Beth and her program helped me get over my running dry spell these past four years. I've been trying to restart running again and just could not keep it going, until the Couch to 5k. Her humor, podcasts and encouragement kept me going to to get to the 5k (and this was even after I sprained my ankle a couple weeks into it). Even though I had run before, I was starting from scratch, and this program is great for any level. I would recommend this to anyone wanting to start running. read more

I just finished 6 weeks of Beth's Bootcamp, and I'm truly sad it's over. All of us can't wait for it to start up again, and that's saying a LOT! At the beginning, I was dismayed that the classes required so much running, but by the end I could do the loops without stopping - and I'm totally a non-runner. Scratch that - I WAS a non-runner, but now I might almost sorta kinda becoming a runner. :) Beth is clear, understanding, and 100% positively motivating. She makes exercise fun yet challenging for major results. By the end of 6 weeks, I couldn't believe that I was doing moves that I could barely pull off the first week. Totally worth it, a game-changer. read more

I'm such a couch potato I decided ten years ago to go Pro. Unfortunately, there aren't many pro events. Something needed to get me off the couch - that something was Running Evolution's Couch to 5K. And then the miracle happened: I became a runner. Yes peeps, after FIVE years of living across the street from Green Lake, I began to run around it. Regularly! With tiny moments of enjoyment! And so can you! The longest journey begins with a single step Grasshopper, and the first mile will always be the hardest. But the satisfaction you'll get from completing the length of a 5K is immeasurable. Beth is a local treasure. She WILL change your life if you stay with it. Take it from this little spud. read more

I've just finished Beth's 6 week Couch to 5K program. In the past I've tried to take up running at least 8 times, but never successfully. I'd gotten to where I can run for 10 or 15 minutes, but never anymore than that. I have the Couch to 5K iPhone app, and I had been stuck on week 7 for about 3 months before I gave up. This was going to be my last attempt at becoming a runner. And honestly, I didn't hold out much hope. I'd read good things about Beth before the first class, but I was still dreading it. And guess what Beth explained on the first day of class? Why women have a different physiological response to the stress of running than men do. She told us what happens in your body, what your natural reaction is, and how to overcome it. Then she took us on a short run (that none of us thought we could do), and we all made it. There is a really great homework schedule that helps you build up stamina between sessions. For me it was great, because there was very little running on it, and if there was, it was always less than we'd just done in class. So you're not trying to set new records by yourself. You're just doing what you already know you can do. And I have to say, Beth is encouraging in a really real way. She doesn't babble in cliches and platitudes. She connects with each person and figures out what sort of encouragement they need. Sometimes it's cheerleading, and sometimes it's a quiet word of encouragement. I can't really find the words to explain how much I hated running, and how much I'm now looking forward to continuing on with it. I'm not yet to the level where I like it, but I can see that light at the end of the tunnel. If you're having trouble getting to the level where you can call yourself a runner, consider giving Running Evolution a try. I think a coach is the key, and the right coach makes all of the difference. And Beth is awesome. read more

I'd been tossing around the Couch to 5k idea for a long time, but I was always intimidated when I heard all of my runner friends talk about how they had great 10 mile runs, the runner's high, etc. and here I was, not even being able to run 1 mile and feeling miserable the whole time. I finally made the commitment and signed up when I saw a deal on Beth's class. I was jogging more than 1 mile in no time, and by the end of the class, I could do 3 miles. I had the standard Couch to 5k experience that Beth offers through Running Evolution, and that standard experience is a little miracle. The class experience is great. Beth is friendly, encouraging, and personable. She's full of great advice about everything running-related, which is incredibly useful for a beginner when you start feeling some aches in muscles that don't normally get used or don't know when your running shoes aren't cutting it anymore. And she's there at a bunch of the area 5ks and other events, congratulating her students at the finish line! When you go through any of the classes offered through Running Evolution, you'll probably meet other runners that stick around in the "Running Evolution community," which is a great thing to be a part of. Lots of great running buddies to encourage each other with their next goal. Several people I met through classes did the half marathon class this summer and were successful - really inspiring for me to finally get off my lazy butt and keep going with my running. I'd also highly recommend Ben's speed class. He's great about showing proper form, and the class is very personally tailored. He'll record your running and show you what you can do to be more efficient. I highly recommend the Couch to 5k classes to anyone who says, "I'd like to run, but I'm just not a runner." read more

