Blake Raymond
Run Coach - Boston, MA
By day, I am a Science teacher, middle school XC coach, and competitive marathoner. I recently relocated back to my hometown of Boston from Los Angeles where I built a name for myself as one of “LA’s Top Fitness Professionals.” While in L.A. I spent a significant portion of my career working in a clinical setting at a comprehensive wellness clinic coaching and training individuals on best practices for longevity and performance, as well as preventative and rehabilitative sport injury treatment and care. I have taught group fitness of all styles (HIIT, Running, Rowing, Cycling and Yoga) and have worked on behalf of global brands such as Fitbit, lululemon, and On Running. Most importantly I am a fitness, community, and social enthusiast! Nothing gets me more pumped up than a fun loving group of people that like to hang out, chat it up, and get some healthy activity in together. I have over 16 years of experience working within the health and fitness industry and hold credentials as a NSCA Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS), as well as a Certified, USATF Level 1 Track & Field Coach, and as an USATF Cross Country Specialist.
Coaching Philosophy
My coaching philosophy is pretty straightforward - I’m all about working hard and having fun! Yes, my style is demanding, but that is because you and me both want the most out of our time and energy spent working together (typically this is performance driven). I pride myself on my innate knack for knowing from afar ones capabilities in terms of performance. I like to ride the fine line of being edgy and pushing the envelope to make progress for those I’m coaching. I’m a firm believer in good, open and honest communication. I’m an open door and love to support and share my opinions, guidance and provide clear direction when it comes to our general training calendar, but also in the moment decisions and daily adjustments to our training plan(s). I’m here to hold your hand through trials and triumphs. Trust me, and trust the process!
Why I Run
I’m incredibly passionate about running and what it has to offer people personally. Running provides the space for community and human connection, the time for peace and self-reflection, and the service and act of being a better version of oneself. I coach because I want to share my knowledge and experiences of the sport with others. This is ever so important to me because I myself am a “self taught” runner, and wish I had the guidance and support of a professional coach in my formative years. Running and racing is an incredible sport/pastime that one can carry and compete in against themself for a lifetime.
Favorite Race
I love and live for Boston, but I always tell others they must run The Marine Corps Marathon (Washington, DC). It is one of the largest, best organized, exhilarating and scenic races I have ever participated in. The experience of running/racing through three different states, seeing all of the historic monuments while having the support of tens of thousands of troops and service members make it a definite bucket list race.
Lifetime PRs
Marathon: 2:44, Mountains to Beach Marathon
Half Marathon: 1:18, Rock n’ Roll Las Vegas
10k: 36:55, Rose Bowl 10k
5k: 17:31, Beverly Hills Fun Run
