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Courtney Gras

Crooked River Coaching

Akron, 
Ohio

About Me

I’m passionate about helping those new(er) to trails find joy in this sport and train safely. Trail running transformed my life in the best way and I just love helping others!

I started running recreationally when I was 14, but it wasn’t until 2020 when I hit the trails. Following a concussion that same year, I suffered from post-concussion symptoms and balance issues: the only place I could run symptom-free was on the peaceful trails of the Cuyahoga Valley in Ohio. I fell in love with the trails and have since completed five 50ks and one 50M, with plans for more in the future. I have successfully rehabbed injuries, including achilles tendinitis/tendinosis, and strongly believe in the importance of modifying plans as needed for injury-prevention. I believe in a wholistic approach to trails – working alongside qualified doctors and physiotherapists to ensure you’re running pain-free! :)

I’ve always been interested in the ‘why’ behind this new sport. I quickly found that trail running is a very different sport from road-running, and training plans and techniques can be worlds apart. My training approach has always included a healthy degree of weight-training and cross-training and using speed work strategically as demonstrated by industry-leading coaches like Jason Koop. I obtained my UESCA Ultrarunning Coach Certification in 2023 and have been working with clients and friends since, helping them design training plans to meet the unique needs of their races and adapting plans to physical and time-limitations.

If you have some background in running and are looking to get into trail running for the first time, train for your first ultra, or perhaps learn new training strategies for your next race, I’d love to chat!

"Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn't do than by the ones you did. So throw off the bowlines, sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails."

My Coaching Style / Methodology

I work with runners that are new to trails, or looking to train for their first ultra. I specialize in distances up to 100k. My coaching style is very personal and considerate of an individuals unique circumstances. I have personal experience modifying training plans for injury rehab, time limitations, etc, and bring a creative approach to trail coaching (you can *and should* do more than just run to benefit your running!). I love working alongside or in partnership with physiotherapists, doctors, and massage therapists to ensure your training plan is designed safely.

You can expect an initial consultation with me (either virtual or in-person), training plan design, training plan adaptation (life happens!), suggestions for nutrition and gear, race recommendations, race-day prep advice, and continuous access to me via text or email – any time you need it! I love data and information on how your training is going, so the more we communicate, the better!

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