Chris Poole – Portland Running Coach
Run smarter, laugh harder, smash PR’s. From first timers to OTQ hopefuls, I will get you ready to toe that next start line. Let’s talk!
$125.00 / month and a $19.00 sign-up fee
Running Coach Description
Still Can’t figure out why you aren’t PR’ing? Chris has the experience, background, and proven results to bring you to new heights in your running journey!
He balances your personal life, work commitments, and any curveballs life throws at you with a training and strength plan that will set you up to hit your goals while steadily progressing and challenging you along the way. From first time runners to elite level athletes , he has experience with all abilities. Whether it’s a new PR, marathon qualifying time , or a standard for a national championship, Chris has the knowledge and expertise to guide you to your goals.
Specialties
I pride myself in being able to specialize working with all types of runners! From beginners looking to incorporate running into their lives, to those taking running back up after a long hiatus, and even those who are looking to compete competitively at the local, regional, or national level.
My approach is to challenge, inspire, and motivate each athlete I work with, helping them think about running in different ways, allowing you to reach the goals that hold the most importance in their lives. Whether it is running your first 5K, marathon, or achieving Boston qualifying times or even Wanda World Age Championship marks, I truly get my joy in being that support person in helping you achieve your goals!
My expertise lies on the roads, having coached many athletes to successful PR’s from the 5K to the marathon. I have helped those newer to running begin their journey to running their first races.
I also have expertise in track and cross-country racing, having competed scholastically and continuing to coach at the high school level. I believe that a happy, healthy, sound runner is a fast runner. As your coach, I’m committed to guiding you from where you are today to the goals you want to achieve tomorrow!
Athletes typically come to me for several reasons:
- If plans you have found on the internet haven’t worked for you, and are needing a more personalized, 1:1 approach.
- If you’ve hit a plateau in your race times and are looking for something new to help break through the plateau
- If you’re struggling with injuries and need guidance to break free from this cycle.
- If you are seeking a more system-based program and don’t have immediate access.
When you are coached by me you can expect:
- Personalized training plans specific to your running/racing goals, accessible anywhere in the world!
- Expert advice for runners aiming to step up in racing distances, or try something new!
- Development of a more focused and holistic approach to your running training. To be the best version of yourself, I believe that you should train all aspects of your running toolbelt.
- Expert race nutrition and mental performance tips to help you excel on race day
I pride myself on offering individualized coaching tailored to each person’s life. My approach differs greatly from the cookie cutter, mass-produced training plans; I will always provide a individualized coaching experience that’s as unique as each athlete I work with. Running and training should be fun and something you look forward to! I take the guesswork out of the plan, and make sure that it fits around what is important to you in life.
I will always provide your weekly plan 1 week in advance to make sure that we are progressing at the rate you are, and accounting for anything that life may throw at you. Coaching to me is more than spreadsheets and splits, it is also a partnership to get to know you as a person and to be your biggest supporter and advocate! Please see my reviews to hear athlete experiences from those who work with me, and reach out with any questions or to learn more!
Philosophy
I believe that running is for everyone ! It doesn’t matter how “Fast” or “Slow” you are. If you have a body, you are an athlete.
There are 4 values that are a part of my relationship with each of my athletes:
- Communication (I commit to being very communicative and responsive! Coaching is a big financial investment, and you deserve to have a coach that will respond to you in a timely manner. Likewise, there is never such thing as oversharing with me. More information I have, the better it is for our relationship and how I cater your specific training to you)
- Compassion (Things in life happen that we can’t control! The one thing you will never get from me is a lack of sympathy and empathy. I will always work with you on whatever comes up and figuring out the best course of action, even if it means pausing coaching)
- Flexibility (As much as I’m sure a lot of us would love to run full time, the reality is we have to have full time jobs and family commitments we need to balance with our athletics! Let me take the guess work out of trying to fit things around your schedule. Last minute thing comes up? No problem, we will work together to gameplan a plan B, or even Plan C)
- Never be afraid to fail (I don’t think many people realize they are much more capable than they realize. I may scare you with some of the things I bring up that I think you might be able to do! I promise you, I will never suggest a pace/time/workout to you that I don’t firmly believe you can’t complete)
Coaching Experience
I have been a coach for over 5 years. I have a very strong understanding of the communication and individualization necessary to guide, motivate, and prepare an athlete for races and the overall running journey. I coach athletes of all abilities! In the past 3 years, I have coached athletes who wanted to have guidance in preparing for their first half marathon, to those training to compete in the Abbot World Marathon Age Group Championships, to those looking to break through their old PR’s!
