If you missed Martin’s evening speedwork series towards the end of last year, don’t fear – he is planning on leading more this spring! Until then, here’s your chance to get to know this local coach and accomplished endurance athlete a bit more.
Introduction by Bruna Gusmao:
“I have been running since 2016 and have always had the same coach back in Brazil. There I would always run on the road and focus on pace. This year, running in the mountains and with a totally different mindset, I felt like it was time for a change. I met Martin at one of the Tuesday social runs. That is when I found out not only that he was a coach but also that he had some speed workouts on Thursdays for DPMR members. After joining the uphill speed workouts and feeling like it was a great experience I really felt he was the right person to train me.
I had a crazy (in my mind) idea of running my first marathon ever within two to three months. So I talked to him and he told me the best idea was to do it within three months. I am a very organized person who plans way ahead of everything and also anxious when I am out of my comfort zone. So changing coaches and learning how to trust someone new with my biggest goal ever was scary.
Martin was always calm, positive and supportive throughout the months. Even when I freaked out because I got sick three weeks before the race and couldn’t go on one of my longest runs. He was flexible with my schedule and had no problem in making changes according to the situation.
The week before the race I was very insecure and thinking I couldn’t make it. He was able to calm me down and give me a plan to follow during the race that made me feel more confident. He also talked to me about hydration during the race and what to eat before it. In the end I could not have asked for a better result. I was able to run exactly as he had planned and five minutes faster than my best estimate. On top of that, I was able to run with no pain or fatigue at all at any moment of the race.
I was amazed how he could draw a plan of success for me so well even though we had a short period of time training together. His training plan included muscle strengthening workouts, which I had never done before. This definitely helped my body run better, and with no pain. I will be forever grateful for his patience with me and his training plan. Can’t wait for my next marathon and for the uphill speed work Martin leads in the summer.”
Where are you from and where do you live now?
I’m originally from Oakland, CA and now live in Truckee. I’ve been in the area for about 11 years now. Though I was able to spend time on Donner Summit while growing up.
When did you begin running and/or long-distance running, if that applies? Why?
I started running to get in shape for cross-country skiing initially. Over time, I grew to love running more and more. Definitely my favorite summer and fall activity around the Truckee-Tahoe area.
Do you have any dream races (either hoping to qualify for or get selected for)?
I’ve got a few dream cross-country ski races over in Europe that I’d like to do. The Marcialonga, a 70 km race in Northern Italy, and the Engadin, a 42 km race in Switzerland. Running in the summer and fall is my go to training method for getting and staying fit.
Do you have a favorite on-trail food or nutrition strategy and favorite post-run meal or beverage?
I’m a big fan of Nature’s Bakery fig bars during long runs or skis. And my post-run meal go-to is pizza and beer!
What was your favorite running experience this past year?
One of my favorite things about running is the simplicity of it. You don’t need much equipment to get out for a run, especially while traveling. I was visiting my sister in Italy in the fall and got some great runs in among the vineyards of the Tuscan countryside.
What do you do for a living? Is it hard to fit in time for training?
I am a full time endurance coach working with cross-country skiers, runners, triathletes, and more. That said, it’s often tough to fit in my own training, especially in the winter months.
What led you to join DPMR?
I was seeking out a fun group of fellow endurance-minded folks! I love the enthusiasm the group has for running and also just for getting outside year-round.
What has been your favorite DPMR experience so far?
The Tuesday night social runs are a really fun group and I love running right from Downtown Truckee!
Favorite local trail?
The Warren Lake trail is a favorite, especially linking up with the PCT north of Basin Peak. Starting at the PCT trailhead near Boreal it ends up being a great 14 mile loop.
Recovery technique(s) that you swear by?
I love foam rolling or stretching at home, or the occasional hot yoga class. I can always work on my mobility and yoga has been a great way to help with that!
What other outdoor or indoor interests do you have?
Cross-country skiing and backcountry skiing in the winter. Summer mountain biking is tough to beat around here, but I love being out on the trails regardless of the activity.
Leave a Reply