Name/Username: Cindy (SheHulk)
Race/Distance: Mother's Day 10 Miler
Training Plan Duration (weeks): 10 weeks
Continuous or Run/Walk: Continuous
Days per Week: 5
# of Hard Days (per week): 1
Peak Week Duration: 6:19:23
Peak Week Mileage: 33.8
Peak Single Run Duration: 2:00
Peak Single Run Mileage: 11 mi
PR at Distance Going into it (including when it occurred): 1:46:34
Expectations Going into it: ?? Sub 1:40:00
How closely were you able to follow the plan as written: Pretty much to the 'T'. I admit I did shave a half mile off of many of my cooldown segments at the end of a hard run, just because I've been pressed for time sometimes on Wednesdays
Testimonial:  This was maybe my 10th plan from you Billy. I've been steadily improving despite getting older through my 40s, as well as developing hypothyroidism and needing treatment for that along the way. Of course coronavirus and related race and other shutdowns have been tough, but I was able to follow the plan very closely. I feel like an old hand at this point and that you know me well, so there were very few surprises.
The race was a surprise though: I earned a 9-minute improvement on my previous 10-mile PR and won an age group prize in this small race! This is something that had seemed out of reach for me. It's wasn't a surprise to you, apparently, as I came in very close to the race time you predicted given my training. Thanks again Billy. I could have never improved so much without you.

Name/Username: Todd Merriett (dobball23)
Race/Distance: Half Marathon (13.1 miles) time trial
Training Plan Duration (weeks): 19 weeks
Continuous or Run/Walk: Continuous run
Days per Week: Five days of running per week
# of Hard Days (per week): 1-2
Peak Week Duration: 7:39:50
Peak Week Mileage: 54.66
Peak Single Run Duration: 2:27.11
Peak Single Run Mileage: 18.00 miles
PR at Distance Going into it (including when it occurred): 1:36.02 (October 2020)
Expectations Going into it: I felt like I could do a 1:36-1:38 with the right conditions, but to not disappoint myself I was going to be pleased with a 1:40.00. The conditions ended up being very favorable and I was able to exceed all expectations.
How closely were you able to follow the plan as written: I followed it very closely, but did have a small hip flexor issue that caused me to not run from March 24 through March 28. I ended up just pushing my training plan back a week. After that, I was not as religious about doing McMillan Legs, and by the end of my plan had stopped doing McMillan Legs in fear of injury. I was able to complete all the runs, and as I tend to do, I went a little fast on most of them. This plan helped me get through running in the winter months outside for the first time.
Testimonial: I set a new PR at 1:34:25 during a solo time trial!  Even though he would probably say I'm doing the work by going out every day and running, Billy's plans seem to be magic. Thanks to his data-driven approach, I keep getting faster even though I am now north of 40 years old. The variety in the plan keeps things fresh, and it provides accountability. Even when the weather is bad or I don't feel like running, I look at the entire plan and that gives me the motivation to get my run in. After working with Billy on a number of training plans, I know if I do the work, the end result will be something I am proud of.

Name/Username: Derek/Donna, DisneyGpa/DisneyGma
Race/Distance:  10k
Training Plan Duration (weeks):  11 weeks
Continuous or Run/Walk:  Derek-Run, Donna-Run/Walk
Days per Week: Derek-5, Donna-4
# of Hard Days (per week):  Derek-2, Donna-0
Peak Week Duration: Derek-6:23, Donna-3:02
Peak Week Mileage:  Derek-29.7, Donna-12.45
Peak Single Run Duration:  Derek-1:59, Donna-1:21
Peak Single Run Mileage:   Derek-11, Donna-5.5
PR at Distance Going into it (including when it occurred):  Derek- 1:01:11, 4-5-19 Tulip Festival 10k, Donna- No PR, new distance

Expectations Going into it: Derek- try to run 10k in under 1-hour, ultimate goal was to run this at 57:24.  Donna- no time expectation, goal according to her was “not to die”!

How closely were you able to follow the plan as written:  Plan was followed as closely as possible.  We only missed a few of the short runs.  Always made the long/hard runs.

Testimonial:  This was my fourth training plan and Donna’s first.  As usual, Billy provided a great plan!  I am happy to say that Donna’s goal of “not dying” was accomplished.  Though we did not quite reach our time goals.  We both reached our personal goals. 

We asked Billy to provide us with a plan that took into consideration Donna being a run/walker and me being a runner.  The plan had to include me running all of Donna’s run/walks and a separate run for myself.  For me, it had some challenging hard runs as well as some nice relaxing long runs.  For Donna, it started easy, added distance gradually and helped build her confidence that she could go farther than she expected!

The greatest accomplishment of this training plan may have had nothing to do with time and distance.  It was a plan that allowed us to get out and do our runs together, it has planted the seeds of confidence and dedication.  It showed the importance of setting goals and putting in the necessary work to reach those goals!

Name/Username: JeffW
Race/Distance: Long View Half Marathon
Training Plan Duration (weeks): Originally planned for 12 weeks, extended to 14 weeks due to original race cancellation
Continuous or Run/Walk: Continuous
Days per Week: 5/4 repeating (9 days of running every 14 days)
# of Hard Days (per week): 1
Peak Week Duration: 7 hours
Peak Week Mileage: 44 miles
Peak Single Run Duration: 2.5 hours
Peak Single Run Mileage: 16 miles
PR at Distance Going into it (including when it occurred): 1:44:25 (Sept 2018)
Expectations Going into it: Training plan targeted 1:52 finish
How closely were you able to follow the plan as written: Only missed 2 runs during the 14 weeks
Testimonial: I spent the previous year doing a lot of long distance training for numerous marathons and a 50k, so I hadn't done any speed work in close to 18 months. I wanted to start working back toward a 1:45 half marathon, but not all at once. With COVID, and all of the uncertainty around races being canceled, I just picked a local race 12 weeks out. Billy had created a successful Marathon plan for my Marathon PR a few years ago, so I asked for his help again. After talking back and forth with Billy about goals and current fitness, we decided on a plan and paces, and they ended up being spot on! My original race was canceled about half way through, so Billy was able to modify the plan to add 2 weeks to catch another race. The balance of speed work, distance, and running 9 days every two weeks (a rotating 5 day/4 day pattern) kept me healthy. I felt great going into race day, feeling like I was ready for 1:52. I was actually in good enough shape to run 1:49:19, running more than 10 sec/mi faster than plan. The taper perfectly balanced reducing distance but maintaining speed. Thanks again Billy!

Name/Username: Kerry1957
Race/Distance:  Run the Bluegrass Half Marathon October 3, 2020
Training Plan Duration (weeks):  13
Continuous or Run/Walk:  Run/Walk
Days per Week:  5
# of Hard Days (per week):  1
Peak Week Duration:  7:30
Peak Week Mileage:  36
Peak Single Run Duration:  2:30
Peak Single Run Mileage:   12
PR at Distance Going into it (including when it occurred):  2:30:32 Spring, 2019

Expectations Going into it: I run several runDisney races a year and the minimum time to get into a "timed" corral decreased this year from 2:45 to 2:30 for a HM. My original goal was to shave off 33 seconds from my existing HM PR to get under 2:30.

How closely were you able to follow the plan as written:  I made all 63 training runs on the day they were scheduled (being recently retired helped). I had only 1 speed day that I was not able to keep up the paces on my plan.

Testimonial:  This was my fourth training plan from Billy so I knew what to expect and had confidence I would be successful ("trust the plan" as Billy always says). My previous plans were either 4 days a week or alternating 3/4 days a week. Billy encouraged me to ramp up to 5 days a week for this plan. I was a bit concerned at first because I thought that the added days would put me at greater risk of an overuse injury. That concern proved unfounded and I stayed healthy throughout the plan. The extra day allowed for a "speed day" which I very much enjoyed, even though what I call speed are other runners' easy paces. I also liked those days when I would run at HM pace for a few miles. Since so much of the plan is at an easy pace (13 minute miles for me) I wanted to feel what HM pace (under 11 minute miles) would be on race day

Although my original goal was 2:29:59, Billy believed that I was potentially capable of beating 2:19. I mentally added a stretch goal of 2:25 half way through the plan. Everything seemed to fall into place on race day. Race day weather was perfect for running and the course was beautiful, but hilly. I thought I started out a bit too fast (as I always seem to do), but I was able to hold a 10:45 pace very consistently throughout the race and finished with a 9 minute PR of 2:20:52. My heart rate stayed right in the moderate range averaging 140 and I finished strong. My hips and quads were a bit sore the next day, but overall I felt better than after my last 5 or 6 HMs.

One of the best aspects of Billy's plans is that they are very individualized. I am an older, slower, walk/runner and the plans work for me as well as they do for younger and faster runners. Thanks Billy!

Name/Username: Todd/dobball23
Race/Distance: Valley Forge Half Marathon 13.1 miles
Training Plan Duration (weeks): 18 weeks - 4 weeks = 14 weeks (after subtracting injury time and running race one week early)
Continuous or Run/Walk: Continuous run
Days per Week: Typically 5 days
# of Hard Days (per week): 2
Peak Week Duration: 7:20.48
Peak Week Mileage: 52.6
Peak Single Run Duration: 2:11.02
Peak Single Run Mileage: 16 miles (13 at LR, FF 3 at M)
PR at Distance Going into it (including when it occurred): 1:39.08 (May 6, 2017 - River Towns Half Marathon, Danville, Pa.)
Expectations Going into it: Hoping to go faster than 1:40.00
How closely were you able to follow the plan as written: I felt like I was able to follow it pretty closely. I did most of the runs up until my hamstring injury. I did have to cut the plan short due to signing up for a race a week early. I did tend to go a little faster than many of the prescribed speeds. I do like the goal speeds in the plan, though.
Testimonial: I would be lost without Billy's training plans. I hope he continues writing them until I can no longer run! They are based on specific data and really work. I've completed a few plans Billy has created for me and I learn a little more about myself and running with each one. They are challenging and make me a better runner. Initially I thought running slower for the majority of runs would not work, but it has helped me improve as a runner, and I recently lowered my half marathon PR by more than three minutes even though I crossed into a new age group (40+). I've never met Billy in person, but I often hear his voice in my head reminding me of things he's written. My entire family is familiar with him given how much I quote his philosophies/data/analytics as I'm talking about my running.

Name/Username:  Chris S (surfde22)
Race/Distance:   Twin Cities 10k - Virtual
Training Plan Duration (weeks):   14
Continuous or Run/Walk:  Continuous
Days per Week:  5
# of Hard Days (per week):  2
Peak Week Duration: 5:43:48
Peak Week Mileage:  33.55 miles
Peak Single Run Duration:  1:54:19
Peak Single Run Mileage:   12.01 miles
PR at Distance Going into it (including when it occurred):  51:53

Expectations Going into it: My goal was to set a new PR for the 10k with a stretch goal of going sub-50 minutes

How closely were you able to follow the plan as written:  I was able to stick to about 90% of the training plan. I had some illness at one point, then we sold our house and were busy packing, which got in the way of a few runs.

Testimonial:  Billy put together a comprehensive and detailed plan. He is also available to answer any questions I had. I was able to stick to the plan for the most part, and the runs I did miss were not due to it being to hard, but instead life just got in the way some. The variety of run and balance of hard runs vs easy left me feeling strong and confident going into the virtual run. I was able to take almost 3.5 minutes off of my PR and finish my 10k well under the 50 minute time I was targeting. I can't thank Billy enough for putting together the training plan, and will likely be reaching out to him again as I figure out what and when my next race is in this crazy COVID world.

Name/Username: Kellie / QueenFernando
Race/Distance:  Orlando Half Marathon
Training Plan Duration (weeks):  12
Continuous or Run/Walk:  Continuous
Days per Week: 4
# of Hard Days (per week):  2
Peak Week Duration: 9:37
Peak Week Mileage:  27
Peak Single Run Duration:  3:27 (Wine&Dine was about a month before my goal race)
Peak Single Run Mileage:   13.1
PR at Distance Going into it (including when it occurred):  3:34 (2/24/2019)
Expectations Going into it: 

I really didn’t know what to expect.  Going into my goal race I hadn’t really pushed it at the half marathon distance.  I was very nervous!  (Ended up PRing by 40min!)
How closely were you able to follow the plan as written:  99%  I don’t think I missed a run.  I may have cut a couple short or slowed the easy pace due to heat, but Billy wrote my plan so that I could flex my days each week as needed due to work/family/life.  This allowed me to do the plan as written and not stress about how to fit it into my life.

Testimonial: 

I had completed a 12 week couch to 10k program.  For a couple of months I tried planning my weekly runs around easy, tempo, long, and intervals.  But I really didn’t know what I was doing.  Per Billy’s analysis of my current (at the time) running, I was putting in too much “hard” effort every week.  I would have burned out if I had kept that up.  It was really taking a toll on my body.  Now, with Billy’s plans I look forward to every day that I run, and my body feels stronger instead of feeling beat up.  He is so good at customizing the plan around my life that it is simple to hit the plan near 100%.  Which, obviously, creates the best outcome.  It constantly amazes me how far I’ve been able to progress with my running.  I’m so excited about what I will be accomplishing over the next few years following Billy’s plans! 

Name/Username:  Dara/ dmross

Race/Distance:  WDW 2020 Marathon

Training Plan Duration (weeks):  19 total (9-2-2019 to 01-12-2020)

Continuous or Run/Walk: Run Walk (Run 75 sec, Walk 30)

Days per Week: 3 alternating with 4

# of Hard Days (per week):  1

Peak Week Duration: 4:49 hours

Peak Week Mileage:  20.5 miles

Peak Single Run Duration:  1:55

Peak Single Run Mileage:   9 miles

PR at Distance Going into it (including when it occurred): 5:36

Expectations Going into it: To finish without injury, pace at 14:30 to 15 min/mile which is my Easy Pace this training cycle.

