Jonathan Cheng – San Jose Running Coach
Jonathan specializes in working with runners on the road, blending strength training and mobility to run fast and prevent injury.
From: $95.00 / month and a $19.00 sign-up fee
Running Coach Description
Bay Area coach Jonathan specializes in working with runners on the road, ranging from the 5k to the marathon. Whether you’re looking to cross your first finish line, aiming for a new PB, or just trying to incorporate running into your daily life, Jonathan is excited to help you reach your goals and be your guide and support system in your running journey. Reach out to Jonathan below to learn more or get started!
*** 50% off First Month for month-to-month Coaching – Coupon Code: 50%jcheng ***
Specialties
My specialty is on the road, ranging from the 5K to the marathon. I’ve run countless races and know what it’s like running a new race for the first time or even chasing a new PR. So whatever your goal is, you’ll have someone who knows what it’s like to be in your shoes and help you accomplish your goals – big or small!
Every plan I write is personalized to your fitness, your schedule, and your goals, and it evolves as you do. My job is to keep you accountable and healthy every step of the way, while continuously optimizing your training so that you’re always moving toward your next breakthrough.
I also believe that running at your best is not just about logging miles. It’s about strengthening core muscle groups that will elevate you to new heights and lessen your risk of injury. Alongside your training, I can also help incorporate strength training, mobility, and stretching so that you’re not just logging miles; you’re building a body that’s resilient, durable, and ready to perform when it counts.
Philosophy
At the core of everything I do is one simple belief: consistency wins. Not perfect weeks or heroic efforts, but simply just showing up, stacking one week on top of another. I value putting in effort you can replicate week after week, rather than going all out and losing steam.
However, consistency doesn’t mean rigidity. Life happens, and training needs to reflect that. Whether it’s a hectic week at work, a nagging ache, or just an off day, I’ll adapt your plan to keep you moving forward rather than force you through something that isn’t serving you. Every person is unique, and I believe that listening to your body is just as important as the training itself. Knowing when to push and when to pull back is a skill we’ll develop together.
Lastly, I value clear communication. I believe the best and most complete plans come from not only knowing the quantitative data points, but also the full context of how an athlete feels after a session. That’s why I want to know how the run felt, how your body feels, what’s working, and what isn’t. The more open and communicative you are, the better I can adapt the plan to help you reach your goals.
At the end of the day, my goal is simple: keep you healthy, keep you motivated, and get you to that start line ready to run the race of your life.
Coaching Experience
My coaching journey started with swimming. I was a competitive swimmer for 8+ years, and I learned so much about the training and performance aspects of racing. As an athlete, I had a great working relationship with my coach and picked up on many of the skills he implemented into my swimming. I’d love to take what I learned as an athlete into the coach-athlete relationship.
On top of that, I was a swim instructor, where I worked with a wide range of individuals, from kids just learning the basics to competitive swimmers looking to sharpen their times and technique. This taught me how to break down movement, adapt to different athletes, and communicate in a way that caters to each individual.
On the road, I’ve helped athletes accomplish goals across the full spectrum, from running their first marathon to hitting new PRs at different distances. Beyond running, I’ve been strength training for 9+ years, and it provides a unique lens on how strength can translate into more resilient running.
I invest in every athlete I work with, bringing personalized attention, real accountability, and strong commitment to the sport of running.
About Me
Hi! I’m still a runner at heart, pushing myself to be the best I can be in all distances. When I’m not running, lifting, or coaching, you can probably find me at home making an espresso latte, at a new coffee shop, or trying out new restaurants throughout the Bay Area. During my free time, I enjoy watching sports (go Warriors!), re-watching TV shows, snowboarding, and creating content.
Big Influences
My running and coaching blends different backgrounds and philosophies together, each providing a unique perspective on training. The influences include:
- John Davis: Focuses on building resilience to neuromuscular fatigue and individualized percentage-based/full-spectrum training to ultimately support your goal race pace
- Jack Daniels: Advocates for scientific, data-driven training around the VDOT system to drive improvement
- Brant Stachel: Emphasizes the importance of training plan adaptations, progressive training strategies, and mental resiliency
Race History
In middle school, I ran in cross-country and track & field, mainly focusing on the mile. My first race ever that made me fall in love with running (and also traumatized me) was the San Francisco Marathon. Since then, I’ve run in beautiful races like the Honolulu Marathon, hyped-up events like the Bandit 5K Grand Prix, and everything in between. Since my first marathon, I’ve been focused on improving my half marathon and marathon times.
Personal Records
- Mile: 5:55
- 5k: 21:55
- 10k: 41:55
- Half Marathon: 1:34:22
- Marathon: 3:51:29 (2025 Honolulu Marathon)




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