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.

If you need highly 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.

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 is built on the belief that runners thrive when expert coaching meets community support. Our beginner and advanced groups provide a motivating environment, while personalised, evidence-based training plans are tailored to each runner's goals, experience, and individual context.

  • KULG Run Club membership includes a personalised weekly training plan, one coached group running session per week in Tallinn, access to the KULG community chat, community support and accountability, functional strength exercises, and a monthly KULG paid Runner subscription.

  • KULG Run Club is for runners of all experience levels, from beginners to more experienced athletes. We offer separate groups for beginner and advanced runners, ensuring each runner trains in an environment that matches their goals and ability. No previous running experience is required in the beginner group, as training plans and coaching are tailored to the needs and goals of each runner.

    The only requirement is a genuine interest in developing as a runner. You don’t need to have specific race goals yet, just a willingness to improve your running. The club is not designed as a general fitness or weight-loss programme, but for those who want to build consistency, technique, and long-term progress in running.

  • Yes. Runners can join remotely from anywhere. You'll receive the same personalised weekly training plan in KULG, coaching support, functional strength exercises, and access to the community. The weekly group session takes place in Tallinn and is optional for remote members. Remote members can schedule online calls with the coach.

  • KULG Run Club is primarily run in Estonian. However, coaching and communication is provided in English when needed, depending on the group. You do not need to speak Estonian to participate, and English-speaking runners are welcome to join.

  • Both beginner and advanced groups are coached by Maris Heinaru, an EQF Level 4 certified running coach with experience supporting runners in improving their performance, consistency, and confidence. Maris also holds a micro degree in functional training, enabling her to assess movement patterns and recommend strength exercises that support running performance and resilience.

  • KULG Run Club includes one coached group session each week in Tallinn. Sessions focus on running drills, speed development, technique, and structured training in a supportive group environment. Exact training locations and session times are confirmed when a new group is organised. New groups kick off in August 2026. Secure your spot!

  • Your weekly training plan is tailored to your current fitness level, experience, schedule, and running goals. It provides clear guidance on what sessions to complete throughout the week and how to progress safely. It also takes into account other sports you are doing and includes tailored strength exercise recommendations. The coach adapts your training plan based on your feedback, context, goals and training adaptation.

  • KULG Run Club operates on a monthly subscription of €75 per person. Your membership runs for one month from the date you join (e.g. if you join mid-month, it continues until the same date the following month).

  • KULG Run Club is flexible and has no commitment fee. If life demands it, you can pause your active membership and switch to passive status. While passive, you will not receive a training plan, cannot join group sessions, and will not have access to the group chat. When you’re ready to return, you can rejoin the active group if a spot is available.

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