Private Running Training & Coaches in Santa Monica, CA

Mike has been a running coach and performance specialist since 2006. Mike has guided more than 1000 athletes to a wide spectrum of goals, from ages 8 to 80, from 5k to marathon, including former couch potatoes, as well as Olympic hopefuls. He is a former track & field coach and physical education teacher at the prestigious Sidwell Friends School, and has taught an undergraduate performance psychology course at George Washington Univ and Marymount Univ. Mike has published a book on run training.

Lydia Gonzalez-Hardie is a passionate sports professional with extensive experience across the sports industry, supporting major brands, teams, athletes, and agencies in achieving their organizational, branding, and community goals. Known for her creativity, communication skills, and strong network of connections—from grassroots programs to professional sports front offices—Lydia has built a career grounded in purpose, teamwork, and impact. She is currently launching her own youth-focused health and wellness venture, LG Athletics, LLC, which aims to empower young athletes through sports, mentorship, and holistic fitness. Her professional background includes working with Sports Media World, a sports PR agency, and contributing to the NBA’s “NBA Cares” community relations program. Lydia also serves as an event coordinator for NBA All-Star Weekend and supports other league-wide initiatives. Prior to these roles, Lydia spent 15 years at Nike, Inc., where she worked in Digital Sports Marketing and across the footwear, training, and women’s performance categories—helping lead projects in product research, development, and sales. She later joined the New York Road Runners organization, serving in Youth and Community Services for five years. Lydia’s hands-on coaching experience spans over a decade. She has served as an Athletic and Strength & Conditioning Coach at Brooklyn Friends School, overseen the Athletic Department at Notre Dame Academy, and worked as Head Track & Field (Long Distance) Coach at Windward School. Additionally, she has collaborated with the Kobe Bryant Academy and the Los Angeles Lakers’ Youth Basketball Camps, fostering athletic development and sportsmanship in young athletes. Throughout her 25+ years in the industry, Lydia has become known as a detail-oriented and motivational coach who not only helps athletes improve their technique but also builds meaningful relationships that inspire growth and confidence. Outside of her professional life, Lydia enjoys running, basketball, traveling, working out, and spending quality time with her family. She remains deeply involved in community service and youth programs, reflecting her lifelong commitment to giving back through sports. Specialties: • Youth Sports Development & Health/Wellness Programming • Event Coordination (NBA, USA Track & Field, All-Star Weekend) • Sports Marketing, Branding & Public Relations • Coaching: Strength & Conditioning, Track & Field, Basketball • Athlete Relations & Community Engagement

"Coach Lydia is awesome. She's super nice, knowledgeable, and genuinely cares about helping you achieve your goals. I strongly recommend her to anyone who is looking for a coach at any stage of training. She's flexible and patient and a fun person.

As a certified running coach through the RRCA, and a personal trainer certified by NASM, I bring a form-focused approach to help you achieve your goals by becoming stronger and pain free. I’m passionate about sharing my knowledge to make your running journey successful and enjoyable.