Our Coaching Philosophy
Our Coaching Philosophy
At Raleigh Running Collective, we believe that great coaching goes beyond splits and mileage—it’s about unlocking potential, building confidence, and helping each runner discover what they’re truly capable of. Our coaching staff is committed to creating group and personalized training plans that reflect each athlete’s individual goals, lifestyle, and fitness level. Whether you’re training for your first 5K or chasing a Boston Qualifier, your plan can be as unique as your journey.
We pride ourselves on cultivating a positive, inclusive, and motivating environment where every athlete feels seen, supported, and empowered. Our coaches bring years of experience in competitive running, racing strategy, injury prevention, and mental performance—so you’re not just running harder, you’re running smarter.
Through focused attention on proper technique, endurance development, recovery strategies, and mental resilience, we prepare our runners to perform at their best—both in races and in life. Our goal is to inspire long-term growth, lifelong passion for the sport, and a mindset that thrives on challenge and celebrates progress, no matter how big or small.
Running is personal. Coaching should be too. That’s what sets us apart.
Meet our Coaches
Meet Coach Erin Taylor
“Running and Funning”
With over 29 years of running experience, Coach Erin Taylor brings a lifetime of passion, dedication, and competitive excellence to the Raleigh Running Collective. Erin’s journey began humbly during her freshman year of high school—what started as a way to get in shape for soccer quickly transformed into a lifelong love. After just one week of cross country practice, she never looked back. Soccer’s loss was running’s gain.
By her senior year, Erin had become one of the top runners in Virginia, earning a coveted spot at the 1999 Foot Locker Cross Country Championships and securing a Division I scholarship to NC State University, where she competed at the collegiate level.
Post-college, Erin continued to train with fellow adult runners and made running a cornerstone of her everyday life. She has completed 11 marathons (PR of 2:47:31) and remains a competitive elite masters runner in the Raleigh area, showing no signs of slowing down.
In addition to her personal accomplishments, Erin is deeply invested in the next generation of runners. She volunteers as a coach for a local youth running club where her two sons, Cameron (12) and Jack (9), are enthusiastic members. Her husband Kent—her biggest cheerleader—can often be found on the sidelines supporting the whole crew.
Erin’s approach to coaching and running is all heart: equal parts grit and joy. Her motto, “running and funning,” reflects her belief that progress and play can go hand in hand. Erin is committed to training, racing, and enjoying the sport for as long as her legs will carry her—and inspiring others to do the same.