I am experienced not only in developing training plans and tailoring workouts to individual athletes, but also in race strategy, pace targets, and overall nutrition preparation. I consider myself a lifelong student of the sport, and continue to educate myself through personal experiences in both race experiences and staying up to date in studies related to the science of running, biomechanics, and nutrition.
Athlete’s I’ve coached have hit these PR’s:
- 1500: 3:51-5:35
- 3K: 8:13-15:30
- 5K: 14:41-33:45
- 10K: 34:46-1:35
- Half: 1:10-3:24
- Marathon: 2:40-4:47
Additional highlights:
- Male Athlete who achieved a 2:40 marathon in their first marathon at Age 40
- Female athletes PR’ing from 4:04 to 3:20, and 5:47 to 4:47 in Half Marathon
- 26th Place Hood to Coast team with athletes/Coach sponsorship in 2024
- Multiple athletes at the High School Level that have gone on to compete at the NCAA D1, D2, D3 and NAIA levels
About Me
I love working with all different types of athletes! I will never limit myself to working with a specific group of athletes, as each person is on a journey unique to them, whether they are taking running up for the first time, are looking for that next break through in breaking an old PR, or looking to continue competing at an elite level. Every athlete I have the privilege to coach and work with only helps myself grow as a coach.
I developed a love for running when I ran cross country for the first time as a high school freshman to get in shape for basketball. Not going to lie, I didn’t like running when I first started! However, I had the right coach and support system that showed me how fun the sport is, and quickly got addicted to the thrill of trying to PR every single race. I eventually quit basketball and focused on my running as I fell deeply in love with the sport. I have over 16 years of running experience, along with 4 years as a Cross Country and Track Coach at Sherwood High School in Sherwood, OR. I competed collegiately at Linfield University in McMinnville, OR (NCAA D3). I am also still competing today in Road, Cross Country, and Track meets!
Running has benefitted me both physically and mentally in ways I did not even realize was possible. I am a life long runner now, and a lot of this was initiated by the great coaches I have had in High School and College. I want to provide the same for you. This is why I wanted to started Poole Running Lab and become a Run Coach.
Big Influences
My coaches in High School, College, and Post Collegiately have really influenced how I coach with each one of my athletes.
My high school coach, Danielle Wise, helped get me introduced to running and made it fun, while helping me achieve high goals I had set for myself.
My college coach, Greg Mitchell, helped me realize that with the right system, I was able to run times that my high school self could have never thought I could achieve.
My post collegiate coaches and acquaintances helped me ultimately put running into perspective, and help me re discover how to enjoy the process of training, running, and not to try to compare myself constantly to others. Running is such a personal journey, and it takes the right support group to help you realize and achieve what you want!
Race History
I have been racing competitively for over 15 years. I competed in track and cross country in High School, where I was an All-State Performer at the 3A level in Oregon. I then competed at Linfield University in McMinnville for 3 years, focusing primarily on the 5K and 10K on the track as well as Cross Country in the fall. I am still competing in Track and Cross Country meets today, while focusing my effort more to the roads and the Half and Marathon distance.
