10%

Team Ninja Coaching

By Greg Sisengrath

January 19^th, 2017

My running background

I started running in 2009 in an effort to "get into shape" and I have since raced at a variety distances on road and trail (even up mountains). With a wife (who is also an active ultrarunner) and three children, I know what it's like to balance family life, full-time work and training to still achieve your running goals. Whichever part of your running journey that you are on, I've most likely already experienced it.

My coaching career began only in 2015, but I feel like I have been un-officially coaching friends far earlier as they made their first forays into longer distances. I have a true passion for the sport and love any opportunity to help others achieve their goals. My simple philosophy is quality over quantity. I believe in building strength and speed over volume.

Personal highlights

5K - Rudolph Run 2010 20:37 PR
10K - Cowtown 2010 45:54 PR
Half-marathon - Frisco Big Star 2017 1:33:47 PR
Full-marathon - Dallas White Rock 2011 3:25:04 PR
50K - Crazy Desert 2021 4:49 PR
2 x 50 Mile - 2011 Lean Horse, 2018 Coyote Run
4 x 100K - 2014 Run LOViT, 2018 Bandera, 2020 Black Canyon, 2020 Never Summer
10 x 100 Mile - 2012 Rocky Raccoon, 2016 Leadville, 2017 Run Rabbit Run, 2018 Bighorn 100, 2019 Cruel Jewel, 2020 Bear, 2022 Grindstone 100, 2023 Grindstone 100, 2024 Western States 100, 2024 Wasatch 100
1 x 200+ - 2021 Cocodona 250
2015 Texas Trail Championship Series - 3rd Overall Male

Pikes Peak Marathon

Leadville 100

Leadville Marathon

Team Ninja Coaching

Team Ninja Coaching

What you get

You can find generic mileage plans for any distance on the inter webs . You honestly don't need a coach for that. Instead, I will offer you workout feedback, personalized involvement and support that goes well beyond a mileage plan. I've crewed, paced, supported or cheered several of my athletes for their key races. I've personally paced athletes to PRs in the 5K to the Marathon. I have also crewed and paced multiple 50 Mile, 100K and 100 Mile finishers. Regardless of your goals (competitive or recreational; trail or road; running, cycling or obstacle course racing), I'm excited to be a part of your journey to achieve those goals. We will work to determine your strengths, as well as weaknesses, and then develop a structured plan (short-term and long-term) to help you become the best athlete that you are capable of becoming.

Coaching fees are $175 per month and include:

Introductory call or meeting to discuss goals and expectations.
Unlimited communication: email, text, phone or video consultations.
Customized training plan: daily detailed workouts with weekly updates on Google Sheets.
Supervised workouts upon request and availability.
Individual pacing, pending calendar availability, for your goal races. Additional fee for extended travel.
Group and social runs (for local athletes).
Closed Team Ninja Facebook group.
Team discounts to Roll Recovery, Running Warehouse, InsideTracker, Prevail Botanicals, XOSkin, Spring Energy, Hyperwear, Athletic Brewing and Whoop.
Strength training guidance and workouts.
Goal setting and race strategy.
Fueling and nutrition advice for workouts and racing.

If you don't need full-time coaching, training consultations are available for $100 per hour. I can help tweak or improve your current training program. Consultations include everything listed above, but will be on a per session basis. I'm available via email, phone, video chat or in-person (local athletes).

What I expect

Our relationship will be a two-way street. I'll invest in you as much as you are willing to invest in yourself. I'll only ask a few things from you.

Please log your workouts online (preferably daily) on Garmin Connect or Strava (free version). Both will auto-sync with your running watch.
Please be prepared to embrace supplemental strength and mobility routines. It will make you less susceptible to injury and a stronger, well-rounded athlete.
Please communicate with me. Let me know if you have concerns about prescribed workouts or are experiencing pain/niggles. We need to address them before they become an injury.

I'm excited to bring my experience (successes, as well as failures) and knowledge to work with you and help you achieve your goals!

How do we get started?

If you feel that we might be a good fit, please feel free to contact me at greg.sisengrath@gmail.com and fill out the athlete questionnaire. I look forward to being a part of your success.

Athlete testimonials

I have no coaching certifications or fancy titles behind my name. But I do have experience and the kind words of those that have worked with me.

Stacey Rodts - Ultrarunner (1 x 100M, 1 x 100K, 1 x 50M)

I turned 40 in 2020, and that scared the hell out of me. Where have all the years gone?!?! How many more years do I have? Have I been spending enough time doing things I love with those I love or will I someday say 'I wish I would have...'? I remember looking my husband in the eye and said, 'I need new goals and new challenges.' I have always loved running and have met amazing people running. I'd been running trails for several years with a passion but wanted to get better, get stronger, and get fewer injuries. I spend so many hours a day making decisions that I was ready to relinquish some control and have someone tell ME what to do. And I wanted to have an accountability partner. I met Greg in passing at War Eagle trail race in 2017 and knew some folks who had referred him to others in the past, so I gave him a shout.

