Rhys Desmond
Training Theory & Coaching
Rhys Desmond
WORK WITH COACH RHYS
My elite athletes like Rachel and Laurence podium some of the top races in North America!
My coaching includes an adaptable training plan with daily communication and costs just $95 CAD per month. To learn more or reach out, visit Coaching with Rhys Desmond.
KEY TOPICS
Coaching Newsletter Confidence Fuelling Fun Health Hidden Gem Injuries Injury Prevention Injury Recovery My Journey Newsletter Nutrition Personal Development Positive Mindset Positivity Race Recaps Races Racing Theories Recovery Running Self Development Trail Running Training Theory Ultra Running
Newsletter
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My newsletter features expert insights based on my experiences as an elite athlete & coach, conversations about trail running culture more broadly, and how to optimize your training and performance toward your next race. Sign up for free to get all articles directly to your inbox!
Newsletter – Three things I do before and AFTER every run
The hallmark of a good runner lies within the ability to not only have good routines around the run itself, but within everything that surrounds it. Growing as an endurance athlete does not only happen within the repeated movement patterns of the activity itself, but within the adaptations that happen when the body stops moving.…
Whistler Half Marathon – Race Recap
The Whistler Half Marathon had the makings of something special. I’d been on course enough in the month leading into the race, and had the experience of running fast along several key sections. But I just couldn’t execute on race day. In the end it was back in my usual spot, with another fourth place…
The training behind Laurence Laplante’s 3-hour marathon
Laurence’s consistency in training has been down to her own dedication to recovery and looking after herself; and three training tweaks within the last year. Here are the training approaches that helped Laurence to execute a 2:58 marathon PB, and a 3:02 day in Ottawa.
Inside Rachel Bolognone’s silver medal at Sulphur Springs 50K 🥈
Rachel just ran 4:58 for the Sulphur Springs 50K, landing on the podium! Here are the training approaches and self-belief strategies we adopted close to race day; and the lessons other runners can take away!
Trail des Collines 16K Recap
Normally when I finish a race, I’m jumping for joy (or limping through the airport with joy), excited to write a post-race recap of my experience. But truth be told, I’ve never wanted to pretend a race didn’t exist more.
Vancouver Sun Run 10K – Race Recap – Mario Kart Vancouver
Around 8K, I told myself “this is the moment to get that 10K best. It’s now or never.” I got a little more mushroom power-up in my legs but unfortunately no coins or star power. This managed to bridge the gap between the other dudes fighting in that Yellow bib wave as we continued to…
Trail Running & Marathon Coaching
I work with runners of all abilities, helping you take your potential to the next level, while enjoying your time on the trails (or roads!) in the process.
I work with athletes who podium the biggest races in Canada, to athletes finishing among the best in their age group, to athletes looking to complete their first 50K, marathon or trail race.
Meanwhile, I’m a top 1% worldwide athlete in the sport myself, working toward my own high-performance goals.
I want to help you to reach your goals, for an affordable price.
This includes…
✅ An adaptive training plan based on the realities of your life and your specific needs.
✅ Feedback and open dialogue on every single training run and race. Responsive communication via text or email whenever you need.
✅ North American specific knowledge ~ Helping you prepare for races across Canada and the United States.
✅ Proven success as an athlete & coach, providing expert insights into mentality, nutrition, recovery, and racing.
Why Rhys?
I come from a decade of coaching experience, and two decades of running experience at the high-end of the sport.
MENTAL SKILLS
Specializing in…
-> Positive psychology
-> Perfectionism
-> Confidence
-> Life outside of running
SPORTS PERFORMANCE
-> Speed development
-> Trail-specific development
-> Optimal training and optimal recovery strategies for your circumstances in life
Testimonials
Rhys has been such an awesome coach to work with! He’s super flexible and always quick to respond whenever I have questions or need to make changes. You can tell he genuinely cares about helping you succeed. I’m really grateful for all his help in reaching my goals for this season!
— Laurence L.
I am 56 years old, living in very flat Ontario. I only started running regularly in the summer of 2025. Prior to working with Rhys I had competed in just two 5K races. After 16 weeks of training, I ran the Mourne Skytrail and came third in my age group, beating my original goal by a full hour. Through a constant feedback loop in which I was able to give nuanced and accurate assessments of my running, Rhys was able to build an evolving plan that targeted my specific needs.
— Ivan L.
WEEKLY TRAINING PLAN, DAILY FEEDBACK
Not just a training plan, but one that adapts to your schedule, with daily feedback and communication. My aim is to help you grow closer to your true potential as a runner, while enjoying the process along the way, and connecting you with all the resources you need to succeed.
I WORK WITH…
✅ Professional and elite trail runners competing for podium finishes and national team places.
✅ Busy working professionals + parents with demanding schedules that still want to show up strong and reinforce their love of running.
✅ Post-collegiate athletes making the transition into road running or trail running.
✅ Athletes working toward their first 50K, marathon, or trail race.
Reach out to Rhys!
Think I can help? Reach out for a free ‘get started’ call.
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