Liz Hill

I am a 36 year old woman and mother of two. Working full time and raising a family has its challenges. Making time to exercise is one one of them. Last June (2009), bored with my workouts, I set my sights on a new goal. I would train for, and run, a full marathon. Having never run more than 3 miles at one time, the only Arizona marathon I knew about was the PF Changs. So, that was the one I would run. I researched training programs and immediately got started. Training was a great motivator to hit the gym.

Soon thereafter, a friend of mine suggested I train with Coach Allison. She had participated in his group program the year before and couldn't say enough good things about it. Within minutes, I was emailing Coach Allison for more information. It sounded great! I signed up and and joined the group in August 2009. I immediately found that Coach Allison was an inspiration. His enthusiasm was contagious. More importantly, I now knew that I had the guidance and tools I needed to properly train for the marathon. Not to mention, the support and camaraderie of other individuals working towards the same goal.

Unfortunately, I injured my calf while coaching youth soccer a month before the race and was not able to participate in January. Despite this minor setback, I am thrilled that I finished my first half marathon in October 2009 and will continue to work with Coach Allison to train for the PF Chang's San Diego in June 2010. With Coach Allison's knowledge and support what once seemed a daunting task is now not only achievable, but enjoyable.

Melissa

I trained for my first half-marathon using online tools from runner’s world and two close friends to keep me motivated. I finished the PF Changs in just under three hours. At first I didn’t think I would ever finish this goal but I did. Soon, we started doing more research as to better training programs but I realized there was much lingo and programs that I didn’t understand. I expressed desire to meet with a running coach when a mutual friend introduced me to David. As a “newbie”, I thought a coach would laugh at my slow pace and my lack of knowledge about the sport. But David was so patient with me and very understanding of my level. His programs are easy to follow and he answers any questions or concerns promptly. Track workouts are fun and were a highlight of my week! My next half marathon I was able to take 21 minutes off my previous time! He encouraged me and helped me through injuries and even running while pregnant. No matter your level, I think you’ll find David is in your side!

Joseph Rodriguez

I am a 38 year old Software program manager and for the past 12 years spent a large portion of my day working behind a desk. My physical activities were minimal. For years I went to the gym off and on. I worked out with weights and did some yoga. However, I constantly felt lethargic. In 2009, I was motivated by my cousin Dalila to start running. I decided to find a running group when I discovered how difficult it was for me to just start running. In May 2009, I signed up with Marathon Coaching Consultants (MCC) and it was the best decision I ever made for my health.

David Allison, Coach and MCC founder, truly motivates and inspires his runners. His experience with the many different aspects of running enables him to build programs for a specific running requirement. He enables his runners to optimize their running potential.

My goals for joining MCC was to start running long distant and complete my first ½ marathon - the PF Chang’s ½ Marathon. When I started with MCC I was running at a 12:30 per mile pace and I could barely get past 2 miles without stopping and panting. By November 2009, I was running over 10 miles and my time had dropped to a 10:30 per mile pace.

On Jan 17, 2010, I ran the PF Chang’s ½ Marathon and did it at a 10:00 mile pace. Not only did my pace improve but my running form was better. In addition, my overall health improved. My cholesterol levels dropped and I have more energy now. Thanks David for your support and guidance!

Karla Sokolovich

I have known Dave Allison for probably 6 or 7 years. Prior to using him as a coach, he became a good friend of mine. We met through a mutual friend of ours and began to train together. Both Dave and I had ambitions of qualifying for the 2008 olympic trials. I can personally attest that Dave as others say can "walk the talk!" I believe that this is a huge admirable quality in being a coach. In order to motivate and encourage others a coach must have endured the pain threshold, injuries, ups and downs, and experience the time management struggles in training for an event as well as the positive outcomes in acquiring a higher level of fitness. I began using Dave as a coach within this past year. I have used a number of coaches in the past. Dave's unique quality in coaching is his creativity. Many of the workouts he assigns I have never done before. He is talented in finding the right balance between track, tempo, long, and easy runs without placing one at a high risk for injury. Plus, Dave has an awesome upbeat, energetic, personality. Dave comes highly recommended by me!!!

Dino Farfante

I have been running for the last 7 years. Going from not being able to run a mile to qualifying for Boston at age 46. In those years, I have run by myself and been part of running groups. I joined David at Marathon Coaching due to recommendations of a number of my running friends. He has a great program that focuses on continuous improvement and has a strong team culture.