How closely were you able to follow the plan as written:  After revisions, EXACTLY

Testimonial: 

I registered for the WDW Marathon almost a year prior to the race. My last half marathon was at Kings Mountain, very hill, at 2:50.  My HM PR is 2:25.  So I was anticipating an improvement over a very rough WDW in 2016 that was over 6 hours and NOT FUN.  My goal was 5:30-ish which is about at 12:45 min mile.  In July, I had a job change that included full-time during the week, plus working every weekend between November 23 and January 3 except for Thanksgiving and Christmas weekends.  With this change, there was no way I could train as planned.  I had to give up my plan to hit 5:30, and just plan to finish.  Billy adjusted my plan with my weird life restrictions and we came up with the idea to alternate 3 and 4 day running weeks, move my longer runs to Thursday and Friday, and change my goal to finishing safely.  It's the strangest plan I've ever completed, considering my longest run was a 9 miler after a 6 miler the previous day.  It was based on Daniel's training, and I just had to trust it. 

My last 2 marathon training plans were very traditional.  One included several 20+ runs on weekends.  The other included going over 26 miles before the race.  I finished both using a similar walk run ratio to this run.  The main difference is that I was no more sore, tired, or stressed doing this plan than I was with the other two runs.  Due to the heat, the 2020 WDW marathon was shortened, and after the Blizzard Beach section, the runners rejoined our course to the finish.  That meant that the course got very crowded and was mostly walking  from 20-ish through to the end.  So I chose to do more walking and switch to 30 sec run, 75 min walk so that I didn't have to swerve and pass.  It was fine and fit with my plan.  Billy's coaching allowed me to come to Florida, enjoy the race, and finish without hurting myself or putting my health at risk.  By the end of this plan, 6 miles felt like 2, and 9 miles felt like 4.  That was my subjective measurement that something was working.  I can't wait to try another plan to improve my time now that my work life has calmed down and I have my weekends back!

Summary: 

First Marathon in 2015 was 8.5 out of 10 on difficulty using Galloway plan.

Second Marathon in 2016 was 9 out of 10 difficulty (heat, missed several training runs in the last 6 weeks) was using recycled plan from 2015.

Third Marathon (2020 WDW) was 6.5/10 difficulty with Blaser "Daniels-style" plan, executed plan with no missed training.  The biggest change in difficulty was due to the fact that I had a "finish" goal, so I went with the flow and did no pushing at all.

Name/Username: Canglim52
Race/Distance: Marathon 
Training Plan Duration (weeks): 18 weeks 
Continuous or Run/Walk: Continuous  
Days per Week: 6 
# of Hard Days (per week): alternating 3,2,3,1 
Peak Week Duration: 11:35:03 
Peak Week Mileage: 80.4
Peak Single Run Duration: 3:00:08 
Peak Single Run Mileage: 20
PR at Distance Going into it (including when it occurred): 3:24:12 
Expectations Going into it: Goal was to break 3, but I was definitely nervous about that pre race 
How closely were you able to follow the plan as written: Didn’t miss a day, but I had a few aborted/modified runs early on and one right before taper. 
Testimonial: Billy encouraged me to sign up for the Chicago Marathon Lottery last year, so I agreed and got in first try! Billy involved me from the start, crafting a plan that would be the most challenging yet. The plan had elements of Hansons and Daniels, and had a easy step back week every 4th week. We had talked about adding doubles, breaking 10 hours per week, and increasing the intensity safely. All these elements were involved, while also building on areas that I struggled with in previous plans. Early on I had a hard time completing workouts due to some extremely hot temperatures, but Billy encouraged me and held me accountable when I needed it. He kept me on course and gave me plenty of pacing advice. He also reassured me that effort is more important than pacing in hot conditions and that my work would pay off. By the end of the plan, I had improved my pacing for hard long runs and I was the most fit I’ve ever been. His advice on my pacing led to another negative split, and I felt well prepared throughout the race. I set two more PRs in this race, my 6th plan with Billy. I dropped my marathon PR from 3:24 to 3:01, while dropping my half marathon PR by over a minute… It was another amazing experience, and I’m looking forward to a 7th Plan.

Name/Username: dis_or_dat
Race/Distance:  Zombie Runner Half Marathon
Training Plan Duration (weeks):  18
Continuous or Run/Walk: Continuous
Days per Week: 6
# of Hard Days (per week):  2
Peak Week Duration: 7:46
Peak Week Mileage:  52.4
Peak Single Run Duration:  2:15:05
Peak Single Run Mileage:   16.5
PR at Distance Going into it (including when it occurred):  1:39:41 (9/18/2016)

Expectations Going into it: attempt at NYC qualifying time (1:37)

How closely were you able to follow the plan as written:  never skipped a day, however, needed to pause in middle of several runs because of difficulty; had to cut 1 run short

Testimonial: 

Trust the training. Under Billy's guidance, I had a hugely successful marathon (BQ on my first marathon), but barely missed NYC Marathon time qualifying standards and my ego dictated that I try to qualify with a half marathon time building on the fitness from the marathon training cycle. However, I had major doubts that I could run 1:37 having made sub 1:40 by the skin of my teeth several years ago under a different training method. Billy assured me that with proper training, I could even run a 1:35 half marathon. That sounded preposterous, but I dutifully followed his plan. This time I struggled to complete the runs, stopping midway several times, especially tempo runs. Feeling dejected, I questioned whether I could ever achieve 1:37 but Billy encouraged me to keep going and I crushed it on race day! I ran faster than I ever could have imagined and faster than the tempo pace I could never hold during training! I usually fade and struggle the last few miles of halfs, but this time I ran my last mile at 6:59 pace and even kicked a bit at the end despite slippery conditions. Even with a wrong turn, I was able to PR by almost 4.5 minutes: 1:35:13!

Name/Username: Chaitali 
Race/Distance: 2019 Disney World full marathon
Training Plan Duration (weeks): 11 weeks, flowed straight into this from half marathon training
Continuous or Run/Walk: run/walk
Days per Week: 5
# of Hard Days (per week): 1 most weeks, sometimes 2
Peak Week Duration: 480 minutes
Peak Week Mileage: 31 miles
Peak Single Run Duration: 185 minutes
Peak Single Run Mileage: 14 miles
PR at Distance Going into it (including when it occurred): Second marathon attempt, but didn't finish the first.
Expectations Going into it: Just wanted to finish
How closely were you able to follow the plan as written: according to my Garmin, there were only two weeks when I didn’t get all five runs in.  That was due to having problems with foot pain, that was resolved when I eventually got fitted for shoes again and ended up in different shoes.  I did sometimes replace one easy run per week with the elliptical.

Testimonial: I tried to run the Disney full marathon in 2018 and was swept at mile 20 because my knee seized up and I could just hobble along toward the end.  It was really disheartening because I followed all the traditional advice.  I got in a 20 mile training run, did all the long runs plus one day of speed work per week, etc.  I kind of felt like maybe marathons weren’t for me since I was so slow and maybe it was too much for my body.  But Billy reached out and told me he’d be willing to help if I wanted to try again.  I read up on his philosophy about training and limiting long runs to a certain length plus cumulative fatigue from back to back runs.  It sounds so counter to all the other training plans out there, but I already knew the traditional training plans didn’t work for me and if I was going to try again, it had to be something different.  I am so glad I put my faith in Billy!  It was hard for me to believe that I could finish a marathon with my longest run only going up to 14 miles but it worked!  I felt good during the whole race except for the heat, and finishing the marathon this year was one of my proudest moments.  My quads were sore the next day but I was almost back to normal by two days after the marathon and no soreness at all by the third day after the race.  The training definitely prepared me well for the race.  Billy also made the training as easy and clear as possible.  I like that the plan gave me clear instructions for what pace each training run should be, what mileage, etc.  all I had to do was follow instructions, I didn’t have to try to figure things out myself.  I also liked the variety in the plan with the cut back weeks every other week, different types of speed work, and incorporating tempo paces into the long run.  The tempo paces toward the end of the long run really seem like they helped prepare me for the race.  The training plan was really personalized with the paces being extrapolated from a recent 5k and built around the number of days I felt like I could reasonably fit in my schedule. Billy was flexible and created the plan around my schedule and even allowed consideration for cross training I wanted to keep doing (body pump weight lifting classes and yoga). Anytime I had questions, I was able to reach out and Billy answered them clearly and quickly.  He never made me feel like I was reaching it too much or taking too much of his time.  And he never made me feel bad for being so slow.  He was always supportive and encouraging. I don’t think I could have done this without Billy’s help and I look forward to working with him again in the future!  I would highly recommend his coaching to anyone.

Name/Username: dis_or_dat
Race/Distance: marathon
Training Plan Duration (weeks): 20
Continuous or Run/Walk: continuous
Days per Week: 6
# of Hard Days (per week): 3
Peak Week Duration: 8:02
Peak Week Mileage: 54.6
Peak Single Run Duration: 2:38
Peak Single Run Mileage: 20
PR at Distance Going into it (including when it occurred): 43:31 10k (short) 6/2018; first marathon
Expectations Going into it: wanted to BQ
How closely were you able to follow the plan as written: never missed a run (even with the flu, bronchitis, cracked ribs) except the first week due to hazardous air quality. Had problems with tempo pace when mixed in with long runs due to a variety of reasons/excuses (headwinds, cracked ribs, difficult trail) and some of the 3k pacing. 

Testimonial: I first ran across Billy's blog trying to achieve a half goal using Hanson's plan and constantly peppered him with annoying questions. He patiently explained concepts like lactate threshold and tweaked my plan and I attained my goal!  I asked him for a custom plan for another PR and was more than halfway through when I found out I was pregnant.  I felt very strong up to that moment and wonder what I would have accomplished if I had finished it.  So when I was finally ready to dip my toe back into racing, I knew who to turn to.  It was a tall order: help me BQ on my first and only marathon.  Billy was able to work around my many scheduling limitations and adjusted the plan to help build my mental confidence.  I thought his pacing was aggressive since I hadn't trained in over a year and only done a 10k, but he reassured me that I could do it.  But I still sent him random panicked emails especially when I couldn't maintain paces and he was always very responsive and helped talk me out of dark places.  As the race neared, I questioned whether I could achieve my goal, but he gave me a great race strategy, help put my race day weather in perspective, and settled my nerves even though he had a lot on his plate.  He was right, after completing his plan, I was physically ready and succeeded beyond my wildest dreams!  I ran conservatively, which led me to Boston Qualify by over 10 minutes and win my age group! I ran my first negative split race, finished strong, and felt great! 

Name/Username: Lesley/ lahobbs4
Race/Distance: 2019 Dopey - 48.6 miles over 4 days (5k+10K+HM+M)
Training Plan Duration (weeks): 15
Continuous or Run/Walk: Run/Walk
Days per Week: 4
# of Hard Days (per week): 1-2
Peak Week Duration: 7:25
Peak Week Mileage: 35.5
Peak Single Run Duration: 2:52 (I went an even 3 hours)
Peak Single Run Mileage: 15 miles (training called for 4.5)
PR at Distance Going into it (including when it occurred): I will use my previous marathon PR - 6:41 (new marathon PR during Dopey is 5:40!!)
Expectations Going into it: To finish Dopey strong and have a confident re-do of my tragic first marathon attempt!
How closely were you able to follow the plan as written: Pretty closely, minus a few weeks of family interruptions and illnesses
Testimonial: Billy's plan could not have worked better for me! I've only been running for almost 3 years now and have always used run/walk/run. Billy was able to set very realistic paces and intervals for me. Closer to Dopey day, I seriously questioned his methods of not "running 20 miles before a marathon" but he was right! I felt tired after the marathon (naturally) but could still walk just fine and my body recovered easily. I will never train another way!

Name/Username: Keith Wood
Race/Distance: Walt Disney World 2019 Marathon
Training Plan Duration (weeks): 19 weeks 
Continuous or Run/Walk: Continuous Run
Days per Week: 5 days per week
# of Hard Days (per week): 1 to 2 hard days per week
Peak Week Duration: 6:26:06
Peak Week Mileage: 41 miles
Peak Single Run Duration: 2:27:55
Peak Single Run Mileage: 16 miles
PR at Distance Going into it (including when it occurred): Walt Disney World 2018 Marathon 1/7/18 3:54:56 
Expectations Going into it: My goal was to set a new Marathon PR by breaking 3:40:00 under optimal conditions with Temperature + Dew Point < 100
How closely were you able to follow the plan as written: In the 19 weeks of training I only missed 1 running day, an Easy Run
Testimonial: I ran my first Marathon in January 2017, my goal was first just to run one before I turned 40 and second to break 4 hours, I put in about 450 miles of training in all of 2016 and ran 3:58:30 with 3 months to spare. I then caught the bug and thought I could run faster than that, I figured I would just run more and it would take care of itself. In 2017 I logged over 1,200 miles and thought I would be better off for the January 2018 Marathon, but only improved my time by 3 minutes and 34 seconds and that obviously wasn't the result that i had been looking for. I then found out about Billy's training plans through the Disboards and contacted him about what I might do to improve for my January 2019 Marathon. Billy asked me a bunch of background questions to get an idea of my running ability, the training that I typically did, in addition to other information that he used to develop the best personalized distance running program that I have ever seen. I began the program in September and would ask Billy questions throughout the week, and he would always get me feedback typically by the end of the day that was backed by data and experience. I sent him my weekly running data at the end of my training week each Sunday, and he would analyze it and give me suggestions as to how some things may be improved, and encouragement for staying with the plan. I missed only 1 run in the 19 week program and it was not because of a running issue, it was a getting cleaned out by a dog leash issue. He balanced the easy days with the hard workouts and fit it into the time schedule that I had told him I had available to me for training. I had never run a Marathon before without having at least three 20 mile runs under my belt before raceday, but after completing this program and with my max single distance being 16 miles I won't ever go back to the 20+ milers. I ran 2019 Walt Disney World Marathon and after following Billy's training plan I set a new PR of 3:44:44, cutting 10 minutes and 12 seconds off my time. All this was done while running in the hottest Marathon I had ever completed, with a Temperature and Dewpoint total of 133 over my last 6 miles. Those were the same 6 miles that I had felt my weakest at in my previous 2 Marathons, but this time I ran 2 of my 3 fastest miles of the Marathon in that stretch. I also have never felt healthier completing a Marathon and in the next few days following it. My original goal was set assuming ideal conditions which would have been at a Temperature and Dewpoint below 100, both my prior Marathons fit this description, yet in this Marathon with much less than favorable conditions I was still able to establish a sizable PR that I could not have reached without the help of Billy through the personalized training plan he developed for me and his feedback throughout the process.

