Hi, I’m James. I love running marathons, trails, hills and mountains.

More than that, I love coaching other athletes to their personal summits.

Whether running your first half, discovering trail running, exploring your limits in an ultramarathon or tackling iconic challenges like the Bob Graham Round, I can help you to achieve your goals in a fun and inspiring way.

Why me?

Honestly? Because I really care about your goals, and I’ll do my utmost to help you achieve them.

I’ve coached athletes across road races, cross country, trail races, ultramarathons and multi-day events, including the Dragon’s Back Race.

I’m a qualified running coach, personal trainer and self-professed science nerd. I get a real buzz implementing the latest theories on training, recovery, nutrition, heat strategies etc. to improve runners’ performances.

If you’ve made it this far and want to know more, you can read about why I decided to start coaching here.

A male runner, covered in dirt and mud, running on a cobblestone street finishing an ultramarathon, with spectators on the side watching.

Your training…

We’ll discuss your next running challenge and what you want from coaching. I’ll then craft a detailed plan to meet your unique ambitions.

I’ll be there, providing support and accountability, regularly reviewing your progress with you and adapting your training to ensure you’re on track to meet your goals.

With my help, you’ll develop the fitness, confidence, skills and experience to reach new heights.

More about coaching…

"I have a plan that doesn’t suck the joy out of running, like many other plans can. James took the time to find out what motivates me and what I enjoy...and he managed to accommodate these into my plan, including training with my running club and planned trips away."

Suzy W.
"Having run 14 marathons, I decided to use a coach to improve my times. James built a structured training plan which has given me great confidence and belief in my abilities. I’m now enjoying running more than I ever have."

Mark H.
"James coached me for the London Marathon and was particularly attentive and flexible to my requirements as I returned from injury. He has a particularly thoughtful and informed approach to all aspects of running, as well as lived experience of high level achievement and competition."

Ed P.
"After a serious injury, it was difficult finding the motivation to train for the series of marathon and ultra races I’d booked. James gave me a properly structured plan and helped me find my mojo and confidence. I really appreciated the advice that he gave pre-race and afterwards. Working with him has really helped me achieve my goals."

James R.
"James doesn’t just plan a good variety of sessions to keep training fun and interesting - it’s also his knowledge with races and recovery that’s helped me perform and stay injury free. I highly recommend him as a coach and he’s a pleasure to work with.'

Ryan H.
"I’m in almost daily direct contact with James and it’s clear how interested and enthusiastic he is. The word that springs to mind is ‘care.’ James really cares for people."

Narissa V.

Be inspired.

With so many appealing races out there, choosing one can be tough. I asked the athletes I coach for quick snapshots of the events they've run - along with a few of my own. Hopefully their experiences inspire your next race choice.

And if you fancy a different running challenge, you might enjoy my blog
‘Do You Really Need to Race? Choosing a Running Challenge’.

Ultra Trail Races

From 50 km to 200 miles. Ultra trail race reports from the UK and beyond, written by first-time ultrarunners to seasoned mountain veterans ›

Sub-Ultra Trail Races

You don’t need to run over 26.2 miles to experience the beauty (and brutality) of trail running. Race reports from UK and European trail marathons, plus shorter ultra events ›

Marathons

From world marathon majors to lesser-known gems. Reports exploring the training and pacing in pursuit of that fast and meaningful 26.2 miles ›

Half Marathons

You don’t need a full marathon to soak up the big-race atmosphere. Race reports capturing the rhythm, pacing, and mindset behind 13.1 miles ›

Local Races

South West London and Surrey’s finest. Race reports celebrating grassroots running, club culture, and the community that makes racing close to home special ›

Multisport

Triathlon, duathlon, and everything in between. Race reports exploring the challenge and balance of swim-bike-run endurance ›

Hi, I’m James. I love running marathons, trails, hills and mountains.

More than that, I love coaching other athletes to their personal summits.

Why me?

Your training…

"I have a plan that doesn’t suck the joy out of running, like many other plans can. James took the time to find out what motivates me and what I enjoy...and he managed to accommodate these into my plan, including training with my running club and planned trips away."

"Having run 14 marathons, I decided to use a coach to improve my times. James built a structured training plan which has given me great confidence and belief in my abilities. I’m now enjoying running more than I ever have."

"James coached me for the London Marathon and was particularly attentive and flexible to my requirements as I returned from injury. He has a particularly thoughtful and informed approach to all aspects of running, as well as lived experience of high level achievement and competition."

"James doesn’t just plan a good variety of sessions to keep training fun and interesting - it’s also his knowledge with races and recovery that’s helped me perform and stay injury free. I highly recommend him as a coach and he’s a pleasure to work with.'

"I’m in almost daily direct contact with James and it’s clear how interested and enthusiastic he is. The word that springs to mind is ‘care.’ James really cares for people."

Be inspired.

Google Reviews

Follow me on Instagram @rununbound