Boston Running Center running coaching

Coaching

“Best running experience I've had yet...I can't believe how much I enjoyed personalized coaching routines. Additionally, coming off of an ankle injury, I can't believe how much having a coach to talk / e-mail with helped me. I will definitely continue w/ this service.” — Amy O.
“My coach was always available by phone or email to answer a question or patiently listen to my complaints about random soreness or anything else. With BRC's help, I was far better prepared for my last marathon and even turned in a negative split. I wouldn't consider training for a marathon without BRC's help!”— Stuart W.
“My overall experience with the Boston Running Center has been fantastic. I especially appreciate the rigorous and high quality training schedule that Joe put together for me. Despite the difference in fitness levels, Joe treats each one of his students seriously and sets challenging expectations for them. Unlike most trainers / bootcamp type programs that I've worked with in the past, there was nothing watered down about my experience at all, which is unique.” — Yvonne T.
“Once again, I can't tell you how much I appreciated all your help and intstruction. Not only am I a stronger runner, but I'm a much smarter runner for having worked with you. I'll continue to recommend you to my friends and family.” — Reuben L.
“BRC did a great job helping me to meet my running goals! I felt better racing than I ever have. My coach was also VERY quick to respond to any questions and/or concerns I had along the way. The one-on-one sessions were great and were just the right challenge! I also began to look forward to track workouts instead of loathing them as BRC's coaching inspires the confidence one needs to do these workouts!!” — Meg N.
“I would like to thank Joe for all he did in preparing me for 2 marathons. The first one I was injured before I went to see him. I believe I had about 12 weeks to get ready at that point. I had a good running base and had injured my calf. He took the time with me and went over my injury and my options. I ran Boston that year (2010) in my best time. This year he spent 20 weeks getting me prepared. What an excellent service. I would recommend it to anyone. He is always there for you. A simple email with any questions are answered promptly and professionally. I would advise anyone who is interested in achieving their goal as a runner to contact the Boston Running Center as a starting point. You won't be disappointed.” — Steven M
“My experience with Joe McConkey and the Boston Running Center was terrific. My favorite things about being coached by Joe were 1) his menacing workouts that you don't think you can do, but he knows you can do, and after you do them you feel amazing, 2) his will to tap your untapped potential to produce a PR nearly every race, and 3) his personalized training regimens that really were unique to me. I was lucky to be coached by him and my experience with the Boston Running Center was outstanding.” — Julie H
“Joe's coaching style is excellent. He pays attention to details, provides thorough analysis of problem areas and creates workouts that consistently challenge me and help me to improve!! Thanks!” — Edwina Nowicki
“I had a successful and enjoyable marathon training. I got faster, stronger and developed a much better running form. I look forward to training with the Boston Running Center again in the Spring.” — Ellen Lyons
“By working with the Boston Runnig Center, I've become a faster, stronger, smarter, and injury free runner. The workouts were customized for me and my goals and together we created a game plan which enabled me to achieve my personal best marathon, a 3:46:16. I will work with the BRC again to acheive my next goal and I would highly recommend him to other runners.” — Chris L.
“Joe was very intuitive as far as my needs as a runner and end-goal results. He diagnosed problems in my stride and form within minutes of our first meeting. In 16 weeks I went from running 2-3 miles twice a week to averaging 25-30 miles a week.” — Tim R
“I always had a great workout during the one-on-one sessions! Pushed myself harder than if I was doing it on my own. I appreciate how flexible my coach was to change workouts due to travel, sickness, etc.” — Abby M
“I just wanted to say thank you for helping improve so much on my marathon time. Just by training with you I was able to shave 17 minutes off my previous marathon PR and Qualify for Boston. Thanks again, your guidance really made the difference.” — Mike M.
“The log is simple and straight forward though very comprehensive. It is extremely user friendly and packs a lot of analysis tools. The strength training helped develop and maintain specific muscles to compliment the running. The customized workouts were specific and efficient, never felt like I was wasting my time. The comments were informative and motivating. The one-on-one training sessions were great high intensity workout. Appreciated the feedback during the sessions. During my time training with Boston Running Center I noticed a great improvement in my agility and speed. I felt well prepared for the NY 1/2 and full marathon, received not only training schedules and advice, but also courage and confidence to race well. I look forward to continuing to see improvements.” — Deborah R
“The weekly prescribed workouts I received were excellent. I have been very pleased with my experience.” — Olivia J
“Working with BRC, I've increased my speed, endurance, and refined my running form all while remaining injury free. Their personalized training schedules challenge me and have helped me achieve my initial goals of competing in a 5k and 10k and put me well on my way to achieve my ultimate goal of running a marathon.” — Alex D
“I am sure you hear this from all of your other runners, Joe, but whatever it is worth, I think that you are very talented at what you do and trust it. I am very appreciative to have the opportunity to be coached by you. Sometimes I lose perspective that I only started running one year and one month ago and realize my expectations can be very high, you do a great job at keeping thongs grounded :) EVERYONE has been commenting on what excellent training I obviously have had for this marathon. This is a testament to you. :)” — Danielle C.
“Thanks again for the training program; I cannot tell you how much I appreciate your training program and your working with me. I shaved some 7-minutes from my PR to get under 3-hours, which I never could have done without you!” — Ted O.
“Joe's coaching is terrific. I couldn't have asked for more. He helped me accomplish my goal in a way that was manageable for me. Thanks Joe - by helping me run the Boston Marathon you really changed my life.” — Arden R.
“I think Joe is an excellent coach and is extremely knowledgeable. He has taught me a lot. He is also very patient when answering All of my questions! :)” — Rachel Kalinsky
“It's been great working with you the past few months. Thanks so much again for all you have taught me!” — Amy G.
“This is a heck of a product. I really enjoy working with Joe, and strongly recommend him to others. Access to Joe's expertise provides good value for the money.” — Jason S.
“The training helped me recover much better from the marathon this time around (6 days vs. 14 days). The NYC Marathon was rigorous and difficult, but I survived and managed not to hurt so much because I was better prepared physically. This is greatly due to the training.” — Ella B.
“This service has been great. Joe motivates me to keep going with this and without his help i would have a really hard time staying on track.” — S. Dass
“This program was perfect for me. The workouts and notes were always pushing me and Joe always had my best interest. The past year with my friends, family and others that would compliment me on my running and speed, I would refer to you as my phenomenal coach. Even when other trainers tried to give me tips, I would tell them I am all set, I already have a coach/trainer!” — MaryLuz M.