I had never worked with a running coach, so I had some reservations - would his plans work with my ever hectic schedule? Would he assign me crazy high mileage each week? Would this feel like more work than fun? Greg reassured me that many of his athletes have demanding jobs/careers and family commitments and he could absolutely help me out. That was March of 2020, and it's been a whirlwind of adventures since.

2022 has been the year for destination races, even convinced the husband that we should get a camper so he could experience some of the races with me! We kicked off with ABF and Running the Rose, but our first big goal race of the year was Zion 100k. Everything that could have gone wrong that race went wrong, but also taught a lot of lessons. Need to eat earlier. Need to watch out for those giant rocks that will cause excruciating toe pain. Need to take a breathe and stay level headed when the heat/altitude is taking it's toll. Need to get to your pacer so she can slap some sense into you. Need to listen to your coach and just keep moving. :) Although not the race I wanted, it felt that much more rewarding crossing the finish line. It was also the first race my husband at been voluntold to crew for, and I know he learned a lot from Greg as well.

Next on our list was Flower Moon 50 miler, I went in with the mindset that this was a fun run vs. goal race. This is a looped race and at 26.2 I decided I was done. I had stopped sweating even though I was drinking a TON, and I didn't want to do something stupid that would result in being side-lined. In October 2021 I had two race weekends back to back, didn't hydrate properly and ended up in the hospital after passing out and doing a faceplant on the sidewalk while trick or treating with the family. I did not want a repeat scenario. I called Greg to fill him in. He asked if I just needed to take a rest, and I said 'nope, I'm happy with a marathon.' But then the FOMO hit. 2.5 hours after I called it quits I asked the RD if I could reverse my decision and go back out. He gave me the thumbs up, and I headed back out with my friends who were also there. I text Greg who was kind enough not to say 'I told you so!' and ended up having a ton of fun. Lesson learned = listen to coach, take a few minutes to chill out before stopping. Now it was time to focus on the big one... Lake Murray 100 miler, eek!

In January 2022, Anne and Chris posted that they were hoping to see more women sign up for and complete the 102 mile endurance run. All it takes is for someone to dangle a challenge in front of me and I'm in. The glass of wine I had before seeing their offer also helped boost my confidence that I wanted to take on this challenge. I remember texting Greg something like 'nepotism is good' b/c I let them know Greg was my coach and he could vouch that I'd make them proud by giving it my all. They were kind and gifted me one of the free race entries they were giving to woman. And what a gift it truly was! Greg told me that if I put in the work, he'd get me to the finish line. And I didn't doubt him one bit.

I registered for Rough Creek 40 miler to help me mentally prep for Lake Murray. This one was also a looped course, I was drinking a TON and stopped sweating again. I mentally shut down. My legs were cramping, I was frustrated and I just wasn't 'feeling it.' I quit at 26.2 and felt like I was letting Greg down, letting myself down. I was just feeling down. Greg helped me shake it off, reassuring me that I was strong, I could do it, just wasn't my day and that's okay.

Next up, 4x4x48. I wasn't sure how this would go, when I've done similar challenges in the past my gut and my butt don't cooperate, ha! I loved, loved, loved this one. Greg plugged it into the plan and thank goodness no gut issues this go around.

And just like that the end of October had arrived. I had two awesome pacers and an excited hubs who was taking on the role of crew chief. Greg hopped on a Zoom with us and answered all of our questions a few weeks in advance. He gave us nuggets of wisdom and advice based on experience. We had text message groups chattering away - who ordered the rain? What's everyone wearing? How many pairs of shoes is everyone bringing? A fire was ignited. Greg reminded me, he would get me to that finish, I just had to make it from AS to AS, he'd push me back out. And he did. At mile 97-ish, Greg did his Ninja move and appeared out of thin air, telling me to smile and look strong as I started my last 5 mile loop. If Greg wasn't such a genuinely nice person I may have punched him. But I couldn't punch him, he had been giving me words of encouragement at each and every AS, helped me with my gators/socks/shoes, helped grab me what I needed when I needed it.

I never wanted to run a marathon. Until I did. I never wanted to run a 50k. Until I did. I never, ever imagined I'd want to run 102 miles. Until I did. I can say with 100% confidence that I never would have been able to complete that goal without Greg. Not only does Greg know what he's doing, he helps lay out what I need to do, which isn't something that can happen by Googling training plans. Greg's approach to cross-training is refreshing and works well for me. Greg's approach to balance (work-life-training) is forgiving. If I'm in a funk, he offers grace and time to get out of the funk, adapting the plan if and when needed. Greg isn't just a running coach, he's a connector - he helps introduce you to some really amazing people, people who aren't just acquaintances, but become true friends. It takes a trail community to get a runner to the finish line of 100 miles, and I am so grateful that I have the best trail community to adventure with.

Team Ninja Coaching

Kari Walden - Ultrarunner 1x 200M

In April of 2022, I sent a short text to Greg, introducing myself and telling him I'd just signed up for Cowboy 200 and asked if we could chat. He kindly agreed BEFORE finding out I hadn't run an ultra in 5+ years and had never run a 100. I'm not sure what he thought after our initial call, but from my perspective he was encouraging, reasonable and made the process sound doable and a finish attainable.

