Boston Qualifiers CoachedFirst-Race Finishers
UESCA Certified
I create custom training plans and provide 1-on-1 coaching to help you reach your running goals — whether you're chasing your first 5K or a Boston qualifier.
A few of the athletes I’ve coached through new PRs, big comebacks, and first-time finish lines.
MARATHON
4:05
9:21 per mile
↓
3:26
7:52 per mile
“I was able to improve my time and have consistent months of running. Emily’s advice was always helpful and encouraging.”
Maia N.
MARATHON
3:28
7:56 per mile
↓
3:07
7:08 per mile
“Emily put together a great training program for all of my races. She was able to adjust the plan perfectly to my schedule as needed and it made for a very enjoyable training block!”
Brenden D.
HALF MARATHON
2:18
10:32 per mile
↓
1:56
8:51 per mile
“She created a training plan that felt realistic and manageable — and helped me rediscover the fun in running.”
Laura B.
“I came across Golden Runs while searching for my next marathon. I was signing up for my 12th race but hadn’t done one in six years. I hadn’t considered working with a coach until I read through Emily’s website. I was so impressed after our initial consult that I decided to work with Emily as a coach for this race. I was very nervous about my commitment to my training and Emily was exactly what I needed. She took all the guess work out of the training plan and designed a workout specifically tailored to me. It was perfect. I was able to keep my focus on running and not be overwhelmed with any planning. She also helped me explore fuel options and was always available to connect if needed. I ended up running a great race — I felt so strong and ran much faster than I expected to, thanks to Emily and her expert coaching style. Emily has a smart approach and is very affordable, and I believe she can make a training program work for anyone, no matter where they are in their running journey. Do not look past Golden Runs!!”
Mary F.
“Working with Emily has been a fantastic experience. Emily is extremely knowledgeable about the sport and encourages and supports athletes of all levels. Emily is responsive in her communication with athletes and flexible when things come up and workouts need to be shifted around. Since I started working with Emily, my training has reached new levels and I am doing more structured workouts than I have in a long time. I’ve been able to run my fastest post collegiate times in the 5k and I set a PR in both the half marathon and 15k. I have gained confidence in my running and started to believe in myself and my ability to set PRs again. Thank you for everything Emily!”
Kelsey W.
“Emily’s joy and enthusiasm for running really shines through and got me even more excited to race.”
Tammy C.
“Emily is super knowledgeable. She motivates you while providing individualized advice on training for your race. She is flexible in terms of what works for your schedule and what works for your body. If you are training for a 5K, half marathon or full marathon, definitely consider hiring Emily Taft!”
Theresa D.
“First I want to say that Emily is one of the most enthusiastically encouraging individuals I know. And it feels so genuine. She truly enjoys your success. Secondly, she was able to listen to any concerns or issues I might have had, and gave me advice without forcing her opinion on me. Lastly, I look forward to the opportunity to work with Emily as a coach again! She helped restore my confidence in my abilities.”
Elisa S.
“I really appreciate having had the chance to work with Emily as my coach. I love how positive, grounded and knowledgeable she is. I am so pleased that the training plan allowed me to train hard without injury! I look forward to more training and faster running with Emily as my coach!”
Lara K.
“This was a great program! I normally just run on my own, so having some direction was really helpful. Feeling the difference between the runs at the track when I warmed up properly, and the runs when I just went out the door and took off really demonstrated how much the warm ups matter! Thank you for all the support and enthusiasm! The group runs were a lot of fun (and hard, in a good way). I hope to join in again next year.”
Shannon
“I want to thank you for all your guidance on this journey. It had been years since I embraced long walks or short jogs, you and the team gave me the strength to stay with it. When I started, I could not walk/jog 4 laps without being in pain, Advil became my pal. Now, staying with the training I am able to accomplish 2.5 miles of walking virtually painless!”
Darrilyn
“I really enjoyed Emily’s positivity, encouragement, and practical feedback. Thank you for giving a favorite pastime back to me!”
Kathy
“Thanks for the positive energy and coaching, nothing but good reviews and appreciative.”
Shreyas
Your Coach
Hi, I'm Emily.
UESCA Certified Running Coach
Marathon PR
3:57→2:59
I wasn’t a track or cross-country athlete growing up — I just genuinely loved running. My dad used to bring me to local 5Ks, and I quickly got hooked on the energy and community, even though I was far from the fastest. I tried plenty of other sports and always saw myself as a pretty average athlete, but running was the thing I kept coming back to. Even as a teenager, you could often find me jogging a mile or two around my neighborhood just because it felt good.
It wasn’t until my late twenties that I started working with a coach and following structured training plans. That experience didn’t just improve my race times — it opened my eyes to how much there was to learn about the sport and how much room there was to grow. The progress I saw sparked a deeper passion for running and made me want to help other people experience their own breakthroughs.
Through running, I’ve gained confidence, resilience, and a sense of growth that extends far beyond the miles. I truly believe anyone can be a runner and experience that same kind of transformation. As a coach, I’m here to guide you through your own journey with encouragement, support, and clear, practical guidance every step of the way.
I’m based in Albany, NY, working with runners across the Capital Region — Schenectady, Troy, Saratoga — and remotely with athletes all over the United States.
Coaching
70+
Athletes coached
3+
Years coaching
UESCA certified5K to marathonRemote nationwideFirst-timers to BQ chasers
Running
2:59
Marathon PR
1:19
Half marathon PR
15+
Years running
Boston MarathonNYC MarathonSub-3:00
Pricing
Three ways to work together.
Whether you want ongoing coaching, a plan to run on your own, or just an hour to get expert eyes on what you’re doing — pick the option that fits.
Not sure which one is right for you? Book a free 20-minute consultation and we’ll figure it out together.
Coaching Consult
$100
1-hour session
Credited to your first month if you sign up for ongoing coaching after.
A focused 1-hour video call. Bring your training questions, race plan, or AI-generated workout for an expert review.
