Jonathan Gooch – Philadelphia Running Coach

Description

Philadelphia running coach Jonathan Gooch coaches runners just starting out and those looking to improve their times or nab that elusive BQ. He helps parents get the most out of their training while also focusing on recovery for long-term consistency, also incorporating strength training in order to improve performance and prevent injury. Reach out to Jonathan below to get started!

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LEVELS: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced
TYPES: Road, Track
DISTANCES: 5k/10k/Half Marathon, Marathon
TRAINING PLATFORM: Steady State
TRAINING PLAN: Individual, customized training plan
COMMUNICATION: Unlimited email, unlimited phone, unlimited text
RESPONSE TIME: Within 24 hours
LOCATION: Hatfield, PA
IN-PERSON SESSIONS: No, online coaching only

SPECIALTIES

Race Distances:

• 5K, 10K, Half Marathon, Full Marathon
• Road racing focus with performance and first-time finisher options

Training Levels:

• Beginners taking their first steps
• Experienced runners chasing PRs or BQ goals

Training Styles:

• Time-efficient plans for busy professionals and parents
• Adaptable programming for runners balancing full-time jobs and family life
• Strength training integration to improve performance and prevent injury
• Recovery-focused approaches for long-term consistency

Special Focus Areas:

• Post-injury return-to-running plans
• Mental strategies for racing and training plateaus
• Sustainable progress without burnout

PHILOSOPHY

This journey is about you, the athlete. I’m here to guide, support, and educate, but you’re always in control. My coaching philosophy centers on trust, communication, and empowerment. I believe the best results come when athletes understand the why behind their training. Every workout has a purpose, and I’ll help you see how it fits into your larger goals. My approach is grounded in science, not trends, and I evaluate new methods carefully before using them. I also value the mental side of running by building resilience, confidence, and focus is just as important as physical fitness. Together, we’ll train the body and mind for long-term success.

COACHING EXPERIENCE

For years, I’ve been the go-to resource for training and racing advice among family and friends. While I began informally, I’ve gained extensive hands-on experience coaching runners of all levels.

One of my proudest examples is my wife, who started as a non-runner. I guided her through customized training plans—from her first 5K all the way to completing a full marathon in 4:56, where she impressively ran her fastest mile at mile 24. Together, we’ve improved her 10-mile time from 1:41 to 1:31, and we’re currently targeting a sub-2-hour half marathon.

I coach with intention, tailoring plans to each runner’s life, goals, and potential. My passion is helping others not just cross the finish line, but discover what they’re truly capable of.

I want to share what I’ve learned, support your journey, and help you achieve breakthroughs you never thought possible.

ABOUT ME

I’ve been running for over 12 years. I turned to it during a battle with depression, and found peace in quiet miles—like a peaceful evening run as the snow falls or listening to birds chirp as the sun rises. Running became my therapy and passion. Outside of my own running and coaching, I was a college professor of Chemistry for 10 years. I enjoy mentoring and teaching others whether it be in the classroom or on the pavement. I am also a father of two kids who keep me busy, so I understand the challenges of training around hectic schedules.

BIG INFLUENCES

Diana Nyad showed me that limits like age, genetics, or setbacks don’t define what’s possible. Her record-breaking swim from Cuba to Florida in her sixties proved that determination, resilience, and belief in your purpose are stronger than any barrier.

Sage Canaday shaped how I approach training. His focus on consistency, long-term development, and blending endurance with strength and speed helped me see that smart training, not shortcuts, leads to lasting breakthroughs. His transparency about the highs and lows of racing helped normalize the grind and the setbacks, both of which are part of the process.

Their examples continue to inspire the way I train, race, and coach. No matter your background, age, or current pace, you have untapped potential. My mission is to help you uncover it.

RACING HISTORY

I began my running journey in 2013, focusing on the half marathon. My first race was a 1:45, followed by a 1:37. I believed sub-1:30 was just around the corner. I was wrong. It took four years and seven attempts, repeatedly finishing in 1:31, 1:32, and 1:33. Each near miss was frustrating, but each one taught me something about training, racing, and resilience.

After five years of chasing short-term goals, I committed to consistent, year-round training and turned my focus to the marathon. I ran a 3:35 in 2016, and by 2019, had improved to 3:11. Still, sub-3 remained out of reach. In 2021, I ran 3:00:30 at the Philadelphia Marathon. Missing my goal by just 30 seconds was heartbreaking after months of hard work. Then came a hamstring and nerve injury that affected my 2022 season.

Still, Philly had qualified me for Boston, and I wasn’t done yet. I reevaluated everything from my mileage, recovery, nutrition, and most importantly, I added consistent strength training. It was a game changer. I became more durable, powerful, and confident. In April 2023, I ran 2:57 at the Boston Marathon, feeling strong from start to finish. Even Heartbreak Hill didn’t intimidate me. The result showed me what is possible when everything comes together.

Since then, I’ve trained to become a complete runner by combining marathon endurance with 5K and 10K speed, all supported by regular strength work. I had taken four months in early 2024 to focus on my family as we introduced our 2nd child to the world. I got back into running with a rejuvenated energy and was fortunate to participate in the 2024 Olympic Marathon (amateur division) in Paris and feel since my time off have been running my best yet! To showcase my belief, I ran a 2:49 at the Vermont City Marathon in May 2025.

I’ve been through the grind, setbacks, injury, and heartbreak. But I’ve also seen what’s possible when the right training comes together. My mission is to help you unlock that same potential, so you can chase your goals with confidence and strength.

CERTIFICATIONS

• UESCA Running Coach Certification
• Ph.D. in Chemistry

PRs

• Mile, 5:16 (May 2017, Non-race time trial)
• 5K, 17:36 (Oct 2024, ParkRun)
• 10K, 37:52 (Oct 2022, Jack-O-Lantern 5K/10K)
• 10 Miler, 1:00:46 (May 2025, Broad Street Run)
• Half Marathon, 1:23:55 (May 2025, 2nd Half of Vermont City Marathon)
• Marathon, 2:49:02 (May 2025, Vermont City Marathon)

AWARDS & ACCOLADES

• Boston Marathon Finisher
• Chicago Marathon Finisher
• Paris Olympic Marathon Finisher (Amateur Division)

CONTACT JONATHAN

Finding a coach who is a great fit for you is really important. We encourage you to email your coach prior to signing up so you can connect, communicate, and ensure a good athlete/coach fit.

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PUBLICATIONS

• Broad Street Run Race Report

SOCIAL