As a full time mom, lawyer and wife, I knew that any plan or coach had to understand the balance of it all. Greg definitely did that! Greg built out my training plan 2 - 3 weeks at a time, with a reasonable number of miles and strength training built in. It was easy to follow and the weekly updates and check-ins were helpful to know where I was. Greg was encouraging but also asked good questions that helped me think through where I needed to focus.

Thankfully I didn't get injured throughout the 7'ish month training block, except for one stupid rolled ankle a week before my 50 mile test race. I was a bit discouraged, but Greg provided good guidance, modified my plan and kept checking in to make sure I was ready to go. I was able to race the 50 miler and hit my goal time as a tune up for the 200. And the strength and mobility I had done throughout the summer meant I bounced back quickly - I was able to run 3 days after the 50 with no pain and moderate fatigue! In past 50s, it's taken me weeks to bounce back or feel like running.

The last 6 weeks of the training block included the Goggins 4X4X48 challenge, which was a great test for me mentally with little sleep and odd eating times. I am glad to have tested that out as the sleepiness feelings were good to test before the 200 - and I figured out that 10 minutes of sleep in between conference calls can do wonders!

Despite my lack of a 100 on my running resume and having taken a long running hiatus to raise a toddler, Greg didn't doubt my desire and ability and I am so thankful for that. He was always responsive to my questions and took an hour to answer questions via Zoom before the race. I certainly would not have had the confidence to tackle the 200 distance without a coach and Greg was a great fit for my life and personality!

Team Ninja Coaching

Team Ninja Coaching

Jill Allison - marathoner and ultrarunner (2021 Moab 240M Finisher)

"I hired Greg right after I qualified for the Boston Marathon in 2016. I was tired of road racing, and wanted to venture into endurance trail racing. I signed up for a few races that he recommended to me (they were more challenging terrain, not easy races) and was immediately hooked.

Greg is a very gifted mountain runner, especially for someone who lives in TX, and I wanted to take on more of those mountain races myself. Before meeting Greg, I never would have considered running a 100 mile race. But with his coaching, and his encouragement, I decided to sign up for my first 100 mile trail race in 2017. His wife crewed and paced me there, and I not only finished, but finished way ahead of the cut-off.

This gave me the confidence to sign up for many more ultras since then, and I now have eight buckles (distance of 100k and higher) thanks to Greg’s coaching. I also just completed my first 200+ mile race – the Moab240.

One of the best things about Greg’s coaching, for me, has been that I’ve remained injury-free in spite of the high-mileage races. I am in my 50’s, so he understands that building muscle is just as important as building my endurance. I don’t run high mileage weeks (usually average about 50 miles or less), but all the strength-training and cross-training he puts in my plan has kept me strong and healthy. My recovery from Moab240 was beyond my expectation thanks to all the cross-training. For this reason, I feel like I still have many more years of racing ahead of me - in spite of my age!

I highly recommend Greg if you want to take your running to the next level and way beyond."

Rocky Raccoon 50M

Team Ninja Coaching

Gina Peterson - Marathoner

I started training with Coach Greg in the summer of 2018 to get ready for my 3rd marathon (The Marine Corps Marathon). I had run two marathons prior but was having a lot of over use injuries with my “training”. I always thought I had to run a million miles a week and give full effort each run but that was attributing to my constant injuries and frustrations with running; so after my adductor injury in March that year I decided I needed the help of a coach to help me reach my full potential and not get injured all the time. Greg has helped me qualify for Boston 3 times and I just completed my second Boston Marathon this year. He has coached me to my personal best marathon time in Phoenix of 3:31:47 in 2020. I just recently crushed my Boston time from 2019 by 7 minutes 10 seconds this year. To keep me strong and healthy Greg has me incorporating strength training 2-3 times a week and daily stretching. Coach Greg has been monumental in helping me reach my goals and I know whatever I set my mind on next he will help me achieve it.

Team Ninja Coaching

Stephanie Stonebraker - 1x100M

When I first approached Greg about coaching me, I was coming off a 100 miler DNF that had taken the sails out of my wind. I was pretty solid on my endurance running but was specific about my weaknesses and admitted I thought I would be a difficult runner to coach. Thankfully he was up to the challenge and was flexible with my crazy running ideas!

One of the biggest benefits of hiring Greg is his expertise in this endurance sport. Not only has he done the extreme distances himself, but he stays current. I loved being able to bounce ideas off him and to talk race strategy. He has also built a running community that you can access for even more resources. Greg has some mad number skills for setting time goals and pacing. Being a numbers person myself (and competitive), I loved to use his pace charts as the “time to beat” which was even more motivation to test my limits at races till the very end. He also let me run races with no time goal so it wasn’t always about speed. He encouraged me to do things outside of running specifically, like working on my slow pace versus speed by training with a weighted vest and even shared articles so that I could research it myself. Greg was able to guide me into what a solid taper/ recovery looked like and the benefits of both. Greg was encouraging during races, and I trusted his confidence in me. His collaboration taught me to trust myself so that I could eventually begin to train intuitively.

And of course, I saved the best part for last! This past year with Greg I was able to finish a sub 12-hour 100K and I got 1st (& only) female on my first 100 miler!

