Mark Riggs – Pensacola Running Coach
$95.00 / month and a $19.00 sign-up fee
50% off your first month! RRCA certified. Pensacola, FL based. Personalized coaching for Beginners to Intermediate. Road, Trail, and Ultramarathon.
Description
Pensacola running coach Mark Riggs specializes in both roads and trails, for those who are either looking to get back into running or bump up in distance to an ultramarathon. Mark also knows how to juggle a busy schedule and will help make adjustments as life happens during training. Reach out to Mark below to get started!
*** 50% off First Month for month-to-month Coaching – Coupon Code: 50%mriggs ***
LEVELS: Beginner, Intermediate
TYPES: Road, Trail
DISTANCES: 5k/10k/Half Marathon, 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: Pensacola, FL
IN-PERSON SESSIONS: No, online coaching only
SPECIALTIES
— Coaching adult recreational runners taking on new challenges
— Supporting Masters athletes with accountability and structured training
— Road and trail race prep from 5K to 100 miles
— First-time half marathon, marathon, and ultramarathon coaching
— Building sustainable, personalized training plans
— Helping runners balance training with real life (work, family, etc.)
PHILOSOPHY
I work with adult runners who are ready for something new. Some are chasing a long- time goal like a trail race or marathon. Others are returning to running after time away. Most just want someone in their corner — to help make a plan, stay on track, and adjust when life gets busy.
You don’t need to be fast or experienced to work with me. What matters is that you’re motivated and open to learning. I’ll help guide your training in a way that fits your life. I take time to get to know each runner — what you’re aiming for, what’s worked before, and where the roadblocks tend to pop up.
My coaching style is steady and supportive. I focus on consistency first, and I don’t expect perfection from every workout. I’ll give you structure, feedback, and honest conversation. You’ll know exactly what we’re working on and why it matters.
COACHING EXPERIENCE
From 5Ks to 100-mile ultras, I’ve coached runners through just about every stage of the journey. I work primarily with adult athletes — individuals training for their first 5K, chasing a marathon PR, or stepping into the ultra world for the first time.
I also coach many Masters runners (over 40) who want to stay active, injury-free, and engaged in the sport they love. For many, it’s just about having a clear plan, some accountability, and someone who understands how to adjust training around their real and changing life.
In addition to online coaching, I coach the weekly Friends That Run training group and host a Friday morning run at local coffee shop.
ABOUT ME
I live in Pensacola, FL with my wife and our two dogs, Buster and Poppy Noodle. Right now, I’m having a blast teaching Poppy how to be a running dog — she’s still figuring it out, but we’re having fun and she’s making progress.
I love exploring our local trails and being a part of Pensacola’s running scene — especially the weekly group runs and our awesome local Parkrun community. When I’m not running, you might find me at the beach on a Saturday morning, building Legos with my wife, or watching baseball. Go Red Sox!
I can geek out on all things running — training theory, gear, race strategy — I love it all. But I also believe in being well-rounded. Cooking and learning about food is a big part of my life, I’m always on the lookout for great new restaurants and unusual snacks! I try to stay current on the latest TV shows and pop culture, but honestly, I’m just enjoying life. Running is a huge part of my world, but it’s not the only thing that makes life fun.
BIG INFLUENCES
I’ve had many influences that have shaped how I approach both training and coaching. I believe a good coach should always be learning — staying curious, staying humble. Knowledge is like the tools in your garage: you might not need them every day, but when the moment calls for it, you know exactly what to reach for.
My coaching philosophy includes a wide range of coaches and authors — from Jason Koop and Steve Magness to Stacy Sims, Jeff Galloway and many more. Each has added something valuable to the way I understand training, physiology, and the mental side of running.
But some of my biggest influences come from outside the sport. My dad, a retired music teacher, taught me the value of patience, consistent practice, and showing up even when it’s not easy. That mindset — steady, intentional, process-focused (with a touch of humor and fun) — is something I try to pass on to every athlete I work with.
RACING HISTORY
My racing background includes a mix of road and trail events.
I’ve run many road races over the years — 5Ks, 10Ks, half marathons, and full marathons. On the trail side, I’ve completed numerous 50Ks, 50 milers, 100Ks, and even a 100-mile race.
I know what it feels like to train hard and have everything come together on race day. But I also know what it’s like to put in the work and come away with a DNF. Both experiences have shaped how I coach and how I support the athletes I work with. The highs and lows are all part of the journey.
CERTIFICATIONS
— RRCA Level 1 Running Coach
— UESCA Certified Ultrarunning Coach
PRs
— 5k 19:43 4/1/2023
— 10k 49:14 4/5/2018
— 15k 1:06:36 2/2/2019 Double Bridge Run, Pensacola FL
— Half Marathon 1:45:35 11/16/2019 (Trail)
— Marathon 3:43:24 11/11/2018 Pensacola Marathon
— 50-Mile 10:28:30 1/15/23 Bear Bait Ultra
— 100k 13:14:18 1/16/2021 Bear Bait Ultra 3rd Place OA
— 100-Mile 28:53:23 3/23/2019 Lake Martin 100
AWARDS & ACCOLADES
I’ve won numerous Age Group awards and placed in the top 3 at races. In February of 2021 I finished as Fastest Male at the Joe Relaxo Challenge. The race requires participants to complete 1 mile every half hour for 24 hours.
