Coach Michael Merlino
I help adult runners train smarter for race distances from the 5K to marathon and minimize injury risk along the way.
About
I've been coaching runners since 2004 through my Houston-based program, In Flight Running. I work with adult runners at every level, from first-time 5K participants to experienced marathoners, helping them build strength, improve pace, and actually enjoy the process without burning out or getting injured.
Most runners make the same mistake: they train too hard on easy days and not hard enough on the hard days, which leads to frustration and injury. I design training plans that fit into real life, balance intensity with recovery, and address what each person's body actually needs right now, not a generic template. That's the difference between checking boxes and actually getting faster.
Services
🏃 Ask Coach Merlino Anything | $29 Get personalized advice on one running topic: pacing, heart rate zones, mileage, race preparation, recovery, strength, or gear. Includes up to 15 minutes to review your question and prepare a recorded video answer with practical next steps, delivered within 3 business days. One question and one response per purchase. Excludes live calls, custom plans, detailed training reviews, gait analysis, medical advice, and follow-up coaching.
🏃 Live Running Coaching Call | $65 Meet with Coach Merlino for a 30-minute video call focused on your running questions and goals. Discuss pacing, heart rate zones, mileage, race preparation, recovery, strength, or gear. Get personalized guidance, ask follow-up questions, and leave with practical next steps. Share your goals and questions before the call to make the most of our time. Custom training plans, gait analysis, and ongoing coaching are separate services.
Services
🏃 Ask Coach Merlino Anything | $29 Get personalized advice on one running topic: pacing, heart rate zones, mileage, race preparation, recovery, strength, or gear. Includes up to 15 minutes to review your question and prepare a recorded video answer with practical next steps, delivered within 3 business days. One question and one response per purchase. Excludes live calls, custom plans, detailed training reviews, gait analysis, medical advice, and follow-up coaching.
🏃 Live Running Coaching Call | $65 Meet with Coach Merlino for a 30-minute video call focused on your running questions and goals. Discuss pacing, heart rate zones, mileage, race preparation, recovery, strength, or gear. Get personalized guidance, ask follow-up questions, and leave with practical next steps. Share your goals and questions before the call to make the most of our time. Custom training plans, gait analysis, and ongoing coaching are separate services.