Team Ninja Coaching

Team Ninja Coaching

Nicole Alwert - Half Marathoner

I have been working with Greg since the start of 2021. I had just finished a virtual half the month before and I knew I wanted to improve my time for the next one. I asked in the MRTT group on FB for advice on how to work on my speed and a fellow Ninja athlete responded to my post and messaged me telling me about Greg. I honestly didn’t even know running coaches were a thing and it never crossed my mind to inquire about one. She explained how well it’s worked for her so I reached out to Greg and decided to sign up.

To put it simply, I went from running randomly, always at an easy pace barely breaking a sweat a couple of times per week, to now having a set schedule running 4 times per week, adding strength training and pushing myself harder than I ever have.

I couldn’t be happier with my decision to become part of the Ninja team. I’ve grown a lot as a runner this past year. Not only have I been able to increase my speed and endurance but I’ve also gained a lot of confidence. He pushes me to do things out of my confort zone and hit paces I never thought would be possible for me. When I start doubting the paces and distances he writes in my plan, he quickly changes my mentality and reminds me that I’m capable of it! It’s been an awesome year working with Greg and I’m looking forward to 2022!

Team Ninja Coaching

Virginia Gwyn – (2x100M)

What can I say…..Greg Sisengrath is such an amazing coach. Coach Greg focuses on creating an athlete that is mentally and physically strong. What I like most about Greg’s coaching is that he doesn’t just focus on mileage. Workouts include cross-training, weights, yoga, and then running. During a demanding training cycle my body never feels like it is being broken down or over fatigued. Rest is important in his training process so that gains can be made without injury. I appreciate his concern about my overall health and the time he spends monitoring sleep, recovery, and strain. It truly makes me a stronger runner.

Coach Greg has coached me for 4 years now and it never ceases to amaze me how I continue to improve and his coaching evolves to meet my needs as an athlete. He creates training plans that still allow me to have a life while also successfully preparing me for my races. Greg has coached me through two successful and challenging 100 milers. Not only is Greg my coach but I would consider him a friend as well. He is there if I have a question, need motivation or just flat-out brutal honesty. I trust his judgement and his expertise. I look forward to the challenges and adventures ahead of us!

Team Ninja Coaching

Katie Durst – (1x70.3, 2x50k, 1x50M)

My running journey started in the summer of 2012 when I signed up for my first 5k; I loved it and was instantly hooked. From there I went full force in running all the 5ks, 10ks, 15ks, 20ks, halfs and eventually marathons, as well as triathlons including a Half Ironman. My first 50k was in 2019 and after crossing the finish line, I knew I wanted to challenge myself more and complete a 50-miler but with a coach. It was an easy decision on who to hire because I already gotten to know Greg from running with him and Team Dirt and Vert. I knew he had a ton of experience, knowledge and successes.

My training plan was provided to me a week at a time via Google Sheets. I liked this as it kept me focused on a week at a time instead of the big picture, which can be overwhelming. The workouts were personalized for me at my current level with a lot of cross training which I loved. If I mentioned I was having foot pain, for example, Greg would add in foot yoga on the plan, which took care of the foot pain. If I had any questions about particular workouts, I would text him and he was always very quick to respond. I liked the weekly follow up emails, which were to ensure everything was on track and going smoothly. About a week before the race, he graciously met up with my husband and me to discuss race-day logistics. I was able to ask any last minute questions and we discussed race day strategies (pace, nutrition, etc.). He was there at the race with his wife and friends and they were all so supportive, encouraging and helpful. I completed the Rocky 50 on February 13, 2021 making my goal time and shockingly finishing strong. This gave me the confidence to sign up for another 50-miler this spring with a definite 100-miler on the agenda for next year (most likely the Rocky Raccoon 100). J

Thank you Greg for the excellent training plan, coaching and communication. All your efforts kept me pushing positively toward my goal while getting stronger and staying injury free. Thanks for everything!

Team Ninja Coaching

Matt Johnson - ultrarunner (3 x 100M)

I ran my first half marathon in 2018 and fell in love with the sport. I quickly became obsessed with the idea of completing a 100 Mile race and finished Arkansas Traveler in 2019. I was 85th out of 100 walking to the finish for the last 6 hours with blisters on my feet.

All of my training came from plans I found online. It can be done, but it’s stressful and sloppy. There’s so much information out there on how to train that I was constantly stressed about whether I was doing enough or too much or not the right things. I’m not a planner at all so I end up doing the same 4-6 mile route over and over. I realized I was destined to plateau or burn out.

I decided I needed a coach that could listen to my goals, make a plan for me, and help answer all of the questions as I figured out how to be an ultra-runner. I found Greg through recommendations on our local trail running Facebook page. He has been instrumental in taking my training to the next level!

Greg helped me train for Ozark Trail 100M in November 2020. He made a daily training plan on Google Sheets and logged my progress on it. All I had to do was follow the plan which was a huge relief for me. We built up some big training miles but a bad ankle sprain on mile 82 had me walking to the finish line again (27th out of 45 finishers).