Lisa - Age 44

Member MCC for 4 months, runner off and on since college

I have really enjoyed being a part of MCC. I believe MCC offers something for all levels of runners without any emphasis or differential treatment on the level of runner you are. David is the type of coach who took questions from everyone and answered them all with sincere concern using his wealth of knowledge and experience. David is also one of the few team coaches I know that actually got out and ran with the team on occasion. Through David and the MCC program, I have learned I can push myself harder. My overall goal has been to improve my marathon time, which is yet to be determined since the marathon is this weekend, but I have definitely seen improvement in my 1/2 marathon time and I'm hoping this is a good indicator. I have really enjoyed the friendly, supportive team atmosphere as well. I have referred others to David and MCC and will continue to do so.

Horst Schmittenberg - Age 73

A proud member for the last 4 months and a runner (off and on) since school.

David,
This is my first organized and structured coaching program. I felt that without expert coaching – just training by myself- I would only repeat my bad habits and not improve. But now – after joining MCC – and with your expertise (and pushy patience) I have gained stamina and am a better runner – thank you. Also training with others and seeing their joy and improvements is encouraging with a feeling of belonging in a rather solitary activity.
Joining MCC was one of my better decisions.

Jeff Lovejoy - Age 23

Member of MCC for 2 months

Running for two years, and there are witnesses to confirm for at least the last six months, ha ha.

I decided in mid August of 2007 that I wanted to complete a marathon. After 7 weeks of steady progression I determined that I wanted to stay injury free and sought out to find a coach who could direct me in a safe, yet effective way toward achieving my goal. Since I have joined MCC, not only have I gotten some great, structured training, I have also been able to be among some tremendous individuals with all the determination in the world. There is an energy that flows through us all and it inspires me to stay motivated and to push myself toward excellence. Coach Allison provides me with valuable insight on this great sport and keeps it real at the same time. I have already begun setting goals for myself over the next year as I plan to continue my running "career" and look forward to working with Coach Allison and MCC as I achieve them.

David Kovacs

In a little over 4 months I have gone from not being able to run two continuous miles to running two half-marathons and being ready to run my first full marathon. That simply could not have happened without David Allison or the expert training of Marathon Coaching Consultants. Beyond sharing his running expertise, David's love of running has created a truly supportive environment within MCC. Participants sincerely care as much about the success of their running mates as they do themselves and serious runners and novice runners alike share the primary goal of having some serious fun. Thanks for all your help, David!

Lisa Takamiya, Elite Regime (Yoga, Sunrider International and ChiRunning)

I have been a yoga teacher and practitioner for the past twenty years and I have been running for the last three years. I have studied with many teachers and coaches all my life and I have to say David is one of the best I have ever had the opportunity of working with....he truly lives the runner's lifestyle.

He is supportive, patient, enthusiastic, inspiring and knowledgeable. He has given me confidence to trust in myself as a runner so I want to go deeper into my running and yoga practice. I work in a running store and whenever anyone asks me to recommend a coach/running group I never hesitate to recommend David!

Running with MCC

I started with MCC in August – the start of the official training season! I have been involved in running off and on over the years but really became serious about racing and running only about 3 1/2 years ago.

Overall, I have learned to build much greater confidence in my running since I have joined MCC. The training David Allison provides is superior! He’s knowledgeable, open minded, caring and very supportive. The combination of long distance runs, short distance and speed work sessions makes running a marathon achievable for the everyday person who has a full life beyond running.

I know that my body mechanics has improved greatly since training with MCC. I don’t feel as tired while running and my recovery is so much better than in years past. I am a more efficient runner. The area, which I believe has given me these results, has been the track sessions. These are sessions, which are so valuable, is the missing link in other training program or not lead with the individual in mind. Even though we are a group, David Allison KNOWS his runners as the individuals we are. David has gotten to know us as unique individuals who have a shared running goal, not the other way around. This makes all the difference in the world!

Besides the physical conditioning aspects of MCC, the people are AMAZING!!!! Everyone has been so friendly, supportive and encouraging. Being surrounded with people who are supportive and encouraging of your goals is first and foremost in getting anyone on their way to crossing a finish line. Running with such wonderful people makes you look forward to running days not only for yourself, but be there to support everyone else. We have bonded as a group over these past few months not only because we share the same goal, but, because I believe this group/program attracts nice people! As we all know, any group dynamics are the trickle down effect of the leader and that is true with this group. David sets a great tone of serious goal setting in yet a relaxed setting sprinkled with humor and constant support.

