Mike Toomey – Philadelphia Running Coach
Coaching runners at all levels for over 25 years! I take the guessing out of it for you. Think Big. Train Hard. Race Fast!
From: $85.00 / month and a $19.00 sign-up fee
Running Coach Description
Philadelphia running coach Mike Toomey is here to meet you where you are in your running journey, whether you’re a new runner or a seasoned marathon runner looking for a new PR, Mike has over 25 years of coaching experience on the road, track and trails.
Specialties
While I work with runners from a variety of backgrounds, I specialize in distance and middle-distance events on the roads, track, and cross country. Runners who tend to find the most success with my coaching include those who are new to the sport, those returning after time away, and those who’ve been training on their own and are looking for a more structured plan or fresh direction. I also enjoy working with busy moms and dads who are trying to balance training with the demands of everyday life. My coaching style is personal and practical, and runners often tell me they gain both structure and confidence through the way I build their training.
Philosophy
Running has changed my life in so many ways. As both an athlete and a coach, it has taught me that anything is possible if you’re willing to work hard and avoid shortcuts. I’ve always believed that running is the ultimate metaphor for life—you get out of it exactly what you put in—and I see that mindset in the athletes I coach every day.
I believe there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to training. Every runner has a path that’s uniquely theirs, and my job is to help uncover the right mix of structure, challenge, and flexibility that works for them. I’ve spent my adult life being a student of this sport, and I’m excited to share that knowledge and experience with the athletes I coach.
Coaching Experience
I’ve been coaching runners at the high school, collegiate, and open levels for more than 25 years. At the high school level, I’ve had the privilege of working with numerous state, regional, and national-caliber athletes. During my time at Kents Hill School in Maine, I led the cross country team to back-to-back New England Championships in 2014 and 2015.
In the open and masters divisions, I’ve coached runners of all levels—from beginners to experienced athletes—as well as charity teams, including the American Cancer Society Miami Marathon Team and the Franklin Park Zoo Boston Marathon Team.
Currently, I serve as the community coordinator for the Healthy Kids Running Series in Conshohocken, PA, and I coach at Springside Chestnut Hill Academy.
About Me
I’ve been involved in the sport since 1986, when I joined the track team with a friend who had a crush on a girl. He didn’t get the girl—but I fell in love with running, and I’ve been active as an athlete or coach ever since.
Originally from Boston, I moved to Philadelphia ten years ago and quickly became one of the least popular sports fans in town. I’m married to a former professional hockey player, and we have three young daughters who love to run and play hockey. I recently turned 50 and am excited to compete in some masters races on the track and in cross country.
I’m looking forward to welcoming new runners into our group in 2025 and can’t wait to help you chase your next big goal!
Big Influences
Throughout high school, I was fortunate to meet my first coach, Tom McDermott, who not only nurtured my love for running but also inspired me to become a true student of the sport. In college, I ran under George Davis—1991 NCAA Cross Country Coach of the Year—who led our team to a national title with five All-Americans.
After college, I competed as a middle-distance runner for Reebok Boston and was lucky to be coached by Bob Sevene, one of the top distance coaches in the U.S. My journey then took me to Flagstaff, Arizona, where I had the opportunity to work with legendary coach Jack Daniels.
While these experiences helped shape me as an athlete, they also played a defining role in forming my coaching values and philosophy. I carry the lessons from each of these mentors into the work I do with every athlete I coach today.
Race History
- 1990 Massachusetts State Mile Champion – Lynn English High School
- 1991 NCAA Division II Cross Country Team National Champion – University of Massachusetts Lowell
- 1991 NCAA Division II All-American – Cross Country
- 1992 & 1993 ECAC Steeplechase Champion
- Numerous Marathons including The Boston Marathon
Certifications
- USA Track and Field Level 1 Endurance Coach
- USA Track and Field Level 2 Endurance Coach
Awards & Accolades
- NCAA All American
- NCAA Team Champion
- State Mile Champion
- Boston Globe All Scholastic Runner 1989
- Boston Herald All Scholastic Runner 1989
- Seven Time Northeastern Conference Coach of the Year in XC & Track
- 10 Time Salem News and Lynn Item Coach of the year in XC & Track
- Guest Speaker at Arizona Coaches Association Conference for Middle Distance
- Served as Track & Field Chair for USATF New England
- Lynn English High School Hall of Fame
- UMASS Hall of Fame










MP –
Mike is fantastic. Truly listens and provides feedback and guidance based on what you personally need. Highly recommend Mike!
Michelle T –
This is my second time around training with Mike. He has been nothing but supportive and works hard to personalize my training schedule and paces. Mike is patient and kind when my self doubt kicks in and steers me back into the right direction. Top notch! Can’t say enough.
Ana Gordan –
I have only been working with Mike for about 2 months, but already feel that I have climbed out of my running rut (initial goal) and now building toward additional goals – for example Ghost Train Ultra (30 miles in 30 hours) and possibly a traditional full marathon in the fall, and as a secondary goal improving my times in distances from 1 mile to half marathon. Mike has been responsive to my questions and the workout calendar is very easy to use. Looking forward to continuing working with him!
john forrant –
I have been working with Mike for over ten years, first as a coach for our local running club then through various online venues. Mike is always available for feedback and questions about planned workouts or just general running questions. He has assisted me in running distances from 800s to full marathon. While working with Mike I have set PRs in mile, 5k, and half marathon. He is more than willing to work with runners of all capabilities from elite to run/walk.