Personal Running Coach Services

BRC coaching services are available to runners of all levels and all backgrounds. Whether a first-time 5K runner, a repeat Boston Marathoner, or an elite competitor in National and World Track and Field Championships, your coach builds and adjusts your training around your experience, goals, progress, and weekly schedule. Choose online coaching through our Weekly Coaching program, or combine it with private, one-on-one sessions in Greater Boston.

Recent Testimonials
“Best running experience I've had yet...I can't believe how much I enjoyed personalized coaching routines. Additionally, coming off of an ankle injury, I can't believe how much having a coach to talk / e-mail with helped me. I will definitely continue w/ this service.” — Amy O.
“My coach was always available by phone or email to answer a question or patiently listen to my complaints about random soreness or anything else. With BRC's help, I was far better prepared for my last marathon and even turned in a negative split. I wouldn't consider training for a marathon without BRC's help!” — Stuart W.
“My overall experience with the Boston Running Center has been fantastic. I especially appreciate the rigorous and high quality training schedule that Joe put together for me. Despite the difference in fitness levels, Joe treats each one of his students seriously and sets challenging expectations for them. Unlike most trainers / bootcamp type programs that I've worked with in the past, there was nothing watered down about my experience at all, which is unique.” — Yvonne T.
“Once again, I can't tell you how much I appreciated all your help and intstruction. Not only am I a stronger runner, but I'm a much smarter runner for having worked with you. I'll continue to recommend you to my friends and family.” — Reuben L.
“BRC did a great job helping me to meet my running goals! I felt better racing than I ever have. My coach was also VERY quick to respond to any questions and/or concerns I had along the way. The one-on-one sessions were great and were just the right challenge! I also began to look forward to track workouts instead of loathing them as BRC's coaching inspires the confidence one needs to do these workouts!!” — Meg N.
“I would like to thank Joe for all he did in preparing me for 2 marathons. The first one I was injured before I went to see him. I believe I had about 12 weeks to get ready at that point. I had a good running base and had injured my calf. He took the time with me and went over my injury and my options. I ran Boston that year (2010) in my best time. This year he spent 20 weeks getting me prepared. What an excellent service. I would recommend it to anyone. He is always there for you. A simple email with any questions are answered promptly and professionally. I would advise anyone who is interested in achieving their goal as a runner to contact the Boston Running Center as a starting point. You won't be disappointed.” — Steven M
“My experience with Joe McConkey and the Boston Running Center was terrific. My favorite things about being coached by Joe were 1) his menacing workouts that you don't think you can do, but he knows you can do, and after you do them you feel amazing, 2) his will to tap your untapped potential to produce a PR nearly every race, and 3) his personalized training regimens that really were unique to me. I was lucky to be coached by him and my experience with the Boston Running Center was outstanding.” — Julie H
“Joe's coaching style is excellent. He pays attention to details, provides thorough analysis of problem areas and creates workouts that consistently challenge me and help me to improve!! Thanks!” — Edwina Nowicki
“I had a successful and enjoyable marathon training. I got faster, stronger and developed a much better running form. I look forward to training with the Boston Running Center again in the Spring.” — Ellen Lyons
“By working with the Boston Runnig Center, I've become a faster, stronger, smarter, and injury free runner. The workouts were customized for me and my goals and together we created a game plan which enabled me to achieve my personal best marathon, a 3:46:16. I will work with the BRC again to acheive my next goal and I would highly recommend him to other runners.” — Chris L.
“Joe was very intuitive as far as my needs as a runner and end-goal results. He diagnosed problems in my stride and form within minutes of our first meeting. In 16 weeks I went from running 2-3 miles twice a week to averaging 25-30 miles a week.” — Tim R
“I always had a great workout during the one-on-one sessions! Pushed myself harder than if I was doing it on my own. I appreciate how flexible my coach was to change workouts due to travel, sickness, etc.” — Abby M
“I just wanted to say thank you for helping improve so much on my marathon time. Just by training with you I was able to shave 17 minutes off my previous marathon PR and Qualify for Boston. Thanks again, your guidance really made the difference.” — Mike M.