Certifications
- UESCA Certified Running Coach
Personal Records
- 800: 2:04 (Stayton, OR 2013)
- 1500: 4:07 (McMinnville, OR 2016)
- 3K: 9:22 (McMinnville, OR 2016)
- 3200: 9:55 (McMinnville, OR 2016)
- 5K: 15:54 (Portland, OR 2016)
- 10K: 33:41 (McMinnville, OR 2015)
- 15K: 55:36 (Salem, OR 2021)
- Half Marathon: 1:18:58 (1/19/2025) Cascade Half Marathon (Turner, OR)
- Marathon: 2:57:58 (Pacific Northwest Marathon, 2025)
Publications
Contact Christopher
13 reviews for Chris Poole – Portland Running Coach
Ashley Siebers –
We are very grateful for Coach Poole! He has helped my 14 year old son immensely during the time in between XC ending and Track beginning. He got to know my son’s specific goals and then customizes weekly work outs specifically to help him progress. Very, very happy and highly recommend Chris Poole/Poole Running Lab.
Daniel Sims –
After not running for years Coach Chris and I started working together only a few months ago and through his guidance, communication and energy he has helped me not only reach my first running goal, passing the Army AFT, but also to develop my relationship with running and belief in my abilities. He has helped me form a structure in my training schedule, set challenging yet attainable training sessions, and been supportive the entire time. I feel comfortable in continuing my future running journey with Coach Chris as I set my sights on a few more challenging goals. I highly recommend working with him!
Mirai Oglesbee –
Coach Poole has helped me significantly with upping my mileage, velocity, endurance, and doing a variety of different workouts along my winter pre-season for track. I contacted Coach Poole after my Cross Country season ended looking for more of a challenge and to help prepare more for track and honing in on my 3k time. He has helped me along this path and gives a lot of good feedback. He always breaks down what to work on and reflect on any races. Thanks to his coaching I’m super pumped for my Junior year of track season!
Devin White –
Chris Poole is far more than a running coach he’s a mentor, motivator, and an incredible human being. The amount of time, care, and intention he pours into both my son and me is something I don’t take lightly.
Chris has an exceptional ability to meet people exactly where they are. For my son, he’s been a steady source of encouragement, confidence, and discipline, helping him grow not just as a runner, but as a young person. Watching my son develop grit, self-belief, and joy through running has been one of the most rewarding experiences as a parent, and Chris is a huge reason why.
For me, Chris brings the perfect balance of expertise and empathy. His knowledge is deep, his coaching is thoughtful, and his belief in his athletes is unwavering. He pushes when needed, supports when it matters most, and always makes you feel seen and capable of more than you thought possible.
What truly sets Chris apart is how much he genuinely cares. This isn’t just about training plans or race times it’s about building people up, creating trust, and showing up consistently. Our lives are better because of his guidance, and we’re incredibly grateful to have him in our corner.
If you’re looking for a coach who invests in you as a whole person, Chris Poole is simply unmatched.
Scott –
After a five-year break from racing, Coach Poole helped me return stronger than ever. His deep knowledge of running and training plan design is exceptional. Chris is always positive, optimistic, and incredibly flexible—adjusting workouts when life throws curveballs like schedule conflicts, illness, or minor injuries. He guided me in setting challenging yet attainable goals and built a plan that delivered results. My main goal was to run a half marathon this past Fall, and not only did I achieve it, I ran faster than my last half five years ago! If you’re looking for a coach who combines expertise, adaptability, and motivation, I highly recommend Chris Poole.
Guy Barkan –
Absolutely amazing coach that will push you to do your best and cares for your success. Coach Chris Poole has helped me with my running journey in ways I didn’t think was possible and truly aided to my running successes. Great personality and will work with you to make sure your goals are met and only wants to see you thrive and be at the best of your ability while also having fun and making sure you never loose the love for running! I have only great things to say about Coach Poole and he really helped me with amazing PR’s this year and couldn’t have done it without his help and he also really helped me get noticed by a few collegiate teams. 10/10 recommend Coach Poole if you want top notch coaching.
Steven Boyton –
I cannot tell you how fantastic and influential coach Poole has been for me! I was a high-level distance runner in high school, early college and collaborated with many good coaches over the years. I had not run competitively for the best part of 10 years. I started to compete again in local races with no assistance/guidance a few years ago and always found that I would overload myself and pick up injuries, especially when trying to train for a marathon. It has always been my goal to run a marathon to the absolute best of my ability. I picked up a stress fracture in the taper for a marathon I was trying to race a couple of years ago and utterly lost all confidence I had to go through this process of failure all over again.
