Bespoke endurance coaching for complex goals, demanding environments, and people who take the process seriously.
Ultra-Running Coach Elisabet Barnes, PhD.
I work with runners, walkers, and endurance athletes preparing for demanding goals — from first-time ultras to complex multi-stage and expedition-style races.
My coaching is bespoke and evidence-informed. Grounded in lived experience.
It draws on endurance racing at the highest level, professional coaching practice, and a deep understanding of how people perform under uncertainty, fatigue, and pressure.
If you’re looking for coaching that is thoughtful, individual, and sustainable — rather than generic, performative, or formula-driven — you’re in the right place.
Preparing for an ultra can be complex. Coaching brings clarity, structure, and perspective.
Clarity instead of guesswork
You don’t need more information —
you need clear decisions at the right time.
I help you cut through noise and uncertainty so your training and preparation are intentional and aligned with your goal.
Training that fits your life
I don’t deliver generic plans.
Your training is shaped around your work, recovery capacity, and wider life context — so the process is sustainable, realistic, and supportive rather than overwhelming.
Beyond running alone
Endurance capacity is shaped by so much more than mileage.
We work with pacing, nutrition, equipment, heat management, recovery, mindset, and self-trust — all integrated, not treated in isolation.
Depth of experience
I have coached runners preparing for Marathon des Sables and other multi-stage races since 2014.
When the goal is complex or demanding, depth of experience makes the difference.
About The Coach.
I’m best known for winning the 250km Marathon des Sables — The Legendary — twice. Since I began running ultras in 2011, I’ve raced in extreme environments around the world, including deserts, rainforests, mountains, and high altitude, learning firsthand what sustained endurance truly demands.
I’m particularly interested in how people prepare, adapt, and make sound decisions under fatigue, uncertainty, and pressure — and how thoughtful preparation, done well, builds confidence, resilience, and self-trust when it matters most.
This is not mass-market coaching, template plans, or short-term optimisation. I work with a limited number of people who value depth, honesty, and long-term sustainability.
Clients Say
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Just wanted to say a big Thank You. Can't put into words how much I appreciate what you have done, you are a very special person.
Elaine
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Thank you for spending time talking me through everything. I draw a huge amount of comfort and confidence from speaking with you.
Neil
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I have absolutely loved being coached by you and this is the fittest I have ever been. My running has improved so much and I have enjoyed every single session.
Alison
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