Greg and I walked through post-race feedback which included a huge weakness in climbing. To challenge myself and this weakness, I signed up for LOViT 100M in February 2021 which has 40,000 feet of elevation change. Greg said he could have me ready for it. We worked on strength, mobility, and climbing. I’ll be honest, I was concerned when my ultra-running friends were running many more miles than me. Greg reassured me that we were focusing on my mountain legs and it would pay off. His approach is quality over quantity.

I just finished LOViT 100M this past weekend with a 5th place finish! Greg took me from a back of the pack runner to a top 5 finisher in an elite field at an extremely difficult course. I went from being passed on every uphill in November to power hiking faster than other people were running in February. I ran the 1st 50 miles in 13:19 and finished at 26:12 for a negative split 100 miler!

I have a lot of trust in Greg’s expertise and his ability to help me develop a plan to meet my goals. He’s also wife approved. He understands that family comes first and sometimes that interferes with my training. I appreciate that he is flexible and doesn’t make me feel bad if something came up and I missed part of my plan. We adjust accordingly and keep moving forward. I’m a big fan of Greg!

Team Ninja Coaching

Jenny Little - ultrarunner (2x50M, 1x100K)

I have worked with a coach before when I was trying to qualify for Boston. He was fine and got me close, but due to other circumstances, it didn’t happen and I switched to long distance versus speed. Ran my first 50k and the following 2 50 mile races without a trainer. When I decided I was going to run a 100k, I knew I needed a coach. I didn’t want the added stress of trying to figure out how to train on my own. I wanted to complete it, but also complete it as best I could, leaving nothing left out there. Sadie Briggs turned me onto Greg. I knew if she was recommending him, he would be the one I needed. From the get go I knew I made the right choice. He immediately got informed on my desire for my first 100k. I initially told him I just wanted to finish in time. He created a plan for me and what i loved is he would do a weekly check in Monday morning making sure I was on track, asking if I had any problems/issues, I would have a weekly checklist I could answer to give him the most information he needed to tweak my plan. As the COVID-19 got worse and my plans continued to change, he was my rock keeping my training schedule but knowing things were going to look different. When I found out I would have to run my first 100k as an official virtual 100k in my town, he found me on his bike and chased me for a few miles while I ran in the rain. He was so involved through all of my training and very accommodating when things didn’t go quite as planned, and then when they didn’t go planned at all! I would not have been able to complete my first 100k without him in the best conditions, and definitely not in the conditions I was given. I ended up not only finishing in time, but crushing my idea of a sub 12 hour (which I came up with throughout my training) in 11:16:27. I’m resting for now, but will absolutely be using Greg to train for my first 100 miler next year.

Team Ninja Coaching

Annie Stiles - marathoner

I cannot thank Greg enough for the support and guidance he gave me while training for my first marathon!

I have been running for years but never knew the right amount during training season and would always get an injury which would prevent me from completing a full marathon.

Greg created a plan that was simple and worked great for my lifestyle! I was not the perfect client....but he constantly checked up on me and the plan. He was incredibly encouraging and best of y’all, I completed my first marathon at a time I wanted with no injury!!! Thank you Greg for being knowledgeable, consistent and supportive!!

Team Ninja Coaching

Jen Kirkpatrick - ultrarunner (3x100M)

After completing my first 100 miler at Brazos Bend in 2017, I wanted more. I wanted to be better at running longer ultras and I wanted to run in the mountains. In order to accomplish that, I knew that I needed to find a coach who understood ultras and mountain running. Luckily, I crossed paths with Greg.

I started working with Greg in May 2018, after completing Boston Marathon and saying my goodbyes to road racing. Greg has proven to be the perfect coach for me in so many ways. First, he is a master at maximizing my training time. My schedule is crazy and hectic. Greg is so understanding of my obligations and finds creative ways to prepare me not just to finish, but to do well in races on minimal training time. Greg also prescribes my strength and mobility workouts, which have been game changers. These workouts help keep me injury-free and have been a major contribution to my growth as a runner. Greg doesn’t just deal with the physical side of running, either. He has helped me improve my mental game as well. Greg has been there to help me work through personal issues that impacted running; he has helped mentally prepare me for races; and he does an amazing job pointing out the ways that I have grown as a runner during those times when all I can focus on are my weaknesses. Greg has taken me from being a finisher of ultras to being a racer of ultras, and my mountain game has come a long way.

Greg is the most well-rounded coach that I know and he is developing well-rounded athletes. He knows each of his athletes’ strengths and weaknesses and uses that knowledge to create plans specifically for each one. He has also managed to create a community within his group of athletes that is more supportive than any I’ve ever been a part of. I appreciate Greg so much and am honored to call him my coach and my friend.

Team Ninja Coaching

Parker Ackerman - marathoner

Coach Greg has transformed me into a wiser and more confident athlete in the span of just a few months. Given my past stress fractures and sports injuries from high school cross-country and track, I had been experiencing a mental block that I could not seem to overcome for years. I could tell right away that Coach Greg cares deeply for each of his athletes, tailors training plans to fit in around the craziness of life and is extremely genuine and personable. I ran the Bank of America Chicago Marathon this past Sunday (10/13/19) after starting with Coach Greg in June and I have never felt more strong, confident, and like the sky is the limit! I can proudly say that I have overcome this mental block and already cannot wait for what is to come. I owe him so much and am so grateful to be surrounded by such a supportive and motivating team. Team Ninja for life!

