fail due to a focus on eliminating negative habits rather than fostering positive ones.
    2. Instead of concentrating on what should be removed from our lives, we ought to emphasize what can empower us to change.
    3. Establishing small, attainable goals can significantly enhance motivation and lead to substantial progress over time.
    4. Creating a vision board with positive affirmations can help manifest desired outcomes and encourage a positive mindset.
    5. Habit stacking, where new habits are linked to established ones, can facilitate the integration of beneficial practices into daily routines.
    Show More Show Less
    20 mins
No reviews yet