Jason Pohl – Berkeley Running Coach
From: $129.00 / month and a $19.00 sign-up fee
Experienced runner. Certified ultrarunning and endurance sport nutrition coach. Personalized plans and support so all athletes can do hard things and enjoy the process.
Description
Berkeley running coach Jason Pohl has raced both road marathons and trail ultramarathons. With a science-based approach to training and nutrition, and an understanding that life gets busy, he’s here to help you tackle your next big endurance goal — whether it’s a road race, a mountain ultra or a multi-day self-supported adventure. Reach out to Jason today!
LEVELS: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced
TYPES: Road, Trail
DISTANCES: Marathon, Ultra
TRAINING PLATFORM: Final Surge
TRAINING PLAN: Individual, customized training plan
COMMUNICATION: Unlimited email, unlimited phone, unlimited text
RESPONSE TIME: Within 24 hours
LOCATION: Berkeley, CA
IN-PERSON SESSIONS: No, online coaching only
SPECIALTIES
I learned to love running when I was a kid logging miles on the PCT in Southern California. After a decade of racing road marathons — from local races in Colorado to the Boston Marathon — I went all-in on trail in 2019. I haven’t looked back. Working a demanding full-time job with occasionally wonky hours and stress, I know how difficult it can be to get training in. I’ve also learned how to balance those demands and be successful on the trail. As a versatile athlete who enjoys moving through wild spaces, my specialties include:
- Marathons to 100 milers
- Optimizing nutrition for endurance sports
- Developing fueling strategies for race day success
- Mental strategies for endurance running success
- Strength training for injury prevention
- Route-planning, backcountry safety
- Embracing running as a hobby and lifestyle
PHILOSOPHY
My role as a coach is twofold: To use science to help structure physical workouts to obtain physiological adaptations for success AND to help athletes discover what makes them want to go farther and dig deeper — in running and in life. With custom training plans, responsive communication, and an emphasis on proper fueling, my goal is to help athletes find joy while moving efficiently for extended periods of time.
I believe races are great events to test overall fitness. More importantly, these events are opportunities to structure our day-to-day process and learn about ourselves in ways that transcend running. Not interested in racing? Let’s work together to find some scary goals and get after it! Each runner is different. But all runners deserve support to help them unlock their potential.
COACHING EXPERIENCE
I have been running for over 15 years and coaching on and off for over six. I have helped friends finish their first marathons, discover a love of trails and bounce back from injuries. As a former college instructor and occasional backcountry adventure running guide, I’ve seen the success that comes from teaching how to navigate trails and find long-term success.
ABOUT ME
I had never been a “runner” or an athlete when I was little. Instead, I was convinced I was too slow, too out of shape, too far behind the fast kids. But I had a coach who recognized I did have something that’s difficult to teach but essential for running and life success: I was disciplined. He took me under his wing and, cliché as it may be, those miles on the Pacific Crest Trail showed me the power of running.
I studied journalism in college and ran my first marathon when I was 19. I ran Boston when I was 20 and a dozen other marathons in the years after that, logging miles while working as a newspaper reporter. In that time, I also bicycled across the country with my partner, hiked dozens of Colorado’s 14,000-foot mountains, and backpacked across the West. While I’d always spent time on trails, I began to focus on trail training in 2017 and have fully embraced the joy of going longer and faster ever since.
After 10 years working in newspaper journalism, I transitioned into university communications, writing about important research and fascinating people.
Movement is a focal point of every day. Aside from escaping into the hills whenever possible, I’m an occasional adventure running guide and certified Wilderness First Responder who loves stringing together long trail adventures. I’m also an avid reader who loves cooking — I’ve been a vegetarian for most of the past decade, but believe there’s value in all diets in moderation.
A couple other things: I’ve got two cats, a Subaru and love breakfast burritos and black coffee.
BIG INFLUENCES
- Megan and David Roche for their outlook on running and life — and for reminding us to embrace our weird and not take ourselves too seriously
- Jason Koop for his science-based training that is advancing ultra-running in the smartest ways
- Addie Bracy for her instruction manual on mental strategies for succeeding in ultras — and life
- Dylan Bowman for his enthusiasm and dedication in bringing trail running to the big stage
- Clare Gallagher and Dakota Jones for their work bringing awareness to climate change and prioritizing what matters in life
RACING HISTORY
- Favorite trail ultra: High Lonesome 100 miler (2024) 28:50
- First trail marathon: Blue Sky Trail Marathon (2014) 4:09
- First marathon: Colorado Marathon (2010 — eked out a BQ)
- Biggest marathon: Boston (2011, 2018 — the year of the storm)
- Fastest marathon: Colorado Fall Classic Marathon (2016, 2:58)
- Full trail racing history on UltraSignup: https://ultrasignup.com/m_
results_participant.aspx? fname=Jason&lname=Pohl
CERTIFICATIONS
- UESCA Ultrarunning Certification – United Endurance Sports Coaching Academy, 2022
- UESCA Endurance Sports Nutrition Certification, 2023
- Wilderness First Responder
- CPR/AED
PRs
- Mile: 4:56
- Marathon: 2:58 (2016 Colorado Fall Classic Marathon)
- 50k: 4:49 (2024 Berkeley Trail Adventure)
- 100k: 13:08 (2023 Lake Sonoma 100k)
AWARDS & ACCOLADES
- First place (Berkeley Trail Adventure)
- M3 (Fall Classic Marathon)
- Top 10 (Marlette 50k, Big Chief 50k)
- Top 25 (Blue Sky Trail Marathon, SOB, Lake Sonoma)
CONTACT JASON
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
- Check out my recently launched All Hills End newsletter.