I cannot say enough wonderful things about Coach Beth and her awesome team. After I was diagnosed with asthma in 2001, I never thought I would run again. Today, thanks to Running Evolution I'm not only back to running, but just completed my first half marathon! I started running with Coach Beth in 2009. I hadn't ran in eight years, and a friend of mine signed me up for her "Couch to 5K" class as a gift. When I started, I couldn't even run a mile. I had just as many emotional barriers as physical barriers, but Coach Beth helped me power through them and before I knew it I was running three miles, then six miles, then 10 miles, and now a half marathon! It's been amazing to watch Running Evolution grow. I love all the coaches. Every single one of them is so supportive, funny, and just all around great people. Same goes for all the wonderful ladies (and the gentleman) who take her classes. I've developed so many great friendships through Running Evolution it's unbelievable. So, if you're sitting there on your couch right now hemming or hawing about signing up for a class - do it! Your body and social life will thank you 100 percent. read more

Beth is amazing! The participants are incredible! Just an all-around great program from boot camps to half marathon training and more. It really feels like everyone is welcome and there's an atmosphere of fun and community. read more

Almost everyone can run. Beth is kind and funny. She can be challenging but is mostly optimistic and empathetic. Is you want to add running to your life- contact beth at running evolution- you will not regret it. read more

Running Evolution - At RE-Boot camp at gas works park - Trainers Near Me

I joined the half marathon training group just after I had my kid. Beth's positive energy is sooooooooo contagious that it kept me showing up every Saturday even with the huge obstacle of a ferry for me. Even with the new baby sleep deprivation, I was motivated to show up every week. It's amazing the conversations you get into when you're slogging out 10 miles in 42 degree downpours! Now my son is almost 4 and I completed another half marathon on thanksgiving weekend. I have really cherished the camaraderie and getting to know Beth. She's so real and so motivating in a completely non-direct way. Maybe it's her attitude. She's kind of like, "If I can do it, you can do it! Now let's put another foot in front of the other and do this." Then she snort laughs. It's so awesome. I can't say enough positive things about these group runs. The people who show up are so cool, so nice, so down to earth. Beth holds great track runs too that are just the right amount of butt kicking. read more

I am in my late twenties and feeling the effects of lots of hours sitting at my desk job. Tummy flopping over jeans --eww. Luckily, I heard about a "Couch to 5k" running class. Bought it, signed up, and then chickened out. "I can't run", I thought. "Much too hard, too intimidating..." I emailed and let Coach Beth know I wouldn't be attending the class after all. She encouraged me to sign up again in the future. So I did, months later. Coach Beth said I would have a good time -- and I was really skeptical. Now, I'm a believer. After 6 weeks, I ran my first 5k. Two weeks later, I ran another one. I now have 4 races under my belt, with plans for more. One of the best benefits are the other ladies in the classes. I still keep in touch with them and we go running around Greenlake together. Something about running together and reaching goals together is a real bonding experience. I NEVER thought I'd be able to run a full 5k without stopping. But I can! And it is awesome. Thanks Coach Beth! Will be back for more running classes to keep me going, for sure! read more

Running Evolution's Couch to 5K class changed my life and that of my family! I signed up for the C25k class in May. At first, running a 1/2 mile was a struggle. Now, three months later because of the confidence and endurance I have built up, I have just signed up to train for a 1/2 marathon! Going from a 1/2 mile to a 1/2 marathon was not even something I had considered! Even better, my husband and sedentary thirteen year old son have begun to run as a result of my encouragement and positive experience with running! They are now on the path to living a more healthy life and the three of us are signed up to run a 5k together next weekend! How great is that?! And, as if that weren't enough, topping it all off is the wonderfully supportive community Running Evolution fosters! I have since signed up for more classes (5k Club, Running Camp and Rock It class) and look forward to the opportunity to spend time running with this running community! My running journey has just begun, and I plan log many more miles with Running Evolution! read more

