Gerald Collins – Endurance Run Coach

I’m Endurance Run Coach Gerald Collins, founder of RunRev Coaching, and a lifelong resident of Southwest Ohio. I grew up in the small town of Gratis, nestled right between Dayton and Cincinnati, and this community has shaped so much of who I am today. The roads, trails, and people of this region have been part of my story for as long as I can remember.

How endurance running helped my mental health

My endurance running journey began in May 2012 during one of the hardest seasons of my life. After losing my mother, I found myself deep in the biggest mental health crisis of grief and depression I had ever experienced. I searched for anything that could help me breathe again when I found endurance running.

What started as an attempt to run a single 5K quickly became something far greater. In endurance running, I found relief from my constant mental health struggles. Also, I found a purpose to my life that my mental health struggles had stolen from me. Finally, I found in the endurance running community a group that held me up when I needed it most. Endurance running literally changed my life, and it planted the seed that would later grow into RunRev Coaching.

What background do you have as an Endurance Run Coach?

Since then, I’ve run everything from the mile to the 50K. My first marathon was the Air Force Marathon, and my favorite race series will always be the Flying Pig. If there is an endurance run happening in the Miami Valley, chances are you will find me cheering, volunteering, or toeing the line. I love this endurance running community and the energy that fills these local races.

Before stepping fully into coaching, I served as Race Director for the Ohio River Road Runners Club Tadmor 10K and continue to volunteer at many ORRRC events. Giving back to the endurance running community that supported me has always been important, and it remains a core part of who I am as an endurance run coach and as a person.

What credentials do you have as an endurance run coach?

I am a member of USA Track and Field and have completed all required coaching background checks. Each year I also renew my SafeSport training to ensure I serve every athlete with integrity, safety, and respect. My heart is to create a safe, faith-driven, and encouraging environment where endurance runners can grow stronger physically, mentally, and spiritually.

If my story resonates with you, or if you are navigating your own season of grief, depression, or uncertainty, know that you are not alone. I would be honored to walk with you on your journey.