- High Lonesome 2024 Race Report
- My day job is in university communications, but I sometimes write about running and other adventures. Most recently, I wrote a profile about how running can link our diverse interests:
https://news.berkeley.edu/2023/07/05/forager-runner-election-auditor-this-expert-seeks-answers-on-the-trail/ - I’ve also written about problem solving when things go sideways on multi-day stage runs: https://www.aspireadventurerunning.com/expecting-the-unexpected/
SOCIAL
JP LeVeque –
Solid. I started working with Jason to improve my performance, but more importantly to teach me how to train without injury, which has been a recurring issue for me. Despite doing my own research and developing what I thought were structured plans, I always seemed to get injured. I’m about 2 months into a 3 month block with Jason now and am feeling great. Running more miles than ever, faster, and no injuries. He has been super encouraging and responsive to my questions. I really feel like I have a training partner who is teaching me a ton (how to analyze data, other resources, fueling and hydration, equipment, etc.).
Julia Ogburn –
I started working with Jason to push myself further and improve my marathon speed. Jason has been the accountability partner I was looking for–scheduling my workouts, pushing my comfort level, and consistently commenting and communicating. I appreciate that Jason understands that sometimes work gets in the way and things need to shift. I cannot recommend Jason enough!
J Dragoo –
Jason has been a fantastic coach to work with. I’ve had some of my best runs yet working with him, even though I’ve had tremendous schedule and some health challenges. He’s been patient when I have issues come up and able to adjust when needed. He’s also always responsive both on the comments on the running app and text when I need to reach out more immediately. Especially as a parent with 2 kids and a unique working schedule the responsiveness is extremely appreciated. I’m looking forward to continuing working with him past the holiday season and get to better and better runs and another marathon in a few months.
Benny –
Jason has been an outstanding running coach! His extensive knowledge and experience as a trail runner are evident in his personalized guidance and advice. He is incredibly supportive and always quick to respond to my questions, making the coaching experience smooth and encouraging. Working with Jason has been a great experience, and I highly recommend him to anyone looking to improve their running journey.
Matthew Hedderman –
I have been working with Jason for nearly two months now and things have been incredible. This is my first time having a running coach. I took some time off from running for a couple months and connected with Jason, telling him my 2025 race goals. He was able to plan out training and get me back up to speed with confidence. His love for running shines through in every conversation we have, and welcomes questions for both novice and experienced runners. Jason is the guy you want on your team.
Brian Mauck –
Nothing but good things to say about Jason! I was looking for someone who was local to the Bay and knows the trails I run on, as well as someone who’d made the transition to ultra running themselves. Only a few months into my training plan for my first 50k, but have already seen great results. Was looking for someone to inject a bit more science into my training and improve my running economy and Jason is doing just that.
Eric Tran –
I am writing to express my appreciation and encouraging experience with Jason as my personal trainer for the upcoming 2025 San Francisco marathon. It is an absolute joy and comfort to have Jason as my mentor !
Jason has the proven “mileage” and the training credentials to support me on this journey. I encourage anyone who has an upcoming big race(s) to sign up with Jason as personal coach. Having a the right experience coach like Jason will help you with the proper workout schedules, routines, and most importantly preventing injuries to allow you get the most and meaningful experiences.
Cody Cranor –
Ive been working with Jason for two season now and really enjoy working with him. His plans are very personalized and cognisant of where you are in the training cycle, and what life hurdles or challenges you face. His communication is amazing with comments on your workouts and emails to check in. As a fellow coach myself, he takes into account my thoughts on things and together we work to come up with the best plans and path forward. That level of listening and collaboration is amazing and part fo why I will keep coming back. I would recommend jason to anyone looking for a distance coach.
YL –
I’ve been working with Jason for a month and a half and only have good things to say. He definitely exceeded my expectations in terms of the quantity and quality of support he provides. My workouts are always loaded into the training calendar on time, and I receive timely responses to any comments I add pre or post workout. Really positive, supportive, and flexible in his coaching style. Highly recommend!
rbweeks –
Working with Jason these last few months has been nothing short of incredible. We met and discussed my previous running and future goals and I immediately could tell that he was no only interested in getting me there, but cared about doing so in the right way. I came to Jason with an already somewhat established running background but he has pushed me to a whole new level….One that I did not see myself getting to so quickly. He saw me through a trail marathon in Colorado with over 6000′ of gain, the recovery that followed, and now is helping build my base and incorporate speed for my next trail race in October. Jason is also just an all around incredible guy. He cares, is attentive, is easy to reach and easy to converse with. If you’re even remotely considering wanting to take your running up a level then getting Jason as your coach would be a great way to start!
