Sara Plumstead - Running Coach

Sara Plumstead

Running Coach in Detroit, Michigan, USA

Running and fitness coach based in metropolitan Detroit guiding athletes of all abilities to achieve their fitness goals.

5.0 2 reviews
VDOT Certified V.O2 Certified — built on Jack Daniels' VDOT training methodology for personalized, data-driven coaching.
RRCA Level 1 RRCA Certified — trains coaches in safe running instruction, injury prevention, and race preparation.
Message View coaching options

About Sara

I started running in 2008 after the birth of my second child. Since then I have lowered my marathon time from 3:31 to 3:00, and as a masters runner I still have the dream of breaking three hours in the marathon. In 2012 I began coaching group fitness classes, including: spinning, rowing, strength training, and multi-discipline bootcamps. A few years later I became a VDOT Certified run coach, which allowed me to combine my love of running and coaching. Since that time, I have coached runners of all ages and experience levels from the 5k to ultramarathons. In addition to my run coaching and group fitness certifications, I hold a Master's Degree in Counseling. I utilize this education and training to celebrate the unique strengths of each individual and utilize those to help them achieve their ultimate goals. I am also the mother of two teenage daughters, one of whom has special needs. She has inspired my passion of inclusion in the running community. A coach is not just for the elite athlete. Runners of all abilities can benefit from the guidance of an experienced coach to help them achieve their goals while staying healthy, happy, and injury free.

Coaching Products

Description

You will receive a customized weekly schedule to fit your needs and goals. A weekly email or communication via the VDOT app is included to answer questions, discuss your progress, modify your schedule when necessary, etc. I will always respond to inquiries within 24 hours. An initial intake phone call as well as a pre-race phone call is also included.

Minimum Requirements

None

Communication

1 email per week, unlimited text-messages, 0 calls per month

$100.00 / month

Purchase

Description

You will receive a customized weekly schedule to fit your needs and goals. Unlimited emails or communication via the VDOT app is included to answer questions, discuss your progress, modify your schedule when necessary, etc. I will always respond to inquiries within 24 hours. An initial intake phone call and pre-race phone calls are also included.

Minimum Requirements

None

Communication

unlimited emails, 0 calls per month

$150.00 / month

Purchase

How it works

01.

Choose how you want to work together

Book a consultation, choose a training plan, or start private coaching.

02.

Connect with your coach

Share your goals, experience and upcoming races.

03.

Start training

Get your plan, stay connected and track your progress in VDOT.

Training with Sara

Athlete requirement

I welcome athletes of all ages and levels of experience. The coach/athlete relationship is a two-way street and frequent communication is crucial to success. I like to call it a collaboration. The more feedback I receive from my athletes the better coach I can be for them.

Distances coached

General Fitness, 5km, 10km, 15km, Half Marathon, Marathon , Ultra Marathon

Languages

English

Coaching options

Online/Remote coaching

Specialties

Competitive Runners, Boston Marathon, Cross Training Advice, Beginner Runners, Recreational Runners, Masters Runners

Reviews

5.0
2 reviews
5 - Exellent
4 - Great
3 - Good
DF

Danna Freedman-Shara

Dec 24, 2025

I’ve worked with Sara for almost 5 years, training in everything from the 5K to the marathon. In each event, Sara has provided me with thoughtful, personalized training that helps me be the strongest,... I’ve worked with Sara for almost 5 years, training in everything from the 5K to the marathon. In each event, Sara has provided me with thoughtful, personalized training that helps me be the strongest, healthiest, and fastest version of myself! I am especially grateful for Sara’s responsiveness and real-time adjustments to my training. If I’m not feeling my best, want to incorporate a last-minute race, or need to change my schedule due to travel, Sara quickly adapts my training to my immediate needs. Sara also provides support for the mental side of training. Her counseling background, while not necessary for a running coach, is extremely valuable. Sara is my biggest hype person; she believes in me, my potential, and congratulated me on best and worst days. Sara also is there to remind me that less is often more when it comes to running intensity. Some people need accountability to commit to their plan, while I am someone who needs accountability to not overdo my plan. Sara provides both, whatever the athlete needs. Last, but certainly not least, Sara has a great sense of humor, is a ton of fun, and is an inspiring master’s runner! I feel blessed to have her in my corner as a coach and a friend. If you’re looking for a run coach, Sara should be the one.

RM

Robert Murri

Apr 12, 2022

Great coach

AI Summary Based on information provided in Sara's profile.

Sara, a VDOT O2 and RRCA Level 1 coach with a Master's in Counseling, coaches remotely and offers private plans for runners from 5K to ultra and Boston Marathon hopefuls. A masters runner who cut her marathon from 3:31 to 3:00, she builds individualized, inclusive plans focused on performance and longevity. Learn more.

Frequently asked questions

This coach supports runners focused on General Fitness, 5km, 10km, 15km, Half Marathon, Marathon, and Ultra Marathon with coaching specialities that include Competitive Runners, Boston Marathon, Cross Training Advice, and Beginner Runners.

Yes. Sara Plumstead is currently accepting new coaching clients, and you can reach out directly from this profile page.

Yes. Sara Plumstead coaches Competitive Runners, Cross Training Advice, Beginner Runners, Recreational Runners, and Masters Runners specifically for General Fitness, 5km, 10km, 15km, Half Marathon, Marathon, and Ultra Marathon, tailoring the plan to experience level and race distance together.

This coach currently offers Private Coaching. Product availability can change as the coach updates their marketplace offerings.

I welcome athletes of all ages and levels of experience. The coach/athlete relationship is a two-way street and frequent communication is crucial to success. I like to call it a collaboration. The more feedback I receive from my athletes the better coach I can be for them.

Coaching is available through Online/Remote coaching. Review product details to choose the format that best matches your goals.