Tom Holland
Marathon des Sables 2023 Finisher
0-4-0 Trail Challenge Tenerife Completed
Welsh 3000 Run in 14hrs
Snowdon Hot cross Bun Completed
“After signing up for Marathon Des Sable, I was introduced to Harry at Storm Performance as I required a professional endurance coach to get me prepared for challenge. After meeting Harry and feeling his personable nature plus his genuine enthusiasm for fitness and endurance. I knew he was the right person for me.
Harry’s service extended well beyond a conventional training plan. He coached me through 15 months of training, including twice weekly PT sessions and regular coached weekend runs. He checks in daily and adjusted the training based on my progress and physical fitness statistics.
Harry’s knowledge extends well beyond physical coaching. He guided me on day to day and race nutrition plus gear for the lengthy kit list.
If you would like to enter an ultramarathon, I couldn’t recommend Harry enough in getting you suitably prepared for the event. I am already looking forward to working with him on my next event!”
Matt Swann
Paris, Amsterdam & Manchester Marathon Finisher
“I've trained with Harry for nearly a year now, Amsterdam being our second Marathon cycle in that time. What I value most about training with Harry is the time he takes to understand my reasons for taking on these events and what motivates me. It feels like we're a team working towards a goal together rather than just being told what pace to run and how far.
Whilst we are targeting and running specific events, the overarching theme to Harry's time coaching me is always oriented towards learning and growth. Journey over destination. Process over outcomes.
With this approach to his coaching alongside the tailored training plans he sends through weekly on Training Peaks and always-available support, I am achieving more than I ever thought possible... But moreover I'm going into events such as Amsterdam having enjoyed the training, enjoyed challenging myself and with a strong positive mindset.”
Dave Roseblade
York & Manchester Marathon Finisher
“I was thrilled with the York Marathon finish time having knocked around 30 minutes off my previous PB. The training programme put in place by Harry at Storm Performance was critical to this success and, having kept up the consistency with some really tough training efforts, it was fantastic to see the hard work pay off on race day.
The sessions were all provided via Training Peaks meaning I could easily follow them on my Garmin watch and, having set out the target event, I received bespoke sessions to achieve my maximum potential on race day, supported by a weekly session of strength and conditioning in the 'Pain Cave'.
Harry has been fantastic as a PT and Coach. He is also a realist who is only too aware of the juggles and struggles we all deal with on a daily basis to find the time to train. He has been constantly supportive with changes to schedule due to work or family commitments, and he has also been a great influence on my eldest son with regards to his fitness and motivation to encourage him to be the best version of himself. Harry practices what he preaches and has competed several running and triathlon endurance events having also represented GB at a younger age in cycling.
Thank you Harry for helping me achieve my goals to date.”
Toni Stokes
Gower 40km Trail Race Finisher
“Harry’s training plans are well structured and can fit around work and lifestyle. They are adaptable if you need to switch sessions around and he is always available to help you with any questions or concerns.
What trainer rings you up before your run ensures you’re all good and if you have any issues.. makes sure you are all set and enforces that you have done the training and just enjoy the actual run…Harry does… then after the event debriefs…
Anyone thinking about or wanting a training plan, either just to get started in your running journey or training for a specific event… Harry’s your man.”
“I’ve been running regularly for two decades and while I’ve completed marathons and half marathons previously, I’d never taken the training seriously or even had much of a plan. Instead, I ran for the enjoyment of it, the mental and physical benefits and the sense of achievement that comes with completing a race.
I started working with Harry ahead of the 2022 New York marathon as I’d lost my light for running and was late to start my training. This didn’t last long as Harry put together a tailored plan for me to follow over a realistic timeframe that took into account both my abilities and aspirations for the day.
Having someone as experienced and knowledgeable as Harry do all the thinking for me took a load off my plate when I was super busy and meant I could trust in the plan and focus on my training - and even enjoy it!
For this reason, I decided to work with Harry again ahead of the 2024 Manchester marathon and the Stratford half marathon, which took place a week later.
Harry was a terrific coach - helpful, encouraging and supportive - qualities that became all the more valuable as the race days approached. He was always quick to respond to any questions I had - whether they were about training, diet or gear (things I’d never cared enough about to consider before). He checked-in regularly and always offered feedback, advice and encouragement following my training runs. When I became ill and injured 10 days before the marathon, he gave me the mental boost I needed to remain focused and confident without being too attached to a desired outcome. For both races, I earned (unexpected) PBs and Harry’s guidance played a key role in this.
I’d highly recommend Harry, not only does he thoroughly know his stuff but he’s good fun to work with too.”
Nic Forsyth
New York, London, Berlin & Manchester Marathon Finisher
Terriann Greenhill
Wolf Run Finisher
“I have had the absolutely privilege of working with Harry Yates, lead coach at Storm Performance for the last year. He has taken me from being breathless on the short walk to school to running my first Wolf Run, signing up for a Half Marathon and booking Manchester Marathon 2025!!! Harry has supported me through family illness, bereavement, injury, surgery and rehab. He not only tailored my training to every challenge life threw my way but made sure I came out of every challenge physically stronger and mentally more resilient.