Jonathan Reyes –
I was injured last year with plantar fasciitis and had a pretty rough time. In January after finally doing some run walks I decided to start working with Jason as a way to prevent injury and get back into running. The decision has been 100% the right one. He’s supported me through just being able to do a few kms to a now steady build up with the goal of a half marathon this November. I feel confident in my body again which was a big goal and I’m excited about racing again which felt like a huge challenge last year. Jason is supportive, thoughtful, communicative and pushes you when needed. Would highly recommend working with him.
Eliza Atwater –
Jason is one of the most supportive, positive and engaging coaches I have ever worked with. He really takes the time to listen to his athletes to develop a training plan while consistently checking in to give and receive feedback. He is knowledgeable about training blocks and adding the correct about of stimulus through endurance efforts, speed and strength work. Even better, he does it all with some personality and fun. I definitely feel like he is invested in my goals just as much as I am. It’s great to have such a supportive coach on your team!
Madi Pecht –
Jason has been great throughout my training process thus far. He has been extremely easy to communicate with and consistently checks in and adds comments after my workouts, which I personally appreciate. He understands that I am not an elite athlete, and I am just training to be successful in my first ultra (50-mile race), with the goal of finishing uninjured, by the time cut off, and being fit enough to have fun during it. While also, pushing me out of my comfort zone with some hard speed workout and long distances. I also appreciate him being flexible with my travel plans and his understanding that I live in an area with very harsh winter weather (Vail, CO). I am excited to continue this training block with him and get to race day! I would highly recommend him as he is super knowledgeable on training plans and nutrition, especially for someone who is new to ultra running.
Jena Hatch –
I have been working with Jason for a few months now, and this was the best decision I could have made for my training. I started working with him after my first attempt at running a marathon, which unfortunately did not go as planned, and I had to drop out just short of the 24 mile mark. Jason has been helping me with my training plans, my diet, the mental obstacles (especially after such a tough time not achieving my marathon goal!), and everything in between. I have learned so much about what I actually need to train. Jason is teaching me that it’s about so much more than just the miles under my feet. It’s about consistency and discipline, yes, but also about rest, nutrition, recovery, injury prevention, and mental wellbeing. I have been a runner for a long time, but it’s been a long time since I’ve been coached. And it makes all the difference in the world to be coached by someone so present and responsive, and who knows so much from his own experiences and the research and expertise he pursues. Cannot recommend Jason enough.
Michael Bennett –
In brief, Jason is a great coach. He is a good listener; without judgement, to your goals and your needs. He is knowledgable; with current information about all things running, gear, and health. He is effective; specifically tailoring a program to your individual needs, to help you attain your goals. Lastly, he is inspirational, building confidence when needed. I’d recommend Jason, without reservation, for your coaching needs.
***Updated review below***
I wrote the above review before leaving for my “run-cation”. Now on my return, I will say that Jason’s training program served me extremely well, allowing me to finish all of the consecutive running days and remain injury free. The proof is in the results. I am grateful for his expert training guidance and mental preparation.
psymon –
Jason is a confident, supportive, thoughtful, and adaptable coach. I started working with him to step up to my first 50k, and am just coming off a
strong, confident finish. We put down a terrific first big training block together and I’m excited to build on our success. He has been an excellent guide and source of validation as I made my way into (for me) uncharted running territory.
Jason’s communication is excellent—he sets expectations well and makes himself available. He does a great job putting each week of a training block in perspective and holds ample space for me to talk my way through challenges. He’s responsive when I have questions.
Jason and I matched well on coach-to-athlete attitudes. As a coach myself in other sports and areas of life, we have connected on finding joy in the process and building not just toward my racing goal, but toward a stronger long-term running practice. We also vibe particularly well when it comes to mental toughness. I’ve spent a lot of time trying to work on mindfulness with athletes and it was a joy to immediately click with someone who is genuinely curious about all facets of the athletic life and, at the same time, has a deep familiarity with the demands of the ultra and trail running pursuit.
Andy Dakshina –
I am glad to be working with Jason. He is very supportive and flexible with the schedule to accommodate my non-running life chores. He is every ready to present you with training options to suit your needs. I appreciate his holistic approach to running as I am learning to develop a life long running practice, while hoping to maybe one day run closer to podium!!!!.
Justin Savaso –
Jason is a very thoughtful coach who constantly checks-in with his athletes and adapts training plans based on what is unfolding in real-time. He communicates well, giving athletes the “big picture” view of training, while also checking-in on daily workouts. He also is a very strong runner himself both on the trails and roads, and I appreciate how he can emphasize with what the athlete is going through during tough training blocks. I’ve really enjoyed working with Jason and he brings a very thoughtful, balanced approach, while also not being afraid to kick-ass in assigning some challenging workouts 🙂