Alright, let’s talk about my journey with a personal trainer and how it’s completely changed the way I approach running and fitness. I’ll admit, I was skeptical at first. I mean, I’ve been running for years, and I always thought, “Why would I need someone to tell me how to run? I just lace up and go, right?” Turns out, I had no idea how much I was leaving on the table.

So, a couple of months ago, I started working with a Tacoma-based personal trainer, On Track Coaching. They specialize in helping runners like me, as well as prenatal and postnatal mothers and youth athletes. What I really liked was how tailored their approach was. It wasn’t about some generic “work harder” advice. They really dug into what I needed—my goals, my routines, and even the little things, like how my day-to-day life impacts my training.

When we started, the first thing we did was assess my running form. And let me tell you, it was eye-opening. I always thought my form was solid—turns out, not so much. My trainer noticed that my stride was a little too long, which was putting unnecessary strain on my knees. They also pointed out how my arm movement wasn’t helping my momentum as much as it could. We worked on some drills to fix those things, and honestly, it’s like I’m running with a new body now. I feel lighter, smoother, and way more efficient.

One of the biggest game-changers was learning how to structure my training better. Before, I’d just go out and run. Some days it was long and slow, other days it was fast—totally random. But my trainer introduced me to a more intentional plan. We added interval workouts, tempo runs, and proper recovery days. At first, I thought recovery days were a waste of time. Like, if I’m not sweating buckets, am I even doing anything? But now, I get it. Those rest days have made such a difference in how I feel on my hard days. I’m faster and less tired overall.

Another thing I loved was how they incorporated strength training. I’ve always been one of those runners who avoids the gym because, honestly, it’s intimidating. But my trainer made it so approachable. They set me up with some at-home workouts that didn’t even require much equipment—just a couple of dumbbells and resistance bands. We focused on core stability and leg strength, which has made a huge difference in how I tackle hills. It’s wild how a few targeted exercises can transform something that used to feel like torture into just another part of the run.

Nutrition was another area we worked on. I thought I was eating okay, but my trainer helped me fine-tune things to fuel my runs better. We talked a lot about timing—like when to eat before a long run, what to refuel with afterward, and even how to snack during the day to keep my energy up. It’s not about some strict diet; it’s about making smarter choices. For example, adding a little protein to my post-run meals has helped me recover faster. It’s one of those simple changes that makes a huge impact.

What really sets On Track Coaching apart, though, is how accessible they make everything. They offer in-home and remote training options, which is perfect for someone like me with a busy schedule. There were weeks where life got crazy, but because we could adapt the plan and do check-ins remotely, I never felt like I was falling behind. It’s clear they really care about making fitness fit into your life, not the other way around.

And you know what? This isn’t just about running anymore. Working with a trainer has spilled over into other parts of my life. I’m sleeping better, I’ve got more energy during the day, and even my mindset has shifted. I used to think of fitness as this box I had to check, but now it feels like this integrated, natural part of my routine.

So, if you’re in Tacoma or anywhere nearby and you’re looking for a personal trainer who really gets it—whether you’re a runner like me, a new parent, or even a youth athlete—I can’t recommend On Track Coaching enough. They’ve helped me hit paces I didn’t think I could hit and made me fall in love with running all over again.