I would recommend MCC – and have done so, throughout this training season – to anyone who is looking for a solid, well-rounded training program lead by an awesome coach and terrific people involved.

When we hear that running really starts in the head and in the mind, it is true – being surrounded by this group of wonderful people and Coach David, it is easy to believe you can and before you know it, you’ll be there!

I hit the jackpot when I signed up to train with this program – I couldn’t ask for a better group/program!!!

Bill McGuire - Age 46

Member for 4 months

I think the most important thing I've learned since joining MCC is how to pace myself. That was taught on the track and practiced on our weekly long runs. Knowing the pace that's right for me allowed me to greatly improve my time by controlling my energy for the second half of our long runs (whatever distance it was). It also taught me not to get carried away with the crowd on race days which can lead to burnout. David maintained discipline on the track by requiring us to repeat our pace times. If we ran a lap at 2:05 then every other lap should be 2:05. I didn't think it would matter at first but one week from race day I'm convinced that those little lessons helped make me a better runner.

Beyond all the hard work and preparation for the marathon I have to say that it was also a lot of fun. I've met great people who I can call friends. It's an experience I would do over in a heartbeat and would highly recommend it to anyone who wants to be a better runner, first timers to racing or just looking to do something different. David has been a riot to train with as he's not only a gifted athlete he's down to earth and fun to be with.

Andy Wangrycht - Age 50

I was challenged to run a 5K with two of my daughters. The first one, I barely broke 30 minutes. I ran and walked and couldn't wait to get through the finish line. I kept racing with my kids. Sometime in September 2007, I met up with Dave and MCC. What a change the training and running club has made. Since joining the group, I've run two ½ marathons besting the time on the second. My 5K time is in the 23-24 range. I can almost keep up with my kids. I feel more confident and I am having fun. Dave's no nonsense training style works for me. Dave pushes us in each training session and yet we laugh and have fun at these practices. Those I run with are incredible people, all ages and backgrounds. Many of us have become friends. The comradeship is unbelievable. I plan on continuing my training with Dave and set new goals.

Andy - Age 48

Although I have been heavily involved in a variety of sports at all levels all my life (I am 48), I can honestly say I have never run farther than 3 miles at any one time and even at that you probably would have needed to time me with a calendar vs. a stop watch. My focus was explosive speed over short distances. So, when I, or should I say my wife, decided I should run a marathon I was not convinced I would be able to do so. However since joining MCC in August 07 and working with David Allison, I have found I have been able to do something I never dreamed possible. Through David's enthusiasm, encouragement and training regime, I have been able to continually increase my distances, my pace and mental toughness and completed my 1st ever marathon in 04:59:52 Additionally, I have also been able to meet some truly amazing people of all ages and background. It is great fun and I would recommend David and MCC to anyone interested in obtaining a healthier mind and body.

Denise Smith- Age 55

I have been running off and on (mostly off) for about 25 years, prior to training with David the last race I completed was a 10K in 1992. I started training with David in September (4 months) with the goal of running the P.F. Chang half marathon. It would not have been possible for me to accomplish this goal without the training and camaraderie of the MCC. The long and short runs, along with the track workout helped me to improve to the point where I felt confident enough to run the 13 mile half marathon. My daughters ages 23 and 25 were so impressed with my results that they are considering joining the group.

Holly W. - Age 24

I have always been an active person, but never considered myself a runner until I joined MCC. David and the whole running team really sparked my interest in the whole sport. Six months ago I wouldn't have imagined running 13 miles straight. But after training 3 times a week with MCC I competed in my first half marathon running a time of 1 hr 49 minutes. It's a great feeling to realize the strength and will power one can have. David's passion for running, along with the entire teams encouragement has really inspired me to set new goals for myself. It's been a pleasure being a part of this group, and I definitely plan on continuing my training with MCC.

Alyssa Lout

2007 AZ State HS 100-meter Finalist, and Future Division I Collegiate Athlete

Since I joined MCC I have learned that running is not all about how athletic you are or how "in shape" you are. I was taught the philosophy that if you were very physically tough you would be ready for everything. David Allison (my coach) has taught me that physical toughness will not take you the distance. You must also be mentally tough. You have to really dig deep in order to come out on top. I have also learned that less is more. After having to deal with some time consuming injuries, I learned that you don't have to kill yourself in order to be at the level you want to be at.