Name/Username: David C.
Race/Distance: Rocket City Marathon
Training Plan Duration (weeks): 22
Continuous or Run/Walk: Continuous
Days per Week: 5
# of Hard Days (per week): 2
Peak Week Duration: 7:50:54 scheduled (7:51:41 actual)
Peak Week Mileage: 50
Peak Single Run Duration: 2:26:23 scheduled (2:29:26 actual)
Peak Single Run Mileage: 16
PR at Distance Going into it (including when it occurred): 4:34:41 January 2016
Expectations Going into it: 

I'd been on the Hanson plan for a couple of years, so I knew what to expect. But since I'd been on Hanson, I didn't expect to see much improvement in my PR.
How closely were you able to follow the plan as written: Almost to the letter. In 22 weeks, I only missed about 3 runs. I hit (or was pretty close) to pace on almost every run. I had one 'red flag' long run where I finished, but couldn't maintain pace. Blaser adjusted the next week to give me some rest and that put me back on schedule.
Testimonial: 

My finish time is the greatest testimonial: 3:59:26, a 35 minute PR, and sub 4 for the first time! This was my 11th marathon. I thought 4 hours was unobtainable for me, but Blaser proved me wrong. The plan and the guidance and support he provided got me to my goal. Sometimes it was a little encouragement after a tough run; sometimes it was a probing question. Plus, it makes you accountable to check in every week. The plan was so well thought out, I believe I peaked on the morning of my race. The plan was easy to follow. It pushed me to the limit, but not over the limit. I can highly recommend a Blaser plan to help you reach your goal.
 

Name/Username: KSellers88
Race/Distance: Rock n' Roll Nashville Half Marathon
Training Plan Duration (weeks): 14
Continuous or Run/Walk: Continuous
Days per Week: 6
# of Hard Days (per week): 3
Peak Week Duration: 8:09:44
Peak Week Mileage: 52
Peak Single Run Duration: 2:07:56
Peak Single Run Mileage: 14
PR at Distance Going into it (including when it occurred): 

1:56:04, 11/12/2016 at the Soldier Half in Columbus, GA
Expectations Going into it: 

My goal going in was to PR, and I really wanted a sub 1:50 half. 
How closely were you able to follow the plan as written: 

I think I missed 3 runs total and had to cut maybe 3 short. I was able to hit most of the paces set on my plan, with the exception of a few tempo runs. 
Testimonial: 

I could not be happier with the results of my plan! I had been stuck at the 1:56 mark for my half marathon PR for almost two years. Literally, some of my prior race times were 1:56:04, 1:56:06, 1:56:07, 1:59:40, and 1:59:55. There was something about that 1:56 barrier that I could not break. I had previously used Billy's plan for my first marathon and WDW Marathon, and I knew I wanted to try and PR in the half after the WDW Marathon in January. Billy and I discussed several options (I'm doing one half marathon per month in 2018) and I selected Rock n' Roll Nashville as the best option mainly due to weather. This ended up being the perfect decision as the weather on race day was perfect. I followed Billy's plan as closely as possible and it ended up paying off! I set a PR of 1:48:37 (8 MINUTES!!) on a less than ideal course with over 600 feet of elevation gain and achieved negative splits! Not only did Billy help me with my physical strength and endurance, but he has helped me achieve mental strength as well. I've always doubted my abilities, but following his plans help me realize I am capable of SO much more than I give myself credit for. I cannot thank him enough and will never use another coach for as long as he makes plans!
 

Name/Username: MissLiss279
Race/Distance: Fargo Marathon
Training Plan Duration (weeks): 17 weeks
Continuous or Run/Walk: Continuous
Days per Week: 5
# of Hard Days (per week): 1 or 2
Peak Week Duration: Supposed to be 8:35:45, but dropped one run. So 3 weeks earlier peak duration was 7:31:14-ish (not including OrangeTheory running duration).
Peak Week Mileage: Supposed to be 46.3, but dropped an 8.3 mile run. So Peak week was actually 3 weeks earlier at 40.2 miles (not including OrangeTheory miles).
Peak Single Run Duration: 2:32
Peak Single Run Mileage: 14 miles
PR at Distance Going into it (including when it occurred): 

4:44:37 on January 7, 2018 at the end of the Dopey Challenge
Expectations Going into it: Not gonna lie, but I had pretty high expectations going into this plan. My previous Blaser plan for Dopey really gave me a confidence boost in what I might be capable of. I believed that I could run a marathon in 4:25 (based on my marathon Tempo at current fitness at the beginning of the plan) and hoped that I could beat that.
How closely were you able to follow the plan as written: 

I followed the plan pretty closely. I hit most paces, except my EA paces may have been slightly faster or slighter slower, WU and CD were usually a little fast, but not faster than EA, and the blind runs still seem to elude me. I missed one run on my travel day back from Star Wars races. After talking with Billy, I dropped the T paced run and moved my EB run to the next day. This was during my peak week, and it bothered me for a bit, but then decided that sleep was just as important and I let it go. 
Testimonial: 

I had my eyes set on this race. It was supposed to be really flat (it was with a few little steep artificial hills). I hoped that the weather would cooperate when race day came (it mostly did). I followed this training plan as best as I could. I tried to avoid adding things that might compromise my being healthy for this race. I wanted to see what I was capable of and I thought this race would be a good opportunity.
I will say that some of those 11 mile (2 hour) training runs after work during the week were hard to get motivated to do as well as some other runs near the end of the plan, but I knew that I wanted to succeed, so I was able to mentally talk myself into getting out there and running. And it paid off.
Race day temperatures were great for this race: mid 40s to start into the mid-50s at the end and overcast. However there was going to be 20mph north winds throughout the race. This race was set up mostly north south, with about the last 5-6 miles north into the wind. I was not looking forward to that.
Billy and I came up with a plan to run the first 2-3 miles (into the wind) about 10-15 seconds slower than marathon Tempo pace (10:08, so 10:20ish), run marathon Tempo until mile 16 or 17, and then pick up the pace and see what I could do. I followed this pretty well, except that the middle miles I ended up running in the 9:45/9:30 range. I hoped that this wouldn’t cause me to hit the wall later. These miles were mainly with the wind at my back, and I was feeling good. Mile 16 was into the wind, and I wasn’t sure at that point if I would be able to pick up the pace, but mike 17 headed back south. There was probably a band or DJ somewhere in here, and I always seemed to pick up the pace when I passed one, so at this point I just kept going instead of slowing back down. The last 9 miles, I ran 4 miles under a 9 minute pace!! What?? At the end of a marathon?? The other 5+ miles were just over 9 minute miles. I finished this race with a 33 minute PR!! 4:11:48!! I’m so happy!! Thank you, Billy!! This plan worked great for me!
 

Name/Username: JulieODC
Race/Distance: Providence Half Marathon
Training Plan Duration (weeks): 13 weeks
Continuous or Run/Walk: Run/walk
Days per Week: 4-5
# of Hard Days (per week): 1-2
Peak Week Duration: 5:49:32
Peak Week Mileage: 32.5 miles
Peak Single Run Duration: 1:49:47
Peak Single Run Mileage: 11 miles
PR at Distance Going into it (including when it occurred): 2:13:35 in May 2017
Expectations Going into it: I was hoping for a PR
How closely were you able to follow the plan as written: I followed the plan closely. I accomplished every single planned run. Where I tended to fall short was hitting the tempo run paces (HM and 10k) for the run interval duration prescribed.
Testimonial: This plan helped me achieve my goal of a PR, taking 8 minutes off my previous PR, with a final time of 2:05:38. Not only did I PR, but I did so feeling strong and with an easy recovery. The plan was completely manageable (which is saying something coming from a mom of 2 young kids (ages 6 and 2), who works full time, and has a husband who travels weekly). The tempo paces were definitely outside of my comfort zone, but I love that the plan pushed me there -- and while I didn’t always hit those paces, I came a lot closer than I expected. I loved this plan and would love to use it again, with a goal of really targeting the tempo paces.
 

Name/Username: lhermiston
Race/Distance: Marathon
Training Plan Duration (weeks): 14
Continuous or Run/Walk: Continuous
Days per Week: 5
# of Hard Days (per week): 1-2 (usually 1)
Peak Week Duration: 7:30:57
Peak Week Mileage: 50
Peak Single Run Duration: 2:28:55
Peak Single Run Mileage: 17
PR at Distance Going into it (including when it occurred): 4:22:25 - 2017 Walt Disney World Marathon
Expectations Going into it: I had a very successful speed training courtesy of Blaser Coaching Services prior to the marathon training, so I knew his methods were successful. I hoped if I stayed healthy I could set a new PR and maybe break four hours.
How closely were you able to follow the plan as written: 85-95 percent, I'm guessing. I missed one run due to illness, cut another short due to illness, missed two during the taper to rest an achy ankle and cut a few warm ups and cool downs short on evenings when I was pressed for time.
Testimonial: I think the most accurate way to describe what this training plan has meant for me is Billy/Blaser Coaching Services unlocked my potential.
I completed my first marathon - Disney 2017 - in 4:22. Not a bad first marathon by any means, but I went into it injured and ended up walking what felt like a decent portion of it. My second marathon - Lakefront 2017 - was about 9 minutes slower and I went into it feeling under-trained and somewhat injured.
I felt after those two races that:

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1) I was trending in the wrong direction with my time and

2) I had the capacity for a 4-hour marathon if I could stay healthy and was properly trained.

Enter Blaser Coaching Services. First with the speed training and then with the marathon training, Billy crafted plans that were tailored to me, my goals, my schedule and my level of fitness - this is not a one size fits all approach. The results during training were I was able to run five days a week (something I never thought possible) and I stayed mostly injured free. As for the marathon? I finished with a chip time of 3:47:58, approximately a 34 minute PR. Simply put, Blaser's plans work.
Aside from an expertly crafted training regimen, Billy is great at answering questions, explaining concepts and offering words of encouragement without being asked, which really go a long way.
Like I said, Billy has been instrumental/crucial/irreplaceable in my quest to become the best runner I can be.
 

Name/Username: Dis5150 (Linda)
Race/Distance: Silo District Marathon, May 6, 2018
Training Plan Duration (weeks): 7 weeks
Continuous or Run/Walk: Run/Walk
Days per Week: 6
# of Hard Days (per week): 2
Peak Week Duration: 5:26:22
Peak Week Mileage: 35 miles
Peak Single Run Duration: 2:28:39
Peak Single Run Mileage: 10 miles
PR at Distance Going into it (including when it occurred): 5:55:00
Expectations Going into it: I thought I was very well prepared and would get the PR.
How closely were you able to follow the plan as written: Almost exactly until the end, then I started having hip pain so Billy had me cut a couple of runs short/out.
Testimonial: I felt very ready for this race. My last marathon in March went well (also following a plan by Billy and I took 23 minutes of my previous PR) and it was very hilly and this race was advertised as "flat and fast" (spoiler: It was NOT!). This was the inaugural race weekend and apparently out of the 8,000 people who signed up, only 494 were doing the marathon. Everyone else was doing the half or 5k. I am a solid mid to back of the pack runner so I was worried about meeting the 6 hour time limit. And worried about finishing last. So I went out too fast. Billy and I had discussed the pace I should have been running, 13:25 for the first 19 and 13:20 for the last 7.5 if I felt good. The first 12 miles I averaged a 12:30 mile! Way too fast. Add that to the heat (90+ real feel by race finish), a very hilly second half of the race and the fact that the race did not offer any electrolyte drink until about mile 10 and I am actually astonished that I finished only 4 minutes over the time I was hoping for (5:54:59) at 5:59:54. I contribute that entirely to the training plan! Full disclaimer: I am running 5 marathons this year (against Billy's advice) so I know my times will suffer. This was marathon #3 (#1 in January and #2 in March) so my legs were tired and I STILL almost hit my PR. I 100% love Billy's plans over any that go to 20+ miles for a marathon and I will continue to get plans from him as long as he is willing to write them for me.
 

Name/Username: KatieLittle
Race/Distance: Quarter Marathon (6.55 miles)
Training Plan Duration (weeks): 7
Continuous or Run/Walk: Run/Walk
Days per Week: Alternating 3/4
# of Hard Days (per week): 1
Peak Week Duration: 4:07:32 90% easy and 10% hard
Peak Week Mileage: 15.5
Peak Single Run Duration: 1:26:24
Peak Single Run Mileage: 5 miles
PR at Distance Going into it (including when it occurred): 10k pr of 1:42:49
Expectations Going into it: Honestly, I expected to quit. My first and only 10k didn't go so well and even though I wasn't saying it out loud, I was planning on not running anything further than a 5k going forward. 
How closely were you able to follow the plan as written: The plan was so custom to me that it kind of made it hard to skip a workout. I only missed 2 through out the entire plan. 
Testimonial: I have a tendency to be long winded and could go on for hours about how much I loved this plan, but I want people to read it so I'll try and keep it breif. This plan gave me my confidence back as a runner. I had almost given up on my Marathon and Half Marathon dreams but I'm so glad I didn't. It felt a little strange when Billy told me I had to go slow to run fast (kinda like when Doc Huddson told Lightning McQueen he had to turn right to go left.) It was uncomfortable and awkward at first, but like I said I was planning on quitting anyway so what did I have to lose? When my 1st training day at race pace happened I was so surprised at how fast I was running!! As the plan went on, I started to embrace the easy runs and voila come race day I PRd! My Quarter Marathon time was 1:40:49 (Faster than my 10k for a longer race!!) and according to Strava, my 10k time from that race was 1:32:51 (almost a full 10 mins faster!!).

You can tell that Billy puts A LOT of work and effort into these plans! He's also there to answer any questions that you may have and he never once seemed annoyed or bothered that I was messaging him so much (Especially towards the end of the plan). I honestly don't see my self using any other plans as long as Billy is still making them!!

