Laura Weightman
Running Coach
Email: laura@pgc1coaching.com
Qualifications
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BSc in Sport and Exercise Science from Leeds Beckett University
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UKA Coach in Running Fitness with Event Group Endurance Qualification
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Safeguarding in Athletics and Enhanced DBS check
Key roles and athletic achievements
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Athlete Mentor at the Leeds Talent Hub for Athletics
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Coach on the England Athletics Youth Talent Porgamme
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7 Years worth of coaching experience with athletes from beginner to national level
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Represented Great Britain at the Olympic Games over 1500m at London and Rio de Janiero
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Medalist at the Commonwealth Games and European Championships over 1500m and 5000m
A bit about me
As an athlete, I began running at 12 with Morpeth Harriers, and I have loved the sport ever since. I have been coaching for over 5 years and I draw on the highs and lows of my athletics journey to ensure my athletes get the best from me. My career has seen me compete on the world stage over 1500m/5000m for over 10 years internationally. My career highlights include winning 2 medals at both the Commonwealth and European Championships, representing Great Britain at the London and Rio de Janeiro Olympic Games and making the final of the world championships in 2017 over 1500m and 2019 over 5000m. I also hold the British Road Mile Record (4.17.6), and I am the 3rd fastest British female of all time over 5000m (14:35.44).
I have been coaching athletes at a national level for the last 5 years, helping them achieve their goals from the 800m up to the Marathon on the track, road and cross country circuit.
Coaching philosophy
I am incredibly lucky to have had some great coaching influences in my career. Mike Bateman, my first coach from 12-18 at Morpeth Harriers, was pivotal in my early development as an athlete. He built the foundations to enable me to have a career as an athlete.
My current coach, Steve Cram, has coached me since I was 18, and without him, I wouldn't be where I am today. Finally, Andrew Henderson has worked closely with me for nearly 10 years, supporting my long-distance coaching relationship with Steve.
Mike, Steve and Andy have all taught me so much that I draw on in my own coaching. I also apply the science that my degree in Sport and Exercise Science taught me about managing training loads, creating training progressions and planning race blocks. I believe in my athletes having an individualised programme that reflects their training and racing ambitions alongside a busy personal/working life. My coaching style is very personable and I am a very present coach amongst my group of athletes. I believe no matter where your starting point in the sport is, with consistency, dedication and hard-work you can achieve your goals.
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