There is not just not enough time or room on this site to say all the great things I feel about Beth and Running Evolution. My daughter got me into Beth's Couch to 5K. I AM NOT a runner! In my "late, late 40's, really didn't think Beth could get me running a 5K. I thought the concept was nuts, run a 5K in 6 weeks, surely you must be joking?! Boy was I wrong! Not only did I finish the Dawg Dash at the UW, but I beat my 20 something's daughters time!! The thing about joining any of Beth's classes or training groups is this, you're accepted for who you are, with love and encouragement the entire time, she will allow you to become the best you can be. Beth will push you, and then celebrate you like you've won an Academy Award. Her heart and passion for what she does is evident every step and lap of the way! Thank you Beth. read more

i was one of beth's first clients years and years ago. new years eve i resolved to run as many miles as i was old- 26. having never really run a mile (after the presidential fitness challenge in the 7th grade) it was a difficult undertaking at best. but beth was up to the task. she helped me set realistic goals (and yes, a marathon was one of them). she helped me tackle the voices in my head telling me i was too tired or that my knees hurt. she was really good at the alphabet game. she ran with me until she was 7 months pregnant (2 months before the marathon) and gave me the tools and tips to finish strong. and she was there at the finish line (coincidentally her due date) to cheer me on. she is, by far, the most supportive, involved, caring and funny coach i have ever known. run with her. youll find the same- i guarantee it. read more

Aside from the fact that Beth Baker is just plain fun and all smiles to be around, she's managed to make running a completely realistic goal, especially for anyone who is new to it or just plain shy about it. Before Beth I never ran before and she managed to coach, encourage me, and make running so fun that I not only finished my first half marathon a couple years ago but have gone on to run three full marathons. Beth has helped with everything from basic tips to improving my form to improving my speed. Beth's got great classes and you can meet other people just like you. I recommend her all the time. read more

Beth is a fabulous coach. I did her Couch to 5k class in Fall 2009 and am looking to go back as I train for my first half marathon in October 2010. Beth makes running fun and always has a smile on her face. I'm honestly a bit terrified about running a half marathon but I know with Beth training me and supporting me that I'll be able to make it. read more

What can be said about Beth except she is fantastic! She is very motivational , nonjudgmental and kind. She helps you to realize that anyone can run. But best of all she is a "real" person like most of us. She knows what it is like to have a family, to be super busy and to work in a work out! Not always an easy task but Beth can help you to do just that. read more

I started as a non-runner in the Couch to 5k class in 2013, and have since run 5ks, 10ks, half marathons and I'm training for a full marathon! Beth is an incredible and motivating coach, really fun, nice and helpful. Her Couch to 5k class is perfect if you aren't confident about running, have never run before, and want to learn in an approachable, non-competitive environment. read more

I'm not an avid "Yelper" so I hope this review doesn't get filtered (I'm on to you Yelp!) but just because I don't often review places doesn't mean I don't have some great things to say! First off, Beth is amazing. Amazingly funny, supportive and all around awesome. I took her 'Couch to 5K' class in January as part of my New Year's Resolution to eventually run a half marathon (baby steps right?). So I braved the freezing cold (and sometimes snow!) and got out there and ran with a great group of people, all nearly at the 'couch' level such as myself. If you haven't read her profile here on yelp, you should. It absolutely sealed the deal for me. I'm now training with her (and a bunch of wonderful women) for the 'Rock n' Roll Half Marathon' and loving every minute of it....I've even signed up for her weekly Speed Class....it's seems my entire paycheck keeps going to Beth (but worth every penny if you ask me). I started out terrified of running and now I'm up to 8 miles and 10 weeks away from my first Half Marathon! Couldn't have done it without Running Evolution! And shout out to her helpers, especially Tara....she is awesome too! read more

Depending on who you are this could be a great group for you- I was a bit heartbroken by my experience in the marathon training group. I think this group is better for ladies 40+ or brand new athletes. I was initially so excited to run with a group of people and learn about technique. I think Beth is great, but am very skeptical of some of her affiliate coaches. I've been on many swim teams in my past and this is the only time I've ever had a problem with a coach. I had a bit of experience as an endurance athlete already- I'd run a marathon, did the STP and was a former collegiate swimmer prior to joining this group. I suffered from a major foot surgery and had just been given the clear to run distances again. The coach in the marathon group was making small comments towards me that made me feel like she thought I was a bad athlete or out of shape. Part of my lack of speed was due to my foot and not being out of shape, so as I learned what shoes worked for me/more about my new foot I made leaps in speed. Many ladies were doing a run walk combo, and from listening to my body it was better for me to only run, but I kept getting this pressure to run-walk. I didn't like being pressured to go against what my body was telling me. Other ladies in the group were exercising quite a bit outside of the prescribed marathon plan, but I felt like I was the only one getting flack about exercising too much or having signed up for too many events. I had a conversation with her where she laughed after I told her my marathon goal time (that I created with my triathlon coach) and that completely shattered my confidence and mental game for the race. Who does that? Based on my interactions with this coach I felt like I couldn't show up to any of the pre-marathon activities with the group, and didn't even get the group t-shirt I paid for. I am really sad about how this turned out :( read more