“The log is simple and straight forward though very comprehensive. It is extremely user friendly and packs a lot of analysis tools. The strength training helped develop and maintain specific muscles to compliment the running. The customized workouts were specific and efficient, never felt like I was wasting my time. The comments were informative and motivating. The one-on-one training sessions were great high intensity workout. Appreciated the feedback during the sessions. During my time training with Boston Running Center I noticed a great improvement in my agility and speed. I felt well prepared for the NY 1/2 and full marathon, received not only training schedules and advice, but also courage and confidence to race well. I look forward to continuing to see improvements.” — Deborah R
“The weekly prescribed workouts I received were excellent. I have been very pleased with my experience.” — Olivia J
“Working with BRC, I've increased my speed, endurance, and refined my running form all while remaining injury free. Their personalized training schedules challenge me and have helped me achieve my initial goals of competing in a 5k and 10k and put me well on my way to achieve my ultimate goal of running a marathon.” — Alex D
“I am sure you hear this from all of your other runners, Joe, but whatever it is worth, I think that you are very talented at what you do and trust it. I am very appreciative to have the opportunity to be coached by you. Sometimes I lose perspective that I only started running one year and one month ago and realize my expectations can be very high, you do a great job at keeping thongs grounded :) EVERYONE has been commenting on what excellent training I obviously have had for this marathon. This is a testament to you. :)” — Danielle C.
“Thanks again for the training program; I cannot tell you how much I appreciate your training program and your working with me. I shaved some 7-minutes from my PR to get under 3-hours, which I never could have done without you!” — Ted O.
“Joe's coaching is terrific. I couldn't have asked for more. He helped me accomplish my goal in a way that was manageable for me. Thanks Joe - by helping me run the Boston Marathon you really changed my life.” — Arden R.
“I think Joe is an excellent coach and is extremely knowledgeable. He has taught me a lot. He is also very patient when answering All of my questions! :)” — Rachel Kalinsky
“It's been great working with you the past few months. Thanks so much again for all you have taught me!” — Amy G.
“This is a heck of a product. I really enjoy working with Joe, and strongly recommend him to others. Access to Joe's expertise provides good value for the money.” — Jason S.
“The training helped me recover much better from the marathon this time around (6 days vs. 14 days). The NYC Marathon was rigorous and difficult, but I survived and managed not to hurt so much because I was better prepared physically. This is greatly due to the training.” — Ella B.
“This service has been great. Joe motivates me to keep going with this and without his help i would have a really hard time staying on track.” — S. Dass
“This program was perfect for me. The workouts and notes were always pushing me and Joe always had my best interest. The past year with my friends, family and others that would compliment me on my running and speed, I would refer to you as my phenomenal coach. Even when other trainers tried to give me tips, I would tell them I am all set, I already have a coach/trainer!” — MaryLuz M.

Weekly Coaching

The foundation of BRC coaching is the frequent communications with your coach and the detailed weekly training plan. This is not a 12 week boiler-plate plan or monthly updates, but one week of training at a time so your coach can monitor your reactions, adjustments, strengths and weaknesses, schedule restrictions, and weather changes, in order to guide your training in the most optimal, efficient way.

  • Personalized weekly training

    Detailed running workouts, strength exercises, and injury-prevention habits clearly communicated through images, quick forms, and hundreds of instructional videos.

  • Your own BRC training log

    Share results, comments, photos and videos, or link your data from garmin, strava, apple or coros, all to help your coach fine-tune your plan.

  • Direct email support

    Unlimited email communication with your coach for questions, updates, and feedback.

  • Time to talk

    Regular phone availability with your coach to discuss your training and goals.

A look inside your training log

Explore sample pages from the online BRC member training log. Select any image to view it larger.

Training that fits your life

Our coaches understand that training has to work alongside family, work, and travel. Need to move your long run or fit a workout into a busy day? Share those details with your coach so your plan can adapt. Bring your commitment to becoming a healthier, fitter runner; we’ll provide the guidance along the way.

