About Melissa
Meet Coach Melissa
Hi! I am a Level-One Road Runners Club of America Coach and Level One Training Peaks Accredited Coach; completing courses in Introduction to Sports Psychology for Endurance Coaches and Advanced Essentials. I am also a certified P90X Live instructor.
In 2007, my friend asked me to run a local 5k for charity with her. At that time, I had no experience running, but agreed to do it. After crossing the finish line, I knew I wanted to race again. It didn’t take me long to see what running did for me.
Running has played an important role in my mental health. Since I was nineteen, I’ve struggled with depression and anxiety and I’ve found I’m at my best mentally when I’m running consistently.
In my running career, I have raced everything from the mile to the marathon. In the beginning stages of my running, I trained myself with plans I found online. However, I wanted to take my training to the next level, so I began working with a coach. In doing so, I learned how to train and race smarter. This lead to PR’s in my half marathon by 22 minutes and my marathon by 29.
In October of 2018, only 2 months after working with my coach, I was the overall winner of The Hazleton Town and Trails Half Marathon in Hazleton, Pa and in December, I qualified in my second marathon for the Boston Marathon at the Rehoboth Seaside Marathon in Delaware.
The marathon holds a special place in my heart. I have run two World Major Marathons, Chicago and Berlin, qualifying for Boston at both, and I hope to continue to train and run healthy for as long as I can!
Through running, I’ve learned a lot about myself. I have learned that I am capable of things I once thought were impossible, that it’s okay to take risks, and that I have the strength to push through challenging times.
I currently live in Sugarloaf, PA with my husband, Jason, and our dog, AC (Assistant Coach). I am an educator of 18 years, an avid reader and a Green Bay Packers fan. In addition to running, I enjoy going for walks, cycling, and strength training.
Coaching Philosophy
“You only need one coach to believe in you, and that coach is me!
I’m a firm believer in following the 80/20 running principle and I use it in my own training. The well-known principle balances low and high intensity training. Research has found that slower running, paired with harder running, means faster racing!
Working with a coach has many benefits, and if you work with me, I will see that you achieve the goals you have set for yourself! I’ll teach you how to build good habits in order to succeed and I will teach you the importance of listening to your body, knowing when to push yourself and when to pull back.
Because I believe in you, I will do what it takes to help you achieve your fullest potential. I will be your biggest supporter because I want the best for you. I’ll be there for you at the finish!” ~Melissa