 

Name/Username: Anisum
Race/Distance: Dopey Challenge (5k + 10k + HM + M)
Training Plan Duration: 16 weeks
Continuous or Run/Walk: Continuous
Days per Week: 5 then 6 for remaining 8 weeks
# of Hard Days: 2 then 3
Peak Week Duration: 9:00:43
Peak Week Mileage: 38.25 miles
Peak Single Run Duration: 2:30:34
Peak Single Run Mileage: 11 miles
Testimonial: 

I would say that while I had read the research regarding cumulative fatigue I got many skeptical looks from others when I explained I maxed out at 11 miles when training for the Dopey. I think evidence from my training and that of others shows that it works. Billy wrote a plan with my schedule and needs in mind and I definitely got what I wanted. I spent time in the park each day and walked at least six miles between resorts and bus time when I wasn't running. Despite that aside from a little soreness in my feet and legs immediately following the marathon I felt great. I was able to walk without looking like something ran me over the next day. More importantly for my running as a whole Billy's plan taught me how to listen to my body and rely on my feelings which lead to a more successful race experience. Where before I may have rushed to stick to a certain pace leading to a crash at the end, I was able to pull back and run at a pace that made me comfortable without worrying about time because I knew I would finish strong. I didn't hit an insurmountable wall that I felt I wouldn't be able to run through, I always felt like even if my feet hurt it was more of an annoyance that could easily be pushed through rather than a showstopper. I had an amazing weekend experience and felt great because I was well trained. Thanks so much Billy!

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Name: Anon
Race/Distance: Dopey Challenge (5k + 10k + HM + M)
Training Plan Duration: 15 weeks
Continuous or Run/Walk: Continuous
Days per Week: 4 and 5 alternating
# of Hard Days: 2 and 3 alternating
Peak Week Duration: 7:02:02
Peak Week Mileage: 38.5 miles
Peak Single Run Duration: 2:31:33
Peak Single Run Mileage: 14 miles
Testimonial: 

I was definitely skeptical about the lack of overall long distance runs leading into Dopey, but the proof of the efficacy of my plan was in the complete lack of soreness I experienced after the races. I woke up Monday morning with no stiffness in my legs!!! Not to mention, I had no intention of running any PRs this weekend, as I wanted to stop for many character photos and yet, Billy's plan actually increased my overall pace as I DID PR the 5K and ran the 10K (with the same amount of photo stops) 15 minutes faster than at last year's Wine & Dine!!! 

So thank you so much!! I had a phenomenal weekend experience!
 

Name/Username: KSellers88
Race/Distance: Marathon
Training Plan Duration: 9 weeks
Continuous or Run/Walk: Continuous
Days per Week: 6
# of Hard Days: 2
Peak Week Duration: 7:36:54
Peak Week Mileage: 48 miles
Peak Single Run Duration: 1:59:06
Peak Single Run Mileage: 13 miles
Testimonial: 

When I started training with Billy last June, I was more than a little skeptical about only running 16 miles before my first marathon. However, with the variations of runs that my plans contained and the longer distances during the week, I felt more than prepared and finished the race strong. I foolishly asked Billy for a second marathon training plan two days after completing my first, that I would use for WDW Marathon Weekend. I'll be honest and transparent that I did not follow the second plan as well as the first time. I missed my 16 miler because I read the plan wrong and I was just burnt out from training for so long; however, all the training from June through January paid off and I finished the Disney marathon only 10 minutes slower than my first, with character stops included. The most amazing thing that happened during the Disney marathon is that I never hit the wall. Billy provided many recommendations for building mental stamina, as well as physical stamina, and the tips definitely worked well for me. Billy was fantastic throughout the entire process and I feel lucky to have him as a coach!
 

Name/Username: canglim52
Race/Distance: Goofy Challenge (HM + M)
Training Plan Duration: 18 weeks
Continuous or Run/Walk: Continuous
Days per Week: 6
# of Hard Days: 3
Peak Week Duration: 9:38:13
Peak Week Mileage: 61.75 miles
Peak Single Run Duration: 2:35:24
Peak Single Run Mileage: 17 miles
Testimonial: 

I had just started running and I had no clue what I was doing. I stumbled across Billy’s blog in September of 2016 and was extremely impressed with his process and overall knowledge. I had started to plateau with my progress and I was happy to see Billy’s suggestions work out quickly! Since then he has literally answered hundreds of my questions, helped me pick out races, and has written 4 different custom training plans for me!! Each plan is customized to help you stay healthy as well maximize your training gains. Additionally, when things didn’t go as planned, Billy updated the training plan accordingly. My last plan was an 18 week block for the Goofy Challenge. His plan had me well prepared, kept me healthy, and taught me to run by feel. I ended up running the best two runs of my of my life and literally PRed every distance from 400m to Marathon!!! I had no clue I could run that well, and I’m still in shock lol. Thanks to Billy I now have a new favorite sport and I’m progressing faster than I ever imagined  #BestCoachEver

Name/Username: michigandergirl
Race/Distance: Dopey Challenge (5k + 10k + HM + M)
Training Plan Duration: 12 weeks
Continuous or Run/Walk: Continuous
Days per Week: 3 then 4 then 5
# of Hard Days: 2
Peak Week Duration: 6:48:10
Peak Week Mileage: 37 miles
Peak Single Run Duration: 2:20:21
Peak Single Run Mileage: 13 miles
Testimonial: 

My goal for Dopey was to be able to run the 48.6 miles with relative ease and have fun doing it. Knowing I had no time goals for the races, Billy created a plan that would maintain my current fitness, while still building endurance needed for Dopey. Coming off a shin injury, he also eased me back into running 5 days a week. I ran the first 3 races around EB pace with plenty of character stops. I was feeling pretty good, but then Sunday morning my right quad and left calf were aching and doubt started creeping in before the marathon. I figured it would be like my previous marathons where I hit a wall somewhere between mile 17 & 20. I'm happy to report that this marathon was nothing like that! My muscles warmed up after about 5 miles and then I was running at LR pace in between multiple character stops, and then there I was in the second half of the race running faster than the first half! No bonking! No wall! With the exception of character stops and walking while fueling, I ran the entire 48.6 miles and I couldn't be more thrilled. I can't wait to see what happens when I run my next marathon for time, I'm very confident now that it will be a massive PR. Billy, your plans rock and I'm so appreciative for your help, and I'm happy I was able to meet you and thank you in person.
 

Name/Username: sourire
Race/Distance: Marathon
Training Plan Duration: 15 weeks
Continuous or Run/Walk: Continuous
Days per Week: 4 days, then 4 and 5 alternating
# of Hard Days: 2
Peak Week Duration: 7:45:52
Peak Week Mileage: 36 miles
Peak Single Run Duration: 2:32:19
Peak Single Run Mileage: 12 miles
Testimonial: 

I was nervous about so many things going into my first marathon, but I see now that there was no reason to be. [I was told by some friends who have run marathons before, that I'd cramp, that "the wall will come crashing down", that I would not be able to toe the line if I didn't do at least one 20 miler (one person told me to do at least three 20-milers), etc. Remind me next time not to consult with these people.] I am so happy and thrilled to report that I was more than able to "toe the line" on Sunday (and to continue to walk an additional 7 miles around EPCOT that evening)! No cramps and no wall! My goal was to finish my first marathon strong, happy, smiling, and uninjured. I started the marathon off near my long run pace (was afraid to start out too quickly), slowly got closer to my marathon tempo, and kept feeling good. I walked all of the water stops, was able to run the rest of the thing, and even ran the second half about 4 minutes faster than the first half! At some point around mile 18, I looked at my Garmin and realized I had been running more hours/miles than I had ever run before, and I got very nervous all of a sudden (even felt a little nauseated), but then thought to myself: "Billy knows you are going to crush this, so why don't YOU know that you are going to crush this yet?!" I seriously pondered that one for a few miles through WWOS, and by mile 23ish, I can see via the photopass evidence, that I was beaming. I felt strong at the finish, and was in absolute disbelief that I had done it, even in staring down at the medal around my neck. Billy was extremely patient with me and all of my questions and worries through this training cycle. I've gone on for longer than a paragraph, but the point is: I followed the plan and reaped the benefits. So grateful to you, Billy, for your time, energy, and patience, and so glad to have had the chance to meet you to say thank you in person.
 

Name/Username: SheHulk
Race/Distance: Marathon
Training Plan Duration: 19 weeks
Continuous or Run/Walk: Continuous
Days per Week: 4 then 5 for remaining 16 weeks
# of Hard Days: 2
Peak Week Duration: 7:58:12
Peak Week Mileage: 39.5 miles
Peak Single Run Duration: 2:33:31
Peak Single Run Mileage: 13 miles
Testimonial: 

I feel like I said a lot to you, Billy, and the Marathon weekend board already, but here it is again if you can stand to read it again.
I had three previous (WDW) marathon attempts, and, though I did finish, my times were way off my predicted times given my half marathon proof of time because I fell apart physically at some point after mile 15-20 each time. Not just tired but stabbing pain either in my calves or knee. I had come to the conclusion, along with my family, that my body was just not made for running marathons and I should stick to the half distance. I was reading a lot on the boards, over and over again, about people's success stories with Billy's plans. Around August I asked Billy to come up with a plan for me for this year's marathon.
I hadn't run much in the month leading up to the training cycle because I had a pretty big hunk of my left heel taken out for a melanoma scare (no melanoma). But Billy set up my plan based on my half marathon and 5k times in the previous spring. I followed the plan as closely as I could. I only missed two runs in 15 weeks and did my best to hit all the paces though sometimes I was more successful than others. Usually when I missed the pace I was too fast because I was afraid that running any run even 5 sec per mile too slow was a failure.
That last week before the marathon we had excessively frigid temperatures so I replaced three runs with stationary bike workouts instead. Probably too many skipped runs but I was not going out in that 5 times in a week right before the race, I was too afraid of being sick.
Race day went great. I didn't hit my A goal of a sub-5 hour race but that didn't ever seem attainable this cycle, to me at least anyway. Other than that, it was a huge success. An almost 35 minute PR, and I never had pain anywhere. Of course I was tired but I felt like I could actually cover the distance and feel strong the whole way. Amazing. I never thought it would be possible for me. One of the only failures I had was mental: once I saw, between mile 20 and 21, that I wasn't going to hit my sub-5, I started taking it easy a bit more. I stopped and talked to my husband at mile 23, took a few more walk breaks, etc. But I don't regret anything and I had a great time.
Thank you Billy, I can't say that enough. You gave me the feeling that I am a runner who can complete a marathon, really complete it and not limp in the last 1/4.
 

Name/Username: LikelyLynae
Race/Distance: Dopey Challenge (5k + 10k + HM + M)
Training Plan Duration: 12 weeks
Continuous or Run/Walk: Run/Walk
Days per Week: 6
# of Hard Days: 2 to 3 based on week
Peak Week Duration: 9:20:24
Peak Week Mileage: 38.5 miles
Peak Single Run Duration: 2:58:23
Peak Single Run Mileage: 12 miles
Testimonial: 

Considering I started my Dopey training late (October!) I was very excited to try the cumulative fatigue idea. I was weary about the idea of only running 12 miles as my longest run, but the fact that I had minimal muscle fatigue and didn’t feel like I even had a long run is proof that the system works. I also PRed my marathon time by 35 minutes. Train slow to run fast. Trust your training. It works.
 

Name/Username: camaker
Marathon Weekend Race: Dopey Challenge (5k + 10k + HM + M)
Training Plan Duration: 17 weeks
Continuous or Run/Walk: Continuous
Days per Week: 5
# of Hard Days: 2
Peak Week Duration: 7:13:13
Peak Week Mileage: 43.5 miles
Peak Single Run Duration: 2:33:51
Peak Single Run Mileage: 16 miles
Testimonial: 

Unfortunately, I don't know that I can really give an honest assessment of how well this training cycle prepared me for Dopey, simply because I was unable to run the races as planned due to illness. What I can say is that we set the plan up with two goals. First, to prepare for the Dopey Challenge by executing a marathon training plan and second, to minimize the risk of injury and get me to the starting line healthy. I can say that the second goal was an unqualified success. I suffered no significant injuries during the training cycle and I felt like I was in the best shape I've ever been in heading into the races. My plan was to run the initial races at easy pace and then attempt to PR the marathon. Going into the race weekend I was confident I would be able to achieve that, but that all went out the window as soon as the illness hit post-5k. Thanks for all your work on my plan! We'll just have to revisit this training plan testimonial when I get below 4:00 at Chicago.
 

Name/Username: garneska
Race/Distance: Marathon
Training Plan Duration: 11 weeks
Continuous or Run/Walk: Continuous
Days per Week: 5
# of Hard Days: 2
Peak Week Duration: 7:12:27
Peak Week Mileage: 45 miles
Peak Single Run Duration: 2:32:47
Peak Single Run Mileage: 16 miles
Testimonial:  

This training cycle was simply to get through without injury and then dedicate to Chicago. Due to illness I stayed a lot slower than planned and I came out of it uninjured. I have to say i think it went pretty well. I did not feel like I hit a wall but I sort of hit the wall about mile 4 when I said to my husband I can't go any faster than I am right now. I walk him in the last 4 miles since it was his first marathon. I could have run but figured it might be the only time we actually finish together. I am not sure he will do another marathon. He will be cheering at Chicago.
 

Name/Username: Anon 
Race/Distance: Dopey Challenge (5k + 10k + HM + M)
Training Plan Duration: 12 weeks
Continuous or Run/Walk: Mostly Run/walk, some continuous
Days per Week: 4
# of Hard Days: 2, sometimes 3
Peak Week Duration: 6:17:13
Peak Week Mileage: 36.7 miles
Peak Single Run Duration: 3:00:53
Peak Single Run Mileage: 17 miles
Testimonial: 

I found the training plan a little difficult to adjust to, but I had great results over the weekend. Compared to my first Dopey in 2016, all my times were faster. Finished the half in 2:05 compared to 2:14 and the marathon an incredible improvement from 5:05 to 4:24. Many fewer stops this year, but still over 40 minutes better was amazing! Had my best final 10k of a marathon ever.
 