I lost both my dog and grandmother in the same week earlier this year and it took its toll on me tremendously. Running has always been therapy for me, a way for me like many others, to deal with the emotional turmoil of losing your loved ones. As much as I wanted to rely on running, I felt like I would not be able to due to my significant history of injuries. I was simply broken and just emotionally drained from not being able to run and compete to the best of my ability.
My wife suggested I seek out professional help from a running coach to see if they could help me, and as much as I hate to admit it, she was absolutely correct. The moment I spoke to coach Poole, I knew his background, enthusiasm and exceptional professionalism could be the thing I needed. We set initial goals and expectations, and the rest is, as they say, history. He constantly communicates and makes changes as needed to your own personal training plan. I am now just 4 weeks out from finally being able to run my first ever competitive marathon and feel so confident and ready. The results have been astonishing. He has pushed me constantly throughout this process. He always makes himself available for check-ins and discusses ongoing training plans via phone or email. He has helped me manage minor injuries, made amazing shoe recommendations and his training plans are so detailed and specific to my goals.
I truly am shocked that he is not coaching Collegiate or Olympic level athletes. To say Coach Poole has changed my life, would be an understatement. If you do not seek the help of Coach Poole for your running goals, no matter the level, you are missing out working with one of the absolute best coaches in the business. I cannot recommend him enough!
Leonel Jines –
I saw results!
With a structured running routine provided by coach Poole I was able to build up mileage gradually and have a successful race!
Coach keeps good communication about workouts and checks up on how I’m feeling. Very flexible to changing up workouts or changing runs. Provides good tips on recovery and race plans as well.
I have some big goals and I realized they are more achievable with a good coach!
Coach Poole and I actually competed against each other in high school so being familiar with him gave me the confidence to contact him and hire him as my coach to achieve those goals!
If you’re trying to take your running to the next level or just need some guidance, he is your guy!
Angel Cardenas –
I have been working with Coach Poole for a few months now and the only thing I regret is not reaching out sooner! Coach Poole helped create a plan that was specific to me and provided detailed notes behind every workout. Any questions has always been answered promptly and with a great attitude. Coach Poole has also been so flexible and understanding of my work/life schedule. Coach Poole has made running enjoyable to me again and I am excited to continue to work together for a long time!
Lara –
I have loved working with Chris and have noticed an improvement in my running both in consistency and my ability to get after harder efforts.
The plans he builds are well thought out and tailored to my individual goals and he is readily available for questions and feedback. Signing up for my first half marathon I was looking for support as I had limited knowledge of the sport being someone who picked up running in my late twenties.
Chris’ passion for the sport and for coaching really comes through in everything that he does and I would recommend him to anyone looking for coaching at any level!!
Morgan –
Coach Poole is great coach that I would recommend to anyone looking for hands-on coaching whether it be to set a new PR or build the foundations of a healthy running regimen. Coach Poole is knowledgeable about running foundations, building speed and endurance, while working with specific needs and goals for his athletes
Workouts were always timely, instructions were always clear, and we went through a wide variety workouts while I trained for a fall marathon. He helped me plan around travel and vacations to make the most of what resources were available. He was also supportive and encouraging when workouts didn’t go as planned and when training was difficult.
If you’re looking for a knowledgeable coach who’ll be behind you every step of the way, I recommend Coach Poole!
Maria –
I’ve been working with Chris the last couple months as I start a marathon build and have noticed a big difference in training (vs. following a generic training plan). The feedback I receive each session / week has been super helpful and makes me feel confident as I approach a new week of training and keep building into more mileage. Thanks Chris!
Becca Christiani –
I have been working with Coach Chris Poole for a few months now and he has brought so much structure to my running! He works around my schedule where needed and understands the tradeoffs between running and general life stuff. He has pushed me further and faster than I would by myself and I know I’m going to be able to hit big goals with him as my coach!! I love that he has experience working with ALL levels of runners from elites to beginners as well as coaching for all sort of distances. Highly recommend!!