Running Coach

What You'll Learn

ISSA's Running Coach program covers
  • The biomechanics of human stride and how to adapt training for different body types
  • Programming strategies and running workouts tailored to each client’s needs
  • Training drills and techniques to build speed, endurance, and strength for runners
  • Methods to prevent and manage common running injuries for long-term performance
  • Coaching skills to motivate runners physically, mentally, and emotionally at every stage
  • Strategies to implement running training into any coach's business whether for groups, weight management, competitive runners, or general enjoyment

What's Included

Our curriculum is designed to give you both scientific knowledge and practical skills to excel as a personal trainer. The program covers everything from anatomy and nutrition to business skills.

Including all these tools to help you pass!
  • 100% online learning so you can learn anytime, anywhere, on any device.
  • Searchable and accessible anytime for quick reference.\n
  • Reinforce your progress with low-pressure quizzes designed to check your understanding along the way.
  • Earn your certification with an online, open-book, open-note exam you can complete on your schedule.
  • Perfect your technique with guided demonstrations that ensure client safety.
  • Explore a visual library of 250+ exercises to build your skills and confidence.
  • Access a support team when you need it, from the time you enroll through certification
  • Build your online presence and showcase your services to potential clients.
  • Network with peers, explore job opportunities, and grow your professional network in our exclusive community.

Certification Process

  • 1
    Enroll in the Program

    Sign up and get immediate access to all course materials and our learning platform.
  • 2
    Pass the ISSA Certification Exam

    Successfully pass your ISSA certification exam.
  • 3
    Upload CPR Card

    Included for free in most bundles or also available separately through ISSA!
  • 4
    Receive Your Certification

    Your hard work pays off - receive your e-Certificate of course completion.

Running Coach

4.7(33 Reviews) Trustpilot

  • Join a global community of over 1 million certified personal trainers

  • Study anytime, anywhere and finish in as little as 4 weeks

  • Engaging learning with a digital textbook, course outline, bonus lecture author Jason Karp. exercise library and exam

With ISSA’s Running Coach certification, you’ll master the science of the running stride, run performance programming, and injury prevention. Learn how to assess body mechanics, adapt training for diverse clients and varying fitness goals, and build dynamic running plans that progress speed, endurance, weight management, and resilience. You’ll also gain insight into motivation, adaptation, and sustainable progressions so clients can run stronger, longer, and healthier. Become the coach runners trust to turn potential into personal bests.
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What our customers are saying

Excellent
33 Reviews
Trustpilot
  • Mar 22, 2026
    I would recommend it
    I would recommend it. I might do the Personal Trainer Course as well to have a good base for my strength training. Verified Customer
  • Jan 1, 2026
    The amt of information about Running coaching is fantastic
    The amt of information about Running coaching is fantastic. I would love to implement every bit Verified Customer
  • Nov 22, 2025
    It is really helpful, give me comprehensive knowledge about running
    It is really helpful, give me comprehensive knowledge about running. I have rsn since 15 years and just know i realized many things about running Verified Customer
  • Oct 2, 2025
    I think as an individual training for different fitness races and training ot...

    I think as an individual training for different fitness races and training others for their race as well, this course helps me to provide a more detailed touch…

    Verified Customer
  • Jun 11, 2025
    Packed full of information
    Packed full of information. Example programming was a huge bonus -- can easily be put into practice for the hands-on learning and experience. Verified Customer
  • Jan 29, 2025
    The ISSA Running Coach certification provided clear and valuable insights int...

    The ISSA Running Coach certification provided clear and valuable insights into effective coaching, training techniques, and injury prevention. It’s a well-struc…

    Verified Customer
  • Jan 18, 2025
    My goals for learning about this running activity were met

    My goals for learning about this running activity were met. It is very important to understand step by step the physiology of running and the adaptations that o…

    Verified Customer
  • Nov 8, 2024
    I'm confident that this program has effectively prepared me to coach runners ...
    I'm confident that this program has effectively prepared me to coach runners from beginner to marathon. Verified Customer
  • Oct 19, 2024
    Needed certification to become a coach for my sons cross country and track teams

    Needed certification to become a coach for my sons cross country and track teams. As a retired Air Force veteran with previous ISSA certifications, this progra…

    Verified Customer
  • Sep 18, 2024
    The course is worth it because it brings together knowledge of physiology, bi...
    The course is worth it because it brings together knowledge of physiology, biomechanics and training techniques and how to run. Verified Customer
  • Sep 17, 2024
    I learned so much about the complex nature of running through this course
    I learned so much about the complex nature of running through this course! I wish I had known this stuff when I ran my first marathon 20 years ago! Verified Customer

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& 
transform the world of fitness

Your purchase is backed by our 100% money-back job guarantee.

Land a position after certification or your tuition is on us.

Why 
It Works

Exclusive Employer Network

Gain direct, priority access to more than 10,000 gyms, studios, and health clubs actively seeking certified talent.

Industry-Respected Credentials

ISSA certifications, including NCCA-accredited options, rank among the most trusted and requested in the fitness industry.

100 % Money-Back Promise

If you don’t receive a job offer within 90 days of passing your NCCPT exam, we’ll refund your tuition in full.

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Frequently
Asked Questions

  • With ISSA, you can become a certified personal trainer in as little as 3 months, although the timeline is flexible since our programs are self-paced. Many students complete their certification while maintaining their current jobs or other responsibilities.

  • ISSA stands out with the #1 Job Guarantee in the industry and our flexible online learning platform. In our Certified Personal Training course, you also have the option to add live sessions to better support your learning. Most importantly - ISSA's certification is recognized worldwide by top fitness employers.

  • With an ISSA certification, you can pursue a variety of career paths in personal training, group fitness, and nutrition coaching. Our certification is recognized by over 10,000 gyms nationwide, giving you access to a wide network of potential employers as you advance in your fitness career. Plus, our job guarantee provides extra confidence in your ability to succeed.

  • ISSA’s Job Guarantee ensures graduates who successfully complete the CPT, NBHWC-approved Pathway and Yoga 200 programs will land a job within 6 months of certification—or they get their money back. The program includes career support and access to a network of over 10,000 gym partners actively hiring trainers.

  • Absolutely! ISSA’s programs are designed with support systems in place to help you succeed. Our courses support a variety of learning styles through a mix of videos and readings. Plus, we include practice quizzes, and some courses include live study groups, so you can confidently prepare for the certification exam.

    Not all courses offer live learning

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