CONTACT MARK
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.
SOCIAL
Ronnie Davenport –
I’ve been with Mark for last seven months and I’m really surprised at the progress I’ve made. Mark is always encouraging, he’s always mindful of your running health. He highlights your progress in his feedback; he teaches you to be patient and to be mindful in terms of not injuring oneself. He has an awesome balance between one pushing themselves, while being careful at the same time. I love his honesty, he’ll tell you what you need to hear, not what you want to hear (but you always walk away from his feedback seeing the positives, not the negatives). Mark is an awesome mentor!
Zien Boniberger –
Working with coach Mark helped me find a passion in running. Instead of it feeling like a chore, I look forward to his weekly training plans. Sometimes I have tough days where I struggle to complete the run, but he’s always giving encouraging and insightful feedback. Whether I have a question or need a confidence boost, coach Mark is always quick to respond. I remember when I first started, I struggled running 1 mile. Now I look forward to running 5k’s with my friends and actually enjoy my time! Running improved so much of my physical and mental health, I can’t thank him enough for getting me to where I am now.
Tia –
I’ve been coach by Mark for about 9 months! I’ve had amazing improvement in my running performance. He is very knowledgeable and is willing to answer all questions!
Shantelle R –
Mark is consistently encouraging. I look forward to his planned runs weekly. He’s among the best!
Veronica Helt –
Coach Mark has and is an amazing coach, would not be where I am at in my running journey. He’s always there when I need his advice and knows when to call me out when I need to be. He’s the best.
Emily Nobles –
Coach Mark is such an amazing coach. I have always wanted to be a “runner” but would give up because I just didn’t know what I needed to do. With Mark’s coaching, I have stuck with running for a year and a half now. I’ve completed my dream of running a Disney marathon because of his training. A dream that felt unobtainable until I began to work with Coach Mark. He is incredibly supportive and positive. He is also super knowledgeable and has put his expertise into turning me into a runner. That expertise also helped me deal with some vicious blisters in the beginning. I definitely would not be where I am if it wasn’t for Mark’s coaching.
He is able to tailor my workout plan to accommodate the ups and downs of my life. Lately I have felt burnt out and am struggling with the mental aspect of it. Mark has been integral in helping me get my mojo back.
I cannot say it enough. Mark’s expertise and support have been the reason I’ve been able to stick with running and not give up within a few weeks. From a beginner to a marathon completer.
Ryan Crisco –
I cannot recommend Mark highly enough as a running coach! From the very beginning, Mark has been incredibly positive and encouraging, always pushing me to reach my full potential. His training plan is exceptionally detailed, customized, and thorough, tailored specifically to my needs and goals.
When my A race was unexpectedly cancelled, Mark did an outstanding job modifying my plan. He not only recommended a great substitute race but also adjusted my training accordingly, ensuring I stayed on track. Mark’s holistic approach to training, focusing on the mental, physical, and psychological aspects, has been invaluable.
Thanks to Mark’s meticulous planning and unwavering support, I went into my race with immense confidence. I am thrilled to share that I successfully completed a 100-mile ultramarathon, a feat I couldn’t have achieved without Mark’s expert guidance.
If you’re looking for a coach who is dedicated, knowledgeable, and genuinely invested in your success, look no further than Mark!
Julie –
I took up running in January of 2024 after a friend asked me to train and run a 5k with her in March. I realized shortly after that race that there was more to running than just putting on shoes and trying to run as fast as I could. I decided my goal was to run a 1/2 marathon around my 50th birthday in September and knew I needed a coach to help. I met Mark and he laid out a clear training plan that helped me to achieve distance goals and personal goals that I never believed I could accomplish. I learned how to run in a group and have meaningful conversations as the miles flew by. I’ve learned about fueling and how to train safely in nuclear hot summer weather. Mark has helped me to look at my running goals realistically and set attainable goals. Injuries have set me back and Mark has been instrumental in helping me continue to train through cross training and keep a positive mindset. He shares his personal experiences and knowledge which helps me to make decisions about my health long term goals. Mark is quick to get back to me if I have a question or need to change something in my schedule. Mark structures workouts for my fitness goals and is flexible about scheduling. Mark is so supportive and genuinely proud of the accomplishments of the people he coaches and athletes around him. He’s completed some pretty inspirational races too! I highly recommend Mark as a coach and I look forward to our continued work together.
Chris Neal –
Mark has the character for objective yet personalized mentoring. I’ve known Mark and his father for some time so when I heard he was focused on training I knew he would be the best possible. Looking forward to many years of his suggestions and encouragement. He has no ego and offers wisdom beyond his age and extensive experiences. Give it a go.
