Coach Laura began running as an adult in 2014 and quickly became frustrated by the lack of truly beginner-friendly offerings. So she created her own. In 2021, she became a UESCA-certified running coach specializing in beginner runners.
“It’s refreshing to have running shared in a body-positive, inclusive environment. We need more of this!”
Erica D., running 101 participant
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Running Coach Philosophy
Laura strongly believes running is for everyone and there is no one way to “look like” a runner. Any runner, of any ability, pace, size, ethnicity, gender, or other identity is welcome.
Outdoor Beginner running programs use effort-based training, which uses a Rate of Perceived Exertion (RPE) scale to help you learn how to appropriately pace yourself. This approach emphasizes listening to your body’s cues over adhering to certain paces or speeds. Beginner clinics and training plans use walk-run intervals to help beginner runners get started safely and gently.
Running Program Philosophy
Outdoor Beginner programs are not dieting or weight-loss focused. Laura will always support your goals, but there is no pressure to progress to longer distances or different speeds if you don’t want to. As one of Laura’s friends best described it, “we run for the vibes!”
All programs have no-questions-asked financial assistance available. Please contact Laura directly at outdoorbeginner@gmail.com.
In-Person Group Coaching
There are currently no 2025 group coaching options planned. Sign up for email updates below to be the first to find out about new options!
5k Your Way at Runners Roost Golden
- 6-week course to prepare for your first 5k
- Held outdoors at Runners Roost in Golden
- Free thanks to the support of brands like Topo Athletic and New Balance.
- To be the first to find out about the next session, sign up below!
Private Training Programs
If you have big goals, consider working with a running coach one-on-one! Coach Laura can help you create a training plan that works for your lifestyle, problem-solve along the way, and reach your big running goals!
Contact Coach Laura at outdoorbeginner@gmail.com for more information and to sign up!
A La Carte Options
Call a Running Coach – $25 per 30 minutes
Book a 30-minute phone or video call with Laura to ask all of your running questions. Don’t sort through those confusing Google results on your own!
Personalized Half Marathon or Marathon Plan – $50-75 one time
Train for a specific race with initial help from Coach Laura. This option is best for runners who want a more personalized plan but don’t want further guidance or accountability from a coach.
Includes:
- 30-minute call to discuss your goals and current training to help Laura build a personalized training plan.
- 14-20 week training plan for a half or full marathon with no further personalization or adaptation to your training. If you want a more custom plan, consider monthly options in the next section.
Looking for 5k or 10k training plans? Check out the online store!
Monthly Private Program Options
All private program options require a two-month minimum commitment.
Maintenance Mode – $50 per month
Best for runners who want help planning and progressing their running, with or without a race goal. Or, anyone who wants ongoing support and personalization, but doesn’t need weekly engagement with a coach.
If you’re coming back from an injury or starting for the first time, this is a great option!
- Custom monthly plan for your specific race, adapted to how your training is going
- Permanent access to Outdoor Beginner resource library
- Eligible for in-person, private coached runs
- Unlimited email communication
Training Level 1 -$120 per month
Best for runners who are training for a specific race and want weekly support, accountability, and engagement with a coach.
Maintenance Mode plan plus:
- Custom monthly plan for your specific race, adapted to how your training is going
- Race-specific workouts, nutrition strategy, and race day planning (including pacing)
- Weekly email about each week’s focus and goals
- Post-race reflection and goal-setting exercise
- Unlimited email and text communication
Laura is knowledgeable, responsive, understanding, reliable, and passionate. Most importantly, though, is that she cares. She cares about your training, she cares about your goals and ambitions, and she cares about you as a person.
ian r., private coaching client
Training Level 2 – $150 per month
Training Level 1 plus:
- 50% discount for in-person coached runs (Golden/Lakewood, Colorado area only)
- Monthly Zoom call with Coach Laura for Q+A (30% savings)
Outdoor Beginner 