Team Ninja Coaching

Danielle Baer - marathoner

I got my BQ!!!!! Greg was the essential ingredient in helping me achieve my dream of Qualifying for BOSTON with a 4 & a half minute buffer and a 7 minute PR in the 2019 Mountains to Beach Marathon!!! I had been training hard and trying on my own to BQ and fell short in 2 marathons before taking the plunge and hiring Greg as my coach. He laid out an awesome 16 week training program which incorporated strength training (something I’ve never done before but clearly needed) and although I suffered some injuries and life challenges along the way, he adjusted my plan and helped keep me accountable and on track. He pushed me in my speed work to achieve times I never thought I was capable of doing...he said he wouldn’t give me workouts he knew I couldn’t hit...he believed in me and supported me in a way that gave me the confidence to finally believe in MYSELF. He coached me on nutrition and strategies to run stronger and faster both mentally and physically. I am indebted to his expertise and support and look forward to continuing his training program to get ready for BOSTON 2020!!! Let’s do this thing coach NINJA!!!! 🙌🏻👏🏻💪🏻🏃♀️😄

Team Ninja Coaching

Team Ninja Coaching

Bryson Stafford - ultrarunner (1 x 50m)

I did my first 50k ultra about a year ago and from then on, I was hooked. The only problem being I had no clue what I was doing! I didn’t know how to train, what to eat during, what gear to wear, and what different heart rate zones were. After two failed attempts at the 50 mile distance this year I finally finished and all thanks to amazing coaching from Greg! Greg helped me develop a plan that really grew my aerobic capacity and strength to the proper levels that I needed. He was always available to listen to and answer my stupid questions and brainstorming. If I had any little niggles or pains, he’d have me do what I needed to fix the problem. During my 50 he was texting me after the loops to help me with my nausea and strategy going forward. I would have failed again without Greg and his fantastic coaching. If you are thinking about hiring Greg; just do it already, you won’t regret it!

Team Ninja Coaching

Kara Schmidt - ultrarunner (2 x 50M, 1 X 100K)

My first 100k buckle couldn’t have happened without Greg! He put together the perfect training plan to get me there. I had several injuries over the course of my training (most not running related), including a fall on the trails that injured my MCL. Greg worked with what my doctor said I could do and kept me in shape through the injury and then helped strengthen it afterwards. The fact that his training plans include not only running but also strength training and weighted vest hikes is key for ultra runners. He gets the whole body ready to take on the ultra-long distances through the different modes of training. He’s not only great at the details of the training plan, but he’s also great at the mental side of racing and training for super long distances. My 100k trail race was on the hardest trails in Texas. The race director readily admits that he’s made the course the hardest it can possibly be with 8,000 feet of climbing over the 100k distance and more rocks than I knew existed on planet earth. In the months leading up to the race, we started to learn more and more about the trail and the elevation gain expected and I admit I started to freak. This was to be my first 100k and now I found out it was the hardest course I could pick in Texas. Yikes! But Greg was fantastic at keeping me focused on the training plan and what I could control. He added in some additional weighted vest training to boost my confidence along with additional strength training. And on top of all that, he was there to help crew and pace for the race. He is so efficient at getting you in and out of aid stations quickly and anticipating your needs. He paced me that last loop and was a life saver with his blister treatments! I’m not sure I could have finished that last loop without all his help and encouragement and a few laughs along the way. He got me to that finish line with an hour to spare! That first 100k buckle will always be special knowing all the teamwork that went into getting me to the start line and then to that finish. Thanks Greg!

Team Ninja Coaching

Heather Feragotti - marathoner

I would like to give huge props to my running coach, Greg Sisengrath. No way can I convey his awesomeness in a simple FB post. He leads a running group named Team Ninja and trains a wide range of levels, from couch to 100K+. His customized training program has kept me on track and injury free. The Team Ninja group shares recipes, training tips and a great sense of humor bc you know...runners be crazy! 😂 If you’re considering taking your running to a whole new, healthier level, send him a message! Thank you Coach Greg, I am ready for NYC because of you!

Team Ninja Coaching

Jason Reasor - marathoner

Greg helped me achieve a 25 minute PR in the Chicago Marathon. I ran faster than I ever thought possible. Greg not only laid out a plan to help me get to where I needed to be physically through targeted running workouts, trail runs and strength training, but even more importantly, he laid out a plan that helped me improve mentally. There were a couple incidents early in the race that would have significantly thrown me off my game in the past. This time, I was able to roll with the flow and rock the race. Looking forward to more shiny new PRs. Thanks Ninja!!