Beth is a rockstar!! This is my second time around with her Couch to 5k class. The first class I took was about 3 years ago. I took her stroller class (back when my little one actually sat in a stroller!) when she was first getting started as a running coach. From that class I became a runner, ran some races and made some awesome friends, some of whom I'm still friends with today. After getting off track a bit I knew that Beth could get me back to where I wanted to be. I'm a few weeks into her Greenlake class and I'm loving it! I'm confident that in just a few weeks I'll be ready for a 5k and can't wait to run my first race. Beth is funny, motivating and an overall great coach. Plus, she snorts when she laughs, what's better than that?! I would recommend any of her classes and do so at every chance I get. read more

Just finished Coach Beth's Couch to 5K Greenlake class. It was really great. You get to run outside in the sun! Sun=Yay! And you end up meeting a nice group of non runners (who end up runners in the end)! Coach Beth makes running non-threatening and on top of that, she's just really nice and funny. read more

I've always wanted to be a runner, but could never get past the "I'm going to die" feeling, so I signed up for a couch to 5k class with Running evolution in July 2010. Beth was absolutely great. Her enthusiasm is infectious. She genuinely loves running and wants to share it with you. She was extremely encouraging and even though the homework assignments seemed impossible, she was right, I could do them! Beth offers tips on form, gear, racing, nutrition, and anything else you can dream up to ask her, but I really enjoyed the social aspect of the classes. She encourages everyone to talk and joke, and pretty soon running became fun! After completing the class and running a 5k, I joined the 5k continuation group, and then the speed class. I've now run a 10k and JUST FINISHED MY FIRST HALF MARATHON!!! (Can you tell how excited I am to go from not being able to run for 5 minutes straight to running 13.1 miles in less than a year?) I've been to enough Running Evolution classes and events that I've been fortunate enough to get to know, and run with, all of the Running Evolution coaches, and they're all amazing! They're energetic, supportive, approachable, and they all love to run. They make me want to run! I generally run on the east side so I've spent a lot of time running with Coach Ben and he is superb. He's really good at tailoring workouts to fit people of different levels. My form and confidence have improved a lot since I've been running with him. Some people think it's silly to pay to run. With the Running Evolution classes, you're getting a lot more than just the opportunity to run. You're getting tools and techniques to change your life. Sure, some people can start running and be successful without a class. I'm not one of those people. I tried on my own for several years and never could get myself to run. But with the encouragement, tools, techniques, tips, and confidence I've gained from Running Evolution, I finally consider myself a runner. Plus, I've met some amazing people and had a ton of fun while doing it! read more

What is there NOT good to say about Running Evolution? She gets new runners running, helps seasoned runners along their running journey and is there for everybody even if they haven't joined in on her classes. Her love for what she does is evident in everything. So thankful to have Running Evolution as everybody's cheerleader. read more

Beth is a great coach. She is motivating and supportive. She has taken me from being a non runner to someone who runs half marathons. If you are looking for someone to help you get started running she is a great pick. read more

I love this group! Seattle can be a challenging place to make friends. This group of awesome women are friendly, warm and inviting to newcomers. Beth Baker, the owner of R.E. is the best running coach you could ask for. She delivers knowledge, tough love, and enthusiasm. The routes this group takes span the city- which is great for seeing Seattle and enjoying its many neighborhoods! I cannot recommend this group enough!! read more

I signed up for Beth's Couch to 5K because I've never been a runner but wanted to be able to at least run 3 miles with confidence. I was pretty pessimistic since previous attempts were unsuccessful, but this program is perfect because it's all about building the strength to run, mentally and physically, at a sustainable pace. Beth's amazing program coupled with the gorgeous scenery of Greenlake and an awesome group of other runners made this the best experience I could have asked for. Thank you, Beth! read more

