ABOUT RUN YOUR PERSONAL BEST
Running Has Transformed Our Lives
Now we help others experience the same.
What It’s Like to Work With Us
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Training rooted in science, fine-tuned by experience
A supportive one-on-one coaching relationship
Clear, responsive communication with your coach
Training tailored to your ability, lifestyle, and goals
A genuine investment in your success
Beth's Story
From Missed Goals
to Boston Qualification
When Beth set out to run the Philadelphia Marathon, she had an ambitious goal: a 3:35 Boston Marathon qualifying time. She crossed the finish line in 3:45—short of what she knew she was capable of.
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Instead of chalking it up to a bad day, Beth took a closer look at her training. It became clear that her current approach wasn’t setting her up to run at her best. That’s when she decided to work with Run Your Personal Best.
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Five months later, Beth ran her dream race—qualifying for the Boston Marathon with a 3:31 finish.
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Since then, she’s continued working closely with her coach, setting new personal bests from the 5K through the marathon. A physician, mother of three, and full-time medical director at multiple facilities, Beth has achieved all of this while balancing a demanding career and family life.​
Why Work With Us?
Beth’s journey is unique—but the confidence that comes from training the right way and succeeding is universal.
When you run with clarity and purpose, that confidence carries into everything else you do. You show up each day with energy, optimism, and the belief that your goals are within reach.
We understand that running may not be your first priority in life, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t important to you. You're eager to improve and willing to work hard to do so.
Great coaching is all about meeting you where you are, as both a runner and everyday parent, spouse, professional, or friend, and then designing a running program that fits with not only your lifestyle but also your experience level.
Training should be challenging but not break your back. Your workouts should motivate you, not scare you. Helping you run faster is more than just prescribing workouts. It’s about encouragement, feedback and guidance.
Based on this philosophy, we’ve developed a system that works to get you faster while helping you run longer, stronger, and more confidently, and we have the testimonials to prove it. This customized approach is just a piece of what sets Run Your Personal Best coaches apart from the rest.
Unlike many other running coaches, this isn’t our side gig, it’s our main gig. Our coaches have devoted a large part of their lives to learning and excelling in the art of running. Coaching isn't just our career, it's our passion.
No matter what type, age, or ability level runner you are, we’re here to meet you where you are today and take you beyond where you want to be. We are dedicated to your success 24/7.
Meet your
coaches
Expertise that only comes through
years of experience.
Coach Cory Smith
Founder
Coaching & Competitive Background
Coached 100+ Boston Marathon qualifiers
USA Track & Field Level 1 & 2 Endurance Certified
Former NCAA Division I athlete (Villanova)
Former Head X-Country/Track Coach, Penn State Brandywine
Media & Features
Outside Magazine — Regular columnist (training & gear)
Runner’s World — Contributing writer (training & gear)
Runner’s World & Running Warehouse — Training plan contributor
Personal Bests
Mile: 4:03
5000 meters: 14:13
Half Marathon: 1:10:28
Masters Personal Bests (40+)
Mile: 4:31
5k: 15:43
4 Mile: 20:57
Coach Brandon Birdsong
Coach
Coaching & Competitive Background
Bachelor’s degree in Exercise Physiology
Coached multiple U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials qualifiers
2016 U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials qualifier
Two-time NCAA Division II All-American
Media & Features
Runner’s World & USA Today — Feature article on Trails Marathon
Personal Bests
10k: 29:54
5000 meters: 14:13