Boston Marathon Coaching

Training for Boston calls for more than a mileage target. Your coach can prepare you for the course’s early net descent, the Newton Hills, and Heartbreak Hill, while adjusting the plan to your fitness, goals, and available training time.

BRC member training log

Sample pages · Zoom in to explore the details.

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Private Running Coaching Sessions

One-on-one coaching sessions complement the Weekly Coaching Program by giving you individualized feedback, instruction, and accountability in person. Sessions can be scheduled weekly, monthly, seasonally, or simply when you want expert guidance for a specific goal, race, or training challenge.

Each session is shaped around the runner in front of us, whether you are building healthy habits as a beginner or sharpening performance as an experienced competitor. Common session focuses include:

Injury prevention coaching

Injury Prevention

Learn practical habits that help you stay healthy, recover well, and train with greater consistency over time.

Biomechanics coaching

Biomechanics

Improve running form and movement efficiency so each workout supports better economy, rhythm, and long-term development.

Pacing and exertion coaching

Exertion Levels and Pacing

Develop a stronger feel for effort so you can train at the right intensity, avoid common pacing mistakes, and race with confidence.

Sports psychology coaching

Sports Psychology and Goal Setting

Set meaningful goals, build confidence, and create the mindset needed to stay motivated and move forward with purpose.

Athleticism coaching

Improving Athleticism

Become a more complete runner through better coordination, range, resilience, and the ability to handle varied terrain and speeds.

Strength and mobility coaching

Flexibility, Stability, and Strength

Build the support system behind your running so your body is prepared for key workouts, racing, and the demands of higher-level training.

Flexible support, tailored to your needs

Some runners benefit from regular in-person sessions, while others prefer occasional tune-ups around a training block, upcoming race, or return from injury. We will help you determine the most useful frequency based on your goals, experience level, and schedule.

Questions about running coaching

Is personal running coaching suitable for beginners?

Yes. BRC works with runners from their first 5K through experienced and elite competition. Your coach starts with your current fitness, running background, goals, and schedule, rather than expecting you to fit a standard training plan.

Can I work with a BRC running coach entirely online?

Yes. The Weekly Coaching Program can be delivered online. You receive your training through your BRC member account, share results and feedback in your training log, and stay in contact with your coach by email and regular phone availability.

How often is my training plan updated?

Your coach prepares training one week at a time, using your workout results, feedback, upcoming goals, and scheduling restrictions to guide the next week. The program is not a fixed 12-week plan.

Where do private running coaching sessions take place?

One-on-one sessions are available at the BRC lab and studio in Charlestown and at Greater Boston locations such as local tracks and the Charles River Esplanade. Locations and availability depend on your coach and the focus of the session.

Do you offer Boston Marathon coaching?

Yes. BRC can help you prepare for Boston with an individualized weekly plan and course-specific training. Discuss your race goals, experience, and training schedule with a coach during your free initial consultation.

What happens at the free initial consultation?

The consultation is a 30–45 minute one-on-one meeting or phone call. You discuss your running history and goals, learn how coaching could fit your needs, and ask questions about the program and private sessions.

Free Initial Consultation

Whether you are new to running or an experienced competitor, a free initial consultation is a chance to discuss your running history and goals with a BRC coach. During a 30–45 minute one-on-one meeting or phone call, we will outline how your training could take shape and answer your questions about our coaching and services.

  • 30–45 minutes
  • In person or by phone
  • Runners of all levels

Schedule your free initial consultation

Tell us a little about yourself, when you are available, and what you would like to discuss.

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Days and times that generally work for you.

Coach preference
Learn about our running coaches

Share your running background, goals, or questions for your coach.

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Pricing & Signup

Choose the coaching option that fits your goals and schedule. Weekly Coaching is billed automatically each month with no minimum term, while four-month and annual memberships offer additional program options.

  • Weekly Coaching

    Ongoing coaching with monthly billing and no minimum term.

  • One-on-One Sessions

    Individual coaching sessions to complement your weekly training.

  • Four-Month Memberships

    Monthly billing with a four-month minimum commitment.

  • Annual Memberships

    Monthly billing with a 12-month minimum commitment.

Not sure which option is right for you? Discuss your goals in a free consultation or contact us.

Our Coaches

Get to know the BRC coaching team. Explore our coaches’ profiles and discuss your goals and coaching preferences during your free initial consultation.

Group Workouts

Interested in a weekly group track workout in Charlestown? BRC is gathering interest in a group open to the public. Share your preferred days and times below, and we will contact you if there is enough interest to move forward.

  • Charlestown
  • Open to the public
  • Gathering interest

Register your interest

Let us know when you would be available and share any questions or comments.

Which days and times generally work for you?