Beth is AMAZING. She is an authentically inspiring coach...always caring, supportive and respectful. (Which means a lot to me, as I've been heavy my entire life and historically avoid sports like the plague.) I find her relaxed, friendly, often goofball style to be a breath of fresh air. Beth makes working out feel fun. FUN! I enjoyed Beth's Couch-to-5k class and Rock:It, and now am absolutely in love with her morning boot camps at Greenlake. Unlike other bootcamps, there is zero yelling or intimidation. It's a smart, funny group of women. It feels great to workout outside. And with Beth's help, I keep getting better and better. (And smaller and smaller!) read more

Beth is the best! Simply stated, but she is truly awesome. She has a great can-do attitude, and she supports your goals 110%. She even can get you to consider goals you never had for yourself. I have been running with Beth for 2 years. Before working with Beth, I could run a little bit, but I always stopped because I was sore or out of breath. After my son was born, I wanted to become more active and fit. So my goal was to do a triathlon, however running was my weak spot. So I signed up for a couch to 5K class with her, and I have never looked back. After conquering my first and second triathlons, I needed another goal.... which was to run further. So I set my next goal, to run a half marathon, and Beth was so supportive and bubbly, she makes running FUN. She is a REAL person, that you instantly feel comfortable with. I can tell her anything while we are running, and next thing I know I am done with my run and we have conquered the problems of our preschool sons! Now if I don't run, I actually get antsy and miss it. I never thought I would be that person. Running is so calming, and Beth makes it possible. She will believe in you, more than you believe in yourself, and she will encourage every step of the way. Simply stated, I wouldn't be a runner without her. read more

Beth got me running in no time flat. She was always positive and friendly. I ran a 5K with her and even did a 10K. It was the perfect group of ladies to go running with. read more

I just finished the couch potato to 5k class, used a groupon, and yesterday ran my first 5k. I tried for years to run but couldn't do it on my own. I have lots of runner friends and tried to run with them but I would only make a few blocks then give up. My dream was to be able to run and keep up with my husband. Coach Beth and Pam were fantastic leaders who gave me the tools I needed to become a RUNNER! It really didn't matter to me how many people were in my class or how many people finished- I was just happy to have beginners to run with and really loved the friendship and support I got from the other runners and coaches. I am still running weekly with friends from my class. Yesterday I RAN my 5K which was my goal but I ended up finishing 14th out of 108 for my age group! big surprise!! Thank you running Evolution for your support! can't wait for the next 5K to see if I can run under 9 min miles!! I KNOW I COULDN'T have done this without out the support from running evolution. read more

I signed up for the Couch to 5K class last year after a friend told me how much Running Evolution had changed her view on group exercise. Not being one to enjoy group activities much, I was totally nervous but thought I'd give it a try. The program was great! I learned how to pace myself each each and eventually ran a 5k. Something I thought I never could do. Coach Beth was so great to answer all our questions, give encouragement and build confidence. She truly went the extra mile (pun intended) to make sure everyone felt comfortable and was having a good time. I enjoyed the program so much, that I later participated in the Rock It class, which was awesome! I learned how to do speed drills, and had a ton of fun doing it. I highly recommend both classes with Running Evolution to anyone looking to kick start their fitness! You will have a total blast. Guaranteed. read more

Running Evolution is a fantastic place to begin running or to return to the activity to get back into shape. The Couch-to-5K delivers exactly what it promises (but fair warning to whiners: you need to do the homework, which is easier than the team training days, but you still need to do it). Beth is instructive, fun to be around, and REALLY encourages you without making you feel like a loser if you need a break or to slow down. I haven't done any of her longer-distance classes, but in looking at a previous review I would say that if you are already a young, experienced marathon racer in need of targeted injury recovery, this may not be the type of training you are looking for. It is, rather, an inclusive and encouraging type of instruction to bring you to your new fitness goal: whether that be finally running around Greenlake one time or actually making it through your first (and many) marathons. I have met some of Beth's students who have overcome tremendous obstacles, achieved amazing weight loss, and are dedicated life-long runners (even those starting after age 60). I never liked running before I took Beth's class, but now aspire to be a runner for life (at my own pace and the distances I choose) and am much healthier and happier for doing so. If you want to get active, you can't beat the price, location, community, instruction, and encouragement that Beth offers. There is simply nothing to compare it to. read more

