Running and Fitness Training

5/5 stars May 10, 2013

Working with RunnerDude was one of the best decisions I have made with running and overall fitness! Thad is fantastic about working with individuals and their needs and goals which are specific to them. I was able to improve my running time significantly over a few months of consistent training with him.

Cindy S.

5/5 stars April 29, 2013

I love my hometown of Greensboro, NC. At the top of my list of things I love the most is the my adopted running family. I owe this all to a wonderful person by the name of Thad McLaurin, the "RunnerDude"! One can feel the immediate support and admiration there is for our running coach/mentor/personal trainer, Thad, after witnessing the people who surround him. On top of being one of the nicest people I know in GSO, he is certified, knowledgeable, encouraging and is a huge supporter of the running community in and out of town. I'm proud to be part of his running programs, which keep my mind and body strong. Thank you, Thad!

Susanne B.

5/5 stars April 28, 2013

I started running in April, 2011 mainly for fitness and began training with RunnerDude (aka Thad) when I was running about 3-4 miles on my own and wanted to take it to the next level. Thad created a simple, effective 12 week running plan and at the end of the intermediate class I was up to nine miles and had increased my pace. I always looked forward to the bi-weekly workouts and the new friends made since joining the RunnerDude family. Next stop half-marathon.....and didn't even consider training with anyone else. Again, Thad gave me an organized running and workout plan and was always available when questions arose about anything running related. After completing my first half-marathon in April 2012, I decided to try a full marathon in November 2012 - Richmond. Once again, Thad provided an excellent plan and support. I remember many times during a long 15-20+ mile Saturday run seeing the familiar blue RunnerDude's coolers on the route and feeling such relief. Even if Thad was out of town for training to further his education, he always made sure his coolers were out for the runners. I can certainly say that two years ago if someone told me I was going to run a full marathon in the near future, I would have told them they were crazy and I wasn't much of a runner. But, training with Thad has certainly given me the running bug and a great way to meet new friends. If anyone ever asks who to talk to about setting up a running plan, there is only one answer that comes out of my mouth - RunnerDude!

Chad P.

5/5 stars April 28, 2013

I cannot say enough good things about Thad's running program and his approach to overall fitness and health. He has dramatically improved my running and and is a constant supportive voice in my training. I would recommend him to anyone that wants to become a better runner (or just become a runner) or to anyone that wants positive guidance in becoming a healthier person.

Mark W.

5/5 stars April 28, 2013

Thad is wonderful to work with. He listens to what you want & builds a program to fit your needs. I like how he's very encouraging, but is not all in your face yelling!!! Great as both a running coasy & a fitness trainer. Would highly recommend to anyone!

Martha W.

5/5 stars April 28, 2013

Thad has really helped me advance through positive motivation and reinforcement. He is a wonderful coach and mentor. He took me from never running to training for a half marathon...this is something I could have never done on my own.

Amy P.

5/5 stars August 14, 2011

Running, sure I can do that. Strength and fitness, check! I am good to go... NOT! Thad showed me how an all encompassing blend of run training and/or personal fitness is the key to success. I would have never, ever, not in a million years been able to research and execute the variety of programs or techniques he has exposed me to in mere weeks! I am well into my second round of training with him.

Thad will point (and guide) you in the right direction based upon YOUR goals and regardless of how many clients he has, will help you achieve them without compromising that "personalized" trainer feel!

Kevin B.

5/5 stars August 14, 2011

I began running and doing personal training with Thad in September of 2010. I was referred to Thad by a very accomplished collegiate runner and local high school cross country coach. She knew a lot of personal trainers in town and she thought that Thad would be a good fit for me. She was right! I must say that that I was a little apprehensive about working out with a running coach and personal trainer. After all, I was new to running and frankly, out of shape. I soon found out that Thad works with people of all abilities and was excited to help me reach my fitness goals.

I am currently on my 3rd 1/2 marathon training plan with Thad. His training plans are designed to prevent injury and make you a stronger and better runner. I have been very satisfied with my progress over the last year. I am also impressed with Thad's knowledge of nutrition and physiology. He has written various articles about good nutrition and great recipes which can be found on his website. Thad's website also has several articles about injury prevention. Thad's personal training workouts are designed to use all muscle groups which help with strength, balance and stability. I personally like the fact that he also does periodic training assessments that help you measure how you are progressing with your fitness goals.

If you are looking for a very nice, educated, experienced personal trainer/running coach who is reliable and will design a program based on YOUR individual needs, then Thad is your guy.

Reid B.