Name/Username: TeeterTots
Race/Distance: Marathon
Training Plan Duration: 15 weeks
Continuous or Run/Walk: Continuous
Days per Week: 4 and 5 alternating
# of Hard Days: 2 or 3 variable
Peak Week Duration: 7:52:36
Peak Week Mileage: 39.45 miles
Peak Single Run Duration: 2:28:24
Peak Single Run Mileage: 13 miles
Testimonial: 

I reached out to Billy having been fascinated with his story, for his expert opinion regarding an upcoming race and it turned into two training cycles. The first was to PR a HM in September and the second to survive my first marathon. I have to say, I struggled with slowing my pace during training and notoriously started off too fast, so I didn't PR my half in September, but the marathon was amazing! Like many of you, I had never ran more than 13.5 miles so I had no idea what the second half of the marathon would bring. I heard horror stories about hitting the wall but that never happened. My predicted pace/finish was 10:47/4:42:40 with hopes to just sub-5. I finished at 5:01:40 and I'm very pleased. I'm pleased because I was trained so well. I am pleased because despite the excruciating pain in my left knee from mile 14 on, I never gave up. I'm pleased because I had so much gas left in the tank and was waiting to hit those faster paces like we discussed. I mentioned to Billy that this was my one and done marathon, but guess what, it's not! It's not, because I have no doubt I will crush the next marathon and I know I can do it because of his plan!
 

Name/Username: pixarmom
Race/Distance: Goofy Challenge (HM + M)
Training Plan Duration: 13 weeks
Continuous or Run/Walk: Continuous (effort based plan)
Days per Week: 6
# of Hard Days: 3
Peak Week Duration: 6:56:11
Peak Week Mileage: 42.5 miles
Peak Single Run Duration: 2:33:22
Peak Single Run Mileage: 16 miles
Testimonial: 

When I asked Billy for a training plan, my goal was to complete Goofy comfortably. I mentioned that someday in the future, I’d like to break 4:00 for the marathon and 1:50 for the half, but those were not immediate goals. I think Billy knew my “someday” goals could be real and immediate, but I didn’t believe that until marathon day at maybe mile 20. His plan resulted in a half marathon PR (1:49) last month, and a 28-minute Disney Marathon PR (3:58.) If I drop 3 minutes, 30 seconds from my marathon time, I can qualify for Boston! (Billy and my husband suggested not running a HM the day before will help!) After the marathon, I felt great - 20-min nap by the pool and then Animal Kingdom with my family until closing - wore my marathon shirt and my Badger jacket in appreciation! I’ve been running for a long time, but I feel like a new runner for many reasons. Even before any races, Billy’s plan was a success because it made me happier and stronger - I just feel great every day with this plan. Longest run was 16 miles, and I loved the variations in distance and pace throughout each week. Moving forward, I think I can establish a time goal and say it out loud without (or with less!) qualification. I definitely worked hard in training and during races, but it was controlled and comfortable enough that I believe I can repeat and improve. Also, the concept of “trust your training” has real meaning for me now, because I really do trust Billy’s knowledge, experience and advice. So many thanks to Billy for this incredible plan, for all the encouragement and support, and for accepting hugs from my very enthusiastic 10-year-old! And this is still hard to say out loud, but here goes: I’d like to qualify for Boston and I’m grateful that Billy agreed to help!
 

Name/Username: mrsg00fy
Race/Distance: Dopey Challenge (5k + 10k + HM + M)
Training Plan Duration: 17 weeks
Continuous or Run/Walk: Continuous
Days per Week: 6
# of Hard Days: 3
Peak Week Duration: 8:38:02
Peak Week Mileage: 42.5 miles
Peak Single Run Duration: 2:34:30
Peak Single Run Mileage: 13 miles
Testimonial:

I ran my first Marathon as part of the 2017 Dopey and was fortunate to meet up with Billy and folks who were using his plans. At that point I was scared of my first marathon and exhausted from my last few long training runs. I did finish but not in good form. I walked more than half of the full and I hurt.
It took me six months to ask Billy for help. After two training cycles using Billy's custom plans I attempted the Dopey again this year. I was still skeptical about running all four races and had every intention of walking the half. However, a prerace conversation with Billy convinced me to run the half as well and I'm so glad I did. I ran the first three races at easy paces and still shaved 8 minutes off my 5k from last year, 12 minutes off my 10k time from last year and for the half I came within a minute of my best half time over the past two years. I felt great after the half and I couldn't believe it! The real success for me though was the marathon. I took 50 minutes off last year's time. I did walk about 3 of the last six miles but was able to finish strong running the last two miles. Thank you Billy. I can't wait to see how my next half goes.
 

Name/Username: Dr Q
Race/Distance: Dopey Challenge (5k + 10k + HM + M)
Training Plan Duration: 17 weeks
Continuous or Run/Walk: Continuous
Days per Week: 4 running + 1 cycle + 1 swim
# of Hard Days: 2
Peak Week Duration: 6:46:50
Peak Week Mileage: 39 miles
Peak Single Run Duration: 2:32:16
Peak Single Run Mileage: 15 miles
Testimonial: 

Billy's training plan was the best training plan I've used to date. He was extremely thorough with gathering information from me from the start and took my personal goals, fitness and triathlon training into account as he prepared my plan. The plan may seem overwhelming at first, but by the time I got to the longer runs I did feel prepared and confident. When it came to race day, I was able to out perform even my own expectations with ease, confidence and nothing but a few blisters on my toes (which were my own fault!)
 

Name/Username: MissLiss279
Race/Distance: Dopey Challenge (5k + 10k + HM + M)
Training Plan Duration: 12 weeks
Continuous or Run/Walk: Continuous
Days per Week: 5
# of Hard Days: 2 and 3 alternating
Peak Week Duration: 8:24:12
Peak Week Mileage: 45.5 miles
Peak Single Run Duration: 2:32:43 (technically 5:16:18 since a marathon was run easily mid-plan; rare)
Peak Single Run Mileage: 14 miles
Testimonial: 

I loved my Blaser Plan! 2018 would be my third Dopey/13th Marathon, and I had pretty much used the same types of plan for each marathon - run four days a week/add a fifth day for Dopey, with a max distance run of 20 miles once or twice during the schedule. I was intrigued by Billy’s plans which had a max long run of 2.5 hours, because 20 miles takes me a LONG time. I knew with a shortened long run, I would be running more during the week. Billy asked many questions to determine a plan that would work with my schedule. My plan was for five days. When I first saw the schedule, it was a little daunting seeing a two hour run during the week, but I had told him that I had that time to run. I followed the plan and missed one run - the 2 mile shakeout run the day before the 5k. The paces that were prescribed for each run were great. During previous training, I had actually probably been running too slow for long runs. I would have one speed workout, but wouldn’t do any Tempo runs. The long Tempo runs (marathon pace) of my plan gave me confidence that I could PR the half pretty easily. The pace was faster than my half PR pace, and I was able to complete 9 miles pretty well. Besides gaining some speed during the training, I think the best thing that came from it for me was the confidence that I could run faster. I had always been afraid of going out too fast and crashing. The weather forecast for Dopey (although cold for standing around in) was actually really good for running for me. Heat really slows me down, so I like it a little on the cooler side. I was able to PR each race during Dopey! Going into the weekend I wasn’t sure if I would be able to PR the full, but I did!
 

Name/Username: Anon
Marathon Weekend Race: Dopey Challenge (5k + 10k + HM + M)
Training Plan Duration: 23 weeks and then 10 weeks
Continuous or Run/Walk: Continuous
Days per Week: 5
# of Hard Days: 2 or 3 alternating
Peak Week Duration: 7:44:38
Peak Week Mileage: 36 miles
Peak Single Run Duration: 2:31:06
Peak Single Run Mileage: 12 miles
Testimonial:  

I have run two marathons before and was able to finish both but the last several miles were always terrible. I was excited to try a new way of training after hearing so many good things about Billy’s plans. Unfortunately, I broke my toe two weeks into training but Billy was great to make me a new plan as soon as I could run again. Other than missing a couple of days due to sickness-this was the first training plan I was able to finish and finish feeling good!! I was only able to run the 10k due to the winter storm and sickness. But it was the easiest 10k I have ever done!! Billy’s plan has really made me a better runner and has kept me injury free. I was able to train for the marathon without further injuring my foot. I am excited to start a new plan!
 

Name/Username: Anon
Race/Distance: Marathon
Training Plan Duration: 11 weeks
Continuous or Run/Walk: Continuous
Days per Week: 4 and 5 alternating
# of Hard Days: 2
Peak Week Duration: 7:26:27
Peak Week Mileage: 56.2 kilometers
Peak Single Run Duration: 2:31:00
Peak Single Run Mileage: 19.3 kilometers
Testimonial: 

Your training plan is truly something of brilliance. You have mastered the calculations that most people just can’t figure out and have somehow figured out how to personalize your method.

I finished my race at 5:30. Slower than I hoped, but I took it slow on my own accord, trusting what you had taught me and kept your words of positivity on mind throughout the race. I had the stomach bug on Friday night, so I kept it slow, but I am more proud of myself than I have ever been. I finished with energy left and absolutely NO pain! I started very slow and kept a slow pace until about mile 12, where I picked up a bit, but not too much. I stayed comfortable and did not get swept up by the flow around me and was so pleased by how comfortable my pace was.

Although I was a bit slow, I consider this race one of my greatest successes and I thank you from the bottom of my heart for your dedication and time.
 

Name/Username: Anon
Race/Distance: Dopey Challenge (5k + 10k + HM + M)
Training Plan Duration: 12 weeks
Continuous or Run/Walk: Run/Walk
Days per Week: 5
# of Hard Days: 2
Peak Week Duration: 8:04:37
Peak Week Mileage: 34.5 miles
Peak Single Run Duration: 2:51:31
Peak Single Run Mileage: 12 miles
Testimonial: 

Thank you so much for my training plan! All 4 of the races were great, I completely surprised myself and didn't struggle in the marathon! I kept to the intervals for all 4 of the races for the majority of the time (the start of the races were pretty congested). I didn't have too much soreness either which was a shock as I thought I might struggle to carry on the in the parks but I didn't have that problem! Again thank you so much for helping, I don't know how it would have gone if I had carried on training the way that I was!

Name/Username: Anon
Race/Distance: Marathon
Training Plan Duration: 9 weeks
Continuous or Run/Walk: Continuous
Days per Week: 4 and 5 alternating
# of Hard Days: 2
Peak Week Duration: 7:38:54
Peak Week Mileage: 45 miles
Peak Single Run Duration: 2:17:30
Peak Single Run Mileage: 14 miles
Testimonial: 

I loved my Blaser plan for the 2018 Walt Disney World Marathon. I followed a similar plan created by Billy for a full in November 2017, and it was the most customized plan that I have ever done. I always felt that the paces he outlined were right on for my fitness level, and I didn't have any trouble completing the workouts. He customized everything from paces to training days to amount of miles I could run each week. I won't lie - the last few weeks of the plan I did not follow 100% because of the holidays and illnesses that hit me. I always completed my long runs, but I missed two or three marathon pace runs and a few shorter runs along the way. I still finished the full fairly strong and only six minutes off of my PR - it actually would have been a PR if I could figure out how to run 26.2 miles instead of 26.9 miles on a Disney course! I'm not sure I can go back to trying to figure out my own training plans or following something out of a book - I like the customization of the plans and the detailed knowledge that Billy is always ready to give whenever I have a question or concern.

Name/Username: lhermiston
Race/Distance: 10K
Training Plan Duration (weeks): 14
Continuous or Run/Walk: Continuous
Days per Week: 5
# of Hard Days (per week): 3
Peak Week Duration: 6:27:46
Peak Week Mileage: 31.125
Peak Single Run Duration: 1:54:30
Peak Single Run Mileage: 12
PR at Distance Going into it (including when it occurred): 51:18
Expectations Going into it: 

There was a lot of "What have I gotten myself into?" early on in the training. I had just come off a marathon and told myself I was going to take a month or two off. I had also been dealing with some foot problems on and off for 18 months or so, which had limited me to three days a week of running. Speed training five days a week seemed a little risky and Billy even mentioned the plan came with a high risk of injury. That said, I had read nothing but good things about Billy's plans and I figured it couldn't hurt (much) to give it a try and pivot to a more traditional marathon training plan if things didn't work out. Ultimately, I was just trying to stay in shape during the winter months.
Testimonial: 

The numbers speak for themselves. The final day of my training was a 10K "race"/time trial. Not only did I PR the 10K at 46:01, I also set PRs for 1K, 1 mile, 2 miles and 5K. My first mile out was 6:45, most likely a lifetime PR! There is no other way to put it: Blaser's plan made me stronger, faster and more fit. He also personally offered encouragement throughout the training period, which was always appreciated. At 34, I would have never guessed five days a week was possible. I would have never guessed those PRs were possible. If someone told me six months ago I'd do a sub-7 minute mile, I would have laughed. Now, I'm willing to rethink what is possible for me and my fitness goals.
 

