Every Step Builds Strength

Virtual Run Coaching for the Everyday Athlete

Welcome to Run Strength Academy. Here, your commitment to health strengthens more than just muscle. With expert guidance from personal trainer and endurance coach Nick Savin, you’ll find balance in training and life, propelling you to peak performance on the run and beyond.

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Are You Ready to Conquer Your Next 5K?

Gear up for success with the Beyond The Finish: 5K Training Program. This comprehensive 14-week guide is packed with expert strategies, custom workout plans, and essential race-day tips. Whether it’s your first 5K or you’re aiming for a new personal record, this program is designed to help you achieve your goals and build a strong foundation for future races.

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Coach Nick Savin, smiling as he crosses the finish line at a running event, embodying the vitality and approachability central to Run Strength Academy's coaching philosophy.

Your Expert Guide to Endurance

Certified Coach. Lifelong Athlete. Chicago’s Own.

Hey there, I’m Nick Savin. My journey’s taken me from Arkansas to Chicago, from a theatre enthusiast to your strength and running coach. What kicked off as a side gig while chasing my theatre dreams turned into my calling. I’ve been a personal trainer, a PE teacher, and now, I’m all about coaching folks like you. While running and coaching have taken center stage, my first athletic love was swimming — dreams of college competition gave way to the lure of the stage. Nowadays, when I’m not running or lifting, I’m probably gearing up for my next triathlon. Coaching has allowed me to help people smash their first marathon, nail a 5K, or simply fall back in love with being active. It’s about pushing limits, yours and mine, and discovering the greatness we can achieve.

Train with Coach Nick

Joy in the journey, strength in every small success — this is how greatness grows.

Empowering Your Journey, One Step at a Time

Every Milestone, a Victory

My philosophy? It’s simple: celebrate the wins, big or small, and cherish the journey. Whether it’s your first marathon or setting a new personal best, it’s about more than just the finish line. It’s about what you learn about yourself along the way, the confidence you build, and the joy in every bit of progress. I’ve seen firsthand how training hard not only transforms your body but also enriches your relationships and personal growth. Let’s embark on this journey together, discovering what lies beyond our limits and striving for something truly great.

Discover Your Path

Triathlon coach Nick Savin, exuberant with accomplishment, emerges from the water in a wetsuit and swim cap, reflecting the active, hands-on coaching style at Run Strength Academy.

What Our Clients Are Saying

Real stories from folks just like you. Whether overcoming injuries, finding a love for the sport, or achieving personal milestones, our coaching helps every step of the way

My knee injuries were getting the best of me and I just needed a solution! The biggest breakthrough has to have been implementing the strength work to supplement the runs. Making my body stronger felt amazing and it also reduced my knee injuries entirely! The knee injuries are basically nonexistent, and I’m now feeling stronger and more equipped to KEEP running for a LONG time. Outside of the strength work, I never imagined myself running 8+ miles during one run. And with Nick’s help, it happened!

Patrick M.

Having Nick as my coach has been an absolute game-changer for my running. His guidance goes beyond just giving me a plan; he truly understands my goals, strengths, and the areas where I need improvement. What I appreciate most is how accommodating he is to life’s ups and downs—whether it’s adjusting training because of scheduling conflicts or working around injuries, Nick always finds a way to keep me moving forward. His expertise, support, and flexibility have helped me stay consistent and continue progressing, even when things don’t go as planned.

Chris S.

I have learned that I can do hard things. After back-to-back long run sessions and completing difficult workouts, I am constantly reminded that hard things are not impossible to do and sometimes I just need a gentle push. Second, Coach has taught me how to enjoy speed work and that finding the joy in running fast can be super simple. As someone who was intimidated by speed workouts and pushed back on them hard in the beginning, I can tell ya… they work! AND are fun!

Alex H.

I began to include my elementary school-aged daughters more on my runs, resulting in more fun and joy in my runs! I would recommend this program for those who are looking for a coach who really listens to you and if you need flexibility with your training. So many times I couldn’t do a workout or run due to family commitments, and Nick would work with me.

Krystal T.

I was feeling nervous for the race/feeling prepared, but this process has really unlocked a love of running for me. I’m excited to enjoy running as a sport now.

Susie G.

Gaudium Inter Parvas Victorias

Embrace Our Philosophy

At Run Strength Academy, we live by the principle of “Gaudium Inter Parvas Victorias” – finding joy in every small step forward. This timeless wisdom encapsulates our approach to coaching and life: celebrating each achievement, no matter how small, as a milestone towards greatness. With every stride, every challenge overcome, and every goal reached, we’re not just training bodies; we’re nurturing spirits and building resilience for life’s marathon. Join us on this transformative journey, and let’s celebrate the victories together – because every step builds strength, and every small success paves the way to your ultimate triumph.

Let’s Get STarted