Megan Plocher – San Diego Running Coach
I create individualized training plans that emphasize proper fueling, long-term health, and sustainable performance.
$145.00 / month
Running Coach Description
I coach athletes of all levels, from first-time runners to performance-driven racers, using a personalized, evidence-based approach rooted in smart progression and consistency. With a marathon PR of 3:05, I create individualized training plans that emphasize proper fueling, long-term health, and sustainable performance.
Specialties
I specialize in road racing from the mile to the marathon, working with first-time runners and experienced athletes chasing new PRs. Whether you are training for your first 5K or building toward a breakthrough marathon, I meet you where you are.
My coaching is holistic and performance driven, combining structured run training with strength, cross training, mobility, recovery, and practical nutrition guidance. The goal is to help you train smarter, stay healthy, and perform at your best on race day.
In a world of one-size-fits-all plans, I provide truly individualized coaching built around your goals, schedule, and training background. Every plan is designed to keep you accountable, confident, and progressing consistently.
As a UESCA Certified Running Coach, I bring an evidence based approach to training while still keeping things practical and personalized for each athlete.
I am the right coach for you if you:
- Are chasing a Boston Qualifier or new PR
- Are balancing training with a busy lifestyle
- Want structure, accountability, and smarter training
- Want to improve without burnout or guesswork
- Are training for your first marathon or half marathon and want clear guidance
What you can expect working with me:
- Personalized training updated every 2 weeks based on your progress and schedule
- Cross training included based on what you enjoy, like strength, cycling, swimming, yoga, or classes
- Strength training that supports running performance
- Weekly coach check-ins with feedback and adjustments
- Unlimited access for questions, workout feedback, and race prep via text or calls
- Fueling guidance for training and race day performance
- Mindset support and resources to keep you confident and consistent
Philosophy
Running should enhance your life, not overwhelm it. While not every run will feel perfect, long-term success comes from enjoying the process and building a healthy relationship with the sport.
My coaching philosophy is rooted in patience, consistency, and balance—building fitness gradually, prioritizing longevity, and respecting recovery by making hard days hard and easy days easy. Every athlete and season is different, so training should be individualized, adaptable, and aligned with your goals and lifestyle.
Coaching Experience
I’ve coached runners at every stage, from those running their first race to athletes chasing major PRs. I help runners build confidence, improve performance, and reach goals they once thought were out of reach through structured, progressive training.
As an athlete, I self-coached my way to 4 Boston Marathon qualifiers and improved my marathon PR by 16 minutes.
I’m very passionate about running and truly love coaching others. It’s my favorite part of what I do, and I’m deeply invested in each individual athlete, often just as much, if not more, than my own training.
I make it a priority to stay current with the latest evidence based research in running, including training, strength, recovery, and gear, and I translate it into practical strategies that directly support your progress.
My goal is to help you achieve your running goals with smart, individualized coaching that builds consistency, confidence, and long term success.
About Me
I’ve been running for nearly a decade. I ran my first half marathon in 2019, but I’ve always been an athlete, growing up playing tennis and volleyball before turning to running in high school as a way to stay in shape. What started as cross-training quickly became the sport I fell in love with, teaching me patience, discipline, and consistency.
I’m passionate about health, wellness, and holistic performance, and I minored in nutrition in college, which continues to shape how I approach training, recovery, and fueling.
In my free time, I’m usually running, at the beach, playing tennis, hanging out with my two cats, or exploring new food spots around San Diego.
Big Influences
“Consistency is the single most important principle in training.” — Matt Fitzgerald
I’m influenced by the work of Matt Fitzgerald and have invested heavily in educating myself through books and continued learning. I believe progress comes from proper fueling, discipline, and long-term consistency—not shortcuts. Training is never easy, always worth it.
Race History
I’ve completed five marathons and numerous half marathons, with a marathon PR of 3:05 at the Boston Marathon and a 2nd-place female overall finish at the Pacific Beach Half Marathon (1:26:18). I raced the Boston Marathon in 2025 and am currently training for marathons six and seven at the 2026 Boston Marathon and 2026 Chicago Marathon.
