Russell Opatz
Coach Profile
- Certified UESCA Ultrarunning Coach
- Running (marathon or shorter)
- Ultrarunning
- Beginner
- Intermediate
- Expert/Advanced
- Strength and Conditioning
- Injury Prevention
1-3 years
During college and after earning my degree from Warren Wilson in Outdoor Leadership, I purseued my passion for leadership and wilderness travel as an instructor, leading paddling and backpacking expeditions throughout remote regions of the US, Canada and the arctic. After spending the majority of my 20s sleeping in the backcountry, I inevitably landed a 9-5 “office” gig. Sure, the consistency of this new schedule was great for family and personal obligations, but I yearned for the adventure of backcountry travel—enter trail and ultrarunning.
We all need an external sounding board who can support and encourage growth and performance without bias. Through reflective dialogue, I create a space for athletes to process training and racing experiences, enabling them to call attention to the most important elements of training while also empowering athletes to apply the learning to their practice.
When life gets busy, it can be difficult to keep to a consistent training schedule. Your training plan is only one piece of the pie. How you balance the never-ending sickness brought home from daycare, stressful career or family obligations is the key to unlocking your true potential.
I understand the challenges that come from a demanding career and raising a family and truly believe that strategic, consistent training will make you a better partner, parent, and person.