Run for Fun with Leigh Spann
Activity Overview
Episode publication activity over the past year
Episodes
Run for Fun | The finale and look back at 2 years of episodes
29 Oct 2024
Contributed by Lukas
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) - The Run for Fun digital show and podcast made its debut on November 23, 2022. Since then, Leigh Spann and Coach Maria have broadc...
Run for Fun: Effects of caffeine on running and exercise
22 Oct 2024
Contributed by Lukas
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) - In this week's episode of Run for Fun, we take a look at that daily cup of coffee and how caffeine impacts running and exercise. ...
Run for Fun | Interpreting smartwatch data
15 Oct 2024
Contributed by Lukas
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) - In this week's episode of Run for Fun we focus on data. Specifically, the data that many runners and non-runners get from their s...
Run for Fun | Adjusting running plan after a disaster
01 Oct 2024
Contributed by Lukas
TAMPA, Fla.(WFLA) - In the days after Hurricane Helene, this week's Run for Fun episode is about running and disasters. While this storm is the most i...
Run for Fun | From Micro-Preemie to Collegiate Runner
24 Sep 2024
Contributed by Lukas
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) - In this week's episode of Run for Fun, we chat with a freshman member of the Florida Southern Cross Country team in Lakeland. Dan...
Run for Fun | Age-appropriate running for kids
17 Sep 2024
Contributed by Lukas
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) -- In this week's episode of Run for Fun, we focus on kids and running. It is important to keep kids active, but it is also importa...
Run for Fun | Transitioning from summer runs to fall races
10 Sep 2024
Contributed by Lukas
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) - In this week's episode of Run for Fun, we discuss fall goals and how to set yourself up for success. Especially in Florida, the ...
Run for Fun | Bradenton man to run across the U.S.
03 Sep 2024
Contributed by Lukas
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) - This week on Run for Fun, we chat with Nels Matson. The ultramarathon runner from Bradenton, FL is setting off on a record-breaki...
Run for Fun | Coach Maria answers your running questions
27 Aug 2024
Contributed by Lukas
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) - In this week's episode of Run for Fun, Coach Maria answers questions from runners. We solicited questions and concerns from liste...
Run for Fun | Running and illnesses
13 Aug 2024
Contributed by Lukas
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) - In this week's episode of Run for Fun, the focus is on what to do when you get sick. Olympic runner Noah Lyles made headlines wh...
Run for Fun | Olympic silver medalist Meb Keflezighi
06 Aug 2024
Contributed by Lukas
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) -- In this week's episode of Run For Fun, it's all about the Olympics. The track and field events take place this week in Paris, an...
Run for Fun | Running through heartbreak
30 Jul 2024
Contributed by Lukas
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) - In this week's episode of Run for Fun, we focus on how running can be a way to get through tragedy and heartbreak. For many runne...
Run for Fun | Breaking through a running plateau
23 Jul 2024
Contributed by Lukas
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — In this week's episode of Run for Fun, we tackle the dreaded running plateau. When people start running, they often improve qui...
Run for Fun: Dangers of undereating and running
16 Jul 2024
Contributed by Lukas
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — In this week's episode of Run for Fun, we focus on a condition that affects many athletes: low energy availability. Low energy ...
Run for Fun | Advice for new runners
09 Jul 2024
Contributed by Lukas
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — In this week's episode of Run For Fun, we are helping those just beginning their running journey. When people start running,...
Run for Fun: Getting ready for Fourth of July races
02 Jul 2024
Contributed by Lukas
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — In this week's episode of Run for Fun, we chat with Ryan Jordan. He and his brother, Keith, are behind the popular St. Pete Run...
Run for Fun | Pregnancy and running: How to Adapt
25 Jun 2024
Contributed by Lukas
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — In this week's episode, we look at running during pregnancy. Many women who consistently run wonder if they can continue their ...
Run for Fun | What you need to know about cold plunges
18 Jun 2024
Contributed by Lukas
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — In this week's episode of Run for Fun, we take a look at a chilly way to recover from hard runs and intense exercise. Cryothera...
Run for Fun | Benefits of running uphill
11 Jun 2024
Contributed by Lukas
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — In this week's episode of Run for Fun, we take it uphill. Hill workouts can be a challenging way to improve your running abilit...
Run for Fun | Safely running in the summer heat
04 Jun 2024
Contributed by Lukas
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — In this week's episode of Run For Fun, we look at how heat and humidity impact running and outdoor exercise. As the weather hea...
Run for Fun | Raising money for charity while training for race
21 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) - In this week's episode, we take a closer look at what it takes to raise money for charities that offer entries into major maratho...
Run for Fun | Tampa Bay area veteran competes in handcycle races
14 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) - In this week's episode of Run for Fun, we take a look at competing and racing in wheelchairs and handcycles. The joy of crossing ...
