Erin Rapallini – Testimonial 10/26/16

I learned of MTM from another club runner. We were talking about running and racing goals, and how tough it is to keep going on your own. She mentioned that she runs with a club a few times a week, and that I should come out and try it.

After the 1st Sunday long run and I was in! The team offers great support, comradely, and quality work outs. There are people of all levels, and great examples of perseverance that inspire.
My goal in finding a running club and specifically one with a coach, was to get back to a high level of fitness, and back to the speed that I had when I was running more competitively. I wanted to do this even with demands of the FT job, 3 kids and all that life has to ‘offer’ outside of running. I knew that I needed something more than my self-made weekly running schedule. I needed a connection to a team, and to a coach that would push me just enough – and believe in me even if I was doubtful.
Since joining MTM, and coaching with Ron, I have been able to increase speed, had a PR in the 10 mile race (my favorite distance) and meet a lot of GREAT people with similar interests. I have surprised myself sometimes with what I have been able to do. (Thanks coach!)
The best parts about MTM are:
1) Coach Ron: he is 150% dedicated to helping you become the runner you want to be. He meets you where you are, is flexible – yet pushes you to keep aiming higher. He offers insight on how to improve, where to focus and will give it everything you will.
2) The people: it is a GREAT team, with a wide variety of people, speed, goals, and fun, fun conversations to keep those long runs interesting. (not to mention great after-run options when possible)
3) The results: you will see results.

I have run many races including 7 marathons over 18 years before hiring my first running coach.  That would be coach Ron and I am very glad I did.
 
I was planning on another marathon and with so many plans out there and so much conflicting information, I wanted some clarity.   I looked for a coach who had a lot coaching experience, was also fast, and had great reviews.  Ron had all of these.
 
After my first meeting with Ron, I had confirmed my decision to try for a marathon PR 10 years after my last PR.  An aggressive goal but Ron gave me the confidence and the plan to do it.   Long story short, mission accomplished, I made my sub 3:10 marathon goal last weekend at the Chicago marathon.  I felt confident going in as I loved the negative split plan and I trusted the training. 
 
Beside achieving PR’s, other bonuses of working with Ron is learning and training and running smarter.   Even though I have read many running books, I definitely learned new things too.   Furthermore, reporting back to a coach and running with a group also makes you more accountable and it’s easier to stick to your plan.
Last bonus is getting to know some of the other runners in the group.  It really helps to have some company for those difficult or long runs and the group could not be more sincerely supportive of one another.
 
Mac McMonagle

I have been working with Coach Ron and the MTM Team for less than 3 months and already achieved a PR in my “A” race for the year!  Not only have I increased my speed and base of miles in this short period of time, I have also improved my running form and learned how to be a more efficient runner.  Prior to working with Coach Ron, I had recurring medial tibial stress syndrome and chronic shin pain for years despite going to an orthopedist and doing physical therapy.  Although I was able to achieve a PR here and there, I was never able to run healthy.  I am happy to say that even through the increase in miles and intensity in workouts from Coach, my shins are no longer an issue!!  I absolutely would not be where I am right now with my running without Coach Ron.  Achieving this amount of progress in such a short period of time has me extremely excited for the future and a leap to the marathon!
 
In addition to the coaching benefits, the MTM Team is one of the most welcoming, positive, encouraging groups of people I have had the pleasure of running with.  Everyone is each others cheerleader and there is truly a sense that we are all in this together.  After running on my own for many years I was nervous to join a group, but the MTM Team welcomed me with open arms.  I am loving every practice and opportunity that I get to spend with these awesome people.  Love the MTM Team and can’t wait for our destination race in February.  Phoenix here we come!!