Megan Sloan | Source | Running Technique Specialist (Pose Method) Run Coach: RRCA, USATF, UESCA at S...

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Megan Sloan

Running Technique Specialist (Pose Method) Run Coach: RRCA, USATF, UESCA at Smith Physical Therapy + Running Academy
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Megan was a patient at Smith Physical Therapy and Running Academy (a few times!) before she joined the team in March of 2021. She graduated from the University of Illinois in 2010 with a degree in Communications. Since then, her experience in health & fitness, chiropractic offices, and education, have helped shape her into a very well-rounded professional. Megan is an RRCA, USATF, and UESCA Ultra Running certified running coach and has been coaching runners of all ages for over 10 years. Having finished 18 marathons and 10 Ironman triathlons, she is no stranger to stepping outside of her comfort zone. She believes that hard work, discipline, and a positive and open mind can get you what you are striving for.

Megan has been a part of the McHenry County community since the ripe age of 10 years old and does not plan on leaving anytime soon. Her heart belongs in Crystal Lake with her husband Robert. Megan is an avid runner and triathlete with a passion for good food and competition.

Megan is the Director of Special Programs for Smith Physical Therapy+. She is also a Running Technique Specialist (Pose Running Method) and Run Coach: RRCA, USATF, UESCA Ultra Running). She runs various Run Clubs throughout the year. Megan also serves as a Lululemon Ambassador for Running, Board Member for Girls on the Run and Lifetime Fitness Run Club Coordinator.

Certifications:
- USATF, USA Track and Field certified coach
- RRCA (Road Runners Club of America) certified coach (this is best for your 5k-marathon distance runners.
- UESCA Ultra Running (United Endurance Sports Coaching Academy) - Best for any race over a marathon.

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  • Mastering Marathon Training: The Art of Rest Days
    Megan emphasizes the importance of listening to your body, suggesting 1-2 rest days weekly, with options for active recovery like yoga or cycling. She advises assessing if active recovery benefits you and stresses the need for unscheduled rest when fatigue hits. As race day approaches, more rest is crucial, with short intensity bursts to maintain mental focus.
  • First-Time Half Marathoners: Essential Training and Race Day Tips
    Megan advises starting with a base of 3-mile runs and training 3-5 times weekly. "Incorporate strength workouts twice a week," she says, and aim for a 10-mile long run. On race day, plan your morning, hydrate, and fuel properly. Lay out gear the night before and allow extra time for parking and warm-up. Flexibility in training is key.
  • Marathon Training: Progress Over Perfection
    Megan emphasizes that marathon training is about progress, not perfection. Key indicators of fitness improvement include increased weekly mileage, quicker recovery times, and consistent effort in speed workouts. She advises runners to focus on these metrics rather than obsessing over perfect paces, ensuring a balanced and effective training cycle.
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