5/5 stars August 10, 2011

As I was approaching 50 last year I decided to get fit and my husband persuaded me to join Thad's beginners running group. I was not convinced that running was for me but it was one of the best decisions I ever made. Thad was always very helpful and encouraging; we had a lot of fun in our group! Over a year later, I am glad to say that I am still running three times a week, and I owe it all to Thad! I did so well that our daughter joined this summer and has now progressed to the intermediate level. Thanks Thad for helping my family on the road to fitness.

Suzanne M.

5/5 stars August 9, 2011

In the beginning Thad works with a person to determine where they are in their fitness. He will then continue to challenge that person thru out the sessons to improve their level of fitness. He is very knowledgeable in his field and willing to share that knowledge. He is also punctual and always willing to help.

Jim J.

5/5 stars August 9, 2011

I've been working with Thad, The RunnerDude, for over a year now in two 30 minute strengthening sessions a week. What great workouts he designs and what great encouragement he provides. Thad provides full attention during our sessions and ensures I'm using the correct form. He has the ability to pinpoint muscles that I didn't even know existed and with just the right amount of effort. He varies the program and there's always a new strengthening exercise to work on. Despite the effort, I can't remember a session when I didn't laugh at some point - Thad makes it a fun experience. He also developed a couple of excellent stengthening plans that I can use at hotels, when I'm on the road, without having to use the rusted and broken down equipment invariable found there.

Les G.

5/5 stars August 8, 2011

I joined RunnerDude as a beginning runner in April 2011. I have been telling everyone I know what a great beginner runner program Thad has at RunnerDude Fitness. In only 3 months I went from zero endurance and walking only to running 30minutes straight!-and loving it! Thad is patient, supportive, encouraging, and gives you reasonable goals to accomplish. He runs along with us and gets to know all his clients. He has helped me build my confidence and self-esteem as a runner (I can actually call myself a runner now!)
I am now in the Intermediate Running Group and learning how to become an even stronger runner. I am looking to RUN (not walk) my first 5K in only a few weeks.

Kim S.

5/5 stars August 7, 2011

The half-marathon training plan provided by Thad helped me accomplish a new PR. Now I'm returning for the full-marathon program and working towards another PR. Thad is an excellent personal trainer and person. My customized training package is clear, informative and easy to follow. Being a relatively new runner it's especially important to have Thad's expertise at my side. Further, I’m particularly impressed with the generous amount of freebies and discounts offered with this program too! He's always ready with support and encouragement and I highly recommend him to everyone!

Wayne B.

5/5 stars August 7, 2011

I am a new client of Thad's and I'm training for my first marathon, Savannah Rock N Roll. I've known Thad for 7 months, and I'm currently in week 5 of my training. I've been running for over 12 years now: middle & high school track and cross country & cross country in college. Recently I've started to develop a new love for running on my own and have run several half marathons. Training with Thad, I've learned a lot about running that I've never known. He works great with individualizing training and goals. He's very knowledgeable about running, cross training, and injury prevention. I can't imagine training and running a full marathon without his support and the team spirit of our training group! The price is unbeatable, and the experience of training and racing will last a lifetime!

Kristen B.

5/5 stars August 7, 2011

Thad is an outstanding trainer. He knows when to push and when to encourage. He listens in order to understand each person's individual training goals and what they hope to accomplish. He sets ambitious yet obtainable goals. And most important, he is always ready with smiles, support, and motivation. I look forward to Thad's weekly e-mails that include tips and advice and his runnerdude blog is choke full of information. A great runner, great trainer, and great guy, I highly recommend Thad for anyone looking for a running coach or trainer.

Dena H.

5/5 stars August 7, 2011

Thad's marathon training program is the best. He'll give you a customized training plan that is based on a comprehensive fitness assessment. He'll give you guidance on nutrition, hydration, & cross-training, & will take the time to answer any question you can come up with. You'll love the group runs -- a great bunch of people who support & motivate each other, & also have a great time together. And you'll really see an improvement in your running. Do yourself a favor and sign up to train with RunnerDude.

Gary W.

5/5 stars August 7, 2011

Before training with Thad, I was prone to injuries from running around the block and had no stamina. I would easily give up after a couple of months and would come up with excuses not to continue. I couldn't have asked for a nicer and more knowledgeable person to teach me the correct way to run. On top of building my endurance, Thad has introduced me to new personal challenges with running, which I desire to overcome. I am a huge fan of the running groups organized by Thad, because I am highly motivated by the other runners of the same level. Not only is it a pleasure to know Thad, but I have acquired great running partners from within the group. I look forward to going every week. Thank you, Thad!

Susanne B.