Team Ninja Coaching

Lori Kinard - marathoner

BRAG POST! In all of the post marathon excitement, I failed to mention the reason I crossed that finish line which is my badass coach, Greg Sisengrath. Not only is he one hell of an ultra trail runner, but he is a phenomenal running coach. His knowledge and passion for the sport is unmatched. He answered every single question I had during the training process, and I had a LOT, with such expertise. I trusted him fully with my training schedule even when he threw some hellish workouts my way. He never doubted my abilities even when I did. He put up with all my crazy questions and freak outs and for that I am SUPER grateful! I can be a bit type A about some things and can get really intense about my training and he never told me to shut up or chill out 😂 He even drove up to Oklahoma the day of my race to support me along the course which meant the world to me! Thank you for being an awesome human, Greg! I’m thankful to have you as my coach!! #teamninja

Team Ninja Coaching

Marisa Maxey - marathoner

Greg Sisengrath is my savior! I met Greg in 2017 when I was desperately trying to qualify for Boston. I had just finished a miserable Houston marathon and was frustrated with the performance. The race was hot and humid and I just felt like a flat tire. I knew I was capable, but I needed a push to get my goal. I found out about him through my running club contacts in Kingwood and gave him a call. He’s improved my running in so many ways and I’m forever grateful.

He was so supportive from the start. He researched my recent races and we talked about my goals. He lives in Dallas and I am in Houston. Although I’ve never met Greg in person, he feels like a true friend and support system that I can count on at any time.

He set up a schedule for me with realistic workouts and runs and we got started very quickly. After just a few weeks I already felt stronger. I set my sights on the Woodlands Marathon which was coming up quickly in March. I followed his plan diligently. We communicated often through the online plan. If I had aches and pains or little setbacks, Greg was always ready with solutions, new stretches, or alternatives to the workout. Marathon day came and I ran strong and sure…and got my time…but the race was short due to a wrong turn by the lead motorcyclist so everyone was disqualified for BQ. It was very frustrating for me because even with the added mileage I was still several minutes under my needed time, thanks to Greg!

We got back to work a few months later to try again at a race in the Chicago area in September. We communicated weekly and I trained through the long, hot summer. Even on vacations, he modified my schedule and helped me get the workouts done. I ran in the race in September, just days after the devastation of Hurricane Harvey in my community of Kingwood. Although I thought I was ready, and felt ready, the long days of physical and mental stress right after the storm caught up to me at the finish line. I was on target for most of the race, but slowed down due to dehydration and just plain exhaustion in the last three miles. Sadly, I finished 2 minutes over my time.

As soon as I rested and recovered, we got back to work. I was determined to keep training until I got that time. January came back around I knew I was ready. Greg continued to push me and positively encourage me to dig deep. I was amazed at how fast I was on my long runs. All his expertise was sure to pay off.

On race day each mile felt effortless. I have never had a race where the smile did not leave my face. Even at the start I knew I could do it. I had my phone with me for music and I could hear the “dings” of him texting me while he was tracking my progress. As I went into the last 2 miles I turned off the music and just let the excitement of the day set in. I knew this was it. I finished a little over 7 minutes under my BQ time. Greg was the first to text as soon as I crossed the finish line. I’ve never felt so proud. I’ll get to that race for sure now, and I have Greg to thank for that!

2018 Houston Marathon

Kelley Mims - Ultrarunner (3 x 50K, 2 x 50M, 1 x 100K, 1 x 100M)

I hired Greg in May of 2017. I had just finished my second 50k and was about six weeks out from my first 50 miler. Up until this point I was writing my own training plans. I felt like I needed more guidance in my training. I wanted someone that not only had knowledge of running, but someone that had trail running experience, specifically at the ultra distance. I asked some trail runners in the community for some recommendations and several recommended Greg. Taking their recommendation was the best decision that I have made! Greg has added an entire new dimension to my training. I have always just concentrated on building my mileage with a little speed training mixed in here and there. Greg puts a big emphasis on mobility and strength training within my plan. I have seen a huge difference in my strength on the trails. I truly believe this helped me stay injury free and not only finish my 50 miler, but to go on to finish my first 100k!

For all my races, Greg works closely with me to develop my nutrition plan along with helping me plan every aspect of my race, such as putting together my drop bags, when to change shoes and clothes, etc. He even came and crewed me at my 100k. He has far exceeded all of my expectations that I had when I decided to hire a coach. I know that I wouldn’t have achieved all that I have this year without him!

Dinosaur Valley 108K

Lisalynne Quinn - Marathoner and Ultrarunner (2 x 50K)

"I have been running on my own for 8 years and have seen some improvement in my speed but nothing dramatic. I have struggled with my nutrition and getting queasy after long races. I started training with Greg and had only been training with him for 2 months when I ran a full marathon and beat my PR by a full 22 minutes. Greg customizes running plans to fit my fitness level, as well as my lifestyle. I travel a lot and require alternate plans sometimes to maximize my time and travel. He has helped me with race day and pre-race day nutrition and determined exactly what I need to stabilize my blood sugar during long races. During a 54K trail race, he was there supporting his entire team as we raced and with each time we came into the 11 mile water/food/med station, Greg was there to help us assess what we needed and give us pep talks and strategies for the race. What I like best about Greg is that he truly cares about his team and pushes us. He knows our limits but also seems to know how to push us farther than we ourselves believe we can go. He is helping me smash goals, determine my nutritional needs at race day and feel more confident with every run. I highly recommend Ninja Greg!"

