Endurance coaching

When I first began speaking with Shard about general running advice and my goal of finishing a 12km race in September I was roughly able to run about 4-5km. I was having consistent knee pain as soon as I would hit the 3km mark as well as an elevated heart rate. Shard took one look at my Strava data and instantly had an idea what was happening

Shard devised a training plan for me for 6 weeks which would see me pull right back and start from scratch.

As the weeks went on and the kilometres increased the first thing I noticed was my left knee pain had gone. With the reduced load and slower set pace my body was able to cope. I honestly believe if I had kept going down the path I had set out for myself this knee pain would have only increased and possibly led to an injury preventing me from my end goal.

My heart rate has also dropped by 20bpm in an endurance long run. Again something that without Shard’s expertise I wouldn’t have understood the importance of

Shard always remained in contact checking in on my progress and general thoughts on the plan and how I was adapting to it - especially in peak week when the kilometres had dramatically increased. Always providing words of encouragement right when I needed to hear them.

I was able to successfully complete my race.. 8 minutes quicker than what I had initially intended and at a pace that was perfectly consistent the entire duration. I was even able to actually look around smile and enjoy the experience instead of feeling so fatigued and exhausted.

I’ve never been a runner, I’ve always struggled with running but never quite knew why. All I knew is that is that it was something I wanted to be better at and achieve goals I didn’t think was possible. Now I have my sights set on a half marathon. Words a year ago I wouldn’t have even dared to dream of.

Thank you Shard 🙏🏻

When I first began speaking with Shard about general running advice and my goal of finishing a 12km race in September I was roughly able to run about 4-5km. I was having consistent knee pain as soon as I would hit the 3km mark as well as an elevated heart rate. Shard took one look at my Strava data and instantly had an idea what was happening

Shard devised a training plan for me for 6 weeks which would see me pull right back and start from scratch.

As the weeks went on and the kilometres increased the first thing I noticed was my left knee pain had gone. With the reduced load and slower set pace my body was able to cope. I honestly believe if I had kept going down the path I had set out for myself this knee pain would have only increased and possibly led to an injury preventing me from my end goal.

My heart rate has also dropped by 20bpm in an endurance long run. Again something that without Shard’s expertise I wouldn’t have understood the importance of

Shard always remained in contact checking in on my progress and general thoughts on the plan and how I was adapting to it - especially in peak week when the kilometres had dramatically increased. Always providing words of encouragement right when I needed to hear them.

I was able to successfully complete my race.. 8 minutes quicker than what I had initially intended and at a pace that was perfectly consistent the entire duration. I was even able to actually look around smile and enjoy the experience instead of feeling so fatigued and exhausted.

I’ve never been a runner, I’ve always struggled with running but never quite knew why. All I knew is that is that it was something I wanted to be better at and achieve goals I didn’t think was possible. Now I have my sights set on a half marathon. Words a year ago I wouldn’t have even dared to dream of.

Thank you Shard 🙏🏻

I recently trained for my first ultramarathon, the Sandman 50k Beach Ultra, with Shard as my Coach. From the outset, Shard provided an exceptional training experience. He meticulously programmed and customised my training plan, ensuring it was tailored to my specific needs and abilities.

Throughout my training blocks, he constantly tested and adjusted the program to optimise my performance. Shard's dedication and attention to detail were evident as he regularly checked in on my progress, providing support and making necessary adjustments when any aspect of the training proved too challenging. His expertise and encouragement were instrumental in helping me prepare effectively for the race.

If you are considering taking on your first Ultra, I highly recommend Shard. His personalised approach and commitment to his athletes make him an outstanding coach.

Michael Vukotich