Endurance coaching

From the outset, my goal was clear: finish in the top 100 at the 2025 Marathon des Sables Legendary—and, thanks to Coach Shard, I proudly crossed the line in 69th place.

My journey began about six months before the race, but it was quickly complicated by a torn meniscus in the early weeks of training. Despite this setback, Coach Shard was incredibly accommodating and developed a sophisticated, tailored programme that balanced my physiotherapist’s guidance, my pain tolerance and the demands of a busy work schedule. The programme was thoughtfully constructed, incorporating variety, strategic de-load weeks and regular fitness checks that made my progress not only measurable but also motivating.

What truly stood out was Shard’s availability and flexibility—adjusting training sessions, intensity, or timing to match whatever life threw my way, whether work commitments or injury niggles. His support and attention to detail gave me full confidence in the process; while I committed fully, I never imagined I would achieve the result I did. The programme was also reasonably priced and exceptional value for the level of coaching provided.

I won’t take on another race without Coach Shard in my corner and I’ll be continuing to work with him to maintain consistency between events. I couldn’t recommend him more highly.

When I first began speaking with Shard about general running advice and my goal of finishing a 12km race in September I was roughly able to run about 4-5km. I was having consistent knee pain as soon as I would hit the 3km mark as well as an elevated heart rate. Shard took one look at my Strava data and instantly had an idea what was happening

Shard devised a training plan for me for 6 weeks which would see me pull right back and start from scratch.

As the weeks went on and the kilometres increased the first thing I noticed was my left knee pain had gone. With the reduced load and slower set pace my body was able to cope. I honestly believe if I had kept going down the path I had set out for myself this knee pain would have only increased and possibly led to an injury preventing me from my end goal.

My heart rate has also dropped by 20bpm in an endurance long run. Again something that without Shard’s expertise I wouldn’t have understood the importance of

Shard always remained in contact checking in on my progress and general thoughts on the plan and how I was adapting to it - especially in peak week when the kilometres had dramatically increased. Always providing words of encouragement right when I needed to hear them.

I was able to successfully complete my race.. 8 minutes quicker than what I had initially intended and at a pace that was perfectly consistent the entire duration. I was even able to actually look around smile and enjoy the experience instead of feeling so fatigued and exhausted.

I’ve never been a runner, I’ve always struggled with running but never quite knew why. All I knew is that is that it was something I wanted to be better at and achieve goals I didn’t think was possible. Now I have my sights set on a half marathon. Words a year ago I wouldn’t have even dared to dream of.

Thank you Shard 🙏🏻

From the outset, my goal was clear: finish in the top 100 at the 2025 Marathon des Sables Legendary—and, thanks to Coach Shard, I proudly crossed the line in 69th place.

My journey began about six months before the race, but it was quickly complicated by a torn meniscus in the early weeks of training. Despite this setback, Coach Shard was incredibly accommodating and developed a sophisticated, tailored programme that balanced my physiotherapist’s guidance, my pain tolerance and the demands of a busy work schedule. The programme was thoughtfully constructed, incorporating variety, strategic de-load weeks and regular fitness checks that made my progress not only measurable but also motivating.

What truly stood out was Shard’s availability and flexibility—adjusting training sessions, intensity, or timing to match whatever life threw my way, whether work commitments or injury niggles. His support and attention to detail gave me full confidence in the process; while I committed fully, I never imagined I would achieve the result I did. The programme was also reasonably priced and exceptional value for the level of coaching provided.

I won’t take on another race without Coach Shard in my corner and I’ll be continuing to work with him to maintain consistency between events. I couldn’t recommend him more highly.

I recently trained for my first ultramarathon, the Sandman 50k Beach Ultra, with Shard as my Coach. From the outset, Shard provided an exceptional training experience. He meticulously programmed and customised my training plan, ensuring it was tailored to my specific needs and abilities.

Throughout my training blocks, he constantly tested and adjusted the program to optimise my performance. Shard's dedication and attention to detail were evident as he regularly checked in on my progress, providing support and making necessary adjustments when any aspect of the training proved too challenging. His expertise and encouragement were instrumental in helping me prepare effectively for the race.

If you are considering taking on your first Ultra, I highly recommend Shard. His personalised approach and commitment to his athletes make him an outstanding coach.

Michael Vukotich