Whispering Pines 54K

Palo Duro Canyon 50K

Michelle Ekrut - marathoner and ultrarunner (3 x 50K, 1 x 50M, 2 x 100K, 2 x 100M)

I started working with Greg in June of 2016. I had just come off a two week break after my first ultra and was looking for guidance as I trained for a second ultra in October at Palo Duro Canyon 50k and sought a PR at the Houston Marathon in January 2017. I had never really worked with a coach before, except for a brief 2-week period in 2013 that ended very abruptly due to unforeseen circumstances. I was comfortable writing and dedicatedly following my own training plans. However, I ran for mileage only, and paced every run by what felt comfortable. Some days were faster, some were slower, but I never trained for paces in a progressive pattern. I knew I was not pushing myself and I lacked confidence in my ability to complete a training cycle with hard runs week after week. I also knew that my strength training could be better tailored to my running. I lifted heavy with moves that had been taught to me by trainers who were not runners. I needed a streamlined approach to strength training that gave me the resilience and mobility I would need on the road and trail. I knew several women in my running club who were training with Greg, and I was friends with his wife who is also an ultrarunner. It was a natural fit for me to contact Greg about my training goals. Greg worked with my current training schedule, which included 3-4 runs a week, 2 pool runs a week, and strength/core work 2-3 times a week. We began by building back my base over the summer, with some fast finish long runs in 100 plus degree heat. In the fall, he incorporated back to back long trail runs with bodyweight strength routines. Going into PDC 50K I was feeling stronger and healthier than I have ever felt before a big race. And in spite of 120 degree heat in the canyon that day, I felt good the entire race, earning a new PR by over an hour and a 3rd place age group finish. After PDC, Greg eased me back into running before we started speedwork dialing in towards Houston. As we had already established an endurance base, he expertly dialed in my training to build my ability to maintain speed over distance. Since I had never done sustained, dedicated speedwork, we did not know where my baseline would be. Over the next few weeks, he dialed down my tempo and long runs until we found the paces I found challenging. I found myself PR'ing a 5k in my tempo runs and a half marathon in the middle of 15 miles. Each run I would find myself a little intimidated by the paces Greg set, but trusted that he knew what I was capable of. Greg kept me running at the top of my ability, but also kept a keen eye on aches and pains. If something bothered me too badly, he gladly had me cross train or rest. In December, I PR'd at an official half marathon by almost 7 minutes (1:48:38), a time Greg predicted I had in me, even though I was hesitant to believe it! Through the last few weeks of Houston training, I was very burned out, but Greg gave me the moral support and training flexibility to hit key runs and make it through the holidays as prepared as possible for my goal race. He helped craft a race plan, dial in nutrition, and gave me the pep talk I needed going into a very humid and warm race day. Race day did not go without a hitch: I started in a lower corral than I needed due to my lack of faith in my abilities at the time I submitted for corral placement and the nearly 100% humidity with almost 70 degree temperatures were challenging. But I ran the best race I could that day, I never hit a solid wall, and while I faded the second half, I finished feeling stronger than ever at that distance. I also earned my first sub 4 finish (3:59:36) and a 31 minute PR. I know would not have succeeded this season without Greg's support in every aspect of my training. He creates excellent, completely customized and constantly updated training plans, incorporates targeted strength work, troubleshoots niggles, and gives a listening ear when doubts creep into your mind. He emphasizes quality over quantity, and is more likely to tell you to rest than push when feeling run down. He offsets my push through everything mentality, keeping me focused on healthy running. And he also has created a family of athletes with Team Ninja who support and cheer for one another. This year, as I look toward my first 50 mile adventure and go for a 100 mile buckle, I feel confident that Greg will get me there healthy, strong, and ready to run the best race possible!

Palo Duro 50K

Team Ninja Coaching

Yeti 100

Cassie Brown - ultrarunner (1 x 50M, 2 x 100M)

Faith Mayabb - ultrarunner (1 x 50K, 3 x 50M, 1 x 100K, 1 x 100M)

"I am so happy that I decided to hire Greg to train for my first Ultra. I have seen a tremendous benefit in Greg's personalized coaching plan. He is quick to respond to questions, find room for improvement and flexible with schedule changes. His knowledge of running is exceptional and he has the unique ability to offer advice that is individualized to me. Not only have I PR'd countless races but my confidence has soared since I started training with Greg. My distance PR was a marathon and now it is a 50 miler! My half PR was 2:48 and now it is 2:16! Although I originally hired him to help me get an Ultra, I am choosing to continue training with him as we shift our focus to speed. Not only has Greg exceeded my expectations for a coach, he's helped me exceed my expectations for myself."

Wild Hare 50 Mile

Hells Hills 50 Mile

© 2026 Greg Sisengrath

2024 Regional Trail Race Calendar

January 22^nd, 2024

2023 Race Calendar

January 14^th, 2023

Team Ninja Coaches

January 12^th, 2023

Coach Tommy Gulch

January 12^th, 2023

Coach Jen Kirkpatrick

January 12^th, 2023

2023 Regional Trail Race Guide

December 19^th, 2022

Story Told With

Start publishing stories like this

Loading, please hold on.