Ajay Hanspal – Portland Running Coach
From: $200.00 / month and a $19.00 sign-up fee
Expert endurance coach specializing in trail, mountain, & ultra running, dedicated to peak performance, longevity & holistic approach.
Description
With a focus on energy availability, fueling, and RED-S education, Portland running coach Ajay Hanspal works with road, trail, mountain and ultramarathon runners. Whether you’re training for ultras, multi-day events, and technical or high-elevation challenges, or you’re an intermediate to advanced athlete aiming for long-term development or goals like FKTs and 100+ mile races, Ajay is your guy. Reach out below to get started!
LEVELS: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced
TYPES: Road, Trail
DISTANCES: 5k/10k/Half Marathon, Marathon, Ultra
TRAINING PLATFORM: Training Peaks Premium
TRAINING PLAN: Individual, customized training plan
COMMUNICATION: Unlimited email, unlimited text
RESPONSE TIME: Within 24 hours
LOCATION: Portland, OR
IN-PERSON SESSIONS: Yes, meet either in Forest Park, Portland, Oregon, Columbia Gorge, Oregon, or. Tillamook State Forest, Oregon. Sessions are tailored to an individual’s needs and are purchased separately from online coaching. Reach out to Ajay to find out more info!
SPECIALTIES
I specialize in coaching road, trail, mountain and ultramarathon runners – particularly those training for ultras, multi-day events, and technical or high-elevation challenges. While I enjoy working with runners of all abilities, I’m especially experienced with intermediate to advanced athletes aiming for long-term development or ambitious goals like FKTs and 100+ mile races. My approach emphasizes sustainable performance, with a strong focus on energy availability, fueling, and RED-S education. I also work with triathletes, road runners and support athletes returning from injury or navigating complex life factors, including neurodivergence and mental health challenges. Strength, mobility, and mindset work are built into my coaching to help athletes stay resilient, adaptable, and grounded in their own unique process.
PHILOSOPHY
“Great performance isn’t about grinding harder; it’s about finding the perfect balance.” – Steve Magness
Personalized Coaching for Long-Term Success
- Every athlete is unique. My coaching philosophy is built around understanding *you*—your goals, lifestyle, and challenges. I provide remote, bespoke coaching tailored to your individual needs, taking a holistic approach to your running. This isn’t just about training plans; it’s about building a relationship where we work together to help you reach your potential.
Science-Driven, Athlete-Centered Coaching
- I translate running science, research, and real-world experience into long-term, sustainable development. Your training plan will evolve based on your availability, current fitness, location, and objectives. Rather than a rigid program, we focus on adaptability—balancing structured training with the flexibility needed to fit your lifestyle.
Training is structured into progressive phases:
- Aerobic Phase – Building a strong endurance base
- VO2 Max Development – Enhancing speed and neuromuscular efficiency
- Lactate Threshold Training – Improving endurance and speed over distance
- Specific Endurance – Practicing race-specific efforts for peak performance
At every stage, we focus on running economy – helping you run faster with less effort.
Training Smarter, Not Just Harder
Success takes time and dedication – there are no shortcuts. But it’s not just about piling on miles; it’s about smart training. That means:
- Prioritizing long term consistency over intensity – training should be sustainable and enjoyable
- Listening to your body – adjusting for fatigue, niggles, and life stressors
- Honing running form to prevent injuries and improve efficiency
- Thinking holistically – nutrition, sleep, stress management, and strength work all play a role in performance
Communication & Support
Coaching is more than just workouts—it’s about support, accountability, and guidance. You’ll get:
- Daily check-ins and unlimited communication
- Ongoing adjustments based on feedback and life demands
- A focus on mental resilience and race-day mindset
- TrainingPeaks integration for structured feedback and analysis
Anyone Can Be a Runner
If you’re reading this, you’re already an athlete. Pace and distance don’t define you—commitment does. Enjoying the process is key to long-term success.
I’m here to help you train hard, recover smart, and love your running. Let’s get started.
COACHING EXPERIENCE
I’ve been coaching runners since 2020, working primarily with adult endurance athletes across a broad range of goals—from first-time ultramarathoners and mountain/trail racers to competitive multi-day, FKT focused, and PR chasing road runners. Even some triathletes! My coaching style is rooted in sustainable performance, and I’ve had the privilege of guiding individuals training for events ranging from local 10ks to 200-mile mountain ultras. Alongside individual clients, I also support athletes navigating challenges like RED-S, body image, and fueling strategies—particularly within the trail and ultra community. While I work with all types of runners, I specialize in coaching those taking on trail, mountain and ultra marathon events and those looking for long-term development and holistic support. I have a depth of experience across the ability spectrum, from smashing past cut offs to course record holders and professional athletes.
ABOUT ME
I started running during rehabilitation from a traumatic brain injury sustained while serving in the Royal Marines. Struggling with vestibular issues, my recovery began with trail walks, which gradually turned into running. Over time, running became a defining part of my life, leading me to compete in top-level ultra and trail races worldwide. I’m a UESCA Ultra Running Coach and an England Athletics Leader in Running Fitness.
With years of coaching experience, I specialize in ultra, trail, mountain, and road running, guiding athletes from beginners to experienced competitors, also including triathletes and those returning from injury. While personal experience isn’t essential for great coaching, I’ve raced everything from 5Ks to 200-mile technical ultras, holding FKTs on New Zealand’s Milford Track and the Paddy Buckley Round (Double). My achievements include course records and wins at the UK Ultra 100 Mile, Copthorne 50 Mile & 50K, and an U25 category victory at the Beachy Head Marathon. I’ve also learned valuable lessons through setbacks.
I emphasize long-term consistency, smart training, and a balanced approach to performance, nutrition, and well-being. As a founding member of The Green Runners, I advocate for sustainability, diversity, and inclusion in sport. Additionally, I support and promote well-being through sport for emergency services workers and veterans.
Happy running!
BIG INFLUENCES
I work with a support network of coaches, dietitians and personal trainers to explore solutions that are optimized for the athlete. I am a student of the sport and continually learning/seeking professional development. This includes Damian Hall and David & Megan Roche.
I am also influenced by training theory from CTS/Jason Koop, Scott Johnston and Robbie Briton.
RACING HISTORY
- Milford Track FKT
- Double Paddy Buckley Round FKT
- British Trail Running Championships 2023 – 5th
- UK Ultra 100 mile 2022 – 1st
- UK Ultra 50k 2022 – 3rd
- UK Ultra 20 mile 2023 – 1st
- YHA National Trail race – 1st
- Copthorne Races 50 mile – 1st
- Beachy Head Marathon – 1st U25
- Eastbourne Half Marathon 5th
- Backcountry Rise 50k – 2nd
- Coyote Wall 25k – 3rd
- Gorge Waterfalls 30k – 6th
CERTIFICATIONS
- UESCA Ultra Running Coach
- England Athletics LIRF
PRs
- Running ability is not a reliable indicter of coaching ability. But if you’re interested, feel free to see my training on Strava for an insight into my running. However, this should be about YOU. Not me.
AWARDS & ACCOLADES
- Nominated for Fell Runner of the Year 2024
CONTACT AJAY
Finding a coach who is a great fit for you is really important. We encourage you to email your coach prior to signing up so you can connect, communicate, and ensure a good athlete/coach fit.
PUBLICATIONS
SOCIAL
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