I know it's a cliché when people say "I hired a coach and it changed my life". But a year ago I contacted Storm Performance and Harry Yates helped me change my life.”
Mary Catherine Alexander
Rugby Half Marathon, Summiting Snowdon, 3 Peaks Challenge attempt & Newport Marathon Finisher (First Marathon)
“I've been running on and off for the last 15 years and have done many half marathons in this time but decided I needed to join the marathon club.
With so many marathon plans and options out there I needed a more personalised one to one plan. This is where Harry came in. I thoroughly enjoyed the plan and practical tips and advice as well as the pep talks and top tips going into the race.
Not only did I finish the race but really enjoyed it and back with Harry for another training programme!”
Ben Tennant
Ironman 70.3 Alcudia, Mallorca Finisher (First Ironman 70.3)
“I signed up to Ironman 70.3 Alcudia-Majorca about a year ago. I was looking for a new outlet outside of work and just so happened to befriend a couple of guys from my local gym, who’d had their previous entry into the race cancelled due to Covid. I’d never really thought too much about triathlon, let alone an Ironman event. It sounded difficult, something you couldn’t simply roll out of bed and do, but this was exactly what I needed.
The event itself was incredible, a spectacle even. Nearly 4,000 athletes descended upon the town of Alcudia on the island of Majorca, Spain.
Lining up on the beach at 7am as AC/DC rolled out across the water was immense, butterflies in full flight. The water was inviting with great visibility throughout.
The bike route was also stunning. Some consider Majorca to be the cycling Mecca, I now know why. There’s a tough climb about 30km in which takes around an hour, but the views are worth it.
For the run, it’s 3x7km loops around the town and along the boardwalk parallel to the beach. I was originally put off from the idea of a loop route, but it’s littered with supporters and in the end, it didn’t feel at all repetitive due to the buzz from the crowed.
Looking back upon the training in preparation for the event, it was arguably very forgiving. Harry took the time to understand my personal circumstances and the challenges faced when working across different time zones and this made all the difference. I am undoubtedly one of his worst behaving clients, but although it didn’t seem like it, I did what was needed to step onto the red carpet (my ultimate goal was to finish). But not only that, I was able to set a huge PB in the swim (00:31) and still complete the remaining disciplines in times that were very respectable for a first timer (03:30 + 02:20)!
Having Harry as a coach made my life so easy. All I had to do was show up (even if it was only most of the time)! But most importantly, he was the voice of reason, a soundboard when I needed it and in many ways the backbone of my whole experience. I needed someone experienced who I could count on when I needed them and he was exactly that. Truthfully, without you Harry this wouldn’t have been possible. Thank you for all of your dedication, hard work and patience in getter me there.”
Simon Angell
Chicago Marathon and Snowdon UTS 55k Ultra Finisher
“When looking for a coach, I wanted somebody who could offer advice on everything from strength through to nutrition. With a great list of accolades and experience behind him. Harry was my number 1 choice.
When I first started working with Harry, I was coming back from a tibial fracture so having had a long conversation, he understood my needs and taking into consideration my physically demanding job, he created a plan that helped me rehab and grow into the fittest I've been in years.
By using training peaks, Harry made following the plans simple as the workouts linked with my garmin so I always knew what to do.
One of the most important things I am most greatful for is how having a coach has kept me accountable and consistent. Something I would struggle with if I'd followed a generic plan.
Would I recommend Harry as a coach? Without a doubt.
Will I be working with him in the future? Of course, 2024 is going to be a big year.”
Pete Nielson
Berlin Marathon & Great North Run Finisher
"I'm no expert when it comes to coaching/training but I've been taking my running seriously for around 5 years now and I never believed I could achieve the result Harry has ground out of me. From the beginning he was personable, understood my lifestyle/personal needs and made sure he created a plan that I could execute happily. Each week we fed back to eachother, adjusted accordingly and built up towards the big race day. I initially talked about a 3:30 target but as well as a great plan, Harry also gave me confidence and belief to aim higher. I remained sceptical and even on race day all I really wanted was that 3:30 target but I set out at his recommended pace and came in at 3:23. I still can't believe it! Thanks Harry, you delivered a carefully considered, detailed and exceptional plan, you knew how to make me tick and you brought the very best out of me."
Joe Westwood
Sandman 50km Night Ultra, Australia, Finisher (First Ultra)
Running London to Paris in 6 days
"Harry at Storm Performance was unbelievable in my prep for the Sandman 50km over in Australia. Harry’s knowledge and expertise from programming to nutritional advice was elite and allowed me to complete and more importantly enjoy my first Ultra. Couldn’t recommend Storm Performance enough, Harry has been my go to for everything endurance ever since. 10/10.”
