J.R. H.

I am a Road Runners of Club of America (RRCA) certified adult distance running coach located in Atlanta, GA. My interest in running began in December of 2003 when I was in his late 20’s, weighing close to 265 pounds and on the verge of being diagnosed with high blood pressure. At that time, I decided it was time to make a lifestyle change and totally commit to exercising regularly and eating right.

My journey to losing weight and becoming healthy started slowly with walking. After a few weeks passed, I got bored with walking and something told me that I should give jogging a try. My first attempt wasn’t very successful, but I stayed with it and as time went on, I was able to run a little further. With my run load increasing, I started counting calories – making sure I was burning more than I was taking in and cutting my portion sizes. Within 6 months, the combination of running and eating right led me to drop 80 pounds.

Losing weight gave me a sense of confidence and I put even more time into running. Five days a week were dedicated to running, going further, and getting faster. With the increased distance and speed, I thought about signing up for a race and instead of choosing the traditional first race of a 5K or 10K, went straight for a half-marathon! I trained myself for the 2005 Silver Comet Half Marathon in Georgia and finished in 1:54:16. Ever since then, I've been addicted to racing. I've finished 10 full marathons, countless half marathons, 10K’s, and 5K’s and is now an aspiring tri-athlete.

I am passionate about running and share my enthusiasm and love for it by coaching others. It’s my goal to inspire, support, and encourage those who don’t think they can run a 5K, 10K, half or full marathon. My coaching services include training plans, which are based on the runner’s current fitness level, run/walk programs, and 5K to marathon training programs.

I've completed numerous full marathons, half marathons, 10K's, and 5K's. I have been fortunate to place in the top three of my age category in a few of my races. I strive to make the podium at each race. Set a new 3:45 marathon PR on 12-13-14

Most sessions are about half an hour. I like to warm up my athletes with some light stretching. Usually I focus on correct form and breathing. Next is building endurance. I do all of this with positive feedback and encouragement.