Name/Username: GollyGadget
Race/Distance: 10 mile
Training Plan Duration (weeks): 15
Continuous or Run/Walk: Continuous
Days per Week: 5
# of Hard Days (per week): 3
Peak Week Duration: 6:04:38 *scheduled (actual was 6:23:45)
Peak Week Mileage: 37.125 (actual 37.9)
Peak Single Run Duration: 1:30:11
Peak Single Run Mileage: 10 (1M WU + 9M Tempo)
PR at Distance Going into it (including when it occurred): 1:33:32
Expectations Going into it: 

I was really worried how this would all work out. Billy warned me that there was risk of injury due to the nature of the training. That coupled with the fact that my “easy” runs were now 5.5 miles instead of 3 scared me a bit. I had followed Nike+ and Higdon plans before. Both of those included some speed work but not nearly as much and the overall mileage was a lot lower. Despite my nerves, you assured me we could adjust as needed so I committed.
Testimonial: 

I did a pretty good job at sticking to the plan early on. As summer heated up and my motivation waned, I missed a few runs but still completed more than I had for other recent training periods. Finding the pacing was difficult for me for the longer hard workouts. I mentioned it several times in my journal, but I believed at the time (and still do) that it was a mental focus issue more than a fitness issue. All that is to say, I had a few doubts in my head about how the race would go.
Going into the training, I had a goal of breaking 1:20 which would have improved my POT for Disney. Billy assessed my fitness to establish a goal of 1:22:30. A few weeks before the race, my husband asked when my legs got so sexy (maybe that's TMI?). Anyway, I was pretty sure my goal wasn't attainable anymore so I had decided that at least I would get that small victory. In the end, I finished in 1:18:21 which is better than I could have imagined. On top of achieving the time goal and improving my POT, this training cycle gave me a great base to work from for the WDW marathon.
Thank you for that! And thank you for all your encouragement and advice along the way! I know I could have done a better job with my marathon training, but your positive attitude and knowledge let me forget that on race day and trust the training I had done. Who knew someone could enjoy running for 26+ miles with only running up to 16 miles in training? I’m a believer and a testament to that ideology now.
 

Name/Username: Dara 
Race/Distance: Swamp Rabbit Half Marathon
Training Plan Duration (weeks): 15 weeks
Continuous or Run/Walk: some of both (switched to Run/Walk due to some joint pains for last 4 weeks)
Days per Week: 4
# of Hard Days (per week): 1 (Tempo)
Peak Week Duration: 6:06
Peak Week Mileage: 26 mi
Peak Single Run Duration: 2:32
Peak Single Run Mileage: 11 mi
PR at Distance Going into it (including when it occurred): 2:21 (March of 2014)
Expectations Going into it: Beat 2:45; complete that final 3 miles at appropriate pace without running out of gas
How closely were you able to follow the plan as written: 

First 8 weeks followed to a tee; weeks 9, 10, and 11 had to shuffle days due to illness and life happenings.  In that rough period, I missed 5 training runs total, 3 of them consecutive and 1 LR significantly reduced in length. I also missed the 10 mi LR in week 11 and thought that would be devastating. But I readjusted and nailed the last 4 weeks according to the plan.  
Testimonial:  

This is my third Coach Blaser plan for me so far.  My last three halfs have been 3:03, 2:44, and 2:42. The improvement is real! The big benefit of this last plan is that it kept me realistic with expectations about my current fitness level and how my goal relates to my training load. I was also pleased with the Tempo and LR paces during this plan. They are somewhat difficult, but attainable with effort. I also like the fact that the plan could be adjusted when I was sick or had a busy week at work. I'm learning a lot about pacing, and have learned to run by effort (thank the blind runs!) This helped in my race because I was able to run the second half faster (on purpose) with the last three miles at an almost identical pace without even looking at my watch after mile 7. (12:17, 12:22, 12:20). During the last 3 miles, I kept saying to myself, "THIS is what those Sunday runs are for!! Training for the LAST part of the race!" I also appreciate the race pacing tips and positive messages from Coach! Thank you!
 

Name/Username: jennamfeo
Race/Distance: Red Rock Canyon Half Marathon
Training Plan Duration (weeks): 12 weeks
Continuous or Run/Walk: Continuous
Days per Week: 4 days
# of Hard Days (per week): 2 days (Daniels T, HM Tempo, or Long Run)
Peak Week Duration: 5:51:55
Peak Week Mileage: 31 miles
Peak Single Run Duration: 2:14:13
Peak Single Run Mileage: 12 miles
PR at Distance Going into it (including when it occurred): 2:26:49 (May 2016)
Expectations Going into it:

I was never good at sticking to a training plan, so I first worried that I would make excuses and not follow through. To my surprise, I actually enjoyed having a training plan that I thought was well calculated to me personally (versus me just throwing mileage together) and I looked forward to my workouts! I knew I was going to benefit from this plan and I totally did!
How closely were you able to follow the plan as written: 

Once I worked out the kinks of where to get my workouts in (took a few weeks), I was able to follow my plan pretty much to a T. I only skipped one workout during my taper week out of sheer laziness if I am going to be completely honest.
Testimonial:

The hype is REAL. Billy has done all the researching, studying, and #math to be able to make efficient training plans based on your current fitness level. I never felt like what I was given was too hard or too easy. Every workout felt like a perfect match for me. While I didn't PR on the race that I was training for, I did PR a HM mid-plan by 4 minutes, and I know for a fact that without this training plan there was no way that I would have done nearly as well as I did on my scheduled HM (it was a doozy with tons of elevation). Once my training was over, it felt like a good book that you didn't want to end and I can't wait to start my next Blaser Plan.
 

Name/Username: SarahDisney
Race/Distance: Half Marathon
Training Plan Duration (weeks): 7
Continuous or Run/Walk: Run/Walk (with some continuous)
Days per Week: 3-4
# of Hard Days (per week): 1 (one week with 2)
Peak Week Duration: 4:19:25 scheduled (4:27:17 actual)
Peak Week Mileage: 20.3 scheduled (20.34 actual)
Peak Single Run Duration: 2:12:37 (2:20:18 actual)
Peak Single Run Mileage: 10.00 miles
PR at Distance Going into it (including when it occurred): 2:31:08 (June 2017)
Expectations Going into it:

I expected to hate following someone else's plan. I knew that the plans Billy makes are based on a lot of research, but I'm not a numbers-based runner, and I was a little nervous about how the new approach would work. I did try to go in with an open mind, but I really wasn't expecting to enjoy the training that much.
How closely were you able to follow the plan as written: Mostly - had to reschedule a few runs, and wasn't always strictly on pace (but was usually close)
Testimonial:

I have always been a very "independent" runner, so the idea of asking someone else for help with a plan is not something that appealed to me. But when I found myself struggling to make a short-term plan between two halfs, I decided to ask Billy for help. While I understood the importance of easy running, I never put much emphasis on it, so transitioning to a plan that was primarily easy was definitely a little bit of a change - but it turned out to be a very welcome one, because I was no longer coming out of runs feeling completely worn out (even my tempo runs didn't wear me out as much as I expected). When I had questions about the training and why I was doing the things I was doing, Billy answered my questions and sent me some great resources to read that really helped me understand how the plan was designed and why, which really helped me find the internal balance between the plan and how I like to run (here's a tip: if you like running by effort, you can totally do that on one of Billy's plans - use the paces as a guideline for what the right effort is, but focus more on the effort if that works best for you!). Going into race day, I definitely felt prepared, even with the short plan (and a longest long run shorter than anything I had done before), and the training really paid off, as I was able to maintain a much faster pace than I had in any of my previous halfs, While I did struggle at a few points, I felt pretty strong throughout. Going in, I thought my Blaser plan would be a one-and-done ... but now I'm really looking forward to working with Billy on future plans and seeing what incredible goals he can help me achieve!
 

Name/Username: sourire
Race/Distance: Hot Chocolate 15k, Philadelphia
Training Plan Duration (weeks): 11
Continuous or Run/Walk: Continuous
Days per Week: 3/wk x 4 wks then 4/wk x 8 wks
# of Hard Days (per week): 2 (including LR)
Peak Week Duration: 5:46
Peak Week Mileage: 26.6
Peak Single Run Duration: 2:06:56
Peak Single Run Mileage: 10
PR at Distance Going into it (including when it occurred): N/A
Expectations Going into it: 
After the WDW Marathon in January, I was very excited for this 15k, mostly to prove to myself that my fitness and speed DID improve after that marathon training cycle. I hadn't run a race shorter than a half marathon since last spring, so I was anxious to see what would happen here.
How closely were you able to follow the plan as written:
Plan was followed very closely. It was initially written for 12 weeks, but we had the wrong date of the race (oops), and the actual training was 11 weeks long. We eliminated that 1 wk of training, I missed ~3 runs, and shortened a few others by 0.5-1 mile for various life reasons. My longest long run was 9.5 miles (scheduled for 10).
Testimonial: 
This was my 4th Blaser Plan, and marks one year since starting to work with Billy. This year has been quite a journey, and I have accomplished so many run goals that I previously hadn't thought possible. As always, the proof is in the pudding: current fitness had me completing this race in about 1:44:30, and my time was 1:42:08. I negative split every mile, and ran the last 3 miles in paces that began with a 10:xx, which is absolutely huge for me. I am thrilled with the result! 
The last year has made me stronger and faster, but also, I am more motivated with my running than ever before, and it has become easier and much more enjoyable. The mileage and duration I completed in training this March was basically equal to that which was run in both October and November, during marathon training, but you could have fooled me. I had to go back and look at the numbers more than once, because I just didn't believe it, and thought that perhaps the Coach had played a mind trick on me.  I suspected that perhaps a somewhat lighter work schedule, better weather, the fact that I was training for something that wasn't my 1st marathon, all factored in to the feeling that the March training load was "lighter than usual," but the wise Coach pointed out that perhaps I am "getting stronger and thus more tolerant of the training load". Cheers to continued goal crushing, and many thanks again!! 
 

Name/Username: Zellyb
Race/Distance: Rock the Parkway Half Marathon
Training Plan Duration (weeks): 12 weeks
Continuous or Run/Walk: Run/Walk primarily but with a once a week portion at continuous
Days per Week: 5
# of Hard Days (per week): 2 (including long run)
Peak Week Duration: 5:53
Peak Week Mileage: 30 miles
Peak Single Run Duration: 1:50
Peak Single Run Mileage: 10 miles
PR at Distance Going into it (including when it occurred): 2:12:07 October, 2017
Expectations Going into it: Hoping for a new PR (stretch goal to get below 2:10). Actual completion time 2:12:34.
How closely were you able to follow the plan as written: Not as closely as I wanted. I ended up with a groin strain during the training and had to miss or curtail several runs. LIFE was also a bit of a challenge that hurt us some. Looking at my spreadsheet we missed 13 individual training runs and many of those were late in the training cycle after the injury.
Testimonial:  I've been running for 5 1/2 years now following basic Galloway training plans and doing run/walk. We decided to give one of Billy's plans a try in our run up to the Chicago Marathon in October and my ultimate goal of getting a sub-5:00 marathon time. We committed to going to a 5-day per week running schedule where we'd previously do 4 days per week max. It was a big adjustment learning to run more slowly as our previous runs were nearly always at or near race pace. It was certainly hard for me to wrap my head around the idea of running most runs so much slower and then being able to break out much faster speeds on race day, but I'd read so many great success stories here and read Billy's intensive research process, so we had faith and took the leap. While we missed a PR on this course by 27 seconds, I count it a victory. Our PR race was on a much flatter course than this one and those conditions were ideal. This race, aside from being much more hilly, had 15 MPH sustained winds and gusts up to almost 25 mph - we even got sleeted on during this race. The last 4 miles were straight into a headwind with some significant uphills to manage. After dealing with the initial disappointment of missing a new PR, I recognized that the same training and effort on the PR course and the PR conditions would have absolutely resulted in a new PR. So, sometimes you must just accept those things that are outside your control and do your best. I feel like I was absolutely well-prepared for this race even though we'd not done any single long runs over 10 miles (we'd gone up to 16 or 18 mile long training runs before our last PR) and most at a much slower pace. I felt strong throughout this race and was comfortably able to follow Billy's race strategy. The difference was those last couple of miles with hills and headwind that made the difference. We're already looking for the next possible race to test out our conditioning, but we are excited to see where the next training cycle leads us.
 

Name/Username: SheHulk
Race/Distance: Half Marathon
Training Plan Duration (weeks): 13 weeks
Continuous or Run/Walk: Continuous
Days per Week: 5
# of Hard Days (per week): 2
Peak Week Duration: 6:04:59
Peak Week Mileage: 30
Peak Single Run Duration: 1:58:05
Peak Single Run Mileage: 10 miles
PR at Distance Going into it (including when it occurred): 2:21:46
Expectations Going into it: I wanted to PR, really wanted to go sub 2:20. Given cutbacks in my training I didn't know what to expect actually.
How closely were you able to follow the plan as written: Not great. We started out with a more ambitious plan, coming off a pretty successful marathon training cycle for me. But I was sick for about a month and got tired of feeling tired, and struggling to complete runs at pace, and finally said no mas. Billy very graciously agreed to rewrite my plan, to cut back my miles for the remaining 6 weeks of the race, reasoning that a plan isn't successful if you just can't follow it or are miserable doing it. Even with the cutbacks I missed a T pace run due to 15 inches of snow late in the game. Missed a few very easy runs too due to scheduling difficulties (sorry Billy!)
Testimonial: Even given all the obstacles listed above, I still PRed! I ran a 2:19:09, giving me that long-wished-for sub-2:20. Of course now I am wondering what could have been had I actually followed the original, full, plan, and not cut back. But life happens and in running you have to be able to roll with it. Billy of course provided a lot of emotional labor getting me to that attitude and convincing me I am not a failure, even though I could not follow the original schedule of runs. I'm looking forward to what's next. I'm thrilled I was still able to pull out a PR.
 

