Frequently Asked Questions:

I’ve never run before. Do you work with newbies?

Yes I do – and I really love coaching runners of all walks of life. We all start somewhere – your willingness to learn, put in the work, and have some fun along the way makes you a good candidate for my roster!

I’m thinking about my first marathon. Any suggestions?

First off, that’s awesome – and a very big undertaking! Giving yourself the correct amount of time to prepare is key. Runners often need a whole year to go from “no mileage” to marathon. If you are currently running, you want to be comfortable running 20-30 miles per week comfortably, before the official 16-20 week training. Cutting your timeline short is ill-advised, as injury risk goes way up.

Are you coaching in-person right now?

My roster is quite close to capacity, so therefore in-person coaching availability is incredibly limited. If you need that in-person coach, I am happy to make a referral to a coach I know and trust who may have availability. 

Who do you coach?

I coach adults from the 5k-Ultramarathon. I also offer strength training and stretching guidance to help my clients achieve their personal goals. My main concern is you and your goals – if I am not the right fit due to expertise, I’ll point you to a coach who fits your needs! Most of my athletes are training for races, usually in the half marathon-marathon range.

How do you create my training plan?

When starting with a new athlete, we sit down for a video assessment (1 hour), and go over some forms you will have already filled out. Based on your feedback, and further information gathered in that meeting, I can begin to build out your training! I always strive to “meet you where you are in your fitness journey,” and then build towards your goals in a smart, scientific, and personalized way. I add to/upload training a few weeks at a time, building upon your feedback, consistency, etc. 

I don’t have a race on my calendar, should I still work with a running coach?

Absolutely! A coach can help you get from where you are to where you want to be – and we can map out races and timelines that work for you. I will happily send you race suggestions, and my input on how to create a smart and strong race season. 

I need structure and accountability. How does a coach help?

A coach will absolutely offer you structure. My athletes all have detailed and personalized training plans, broken down by day. There’s never any guesswork as to what that day’s workout is. You’ll get daily email reminders of your training via Final Surge. You’ll know I can see what data is/isn’t updated, along with your communication. If you need your training adjusted, I’m always available to adjust your training, answer questions, and support your progress.

Do you offer any audio-guided runs?

I can finally say YES! If you want me to guide your run in your ear, I can now do so – both for outdoor and treadmill, via Precision Run on the Equinox+ app. 

How many athletes do you coach?

No more than I can confidently handle. I focus on quality over quantity, which is why you won’t see any cookie-cutter “one size fits all” plan on my website. I view each client as a unique person, and strongly feel the relationship is most successful when the coach really gets to know the athlete. I will always protect the time and quality my current roster receives and will cap the roster and refer inquiries elsewhere if I’m at my limit. 

Do I need a running watch or app?

In order to track improvement and keep your coach in the loop – yes. Luckily, there are many options out there, of varying price points and capabilities. I am happy to offer suggestions on the topic when we get started.

What’s the most important factor for an athlete’s success?

Communication. If I don’t know what is or isn’t happening, how it’s feeling, etc. – a coach is limited as to what they can give. My clients who thrive the most take on the relationship as a full two-way street. If you are a good communicator, I’m excited to work with you!

Do you offer meal plans?

I do not. I am not a Registered Dietician, and need to stay in my lane. I can and will give guidance on carb loading and mid-run fueling for my distance athletes, and can otherwise give some general guidance on a balanced diet. For a meal plan, please hire someone who’s an expert in that field. Likewise, I cannot and will not diagnose any injuries – only a medical professional can do so. 

Am I too old to try running?

No way – you are NEVER too old to try something new! It’s possible due to your history or potential limitations that we may hit some challenges, but age is rarely the limiting factor. Age may mean fewer running days and more cross-training or rest – but that would be something we discuss together. I’ve coached runners age 18-65.