Run stronger, smarter, further.

Run coaching, running form analysis, and performance guidance for runners from 5K to marathon with runner and certified running coach Maris Heinaru.

Running coach Maris Heinaru in Tallinn

Runner, coach and running mentor

I’m Maris

Runner, certified running coach EQF Level 4, running mentor, and an all-round sports tech enthusiast.

I’ve been a long-distance runner for 17+ years. During that time, I've completed 28 marathons (PB 2:56:46) and continuously explored how training, technology, and human performance come together to help runners reach their goals. This led me to research runners for my MSc degree, develop a Garmin watch app for CORE body temperature sensor, and eventually to building KULG.

As a certified running coach, I specialise in coaching runners preparing for 5K to marathon. Whether you're aiming to complete your first race or chase a new personal best, my coaching focuses on sustainable progress, long-term development, and evidence-based training.


Get in touch

If you need personalised feedback and practical guidance on your running, want to improve efficiency and reduce injury risk, or if you feel you’re not getting closer to your race goals and need a community of runners with a structured training plan, take a look at what I offer or get in touch with me.

What runners say

Over the years, I’ve helped hundreds of runners improve their running through individual coaching, group sessions and running workshops. I offer one-off personal run coaching, coach at KULG run club, and host workshops for runners of all levels.

  • "Maris helped me discover the joy of running. I was confident that my HR would never go down but Maris really showed me the benefit of learning to run easy. I never expected to see my heart rate decrease so much while running at the same pace."

    — Paula Särekanno

  • "Running my first marathon felt overwhelming at first, but Maris guided me through the entire journey. From training plans and drills to strength training and race-day nutrition, she helped me prepare with confidence. I felt strong and confident throughout the race."

    — Piret Kusche

My coaching philosophy

Training that fits the runner

I believe the best results come from consistent training that fits your lifestyle, recovery capacity, and personal goals. Every runner is different, and successful coaching is about more than just writing a training plan. It's about understanding the person behind the runner and creating a path that helps them improve, stay healthy, and enjoy the process along the way. My coaching is data-driven and evidence-based.

Follow my running journey and coaching insights through @projectrunbaby or Strava, where I share my own training experiences, race preparation, and lessons learned from years of marathon running.

Qualified running coach measuring time

Education and certifications

Qualifications

  • Certified Running Coach EQF Level 4:
    Estonian Olympic Committee qualification (2026)

  • Functional Training Micro Degree:
    Tallinn University (2025)

  • Certified Running Coach EQF Level 3:
    Estonian Olympic Committee qualification (2023)

  • MSc, Human-Computer Interaction:
    Tallinn University (2022)

  • MBA, Business Administration:
    Tallinn Univeristy of Technology (2005)

Additional courses:

  • Endurance Training (2023)

  • Stress, Work Capacity and Training (2023)

  • Training for Triathlon Coaches (2023)

  • Nutrition and Athletic Performance (2023)

  • Nutritional Advice for Children and Youth (2023)

Run coaching services

Book the coaching service you need and leave your contact details. I’ll be in touch shortly to arrange a time and discuss your goals.

Personal running session

€75

90 min session for runners who want expert feedback and practical guidance. In-person: Tallinn/ Tartu. Price per person.

Includes:

  • Discussion of your current training

  • Goal setting

  • Running drills and exercises

  • Personal recommendations

Best for: New runners, injury prevention, training questions

Running form analysis

€125

Improve efficiency and reduce injury risk through detailed video analysis. In-person: Tallinn/ Tartu or online.

Includes:

  • Form analysis based on video recording

  • Written report

  • Strength exercises and drills

  • Actionable improvement plan

Best for: Runners wanting to improve technique and performance

Performance analysis

€200

Wondering whether your training is working and what you should change to reach your goals? Online.

Includes:

  • Analysis of your training data

  • Written report

  • Recommendations for improvement

  • Up to 30-minute online consultation

Best for: Plateaued runners, marathon preparation, race goals

Need ongoing coaching?

Join KULG run club

Train together. Stay consistent. Improve with guidance. No commitment. Participate in person or remotely.

Monthly membership €75.


Membership includes:

Weekly personalised training plan

Weekly group session in Tallinn: drills & speed

Community support and accountability

Access to group chat

Functional strength exercises

Monthly KULG paid Runner subscription

KULG swag

In August 2026, two new running groups will start:

- Beginner group
- Advanced group

KULG Run Club coach overseeing group training
KULG Run Club coach overseeing group training
I believe runners improve most when training is both evidence-based and sustainable. This includes regular feedback - training data as well as your context, great two-way communication, and trust. My goal is not just to help you run faster, but to build training habits that fit your life and keep you healthy and injury-free for years.

— Maris Heinaru

Featured in

Some of the media outlets where I've shared my insights on running, getting started, training smarter, and staying healthy in the sport.