Name/Username: Bree
Race/Distance: Star Wars Dark Side Half Marathon
Training Plan Duration (weeks): 14 weeks
Continuous or Run/Walk: Continuous
Days per Week: 5
# of Hard Days (per week): 2 and 3 alternating
Peak Week Duration:  7:05:17
Peak Week Mileage: 37.26
Peak Single Run Duration: 2:32:28
Peak Single Run Mileage: 13.1
PR at Distance Going into it (including when it occurred): 2:28:37
Expectations Going into it:  To be able to finish a half marathon in less than 2:20:00
How closely were you able to follow the plan as written:  Almost exactly as written. Had some adjustments here and there, but I never missed a run.
Testimonial:  As a 41yo woman I never expected I would be back to this fitness level again. I'm running faster and longer than I have in years. Almost every week brought a new challenge for me and I loved the variety of training runs. Before this plan I was out there running every run as fast as I could and not seeing any real improvement. The whole idea of running slow to race fast was new to me, but I was willing to give it a chance. It's a chance I was glad I took. Not only was I able to set a new PR, but I completely destroyed my old one. I was able to cut 14:59 off my previous PR and finished the SWDS Half Marathon with a time of 2:13:38
 

Name/Username: roxymama
Race/Distance: Half Marathon
Training Plan Duration (weeks): 14
Continuous or Run/Walk: continuous
Days per Week: 5, switched to 4 week 8 through duration
# of Hard Days (per week): varied
Peak Week Duration: 3:58:37
Peak Week Mileage: 22
Peak Single Run Duration: 1:23
Peak Single Run Mileage: 8 miles
PR at Distance Going into it (including when it occurred): 2:27:25 May 2017
Expectations Going into it:  My hope was just to have the endurance to complete the distance and if I got a PR that would be icing on the cake but not the intention on race morning.
How closely were you able to follow the plan as written: The plan went through a few phases due to life circumstances. We started with 5 days and week and on week 8 switched to 4 per week. I had to take off a short period of time prior to week 8 and our focus went from goal crushing to just maintaining my fitness and avoiding injury since this was not my "A" race. With Billy's plans I usually try to do almost every single training run as planned, but this cycle wasn't that way.  
Testimonial:  
Last Fall Billy's plans had gotten me through a really hot fall half marathon in great shape, a goal-crushing 10k PR (where I ran faster paced than any of my best 5ks), and a 15k PR. I was excited to see how I could handle a 5 day a week plan with both a speed and endurance focus for a spring half marathon. It started out great with a 1st place in my age for a local 5k. But because of a change in workload and some family health issues I ended up missing more training runs that I normally do. Billy helped me re-prioritize and re-designed my plan to keep my endurance up so that I could complete my half instead of racing for my best time. His philosophies on effort based training really helped me listen to my body during the race and helped me pace myself internally. I was well on pace for a PR by mile 9 and began feeling some tightness in my calves on a rolling hills filled last 4 miles and I backed off on trying to push through the pain and settled into what was comfortable. And I PR'd anyways!!! 2:25:38 so almost two full minutes off my best time. I know with a full training schedule completed how Billy wrote it that I could have done even better. And if I had pushed more through the pain that day I could have whacked even more minutes off but we have an A goal race for me in October and I will be reaching out to him again for my next plan 
 

Name/Username: Kevin
Race/Distance: 15K
Training Plan Duration (weeks): 13
Continuous or Run/Walk: Continuous
Days per Week: 6
# of Hard Days (per week): 1-3 depending on week
Peak Week Duration: 5.5 hours
Peak Week Mileage: 35 miles
Peak Single Run Duration: 1:58:10
Peak Single Run Mileage: 13.15
PR at Distance Going into it (including when it occurred): no data
Expectations Going into it: Felt very good and strong. My pace continued to improve with lower levels of effort.
How closely were you able to follow the plan as written: Very Closely
Testimonial: This was the first time I had a training plan developed by someone else and the first time I had speed runs worked into my training. I continue to see improvement in my speed and stamina and am ready to take the next step and continue improving.  While my goal race was the 15K in February (2/17), I also had a goal of breaking 2 hours for the half which I did in March (3/3). I crushed the 15K run in February getting a PR in the 15K and the 10K. In March I finally broke 2 hours for the half by nearly 2 minutes getting a new PR.   Conditions for the 15K in April were horrible and the race was cut short due to lightning so ended up running a 10k. I also got a PR on the Dark Side Challenge cutting 1.5 minutes off of my previous time in 2016.

 

Name/Username: Jim T.
Race/Distance: Coastal Delaware Running Festival/26.2 miles
Training Plan Duration (weeks): 13 weeks
Continuous or Run/Walk: Continuous
Days per Week: 5
# of Hard Days (per week): 2
Peak Week Duration: 07:27:57
Peak Week Mileage: 37.5
Peak Single Run Duration: 2:29:24
Peak Single Run Mileage: 12 miles
PR at Distance Going into it (including when it occurred): 26.2 miles @ 06:29:49, Walt Disney World Marathon, January 7, 2018
Expectations Going into it: 06:30:00 - a completely lucky projection that I grabbed out of thin air
How closely were you able to follow the plan as written: To the "T" except for 4 training days in week 2 when I was diagnosed with the flu.

Testimonial:  After completing the Disney Marathon in January, 2018 in 6:29:48, I was encouraged by the simple fact, that I was able to finish the race. I was just coming off a 70 pound weight loss (actually 80 pounds but I gained 10 pounds training for the marathon) and had no idea what my body would be capable of. Disney was my first marathon, and it turned out my body, as well as my will and determination, made me much more capable than I thought.  

I used the Intermediate 2, Hal Higdon plan, that incorporated (3) 20 mile long runs in the 6 weeks preceding the actual marathon. It turned out those 20 mile runs were taking me about 5 hours to complete, and that 5 hours was destroying my body. It was taking longer and longer to recover from each run, and on the 3rd, and final, 20 mile run, I ended up with tibialis tendonitis that cost me essentially the final two weeks of my training. I worked with a physical therapist to get as ready as possible for the marathon, and was fortunately able to work out the tendonitis to get me thru the race. I tell you this long story because any marathon training plan that incorporated multiple long (very long runs) is probably not the right plan for either a beginner/1st timer, or maybe even an intermediate marathoner.  

While I was bouncing around after the 2018 marathon, I ran across an individual who had just completed the same marathon, and bettered her time by 38 minutes using a "cumulative fatigue" plan structured by Blaser Coaching Services. From the moment I had finished the Disney marathon, I planned to run another to try to better my time. I contacted Billy and asked if he would structure a plan for me for a marathon here in Delaware known as the Coastal Delaware Marathon that took place on April, 22, 2018. He agreed, took some statistical info from some of my other running events, and structured a plan for the Coastal Delaware event. 

The training schedule incorporated a substantially less amount of overall mileage and training event duration, and left me feeling relatively fresh when raceday arrived. I'm 53 years old, and my body just doesn't respond the way it used to when I was 23, but Billy's plan kept maximum duration for the long runs at less than 2:30:00, and that limit helped mitigate the risk of overuse injury. Again, it left me feeling stronger, having more endurance, and in many ways, confident that I was in a better position to complete my goal of shaving substantial time off my my next marathon.
In addition to the training schedule in terms of physical running, Billy offered his expertise at times on the effects of proper nutrition and hydration, on a runner's results. He recommended a few different ways to approach pre and mid-race nutrition and hydration, and I applied one that seemed most practical.

Raceday has come and gone, and I finished the Coastal Delaware Marathon approximately 30 minutes fast than Disney. That's a win, right? Well, not quite. That 30 minute reduction should have been at least a 1 hour reduction, but I nearly bonked at Mile 23 because there was a large gap in water stops between Mile 17 and 20. I felt myself getting thirsty, and I had to slow my pace down for fear that I'd pass the point of no return, and have to drop out. I was able to get myself to the stop at Mile 20 at a slower pace, and got the fluids I needed, but didn't notice a difference for another 2 miles or so. At that point, I was able to ramp my pace back up close to race pace and finished decently. Had I not suffered the hydration hiccup, I could have potentially finished at 5:30:00, maybe better. That was operator and race manager error, not Billy's.

Billy's plan had me set up to succeed, and a few things outside of his control came together to throw a bit of a wrench into the motor. Still, I bettered my time by 30 minutes, and am already planning my next marathon at the end of the year or just after the first of the year. Next time I won't screw it up, and I'm predicting I'll finish in 5:30:00, or better.  

Billy applies a great blend of science, experience, and feedback when structuring a plan, and whatever that formula consists of, its a winner. Billy's a true professional, and I honestly believe that the plan he structured for me, was at least as good as, and most likely better, than any I could have purchased over the internet on any of the web-based coaching sites. One thing is for sure. Billy's plan is personalized and I can't put a value on personalization. If you're truly committed to running a marathon, or bettering your time from a previous marathon, work with Billy, and he'll have you as prepared as he can to accomplish that goal.
 

Name/Username: Kris
Race/Distance: Half Marathon Darkside
Training Plan Duration (weeks): 14 weeks
Continuous or Run/Walk: Continuous Run
Days per Week: 4 days
# of Hard Days (per week): 2 (including LR)
Peak Week Duration: 6:01
Peak Week Mileage: 39 miles
Peak Single Run Duration: 2:23:14
Peak Single Run Mileage: 15
PR at Distance Going into it (including when it occurred): 1:56:57 March 2016 i had 1:53:31 in Aug 2017 but that measured .6 miles short so i think 1:56:57 is more accurate
Expectations Going into it: 1:52 per plan but hoping for 1:50
How closely were you able to follow the plan as written: Almost to the letter. i had one weekend that i had to shorten from 9 and 16 to 6 and 12. i was having very sore calves and it was the last long weekend before the race. Billy suggested dropping it give my calves a break.
Testimonial: This is my third Blaser Coaching Services plan and by far my best one. After getting a PR in the marathon in Feb 2017 at RnR NOLA, I was actually close to BQ and now it was on my mind if i could do it. I had thought about getting a coach, but it is expensive and this is just a hobby to me. I already spend quite a bit on running shoes and gear. I read a lot from Billy and since he was trying to BQ thought i would take him up on his offer to write a plan that was for a local marathon in Oct 2017. My goal for that was to BQ. I was running 5 days a week on that plan and did not stick to the prescribed times. I was always fast and sometimes WAY too fast. Unfortunately I ended up injured 3 weeks before the marathon. I pulled out since I had Disney in Jan. I got a PT and have been working with her. That brought me to Blaser plan #2. I was still running 5 days a week and still going too fast but not as much as I was for Blaser plan #1. I got to Disney and actually got Norovirus on Saturday so i was not feeling well for the marathon. I completed it but definitely not to at my desired level. This brought me to Blaser Plan #3. The darkside half. I went to 4 days a week running and promised myself to slow down and hit paces. I did not do so good in the beginning but the last 6 weeks I did.  

I got a PR in 1:52:01. I did not hit my time goal of 1:50 but that was due to the conditions. It turned out to be warm and humid for the race. I had some very good things happen though. I was consistent every half was close to 4:15 I only deviated slightly. My goal was to pick it up if there was anything left after mile 9. I could not manage but did not drop my 4:15 until the final mile that i was hitting 4. The best part, after I finished, I felt good. I looked good. After a little break and some water, I could have started running again. I felt good the next day outside of a little soreness in my quads (probably from pushing the last mile in the humid conditions).  

Basically, I am in for Blaser plan #4 and that is to get me to finish Chicago in 3:50 so i can go to Boston in April 2020.  

Thanks Billy!!
 

Name/Username: cburnett11
Race/Distance: half marathon
Training Plan Duration (weeks): 15
Continuous or Run/Walk: continuous
Days per Week: 6
# of Hard Days (per week): Usually 3 (counting long run), but I had a couple shorter races mixed in so sometimes we only had 2 hard days (with the race included as one of those hard days).
Peak Week Duration: 8:20:54
Peak Week Mileage: 53.54
Peak Single Run Duration: 2:01:32
Peak Single Run Mileage: 14.02
PR at Distance Going into it (including when it occurred): 1:47:55 on April 25, 2015
Expectations Going into it: I hoped/expected to break 1:45. I actually ran 1:46:47. 
How closely were you able to follow the plan as written: I really didn't have any issues with the pacing of the plan. Billy and I changed a couple things based on shorter races I had on my calendar, but didn't really impact the plan too much.
Testimonial: I enjoyed this plan and felt really confident going into the race. On a different day, I feel like I would've run faster. It's hard to explain, but something just wasn't right on my part and I think it could've been my diet a few days leading up to the race. I had a conservative race day plan, and the early miles felt way too easy for me. I had trouble running that slow. But then around mile 8, something changed and my legs felt really heavy. I hadn't really ever felt this way before in a half marathon or any of my training for this cycle. So I gotta point to outside elements. The training definitely had me prepared to run my goal. At any rate, I had a very difficult race and STILL MANAGED TO PR BY MORE THAN A MINUTE. Billy is super helpful and I always look forward to his responses to my emails. I have a couple marathons this fall and will be reaching out to Billy to put together something for me to hopefully PR in Chicago.
 

Name/Username: Anisum
Race/Distance: Broad Street 10 Miler
Training Plan Duration (weeks): 13 Weeks
Continuous or Run/Walk: Continuous 
Days per Week: 4-5
# of Hard Days (per week): 1 (2 including LR)
Peak Week Duration: 7:10:28
Peak Week Mileage: 30.8 mi
Peak Single Run Duration: 2:03:12
Peak Single Run Mileage: 9 mi
PR at Distance Going into it (including when it occurred): 2:00:53 May 2017
Expectations Going into it: Hope to PR
How closely were you able to follow the plan as written: Not as closely as I would have liked. Weather early in the plan and travelling later in the plan hampered my progress.
Testimonial: This is not my first training plan with Billy. It's my 3rd. During my previous two, I PRed a 10 miler, a 5 miler, a 15k, a 5k, and completed Dopey. So while I missed my PR for the race I had planned by 49 seconds, I am not at all disappointed. During the training plan, I managed to PR a half marathon by over 9 minutes and achieve a goal I had when I first started doing Billy's training plans. I felt strong throughout my 10 miler and had a great time. There are several things I could have done to improve my time, one of which was follow the plan closer. That's life though and there is always another race.

Name/Username: Kerry1957
Race/Distance: Great Western Half Marathon
Training Plan Duration (weeks): 11 weeks
Continuous or Run/Walk: Run/Walk
Days per Week: 4
# of Hard Days (per week): 1 (2 including LR)
Peak Week Duration: 5:30
Peak Week Mileage: 24
Peak Single Run Duration: 1:53
Peak Single Run Mileage: 8
PR at Distance Going into it (including when it occurred): 2:39:08 2017 Disney Wine & Dine HM
Expectations Going into it: I hoped to PR; Billy encouraged me to expect even a better time of around 2:35
How closely were you able to follow the plan as written: Almost exactly; some times were a bit fast. Never missed a day of running.
Testimonial: Billy and I came up with a target of 11:51 per mile average (2:35 finish time) The first 10 miles were right on plan; I averaged 11:53 with a low of 11:43 and a high of 12:15 (quick porta-potty stop). 