Run for Fun: Running all 6 World Major Marathons
07 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) -- In this week's episode of Run for Fun, we discuss the six World Major Marathons. These marathons are Tokyo, Berlin, Boston, Chic...
Run for Fun | Importance of proper breathing while running
23 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — In this week's episode of Run for Fun, we take a deep breath and look at how important proper breathing is to running. It's ...
Run for Fun | Strengthening glutes and pelvic floor
16 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) – In this week’s episode of Run for Fun, we discuss the importance of pelvic floor and glute strength for runners. Many runners...
Run for Fun | Looking ahead to the Boston Marathon
09 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
AMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — In this week’s episode of Run for Fun, we get ready for the legendary Boston Marathon. This race started in 1897, and it is th...
Run for Fun: Run, life balance with Hillsborough County Superintendent Van Ayres
02 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — In this week's episode of Run for Fun, we sit down with Hillsborough County School Superintendent Van Ayres. He's an avid runne...
Run for Fun | How to adjust running routine as you age
26 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — In this week's episode of Run for Fun, we focus on older runners. In road races, people 40 years and older are considered "mast...
Run for Fun: How to balance running with young kids
19 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) - In this week's episode of Run for Fun, we look at the challenges running mothers face, specifically while their children are youn...
Run for Fun | Top 8 running mistakes coaches see
12 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this week’s episode of Run for Fun, Leigh Spann and Coach Maria count down the top eight mistakes running coaches see.
Run for Fun | Keeping skin safe from the sun while running
05 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — In this week's episode of Run for Fun, we focus on keeping our skin safe from the sun as the days get longer, and the sun's ray...
Run for Fun | Helping alleviate aches and pains of running
27 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — In this week's episode of Run for Fun, Leigh Spann and Coach Maria take a look at the nagging pains that can affect runners. Th...
Run for Fun | Mission for 'Black Girls Run' group
20 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — In this week's episode of Run for Fun, we take a look at diversity in the long-distance running community. As we celebrate ...
Run for Fun | What you wish you knew before you started running
06 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — In this week's episode of Run for Fun, we solicited answers to the question, "What do you wish you'd known before you started r...
Run for Fun | Benefits of meditation for athletes
30 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — In this week’s episode of Run for Fun, we are exercising our minds with meditation. There are plenty of benefits for athletes...
Run for Fun | Creating a pace strategy for a race
23 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — In this week's episode of Run for Fun, we get runners mentally ready to run a race. It takes weeks and months to get physically...
Run for Fun | How massage therapy helps muscles recovery
16 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — In this week's episode of Run for Fun, we take a deeper look at muscle recovery. Massages can help relieve muscle tension, and ...
Run for Fun | Strategies for multi-race weekends
09 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — In this week's episode of Run for Fun, we discuss multi-race weekends. The world-famous Disney Marathon weekend just wrapped up...
Run for Fun | Be careful how you announce your 2024 goals
03 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — In this week's episode of Run For Fun, we are getting ready for a new year filled with new goals. Leigh Spann and Coach Maria d...
Run for Fun | Giving back through running
19 Dec 2023
Contributed by Lukas
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — In Tuesday's episode of Run for Fun, we focus on giving back to the community through running. Many races give part of their re...
Run for Fun| Holiday gift guide for runners
12 Dec 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In Tuesday's Run for Fun episode, we get ready for the holidays. People often ask what others want or need as a gift this time of year, so we focus on...
Run for Fun | The importance of cadence and running form
05 Dec 2023
Contributed by Lukas
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — In Tuesday's episode of Run for Fun, we discuss the importance of cadence. Cadence is the number of steps you take while runnin...
Run for Fun | Runner superstitions and why we have them
28 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) - In Tuesday's episode of Run for Fun, Leigh Spann and Coach Maria celebrate the one-year anniversary of this digital show & podcas...
Run for Fun: Tricks to make your mental running game stronger
21 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — In Tuesday's episode of Run for Fun, we are joined by a podcaster named Cole Pepper from Jacksonville, Florida. His podcast "Ru...
RUN FOR FUN: Heart rate training in Zone 2
14 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) - In Tuesday's episode of Run for Fun, we focus on a different way to track how you run. Many runners judge their runs based on spe...
RUN FOR FUN: What to know about track workouts
07 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — In Tuesday's episode of Run for Fun with Leigh Spann, we focus on why and how to best utilize a track when running.
Run for Fun: Running a race with a partner
31 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — In Tuesday's episode of Run for Fun, we take a look back at Leigh's marathon on Saturday. With every race, runners learn lesson...
Run for Fun | Running tours on vacation
24 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — In Tuesday's episode of Run for Fun with Leigh Spann, we discuss taking a "run-cation." Leigh Spann and Coach Maria chat with L...
