Hello, running enthusiasts and future runners! I’m excited to welcome you to the first post of One Run Coaching’s blog. My name is Mike, and as a UESCA certified endurance running coach, I’m here to help you achieve your running goals. Whether you want to finish your first 5K, improve your marathon record, or simply find joy in every step, I’m here for you. In this post, I’ll share my background, coaching philosophy, and explain how personalized training plans can transform your running journey. Let’s dive in!
My Journey as a Runner and Coach
Like many kids, I grew fond of sports at an early age, but running truly captured my heart. My journey began in third grade when I excelled in the timed mile, which sparked my interest in road races. I ran cross country in seventh grade, but a knee injury in eighth grade sidelined me, and I didn’t run regularly until my mid-30s.
In my mid-30s, I became aware of my deteriorating fitness level. Keeping up with my toddlers was quite challenging! In 2018, I got my first Apple Watch and recorded my first run since middle school on March 28, 2019. Although it was intimidating to return to running, I felt fantastic once I got through those initial miles.
During this comeback, I read a transformative book: *Eat and Run* by Scott Jurek, a legendary ultramarathon runner. His story fascinated me, and I thought, “Could I do that?” This thought ignited my passion for ultramarathons, leading me to explore training, nutrition, and gear through research and trial and error.
I started by searching for training plans online. While I had some success, I excelled when I took control of my training. I read books, listened to podcasts, and subscribed to running magazines, gathering knowledge that worked for me.
After finding success in running ultras (success, in this context, means finishing, not winning), others began asking for training advice. I realized that what worked for me might not work for them, so I sought my first coaching certification to offer proper guidance.
The Philosophy Behind One Run Coaching
At One Run Coaching, I believe that every runner deserves a tailored approach to training. Personalization isn’t just a buzzword; it’s the foundation of my coaching philosophy. Each athlete is unique, and their training should reflect individual needs, goals, and lifestyles.
Personalized Training Plans
When you engage with One Run Coaching, your journey begins with a comprehensive assessment of your experience and goals. Are you aiming to finish your first race? Or do you want to shave minutes off your marathon time? Together, we’ll create a training plan specifically designed for you.
Building Stronger Mindsets
Running challenges you mentally as much as physically. I focus on building mental resilience in my coaching. We develop strategies together to help you push through tough moments. Techniques like visualization and positive affirmations can bolster your confidence on race day, transforming anxiety into excitement.
It’s Not Just About Times
While running often focuses on times and distances, there’s so much more to gain from the experience. Celebrate the progress, the friendships, and the accomplishments that come along the way.
Tips for Aspiring Runners
Starting with running—or enhancing your training—can feel daunting. Here are some actionable tips to help you on your journey:
- Set Clear and Achievable Goals: Your objectives should be specific and realistic. Whether finishing your first 5K or improving your time, clear goals provide direction.
- Listen to Your Body: Differentiate between good discomfort (like tired muscles) and bad pain (like sharp soreness). Know when to push and when to rest.
- Stay Consistent: Establish a training schedule that works for you. Regular shorter runs are generally more effective than sporadic long runs.
- Don’t Be Afraid to Seek Help: Working with a coach or joining a running group can provide structure and camaraderie.
- Enjoy the Journey: Remember why you started running—celebrate your progress and relish your runs outdoors.
As you embark on—or continue—your running journey, remember that every step is a step toward growth and improvement. One Run Coaching provides the support, guidance, and expertise needed to achieve your goals. This blog is just the beginning!
Are you ready to take the next step in your running journey? Let’s connect! Join me at One Run Coaching, where we’ll work together to unlock your potential. Share your running goals in the comments or visit my website at onerun.coach to learn more about how personalized coaching can help you. Let’s lace up our shoes and start running toward success—together!