Personal coaching for runners who want more than an app

Just a Sampling of Athletes I've Coached

From first-time 5K finishers to seasoned marathoners, I've helped these runners crush PRs, build stamina, return to running after injury or extended breaks, break through plateaus, dial in fueling and nutrition, and more.

Coaching runners across every distance, from 1K to 50K.

I Am Invested in Your Success

Your true potential and success come from more than a training plan or app. Those are generic regardless of how they want you to feel they are matching your experience level. If a running schedule is all you are seeking, I am not the best coach for you. Yes, I will write you a 100% customized training plan, but reaching your potential is much more than that if you want to really improve.

I did not just take a weekend certification course to become a running coach. Since 2011, I have attended dozens of advanced running and fitness clinics and seminars from some of the world's best coaches and trainers. In my local coaching practice, I have coached hundreds of runners of all abilities.

I do not just download and send you a bunch of YouTube exercise videos and call that strength training. Instead, I got certified with the National Academy of Sports Medicine, which offers one of the best certifications out there, so I can set up periodized strength training programs and modify them as you progress.

What's Included in Coaching

Who Is Coaching For?

My coaching is for any runner who wants more than a generic training plan can provide. Whether you are training for your first race, coming back from an injury, or trying to break through a performance plateau, personalized coaching gives you the structure, accountability, and expert guidance to get there.

You do not need to be fast. You do not need to be experienced. You just need to be willing to put in the work, and I will handle the rest. You are my priority. During our Zoom sessions, we will discuss your goals and struggles, celebrate your successes, and work together to remove any obstacles and excuses that get in your way.

A note on age and discipline: Online coaching plans are for runners ages 18 and older. Youth, middle school, high school, and collegiate athletes are coached during the offseason only (typically Track and Cross Country preparation) — please reach out through the contact form to set this up. For any athlete under 18, a parent or legal guardian must attend all Zoom calls or be copied on all emails. RunBuzz is SafeSport certified and follows USATF SafeSport guidelines.

1:1 Coaching Packages

Three levels of support, all built on a 100% personalized plan with unlimited email access. Pick the level of live coaching and specialty work that fits your goals. No contracts, prepay discounts available.

10% discount for active military, police, fire/EMT, and nurses. Contact me for details.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I see my workouts and track progress?

I use Final Surge software to post workouts and view your activity. Final Surge can track workouts via Strava or Garmin Connect. They also have their own phone app in case you do not have a running watch or want to see your workout details on the go.

How is this different from AI-generated plans or cheap running apps?

Apps and AI plans work as a starting point — they are cheap, accessible, and fine for a generic schedule. They fall short in the moments that matter most: when you tweak a hamstring, have a brutal week at work, miss key workouts, or change goals. That is where a real coach matters. I adjust your training based on your actual progress, stress, and recovery — not what an algorithm assumes. I integrate running, strength, fueling, and injury prevention as one program, not separate apps. And I am the same coach who knows your history and answers your questions personally. An app writes workouts. Coaching is what makes them work for you.

Can I train for a 5K, half marathon, or marathon?

Yes. I can customize your training to any race distance up to 50K.

Do I have to be a runner?

No. As long as you are active and focused on movement, I can help. If you want to get back in shape but are struggling to make it happen, all guidance in cardio, strength training, habit creation, nutrition, weight loss, or weight management will be customized to you and your fitness level.

Is there an age requirement?

Yes. My online coaching plans are for runners ages 18 and older. Youth, middle school, high school, and collegiate athletes are coached during the offseason only (typically Track and Cross Country preparation) — please reach out through the contact form to set this up. For any athlete under 18, a parent or legal guardian must attend all Zoom calls or be copied on all emails. RunBuzz is SafeSport certified and follows USATF SafeSport guidelines.

Do you recommend any particular diet?

No. I do not believe in low-calorie, highly restrictive diets. Every plan includes endurance fueling and hydration guidance built around real food. Premium and Coach+ tiers add custom nutrition coaching for weight management, body composition, and dietary restrictions. If a medical condition is present, I will refer you to a dietitian.

Do you use perceived effort or heart rate training?

For most runners, I use effort-based or perceived effort training. In some cases, I will recommend heart rate training.

How often is my training modified?

For Essential plan members, training is modified upon request or after email check-ins. For Standard, Premium, and Coach+ plans, I update your plan during our Zoom sessions. Between sessions or check-ins, I may modify your training based on situations that come up. This way, your plan evolves and adapts as you do.

Can we sign up as a family?

Yes. We can add additional members of your direct family for $50/month per additional member. If your plan includes Zoom check-ins, family members must share the same timeslot and attend the same call. For larger groups beyond direct family (training partners, running clubs, etc.), I can customize pricing — please contact me for details.

Is there a contract?

No contract. There is a standard liability waiver stating that you are healthy enough to participate in an exercise program.

Can I work with you for just one month?

You can purchase coaching month to month. However, I highly suggest a minimum commitment of 3 months. Running performance, strength development, and positive habit change take consistency and time. Plans are released in 1, 2, or 4 week blocks to keep them as accurate as possible based on your real progress — I do not write an entire training plan upfront.

What happens if I get injured?

Hopefully by working with me, we avoid injuries, but they do happen. In most cases, we can manage injury and keep you active. If you need significant time off, we pause your training. If we cannot resume in 4-6 weeks, I will refund any unused portion, or credit it to future sessions when you are ready to resume.

Can you help me with post-injury Return to Running programs?

Yes, we see this often with new clients who are returning to running after an injury.

Do you offer military and first responder discounts?

Yes. I take 10% off for active and reserve military, police, fire/EMT personnel, and nurses. As a veteran-owned business, I want to help make coaching more affordable. Thank you for your service.

Can you help me pass my military PT test?

Yes, I have significant experience training armed forces and police/fire members for their fitness and PT tests. I have even trained recruits preparing for basic training and special forces entrance tests.