Run for Fun: What goes into planning a race
10 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — In Tuesday's episode of Run for Fun with Leigh Spann, we go behind the scenes of a race. While plenty of runners line up at rac...
Run for Fun | Tips and tools for proper recovery
03 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) - In Tuesday's episode of Run for Fun, we focus on recovery after the run. While many of us enjoy running, it does tax your body, a...
Run for Fun | Run for Fun: Dealing with Pre-race Anxiety
26 Sep 2023
Contributed by Lukas
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — In this week's episode of Run for Fun, we focus on race anxiety. Now that it's starting to cool off some, we get into "race sea...
Run For Fun | Trail Running 101: What you need to know
19 Sep 2023
Contributed by Lukas
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — Tuesday's episode of Run for Fun takes us off the streets and sidewalks and into nature. Trail running offers different views a...
Run for Fun | Run for Fun: What is carb-loading and how to do it
12 Sep 2023
Contributed by Lukas
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — In this week's episode of Run for Fun, we learn about carb-loading. Leigh Spann and Coach Maria explain what this actually mean...
Run for Fun | What to know about proper stretching
05 Sep 2023
Contributed by Lukas
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — In this week's episode of Run for Fun, Leigh Spann and Coach Maria discuss the importance of stretching. The types of stretchin...
Run for Fun | Handling GI issues while running
18 Aug 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this week's episode of Run for Fun, Leigh Spann and Coach Maria tackle a sensitive topic. They discuss gastrointestinal issues runners can exper...
Run for Fun | A look at cardiac episodes in athletes
15 Aug 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this week’s episode of Run For Fun, we take a look at cardiac events in athletes. With the high-profile cardiac arrest of LeBron James’ son, Br...
Run for Fun | The difference between recreational and racing runners
08 Aug 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this week's episode of Run for Fun, we discuss the difference between a so-called "recreational" runner and those who compete in races. Leigh Spann...
Run for Fun | The benefits of strength training for runners
01 Aug 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this week's episode, Leigh Spann, Coach Maria and personal trainer Melissa Trinidad discussed why strength training can be helpful for runners. Mel...
Run for Fun | How to properly run with your dog
25 Jul 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this week's episode of Run for Fun, Leigh and Coach Maria chat with a dog trainer about how to get your dog ready to join you on a run. We discuss ...
Run for Fun | Importance of sleep when exercising
18 Jul 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this week's episode of Run for Fun, we discussed how sleep is the most important part of recovery. If you're constantly sleep-deprived and trying t...
Run for Fun | Measuring your run in miles or minutes
11 Jul 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this week's episode of Run For Fun, Leigh Spann and Coach Maria discuss the pros and cons of how you measure your run. Running by minutes can help ...
Run For Fun | Patriotic moments in marathon history
04 Jul 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this special July 4th episode of Run for Fun, Leigh Spann and Coach Maria reflect on their favorite patriotic moment in marathon history. One of th...
Run For Fun | Difference between running outside and on a treadmill
27 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this week's episode of Run for Fun, Leigh Spann and Coach Maria discuss the pros and cons of running on a treadmill and running outdoors. In the su...
Using nutrition to optimize your run | Run for Fun
19 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Leigh Spann and Coach Maria talk with a registered dietitian about how to eat to make running more fun. Run for Fun on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3O...
Run for Fun | Training for Triathlons
13 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Leigh Spann chats with Coach Coral Owen, a Tampa Bay triathlon coach, about how to prepare for a three-sport event like the triathlons. Coach Maria ex...
Run for Fun | Running in the morning vs the evening
06 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Leigh Spann and Coach Maria discuss the pros and cons of running at different times of the day. You can train your body for either ti...
Run for Fun | Proper workout clothes for the summer heat
30 May 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Leigh Spann and Coach Maria discuss what types of clothes you should wear when the heat and humidity increase. Cody Angell from St. Pete Running Compa...
Run for Fun | Importance of Proper Hydration in the Summer
23 May 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Join Leigh Spann and Coach Maria as they discuss how heat and humidity can make dehydration more likely. They explain how to determine how much sweat ...
Run for Fun | How Dew Point Impacts Outdoor Workouts
16 May 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this week's episode of Run for Fun with Leigh Spann, Leigh and Coach Maria discuss the dew point. It's actually how they met! Runners need to check...
Run for Fun | Lessons Learned from Flying Pig Marathon
09 May 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Leigh discusses the challenges and lessons she learned while running 26.2 miles in the Flying Pig Marathon in Cincinnati, OH on Sunday. It was a storm...