Sean Ruddock
Staffs Ironman 70.3 Finisher (First completed Ironman 70.3)
Bolton Ironman 70.3 Finisher
"I cannot express enough gratitude for Harry's incredible support, mentoring, and direction that made my achievements at Ironman 70.3 Bolton and the previous year at Staffordshire 70.3 possible. Under Harry's guidance, I experienced a remarkable 56-minute personal best improvement at Staffordshire, which was a testament to his effective training strategies and motivational approach.
Harry's commitment to my progress was unwavering. He tailored a personalized training plan that not only honed my physical endurance but also boosted my confidence and mental resilience. His attention to detail, from nutrition advice to race day tactics, ensured I was well-prepared for every challenge.
Thanks to Harry's expert coaching, I was able to tackle the demanding Ironman 70.3 Bolton with newfound strength and determination. His encouragement and insights were pivotal in my journey, transforming what once seemed like an impossible goal into a proud accomplishment. I am immensely thankful for Harry's dedication and expertise, which made these milestones achievable and memorable.
I continue to look forward to the next few events with Harry in my corner!”
Natalie Holdcroft
12 Challenges every month for 12 Months
(+ some more;))
Cathedral to Castle
Birmingham Half Marathon
Fun Run 8.5miles
Snowdon Sun Rise Hike
Cotswolds Trail 16miler
Great North Run
National 3 Peaks Challenge
Great South Run
Sutton 50km Ultra
Chase Water Pudding Run Fancy Dress 5km
Cannock Chase Trail 10km
Warick Half Marathon
Ashby 20miler
London Marathon
"After deciding to undertake 12 challenges in 12 months for charity Harry managed to train me for each event successfully- I feel I have gained so much fitness but ultimately confidence to take anything on (almost) - resulting in an invented community 50km ultra - every crazy bit of training after that had my full faith because I RAN 50km!!! I ran an ultra, hiked, got a 4min PB on my half marathon time, chilled round the biggest half marathon in the world confidently and the finale - I ran the London marathon - executed well and made me want to go again on another! Still can’t believe what I’ve achieved month in month out! Thank you!!!!”
"What can I say. Me and Harry have always had an amazing relationship. But the relationship grew stronger with the preparation for my first Ironman event. Starting with a good strong foundation base in the 3 triathlon disciplines. Harry ensured tailored specific training sessions to improve performances across all the disciplines aswell as a comprehensive strength and conditioning programme in the gym.
For me strength training has always been something I’ve enjoyed and we utilised this to our advantage so it transitioned perfectly with the Ironman distance.
Overall my journey with Harry was incredibly enjoyable. The accountability and the catch ups after workouts and training blocks helped so much. With a heptic work schedule Harry designed a programme to fit around the external obstacles around work and private life. This ment I got the most out of every session whilst not sacrificing other important aspects of my life. As a someone that enjoys stats and data measurements for progress and accountability Harry sport science knowledge opened new insights and knowledge for areas of strengths and weaknesses in my training areas, just one of many tools that helped keep me on the straight and narrow.
I can’t recommend Harry enough with his own personal achievements, sport specific knowledge and passion for coaching. Harry and I executed a perfect game plan for my Ironman 70.3. This has only ignited my love for endurance events for the future. I’m looking forward to working with Harry for the next event.”
Owen Evans
Staffs Ironman 70.3 Finisher (First Ironman)
Sanj Chana
London Marathon Finisher (First Marathon)
"I’ve been training with Harry for about 18months now working towards my first Marathon and still enjoying every session. The thing about Harry is that he isn’t just a PT/Coach, he’s so much more. Whilst on plan with him training for the London Marathon I had an accident and sustained a serious injury (with a blood clot for good measure) and was out for 7 weeks. The mental support through it from him was amazing and he was instrumental in the 4 weeks of training I had before London. He was with me every step of the way both physically and mentally and made me believe in myself. Not only that but his extensive knowledge meant it was all tailored with my injury in mind whilst still maximising performance. I’m now back to strength training and love how he pushes me to my limits, I’ve never felt stronger. Thank you for everything mate.”
Kiran Chana
London Marathon Finisher (First Marathon)
"I can’t speak highly enough about my experience with Harry over the past 7 months. He has had an immense impact on my development as a runner.
Before I started my programme I was feeling stuck in my performance and training and I lacked the confidence to step up a level. Harry’s qualifications, broad knowledge, dedication and guidance were instrumental in transforming me into a more capable and confident runner who’s support and plan got me through my training and successful completion of my first marathon.
What sets Harry apart is his ability to break down complex techniques and strategies into simple manageable steps. He tailors his coaching to my individual needs providing constructive feedback and hands-on support to improve my performance. Harry didn’t just focus on the running but emphasised on the strength training which goes hand in hand.
I wholeheartedly recommend Harry as running coach for his unmatched qualifications, broad interdisciplinary knowledge, and unwavering support full of kindness to help you reach your full potential.”