WELCOME runners
Support Every Step of the Way
Helping runners of all levels train like athletes with personalized, holistic coaching—so you can reach your goals, stay motivated, and enjoy the journey.
ABOUT Sam
Personalized, science-backed coaching
I’m a dedicated running coach with a degree in Kinesiology and over seven years of experience as a personal trainer and fitness consultant. I’m passionate about helping runners of all levels and create science-backed training plans designed to build strength, endurance, and confidence. I have experience running and coaching a variety of distances on roads and trails.
People
808080
Helping clients achieve their goals
Sam has run it all
8080+
Across countless distances and terrains.
Sunny Strides Service
One-on-One Coaching
Tailored to your fitness level, schedule and aspirations.
Personalized Training Plan
Weekly programming with running, cross-training, strength, and mobility exercises as needed.
Daily Support & Adjustments
Communicate via a training log, with additional check-ins through text or email as needed.
Testimonials
Working with Sam for the first time was such a great experience. She built a smart, flexible plan that fit perfectly around my busy summer schedule and travel — all while helping me recover from running the London Marathon just a few months prior. Despite some injuries throughout the cycle, Sam was incredibly accommodating and supportive, helping me navigate the ups and downs with patience and confidence (even when my headstrong, competitive side pushed back against the pro’s suggestions!).
Her thoughtful adjustments and steady encouragement kept me moving forward. On race week, we went in with a game plan and the flexibility to adapt when my body needed it. Thanks to her coaching, I not only crossed that finish line feeling strong but also earned a 13-minute PR from my London time in April.
Even though I wasn’t at 100%, I knew I was capable because of the foundation Sam’s training built. I’m already looking forward to working together again — this time even healthier and ready to chase that next goal in Berlin.
Her thoughtful adjustments and steady encouragement kept me moving forward. On race week, we went in with a game plan and the flexibility to adapt when my body needed it. Thanks to her coaching, I not only crossed that finish line feeling strong but also earned a 13-minute PR from my London time in April.
Even though I wasn’t at 100%, I knew I was capable because of the foundation Sam’s training built. I’m already looking forward to working together again — this time even healthier and ready to chase that next goal in Berlin.
Emma McCarthy
I have never had a running coach before and I can’t imagine one better than Sam! First of all the running plan was fantastic – there was a really nice mix of work outs, long runs, and recovery runs to keep things interesting and create new challenges for my body. Her background in Kinesology really shines when you have a little bit of unusual soreness or a body issue – she is armed with stretches, exercises and tools to help you make the adjustments or take the rest you need to keep moving forward.
Also as an experienced runner, she has so much knowledge of race strategy, fueling, gear, etc that I didn’t even expect but am so glad she was able to share with me. She is incredibly positive and is everything you want in a coach – encouraging and helps you get better. My goal was to go into my race strong and be ready for some really tough hills, and we not only did that but shaved around :30 off of my casual run pace. Sam absolutely delivered on everything she promised, and then some! I will be calling her again when I am ready for my next challenge! Her thoughtful adjustments and steady encouragement kept me moving forward. On race week, we went in with a game plan and the flexibility to adapt when my body needed it. Thanks to her coaching, I not only crossed that finish line feeling strong but also earned a 13-minute PR from my London time in April.
Even though I wasn’t at 100%, I knew I was capable because of the foundation Sam’s training built. I’m already looking forward to working together again — this time even healthier and ready to chase that next goal in Berlin.
Also as an experienced runner, she has so much knowledge of race strategy, fueling, gear, etc that I didn’t even expect but am so glad she was able to share with me. She is incredibly positive and is everything you want in a coach – encouraging and helps you get better. My goal was to go into my race strong and be ready for some really tough hills, and we not only did that but shaved around :30 off of my casual run pace. Sam absolutely delivered on everything she promised, and then some! I will be calling her again when I am ready for my next challenge! Her thoughtful adjustments and steady encouragement kept me moving forward. On race week, we went in with a game plan and the flexibility to adapt when my body needed it. Thanks to her coaching, I not only crossed that finish line feeling strong but also earned a 13-minute PR from my London time in April.
Even though I wasn’t at 100%, I knew I was capable because of the foundation Sam’s training built. I’m already looking forward to working together again — this time even healthier and ready to chase that next goal in Berlin.
Nicole Hoover
Working with Sam has completely transformed my running! In just a few months, I went from casually running 3 miles a few times a week to easily tackling 7-8 miles on trails.
The combination of running and strength training has made me feel stronger than ever.
I love how Sam tailors my training to fit my schedule, adapts workouts when needed, and still challenges me to improve.
Whether adjusting for minor injuries or my weekly activities, she ensures every session is the perfect fit. Beyond the training itself, her passion for running and genuine support for my goals are truly inspiring.
The combination of running and strength training has made me feel stronger than ever.
I love how Sam tailors my training to fit my schedule, adapts workouts when needed, and still challenges me to improve.
Whether adjusting for minor injuries or my weekly activities, she ensures every session is the perfect fit. Beyond the training itself, her passion for running and genuine support for my goals are truly inspiring.
Jordan Yaw
Working with Sam has been a mega game-changer for my running. Despite juggling a wild and unpredictable schedule, she’s helped me become faster, stronger, and more confident in my abilities. Her science-backed approach to training ensures that every workout has purpose, and her deep knowledge of physiology and fueling has transformed the way I prepare, fuel and recover from effort.
What really sets her apart, though, is her positive, encouraging energy. She meets me where I’m at—whether I’m lacing up for intervals or heading out for a mountain bike ride or ski day—and supports the full spectrum of my athletic life. She understands the joy in movement, no matter the form, and keeps my training aligned with both performance and passion.
I’m beyond excited to have her in my corner as I prepare for upcoming mountain races. With her expertise and unwavering support, I truly feel like I’m chasing my full potential—and loving every step of the journey.
What really sets her apart, though, is her positive, encouraging energy. She meets me where I’m at—whether I’m lacing up for intervals or heading out for a mountain bike ride or ski day—and supports the full spectrum of my athletic life. She understands the joy in movement, no matter the form, and keeps my training aligned with both performance and passion.
I’m beyond excited to have her in my corner as I prepare for upcoming mountain races. With her expertise and unwavering support, I truly feel like I’m chasing my full potential—and loving every step of the journey.
Bailey Vanderleest
Ready to Get Started?
Let's get in touch
Email Address
sunnystridescoaching@gmail.com
Call Me
303-330-8701