Run for Fun | Healthy Hormones & An Active Lifestyle
02 May 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Leigh Spann and Coach Maria chat with a Tampa physician, Dr. Michael Heim, about hormones and their impact on running and exercise. He explains what t...
Run For Fun | "Girls On The Run" program & its impact on young women
25 Apr 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Leigh Spann and Coach Maria sit down with a staff member from Girls On The Run to discuss how the 10-week program trains girls for a 5K but also gives...
Run for Fun | What is cross training and why is it important
18 Apr 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Leigh Spann and Coach Maria discuss the exercises endurance athletes like runners should do to continue to increase their aerobic capacity without ove...
Run for Fun | Q & A (Pt. 2) with Sports Podiatrist Dr. Brian Fullem
11 Apr 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Listen in with Leigh Spann and Coach Maria for this week's episode of Run for Fun. They continue their discussion with Dr. Brian Fullem, a sports podi...
Run for Fun | Q & A with Sports Podiatrist Dr. Brian Fullem
04 Apr 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Dr. Brian Fullem, a Clearwater sports podiatrist joins Leigh and Coach Maria to discuss all knee, shin, ankle, and foot issues runners often have. He ...
Run for Fun | Tips for Overcoming Mental Hurdles
28 Mar 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Leigh Spann and Coach Maria discuss ways to trick your brain into running longer. Plus, they talk about managing expectations when it comes to buildin...
Run For Fun | Taking a break. Why it's needed, and how to come back
21 Mar 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Join Leigh Spann and Coach Maria as they discuss why you may need to take a break from running and how to come back better than ever. Run for Fun on ...
Run for Fun | Tips for Running in the Dark
14 Mar 2023
Contributed by Lukas
The time change this weekend means you may be exercising in the dark before work. Leigh and Coach Maria have some tips to stay safe and visible. Run...
Run for Fun | Tips for Starting a Running Group
07 Mar 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Leigh and Coach Maria talk with a podcast listener who is starting a running group at his church. We discuss the benefits of running groups and tips t...
Run for Fun | How to Recover After Running Hard
28 Feb 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this week's episode, Leigh Spann and Coach Maria discuss the weekend of races in Tampa and how the 20,000+ runners should recover this week. We als...
What to Know Before Race Day & Running Around the World | Run for Fun
21 Feb 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this jam-packed edition of Run for Fun, Leigh Spann and Coach Maria review the most important things to do ahead of race day. Plus, special guest K...
What Runners Love | Run for Fun
14 Feb 2023
Contributed by Lukas
On this Valentine's Day, Leigh Spann and Coach Maria discuss the crazy things that runners really love that other people may not understand.
Breaking Out of a Running Rut | Run For Fun
07 Feb 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this week's episode, Leigh and Coach Maria discuss how to recognize that you're in an exercise rut and ways to spice up your workouts to keep them ...
Running Well With Others | Run For Fun
31 Jan 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this week's episode of Run for Fun with Leigh Spann we discuss finding the right running partner or group to keep exercising fun. We also talk abou...
Avoiding Comparison "Traps" | Run For Fun
24 Jan 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Join Leigh Spann and Coach Maria to discuss ways to avoid comparison "traps" and stay motivated to keep exercising. We also Check In With Nick on his ...
Proper running form and gait analysis | Run For Fun
17 Jan 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this week's episode, St. Pete Running Company owner Cody Angell joins us to show how to analyze someone's running form to get the correct shoes. Co...
Ways to incorporate running into your life and increase energy levels | Run for Fun
10 Jan 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of Run for Fun, Coach Maria explains how to add exercise into your life without it being a burden as well as how to recognize your cur...
Preparing to run a race | Run For Fun
03 Jan 2023
Contributed by Lukas
It's a new year, and if you're thinking of signing up to run a race, Leigh Spann and Tampa Running Coach Maria Williams discuss what to know before ra...
Motivation vs Consistency | Run For Fun
20 Dec 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Leigh Spann and Coach Maria discuss how to create a healthy lifestyle by managing expectations. Plus, how to tell the difference between motivation an...
What to eat before and after a run | Run for Fun
13 Dec 2022
Contributed by Lukas
In today’s episode of Run for Fun with Leigh Spann, we’ll tell you what you should eat to keep your body fueled for your run.
Benefits of Running Slow | Run for Fun
06 Dec 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Join Leigh Spann as she and a local running coach discuss the benefits of running slower, and how it can keep you running longer. Run for Fun on Spot...
Getting the right running gear | Run for Fun
29 Nov 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Running enthusiast Leigh Spann and Tampa running coach Maria Williams get you ready to go into the running store and get the right gear that will add ...
Debut and Introduction of Run for Fun | Run for Fun
23 Nov 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Running enthusiast Leigh Spann and Tampa running coach Maria Williams discuss how they found a passion for the sport of distance running. They explain...