Shawn –
At age 59, I had the opportunity to run a bucket-list race: The New York City Marathon. Coach Mark was exactly who I needed to run the race I wanted to run. Mark’s enthusiasm, expertise and individualized running program guided my training process and provided much needed accountability. In addition to being flexible with my dynamic work/travel schedule, Mark provided great tips on fueling and hydration that really made a difference. Working with Coach Mark was the absolute best investment and the results were exactly what I asked for during our first exchange: 1. a program of injury free running and 2. the potential of beating my one and only previous marathon time from 1996 (at age 31). Coach Mark’s guidance helped me achieve both goals. Throughout, Coach Mark always emphasized the bigger picture – that the ability to run at any age is something special not to be taken for granted. Great perspective from a great coach!
Danielle Wolfe –
Mark coached me for my 2nd marathon. He is very knowledgable and super supportive! Having a great coach like Mark my corner along this journey was just what I needed. I highly recommend Mark! You will not be disappointed. He provides invaluable feedback and encouragement. I am very grateful to have met Mark and to call him my coach! He’s the best!
Matt Rogers –
As someone with an on again-off again relationship with running, working with Coach Mark has helped my build not only consistency but excitement to get miles in each day. I started running because it always felt easily accessible but felt that it never came easy (and never truly enjoyed it). I would often burn out because of a lack of direction or motivation. I never considered working with a coach until my sister in law gifted me 3 months of working with Mark for Christmas. Now being forced back into running I’ve found that my biggest hurdles in training have become some of my biggest strengths because of Mark. After sharing a couple of goals, he worked with me to set up a training plan that works with my schedule to take all stress of planning off my shoulders. I never thought I’d be excited to open my calendar Sunday evening and see what distances and workouts I have set up for the week but here we are. His trust and belief of what I am capable of achieving and excitement for reaching new goals and milestones has my confidence and motivation at an all time high. Distances and achievements that once seemed ambitious and out of reach now feel attainable. I’m excited to see how much further my feet can take me that I never would have normally considered and fully trust and believe Coach Mark can help me get there!
Bradley –
I worked with Mark for several months before a 50 mile race, and I was very happy with my progression. Not only does Mark have an overall knowledge of training, he also tailors every session to meet my personal goals and fitness level. He is encouraging, motivating, and provides clear feedback that has helped me improve. I highly recommend Mark for anyone looking to take their running to the next level.
Talor Stone –
Couldn’t do it without him! Mark has gone above and beyond to provide the structure, accountability, and support that I needed to stay dedicated to running. He’s incredibly proactive in offering feedback both before and after runs, and he works with my insane schedule to find solutions that work for me. I can’t sing his praises enough and I’m pretty sure my friends are tired of hearing about how awesome my running coach is! 😀
Mary Stearly –
Mark is a fantastic coach! I started working with Mark while training for my first Ultra and his knowledge and advice have been so valuable. He gives great feedback on training sessions, has helped me tremendously with how I think about fueling for endurance events and is always always positive. Working with him makes it easy to trust the process and I have no doubt I will make it to the start line fully prepared.
Jason –
After entering my 40’s I thought I could just toss on some running shoes and run anytime I want and at any distance or speed like I used to. However, I quickly found myself experiencing pain at a certain distance each time and I couldn’t figure out how to move past that threshold without injury. I then reached out to Mark, who has helped guide me through this process, and after making some adjustments to my running mechanics/mindset, and a gradual progression in my training plan, within about two months of working with him I have been able to more than double my previous distance threshold without any pain or injury. I actually look forward to my runs each week and feel like I’m making great progress. It’s never too late, and I look forward to continuing my training with Mark and highly recommend him to anyone who could use some professional guidance and instruction on how to become a more efficient runner!
Tina Broxterman –
I’m a 35 year old mom of two little boys. Between work, being a wife and mom I figured my running would never progress because of time restraints. After working with mark for a few months, I realized things began to change. I trained for my first 15 mile race (with many moments of sickness or missed workouts) and was surprised when I finished my race faster than I ever imagined. Not only did I finish fast, but I also won first overall female. I couldn’t have done it without the amazing training and support from mark. He structured workouts to fit your life and your goals which is difficult to do. Since I began training with mark I have grown in my confidence as a runner! I look forward to many more PR’s and new goals ahead.
Gana Bayarmaa –
Mark is a great coach to work with, very supportive and always encouraging you on the progress. It’s nearly my 3rd month training under Mark and I’m already seeing a significant improvement in my running as a whole. I like that Mark knows how to implement a routine accoustumed to your current potential with slight challenge.
Terry Sovinsky –
I am 70 year old male and after ceasing my ultra running 8 years ago I thought I would give it another try. I hooked up with Mark who taught me new things related to my training method and running form. Incredible feedback and highly knowledgeable. Very very user friendly and responsive.