Marathons Completed:
- Surf City Marathon
- San Diego Rock ’n’ Roll Marathon
- Honolulu Marathon
- Boston Marathon
- Every Woman’s Marathon (Scottsdale)
Certifications
- UESCA Certified Running Coach
- Minor in Nutrition – University of Washington
Awards & Accolades
- 1st Place Female Age Group — Surf City Marathon
- 2nd Place Female Age Group — Honolulu Marathon (2024)
- Top 5% of Female Finishers — Boston Marathon (2025)
- 2nd Place Female Overall — PB Half Marathon (2025)
Personal Records
- Mile – 5:38
- 5k- 18:49
- 10k – 38:13
- 1/2 Marathon – 1:26:18
- Marathon – 3:05:55 (Boston Marathon 2025)
Publications
Contact Megan
7 reviews for Megan Plocher – San Diego Running Coach
Olivia Young –
I’ve been working with Megan towards my first marathon and it’s been such a great experience so far! I’ve been so impressed with how thoroughly the workouts and runs are laid out, and she makes it so that it feels more like a partnership with support rather than just following a training plan. Megan is approachable, considerate, and knowledgeable. I highly recommend her!
Sunny –
I’ve been working with Megan for the past two months, and she has been incredibly attentive and hands-on throughout the entire process.
What I appreciate most is how well she adapts the training plan to real life. Whether I was dealing with muscle tightness, travel fatigue, schedule changes, or other recovery issues, she responded quickly and adjusted the plan thoughtfully rather than forcing a rigid program.
Megan also has strong training principles that she consistently sticks to. She emphasizes sustainable progress, proper recovery, and making sure each workout has a clear purpose. She also recommended the right watch and training tools for me without pushing anything excessive or unnecessary.
I’ve really enjoyed working with her and plan to continue doing so. If you’re considering working with Megan, give her a go—you won’t be disappointed.
Mackenna –
I have had the opportunity to be coached by Megan over the past few months. Coming back from an injury, I was looking for structure and direction from someone who would see me as an individual and truly listen to my experience. Megan has done exactly that and more. Beyond her extremely detailed and individualized programming, Megan has helped me shift my mindset toward running and fitness as a whole in a very positive way. Her consistent check-ins and supportive attitude, have helped me develop the tools needed to improve my motivation, mindset, and of course my running! I could not recommend Megan more for anyone looking for a someone who will support them in becoming the strongest, healthiest, and happiest version of themselves!
Kaitlyn –
I have been working with Megan over the past two months and was able to achieve a half marathon PR with her help! Megan does a great job developing an individualized training plan with a mix of runs, cross training, and strength training. She is very knowledgable on all things running and I have noticed significant improvement in my pace, heart rate, and overall endurance since working with her. She is very friendly and encouraging – would definitely recommend!
Elizabeth –
I’ve been working with Megan over the past couple months and cannot believe the progress I’ve made with my endurance and pace! I’m relatively new to running and when training for previous races I’ve just used guided apps, but Megan’s program is so well tailored to my goals and skill, incorporating cross-training and strength training which has helped me prevent injuries. Megan takes the time to tailor my program to my skill level and week over week progress to help me be as ready as possible for. my upcoming races. She’s so supportive, encouraging, and is a great accountability partner. Whether you’re training for a big race schedule or just getting started, definitely recommend Megan!
Margaret –
I have been training with Megan over the past 8 weeks and have already seen tremendous improvement in my strength and endurance. She is extremely knowledgeable and uses that talent to help others achieve their goals. She is communicative with her clients as well as supportive and uplifting. I would recommend her to any skill of runner whether you’re a beginner or intermediate. Her prices are unbeatable for all of the benefits!!
Megan –
Megan is an amazing coach. Her personalized approach has helped improve my heart rate, endurance, pacing, and overall performance. She is very supportive and makes adjustments when needed, which makes it easy to stay on track and remain consistent. I highly recommend her to anyone looking to improve their running.