Steve Mura is the Lead for Runner Training and Education at New York Road Runners. He is RRCA and VDot02 certified, coaching runners in person and virtually every year. In the 10+ years since he started at NYRR, Steve was a part of the Group Training launch, created weekly course strategy sessions, and coordinated the NYRR Pace Team, which includes pacing for the TCS New York City Marathon. 

Steve found his love for running in cross country during his first year of high school. He picked up running again later in life and completed his first marathon at the 2010 New York City Marathon. Since then, his love for running has only grown to building community and helping others achieve their goals. You can find Steve pacing many of the NYRR races.

Q&A with Steve

What languages do you speak?
English

How would you describe your coaching style?
My coaching style is individualized for each runner. I have learned that no one training plan or workout works for all athletes. Learning what motivates, or when to pull back an athlete’s mileage is important for a coach to learn.

What is your proudest coaching moment?
Every year I get the honor of waiting for runners at the finish line of the TCS New York City Marathon. I get to high five athletes that no more than five months ago could not run a mile and I get to hug those who completed the race at their personal best. I look forward to those moments every year.

What is your favorite workout to coach and why?
I love coaching runners through the tempo run. Many runners, especially new athletes, feel they have two speeds: normal and sprinting. I enjoy finding that middle ground with them and sustaining a challenging pace with them for 30 minutes.

How many years have you been coaching?
10+ years

Please list any awards, achievements, or certifications below.

RRCA Certification Level 1

V.O2 Certified Distance Running Coach

2014 3rd place AG at 2016 NYRR Staten Island 5K

What is your favorite place to run in New York City?
Central Park is my favorite place to run, specifically the day before the TCS New York City Marathon.

What is your favorite NYRR race?
The TCS New York City Marathon is a day I look forward to every year.

What is your personal running motto?
If you want to run fast, run alone. If you want to run far, run together.