Unfortunately, during mile 11 I stepped funny on a branch (it was really more like a twig, but that does not fit my story line as well). I twisted my knee a bit but tried to keep hobbling along. I ended up having to walk most of the rest of mile 11 (13:01) and most of mile 12 (13:57). I was watching my watch and saying to myself, "damn, well there goes the Blaser plan" and then "damn, well there goes my PR". At the 12 mile marker I decided to just run on it anyway and deal with the results later. Mile 13 was 12:06 and the 13.1 was 1:06, for a finish time of 2:39:10. 

It wasn't until I got home that I checked, and my PR is 2:39:08 at last fall's runDisney W&D HM. It may sound funny but I was not focused on the PR time but on the Blaser plan so I really could not remember the exact PR time while on the course. I missed a PR by just two seconds after walking for most of two miles!

So the good news...the Blaser plan not only worked, but worked extremely well right up until my self inflicted just-off-course stumble, and that has nothing to do with the merits of the plan. I would have finished around 2:35 otherwise, right on schedule.

A huge THANKS! to Billy for all his support.
 

Name/Username: Christian Anglim(Canglim52)
Race/Distance: 5k/10k
Training Plan Duration (weeks): 15
Continuous or Run/Walk: Continuous 
Days per Week: 6
# of Hard Days (per week): 3
Peak Week Duration: 8:34:12
Peak Week Mileage: 63.01
Peak Single Run Duration: 2:06:14
Peak Single Run Mileage: 16
PR at Distance Going into it (including when it occurred): Previous PRs were 19:28(5k) and 40:12(10k), and both were attained during the Goofy half marathon 1/6/2018. That plan was also written by Billy!
Expectations Going into it: I wanted to improve my ability to run at higher speeds and of course set new PRs.
How closely were you able to follow the plan as written: I missed 0 days, but modified 5 workouts so technically my worst adherence to date.
Testimonial: This was my 5th plan written by Billy, and so far every plan has led to multiple PRs!! This was a hard one, and Billy did an excellent job of pushing me to my limits. He has a nice balance between seeing the big picture and still giving you that push you need when you need it! I selected 3 races (10k,5k, and 5k) and we settled on a 15 week plan. I came in with some lofty goals, and though I didn’t technically achieve them all, I still PRed my 10k with a 38:30 and my first 5k with an 18:39 (on really tired legs). I didn’t do the best job scouting my “A” race and selected a course with way too much climbing, but I still finished with a 19:37 and more importantly 3rd place overall!! I used to love competition and sports growing up, so to have the chance to compete again was the highlight of the training cycle. Billy’s plan, coaching, and support made this all possible!! Such a great experience and looking forward to plan #6!
 

Name/Username: Jenna
Race/Distance: 10k
Training Plan Duration (weeks): 10 weeks
Continuous or Run/Walk: Continuous
Days per Week: 5 days
# of Hard Days (per week): 2-3 (including LR)
Peak Week Duration: 5:52:46
Peak Week Mileage: 32.05
Peak Single Run Duration: 1:47:58
Peak Single Run Mileage: 10 miles
PR at Distance Going into it (including when it occurred): 1:03:11 (5/2016)
Expectations Going into it: Sub 1 hour 10k
How closely were you able to follow the plan as written: I was able to follow my plan exactly. I had one speed workout flub due to technology. A few long runs were cut into two. But otherwise, I did all the miles and even if I ran a few paces too fast I was consistent with them.
Testimonial: This was my second plan from Billy and it was even more exciting than my first. Since I was focusing on a shorter distance (10k) there was a lot more speed work (one to two times a week). I was nailing all of my workouts pretty well and while I didn’t get my goal of a sub one hour 10k (thanks to some unexpected elevation during the race I chose), my fitness level is the highest that it probably ever has been in my adult life. I have not only improved my running capabilities, but my overall health has improved over the 6 months of being a client to Billy. I am excited to see what the next training plan does for me!

Coach added - A PR of 1:01:51 and 4th place AG finish!
 

Name/Username: FredtheDuck
Race/Distance: St. Michael's Running Festival/Half Marathon
Training Plan Duration (weeks): 18
Continuous or Run/Walk: Continuous
Days per Week: 5
# of Hard Days (per week): 2/3 alternating
Peak Week Duration: 6:09:59
Peak Week Mileage: 30.7 miles
Peak Single Run Duration: 2:09:38
Peak Single Run Mileage: 11 miles
PR at Distance Going into it (including when it occurred): 2:39:26 at the Parks Half Marathon on 9/10/2017
Expectations Going into it: Finish +/- 5 minutes of Blaser's plan-predicted time of 2:18:12
How closely were you able to follow the plan as written: Honestly, some weeks were better than others. I had a handful of skipped easy runs and a couple of slight modifications (cut distance for time, etc.). Billy was great about helping me modify when life got in the way of my best intentions. 
Testimonial: This was technically my third Blaser Coaching Services plan. My first helped me across the finish line of my first half marathon (Parks, last year). The second helped me maintain fitness in a personally-busy offseason. The third helped me get back in to race form and train for a second HM. When it came time to set my goals for 2018, it was a no brainer that I'd ask for Billy's help again. I made the decision to switch to 5-days a week of running in the hopes of building more endurance and (to be honest), maybe getting a little fitter and lighter. The plan was really well written. Because we had a lot of lead time (18 weeks) before my target race, Billy was able to put three mini cycles in to the plan that would help target speed and endurance. I really liked the approach, because it kept things fresh and interesting, and gave me new and varied challenges to look forward to (or be intimidated by!). Admittedly, I had some challenges with the five day a week schedule, and I had to make some adjustments (either missed or shortened weekday runs). Billy was always there to answer questions and provide advice when I had to make those kinds of decisions. 

Ultimately, I didn't make my goal of finishing the race +/- 5 minutes from Billy's predicted 2:18:12. I finished in 2:25:13. But there are two key factors that were completely outside the scope of my plan: The weather (and some minor road flooding during the race), and my own mental endurance. What I can say for sure is that I had more in the tank at the end of the run. And, importantly to me, there was NEVER a concern that I wasn't going to finish or even that I'd have to walk (I'm a continuous runner). My fitness was there, and I felt really physically strong (and confident) throughout the race. I really believe that with the right mindset and the right conditions, a 2:18:12 wasn't far-fetched, and it's totally Billy's plan that got me there. Oh, also worth highlighting: My previous HM PR was 2:39:26. So my tough-conditions, probably could have tried harder, new PR of 2:25:13 is still a more than 14 minute PR. If that's not demonstrable progress, I don't know what is. 

I just started my fourth Blaser plan (with a different distance and a stretch goal in mind) and I'm really excited to see what this cycle has in store. THANK YOU!

Name/Username: PrincessMickey
Race/Distance: Colfax 10 miler
Training Plan Duration (weeks): 17 weeks
Continuous or Run/Walk: Run/Walk
Days per Week: 4
# of Hard Days (per week): 1-2
Peak Week Duration: 6 hours 24 minutes
Peak Week Mileage: 26 miles
Peak Single Run Duration: 2 hours 32 minutes
Peak Single Run Mileage: 10 miles
PR at Distance Going into it (including when it occurred): NA/first races at this distance
Expectations Going into it: I didn't have specific expectations. I'm still fairly new to running and this was my first actual plan so I wanted to use this as a learning experience. Billy is a wealth of knowledge with all the info he shares to go along with the plan. Plus I learned a lot about myself, I actually like running and I can do it.
How closely were you able to follow the plan as written: I think I only missed 2 runs due to lack of time and weather. I did have to adjust a few of the days because of work or weather but I was able to get them all in with the exception of the 2.  
Testimonial: I was so impressed with my plan. I have a crazy work schedule and about as far from Monday through Friday 9-5 as you can get. I work nights, my work week is not normal and once a month I have a training day so I get off one morning and have a super quick turn around to be back early that afternoon, usually only getting about 4 hours sleep. Those weeks are especially hard on my sleep schedule and overall lack of energy after that and my weekend is focused on just trying to get back on track. Billy worked around all this and gave me a light load those weeks and built the plan to my ability. I felt very prepared going into my race, I was my own enemy though. My time goals were slightly outside of my ability in that I wanted a submittable POT for the marathon around 1:56:00 as my A goal time and B goal time was under 2:00:00. Billy's thoughts based on my training was around 2:05:00. I got ahead of myself at the start instead of following Billy's advise of starting out slower and gaining towards the end. Because of going out too fast from the start I starting losing energy in the last mile to mile and a half and finished in 2:00:59. I beat my training time and just barely missed my B goal. At the beginning I never thought I could accomplish anything close to this and I know it was due to this plan. I am a much stronger and better runner now than I was when I started this plan. I also know now I do so much better when I have a plan in place so I will definitely be coming back for another plan!

Name/Username: Leslie Weeks  
Race/Distance:  Marathon
Training Plan Duration (weeks):  16
Continuous or Run/Walk:  Continuous 
Days per Week:  4/5
# of Hard Days (per week):  1
Peak Week Duration:  7:21:37
Peak Week Mileage:   34.1
Peak Single Run Duration:  2:29:14
Peak Single Run Mileage:    12
PR at Distance Going into it (including when it occurred):  4:56:53  2013 
Expectations Going into it:   Hoping to PR, would have loved 4:45.  But was very happy with my new PR of 4:56:49!

How closely were you able to follow the plan as written:  Pretty closely.  I had an issue with a possible stress fracture, so I backed off the plan for a week or two, did pool running instead.

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Testimonial: 

This was my 19th marathon but the first trained the Billy way.  I loved the plan and thought it was great.  I didn’t dread my long runs like I used to dread my 20 mile Saturdays.  The easy pace 2 days a week made it feel manageable, although overall I spent a lot more time running than usual and a covered many more miles.  I felt very prepared for my marathon and managed a PR at age 52.

The only downside was the time involved, which is true for any marathon plan if you want to get results.  But I liked knowing for every run how much time it would take so I could plan around it.  And it was broken up into manageable chunks, no 4 hour training runs to worry about.

Billy really listened to me and my schedule.  I had two big trips this summer and he planned around them so I could still run and accomplish the training for those weeks. As I mentioned, I was worried about a stress fracture and we talked about that and decided it was best to back off for a short time.  He calmed me down and reminded me that it was not the worst thing ever to skip some runs and that it was the overall training that mattered.

Billy was always a quick email away with answers to my many questions and, as I told him, I so appreciated having him in my corner for this race.  I know I would not have accomplished a PR without him.  I also managed to run the last two miles the fastest, which is definitely a first for me.

I’m a believer in this plan and have the results to show it. 

Thanks Billy!

Name: Katie Little
Race/Distance: VA 10 Miler and Richmond Half Marathon
Training Plan Duration (weeks): 21
Continuous or Run/Walk: Run/walk
Days per Week: 3/4
# of Hard Days (per week): 1
Peak Week Duration: around 4.5 hours (don’t have the plan in front of me)
Peak Week Mileage: 17.5 miles 
Peak Single Run Duration: 2:30:ish
Peak Single Run Mileage: 10 miles
PR at Distance Going into it (including when it occurred): First 10 miler and First half marathon so no Previous PR
Expectations Going into it: to finish my races 
How closely were you able to follow the plan as written: not very but that’s not the plans fault.
Testimonial: This is my 2nd coach Billy plan, and he somehow got me where I wanted to be despite myself! I was sticking to the plan really closely until July. My Father had an open heart surgery and that caused me to miss quite a few runs. In August, I started to get frustrated that I had missed so many runs, so I stopped trying. Add that to my usual mid plan slump and you’ve got a disaster of a mental wall on your hands. Coach Billy came through with the encouragement that I needed and he even adjusted my plan. September comes and I finished the VA 10 miler! A bucket list race for me that I never thought was possible. Coach Billy came in and calmed my nerves yet again and even though I had stumbled though the plan, his confidence gave me confidence to show up on race day and I’m so glad I did! From September through November I continued to get in my head and struggle but even through all of that Coach Billy kept encouraging me and without him I doubt I would have showed up to my half marathon. I thought about switching to the event’s shorter race but Billy helped me decide that I deserved my “victory lap.” He always knows what to say to help you shift your mindset!! 21 weeks is a very long training cycle and I was a whiny brat for at least 18 of those weeks.. Coach Billy never gave up on me or complained about my belly aching, and he always knew exactly what to say and when to say it. I never believed I would finish either of these races and I can not speak kindly enough about coach Billy or his plan. If you don’t use him for your next race, you're probably not tapping into your fullest potential - just saying. He’s probably going to coach olympians one day .

Name/Username: PaDisneyCouple Mr.
Race/Distance: Hershey Half Marathon
Training Plan Duration (weeks): 11 weeks
Continuous or Run/Walk: Continuous
Days per Week: 4-5
# of Hard Days (per week): 1
Peak Week Duration: 310 minutes
Peak Week Mileage: 29.6M (planned 34.5M)
Peak Single Run Duration: 1 hour 54 minutes
Peak Single Run Mileage: 11M (planned 11.5M)
PR at Distance Going into it (including when it occurred): 2:10
Expectations Going into it: I wanted to PR at half marathon distance. Under perfect conditions, I wanted to hit 2 hours. 
How closely were you able to follow the plan as written: Unfortunately, due to work and illness, I missed several runs and had to reduce pace on many more. When I tried, I feel I hit the plan as written almost 100% of the time. 
Testimonial: I was skeptical of the plan at first glance, but upon reading it a second time, I could see the logic behind it. Though I didn't reach the mileage called for in the plan on several runs, I arrived at race day uninjured and not tired. I was able to PR the distance by just under 2 minutes on a cold, very windy day on a course with more elevation changes than I thought there would be. Though I really wanted to get my long run distance closer to race distance, I trusted the plan. I wondered about running for 3 straight days prior to race day, but given the distances and paces called for, it didn't tire me out. I would do another Blaser Coaching Services plan in the future; especially if I decide to run my first marathon.