Jennifer Acker
Jennifer Acker reports on a wide range of health and wellness topics for Runner’s World and Bicycling. She’s passionate about delivering journalism that enriches the lives of readers. Jennifer is a lifelong runner—with several half marathons, and a few marathons under her belt, certified yoga instructor, and having grown up in the Pocono Mountains, always has a mountain bike and pair of skis ready for the perfect fall or winter day.
This Maintenance Running Plan Helps You Keep Up Your Fitness Through Winter
Let this be your guide to off-season training.
The Runner’s World 2025 Half Marathon and Marathon Calendar
Your definitive guide to racing this year! Whether you’re looking for a marathon or a half, check out our list of exciting races happening all over the United States.
Yoga vs. Pilates: Which One Will Help Improve Run Performance?
Both yoga and pilates build strength and improve flexibility. Here’s how to pick your workout.
6 Half Marathon Workouts to Get You Faster for Race Day
Switch up your training and increase your speed with these workouts, created for every fitness level.
Nothing Will Make You Feel Alive Like Running a Marathon
When the miles became hard, this writer thought about her dad's experience with pain at the end of his life and found the strength to keep on going.
The Best Marathon Workouts to Get Faster
Feb 29, 2024.
For the Governor of Minnesota and Kamala Harris’ VP Pick, Running Is About Stress Relief and Community
“I’ve found that even before the most stressful events, if I’ve gone for a run, I’m calmer and more collected.”
Running Country Backroads Led Me to Something I Didn’t Expect—Connecting to My Family’s Past
It was during those runs in the country I began to feel the weight of unspoken tragedies that lived along the corners and in the crevices of my family.
How to Train for Hilly Marathons
Everything to know about adding inclines to training, including how often to tackle them and the best strength moves for prepping your legs.
The Best Big-City Marathons (That Aren’t a World Marathon Major)
Running Shoes - Gear.
Surprising Discoveries of Parenting Through Running
Running was always there in the background, and for this writer it was shaping her approach to raising children.
How to Interpret Your Blood Work as a Runner
Getting routine blood work can help you stay on top of your health and performance by giving key insights into certain stats.
10 Energy Exercises to Give You a Boost Midday
Your go-to list of moves that provide a pick-me-up before a run or when you’re slogging through an afternoon of work.
The Benefits of Nasal Breathing While Running
What the science and experts say about inhaling and exhaling through the nose, instead of your mouth.
5 Essential Form Drills to Do Before Your Next Workout
Dec 22, 2023.
Could Sound Therapy Improve Your Athletic Performance?
Aug 22, 2023.
Running in the Woods Gave Me a Space to Grieve
Dec 22, 2023.
Somatic Exercises Bring Balance to Your Running By Helping You Manage Stress and Pain
Experts explain how increased awareness of the mind-body connection can have major benefits for your health.
What to Know About Melatonin Side Effects
Melatonin might not be the best choice for better sleep. Here’s why.
Juan Antonio-Sorto: Creating Big Changes from a Simple Act
Antonio-Sorto transformed his community by organizing San Miguel’s first-ever Christmas 5K, aiming to promote health, empowerment, and positivity in a community plagued by crime and gang violence.
Tips for Running at Night to Keep You Safe and Have Fun
Dial in your nutrition, gear, and more with this expert-approved advice.
This Marathoner and Veterinarian Dedicates Her Running Efforts to Those She Loves
“I run for those who can’t, and I dedicate my runs to those who need my prayers and support.”
A 15-Minute Wall Pilates Workout
Nov 6, 2024.
This New York City Marathoner Turns to Track Workouts for Nailing His Sub-2:40 Goal Time
“The NYC marathon is like going to a party—it’s one of the most special days of the year for me.”
This Doctor and Multi-Time Marathoner Believes in Effort-Based Training and Morning Runs
Stephanie Tsai has run the Chicago Marathon every year for a decade, and now she’s taking on the streets of New York City next month.
How Gabriella Rooker Ran Her Way to a 2:24 PR in Chicago
She’s only been running competitively for about five years, but the full-time physician assistant proves she’s made for speed—and here, she shares her training tips.
Cool Down Exercises to Target All Your Tight Spots
These dynamic postrun moves are designed to boost your recovery and leave you feeling loose and limber.
Steal These Tips on How to Make Running Fun Again When You’ve Lost Motivation
Boost the joyful factor of your next run with these five strategies from experts and Runner’s World editors.
The Health Benefits of Coconut Water
This tropical drink can provide a perfect refresher on a hot day, while offering up key nutrients for runners.
All the Benefits of Brussels Sprouts Might Surprise You
Here’s exactly why you should eat more of these green veggies, plus the best ways to prepare them.
How to Talk to Our Daughters About Exercise
In a culture that focuses on children’s performance, here are ways to empower them to have a positive relationship with sports.
For This Ultramarathoner, Running 100 Miles Isn’t Nearly as Tough as Battling Chronic Disease
Three weeks after receiving a lupus diagnosis, Devon Yanko won a 100-mile race.