Today's coach profile features Jon Sleeman, an experienced coach who is launching our new Seniors Endurance training group on Thursday 22nd January 2026. This session will be weekly 7pm-8pm on Thursdays.
Which group do you coach?
I am about to start a new weekly Thursday group for senior endurance runners. The idea is to cater for runners who want to improve their running performance in races from 5km to marathon, but with a focus on less experienced runners who are not necessarily following an existing training plan. Previously, I coached a group of Highgate’s young athletes for seven years.
How did you get into coaching?
In 2015, Graham Norris suggested I did the Leadership in Running Fitness course and that got me started. A year later, I completed the Coach in Running Fitness qualification and then I participated in a range of endurance workshops to develop my knowledge. I started coaching a group of Highgate’s young athletes and I renewed my own competitive running as a V55 athlete. In the latter capacity, I decided to get myself a coach and chose none other than Highgate’s David Chalfen; and I think I learnt a lot from the training plans and advice he gave me.
What motivates you?
I like the idea of trying to understand how to improve ‘performance’ given natural talent and other real-world constraints. As a coach, you are aiming to help other people improve their performance and if you can get that right, and the coachee is happy, then that’s great. I’m also a volunteer history tutor for disadvantaged students where the aim is to coach them to improve their understanding of history and performance in exams.
What’s your proudest moment as a coach?
I think if athletes are proud of how they have performed then that’s great. I think the right to pride sits primarily with the athlete rather than the coach because at the end of the day it is the athlete who has to do the training and perform. That said, it is pleasing to see some young athletes I coached as under 13s running very well now.
What’s the piece of advice you most often give to your athletes?
I’m not sure one piece stands out but I generally emphasise the benefit of consistent training. I also think regular strength and conditioning is important to support endurance running and racing.
What advice would you give to anyone thinking of becoming a coach?
Check out the available courses, speak to others who have already done them and start at the beginning of the ‘pathway’. If you enjoy it go further and practice what you have learnt.
What do you like doing best when you're not coaching?
Reading history and going out for a recreational run, walk or cycle.
Tell us a secret…
I was Glenda Jackson’s Election Agent in 1997.
