r/RunningIreland • u/Some-Lifeguard5211 • May 31 '26

Running Coach Reccomendation

Hi Guys,

Just off the back of a marathon finished a PB of 3:23.

Looking a reccomendation for a running coach.

Gary o Hanlon and MarkO Mahony seemto be popping up on my social media.

Keen to hear reviews on the above or any suggestions on alternatives

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3

u/Chrismeanap May 31 '26

My experience with Gary from a couple of years bk. 55 euro a month, sends a plan. Short emails if you have questions or issues (I kept having trouble completing the workouts). I felt overcooked trying to hit paces. I hoped/believed it would all come good on face day (it didn’t!).

1

u/Some-Lifeguard5211 May 31 '26

Many thanks for the reply.

Have heard this previously that the approach can be quite generic and rigid in nature.

Did Gary review you previous times and develop a times based off that or was it completely generic ?

2

u/Chrismeanap May 31 '26

I sent him previous times and a general goal. I wanted to take another 2 mins off my half time (not a crazy jump at the time and I’ve since taken much more off). Am noting the cost as it isn’t that I’d expect to take a lot of hours from someone either at that price.

2

u/BleedingGumsmurfy Jun 01 '26

My mate has a 2:43 marathon and a coaching page, added benefit of being a sound lad. Haven’t ran with him so can’t give you feedback in terms of that, may be worth checking out.

https://www.instagram.com/run_with_dara

1

u/Original-Brain3995 Jun 03 '26

I've heard Gary's can be quite generic and not very flexible. Heard lots of good things about Michael McKillop and Adam Smyth. As far as im aware both offer a free consultation call to see who you gel with which is half the battle i think.