I signed up for 4 initial lessons with Beth (and re-upped for an additional 4) to ratchet up my fitness level and routine to another level. I was, frankly, terrified about running. I remember the trauma of having to run in high school gym class, and have shunned it ever since! The mere notion of running gave me the heebie-jeebies (not to mention the plethora of super-fit, self-confident athletic types--damn them all--who seem to infest Seattle [one of the fittest cities in the US]). Nevertheless, Beth was incredibly patient, nonjudgmental, and unfailingly positive. She works with any level of athlete/fitness: from total beginners and couchpotatoes, to moms returning to their workout returns from just having given birth, to hardcore marathoners. She varied our weekly routines, and is extremely personable and good-humored, and most importantly, never intimidating. She also offered to answer any questions I had by email even after I was done with my 8 sessions. If you're looking for someone whose fitness training style is 180 degrees different from, say, Jackie Warner on Bravo, Beth is for you. Take it from someone who loathed running up to this point. Although I'm not signing up to run any marathons at this point (and don't foresee that I ever will, ha ha), at least Beth got me to the point that I don't hate the prospect of hitting the treadmill or track--which is a HUGE development and mental readjustment on my part. read more

I can't imagine a more supportive, fun, enthusiastic coach than Beth. There's little to say that the other reviewers haven't covered: she is nonjudgmental no matter what shape you're in, super encouraging, flexible, available and positive! Like a lot of people, not being able to run the mile my whole school career was traumatizing, and panic attacks ensued whenever I tried to run. I'm not sure if I'll ever really be a runner, but Beth's Couch to 5K class is one of the coolest things I've ever done and a huge self-esteem boost. So if you're scared of running, Beth is the best coach in Seattle (the world?) for you! read more

I took the couch to 5k class a bit reluctantly, encouraged by my sister to take it with her. I've been an occasional runner over the years, but never one to do it regularly or--God forbid!--enjoy it. But after the class, I was able to comfortably run 3 miles. I'm running multiple times a week now and look forward to my runs. Beth is fabulous. I was wary of the potential egos of a running group, but there's none of that. Just a lot of good information about running and fun company. Highly recommend! read more

A year ago, I signed up for Beth's Couch to 5k class. Looking back, I realize that it benefited me in several ways - first, I started running again, but more important, I got to be part of the running evolution mailing list!! Late in December, I found out about Coach Beth's upcoming Boot Camp - 6 weeks, 4 times a week of getting into shape (well timed after the holidays!) The class was awesome - I feel like I'm as fit as I have ever been, and ready to keep going! Coach Beth is a great instructor/mentor/advocate/confidence builder - she comes across as extremely real, and very interested in everyone's success. If you're looking for a boot camp where the instructor yells at you and calls you names, this isnt the coach for you! I recommend any classes that Running Evolution puts on - you will have fun, and get into shape! read more

You hear it all the time "I AM NOT a RUNNER!". Well, Beth makes you one. She is amazingly supportive and encouraging to all fitness levels.

Thanks to Beth, I am running and loving it! She really knows her stuff and makes it fun. I tried doing this on my own but she made a runner out of me at 49. I am so glad I signed up for her Couch to 5K--now I run weekly with her group, as well as on my own, even in the rain. read more

My husband was schedule to do the Couch to 5K class but I ended up taking it instead due to his work schedule. I'm 57 and never ran before other than if I was being chased. It was a small group with Beth as our Coach, I enjoyed myself and surprised myself too. The training program that Beth created made it possible for me to be able to run 5k in the 6 weeks. I've toned up and gotten more energy back in my life! I plan on continuing group weekly runs and signed up for a 5k run in September. read more

Coach Beth was an amazing coach for the Couch to 5K program. In the beginning I felt like there was no way I could stick with it, but I did because of her wonderful inspiration and great training program. Sometimes my body was telling me it didn't want to run that night, but after going to the class, I was always glad I made it. I'm going to run a 5K in a few weeks, and I'm certain I can do it because of Beth's help. read more