About Me

Hi, I’m Jessie Gruca

I help runners get started or plan their running goals. Welcome to my website, runningwithroses.com. Here, you’ll find a bit about running tips, recipes to fuel your running, and some coaching to help you reach your running potential.

But before we get into all of that, let’s get to know each other a little more.

I never thought of myself as a runner until I tried my first half marathon in 2009. I found a free training plan and ran pretty well, then I was hooked. With using the free plans I tried to find the best way to train for my races but kept ending up injured and needing to start over on my training after making so many gains.

After I got the hang of training and putting together my training plans and my fueling, I wanted to learn more to advance myself so I studied to get my Road Runners Coaching of America (RRCA) coaching certification in January 2021. I thought it would be great to help others with their running goals once I completed it. I have also joined the Running Explained coaching team in 2022, where I can coach you there with other additional resources if my coaching is not enough for you.

Better Together

Running with Roses came about since I train with my dog, Rose, and I wanted to find the beauty and fun in running again. Having a running partner is great motivation but some training plans end up being a drag. I am here to support you every step of the way and keep running fun.

As a coach, I’ll help you come up with a training plan that fits your time and strengthen any weaknesses we should address.

I am a mother of two elementary school kids so my time is limited. I understand the need to make time to still feel like yourself and want to chase your own goals while being there for your family. My dream has been to complete a marathon in all 50 states, so far I have 25 states completed and 27 marathons total, along with 20 half marathons, a handful of 5k and 10ks and triathlons, and a half ironman. I have qualified for Boston, New York City, and Chicago world major marathons and completed those in 2013, 2016, and 2018, respectively. Granted most of these races have been completed pre-kids but I have been back in the groove of training with 2 kids since 2021. Let nothing stop you from chasing your goals.

I’m so glad you’ve decided to visit my little corner of the internet, and I can’t wait to help you start chasing your running goals with a coach at your side and keeping you injury free.

Training Paces

If you’re not sure where to start, I’ve got the perfect thing for you to Find Your Paces. Go ahead and grab your copy and start knowing what paces we should be training and types of workouts to add to your running!

Find Your Perfect Plan

Custom Training plan

Whatever your goals, a fully individualized training plan can help you get there! Each custom plan includes 12 to 20 weeks of personalized training, featuring running, cross-training, and core/mobility work tailored specifically to your goals, paces, and schedule.

($250 one time)

Please complete the athlete questionnaire before scheduling your call.

1:1 coaching plan

For runners seeking individualized feedback and ongoing guidance throughout their training, 1:1 Online Coaching is the best option. Athletes receive everything included in the Custom Training Plan, plus continuous coach feedback, flexible plan adjustments, and personalized support to adapt training as life and goals evolve.

($159/month)

Please complete the athlete questionnaire before scheduling your call.