I have improved as a person since I joined MCC. I see running differently. I am excited to go to practice everyday and I can see improvement in myself physically and mentally. I feel more confident about myself as a runner. I feel well prepared for my season and I trust my coach.

One thing that I really like about MCC is that I feel important, I matter. I am not just some client, I feel as if I am the ONLY client. When I have practice I feel like it is my time. MCC also gives off a great sense of honesty and respect for the client. I feel like my coach is there for me to better my career in running and not there for his benefit.

I would strongly suggest MCC to others. I think it is a great program for people of all abilities.

Lastly I would like to say that I am truly thankful for everything that David Allison has done for me in my life and my career as a runner. I still have a long way to go but I know he will be there to guide me every step of the way. He is a true inspiration to me and role model I look up to.

Robbi

Coach......I felt like a champion crossing the finish line of my 1st 1/2 Marathon!!!!! As I finished the race I thought about the past couple months and how great this whole team was. From our first phone call to me telling you "I AM NOT A RUNNER" but you making me believe that if I work at it, I can do it!!! Through those rough times and through the aches and pains, you were my biggest motivation. You made me believe that no matter what happened if I kept training I would be ready for this race. Well, coach....I DID IT!!!! I know that running is a personal accomplishment but I could not have done it without you and the MCC team. The MCC team is a great group of people and no matter what your running pace is, you will fit in. David, you are a great coach and I am so happy for you that your dream has come true with MCC.....you deserve it!!! I plan on continuing with MCC to enhance my training and achieve the goal of finishing a full marathon!!!!

Amy

Running has changed my life. In 2004 I started running to lose weight and get back in shape. At that point I couldn't even run a half-mile on the treadmill. I started slowly, increasing my time and distance, and staying dedicated to running. Four years and 75 pounds later, I finished a marathon (and was still smiling and the finish line)!! Now, I can't imagine my life without running as an integral part of it, even though all my friends and family think I'm nuts! Even as recently as August I was only running 3-5 miles, 9 miles being the farthest I had ever run. I knew I wanted to run a marathon but didn't think I could do it on my own and knew I needed support. Finding MCC was the connection I needed. David's approach to coaching is fantastic, he's motivating and encouraging while still realizing that we have outside lives that sometimes take precedence over running. He has helped me to realize that it's okay to take a day off if it means I can come back more relaxed and focused to running the next day. There were times throughout my training for the marathon that David believed in me when I didn't even believe in myself and felt like backing out. It has been so wonderful to develop friends and accomplish goals at the same time. I just moved to Mesa in August and had no friends or people I knew. The running club has been an instant group of people who share similar interests and lifestyles to myself and they have been a wonderful source of laughter, support and fun throughout my training.

Temujin Gold, 26, Professional Triathlete

The first thing that impressed me about Coach Allison was his willingness to work with me. I came to him with no previous run training but he was still eager to help. It was clear to me that coaching wasn't just a job for him, it was a passion. I continue to see that passion at every workout.

Since having started training under Coach Allison I've also been very impressed with his positive coaching style. He pushes me while making the training a fun experience. If I perform under our goal for the workout, he's quick to reassure me and help get me back on track. He's been great at handling the psychological aspect of sport, recognizing the pressure I put on myself, and telling me what I need to hear.

There is a very personal feeling to the training as he gets to know me and works with me. I believe each athlete is different and Coach Allison does a terrific job personalizing the training to suit my needs, working around my other obligations and my own uniqueness as an athlete. Like other successful coaches, I believe he takes an ownership, or accountability for my performance. But at the end of the day I think he would like to see me be successful for my own sake rather than for his own.

Bottom line, I'm a stronger, faster, more confident runner thanks to the training I've done under Coach Allison.

MIchelle B

David,
Thank you for keeping me from going crazy during my own competitive journey. On my 39th birthday, I showed up for my first practice with the goal of running a marathon before my 40th birthday. Not knowing how long it would take to properly train, I thought sooner than later was a better choice. By choosing Marathon Coaching Consultants, I have received a wealth of knowledge and guidance regarding distance and speed training which has left me with the confidence and stamina to obtain my goal. Throughout this time, the most important advice I have received from you is to keep this goal in perspective. That being a wife and working mom is what is important. In addition to your vast knowledge of the marathon experience, you also bring a great sense of humor and some great dance moves!!! Good luck with your MCC adventure.