Courtney Barnes

Courtney Barnes is an enthusiastic running coach who is passionate about teaching others how to find the joy in running and reaching new fitness goals. Courtney works full time as a real estate agent and has her own consulting business so she understands the demands of fitting in her runs with a hectic schedule.  Courtney lives in Arlington, TN with her husband, Michael, and two children, Olivia and Ethan.  Her husband is an avid runner as well, and they both recently qualified for the Boston Marathon. 

Courtney started running over 18 years ago while in college. She was the girl who used to hate running.  She started running in college only for weight control.  She did it because she thought she “had” to and not because she “wanted” to.  She even ran her first marathon as an Athena runner (this is the category for those who weigh more than 150lbs).  All that changed; to her surprise, when she started running with a group of beautiful girlfriends just a few years ago.As she began running with these ladies, the miles became enjoyable! It’s this type of accountability and fellowship that Courtney desires to create for others in the running program. 

Courtney has completed 7 marathons and qualified and ran in the Boston Marathon in 2015!  She has completed countless half marathons, and even completed a few triathlons. She has also taught group fitness in kickboxing and is a certified Schwinn Cycle instructor.

“I never set out to be a running coach.  Coaching found me! Friends started asking me to help them train to run for weight loss, to reduce stress and to reach finish lines. I realized there was such a need to help others learn how to run strong and with JOY.” says Courtney.

Running is now a part of my life that I love.  I love being loud, which means I make for a great cheerleader.  I love a good story, which means I’m a good listener.  I love to run, which means I like to help other people run too.  I love Jesus which means love to show others how to lean on Him to gain and renew their strength.  I get emotional every time I watch finishers obtain their goal and reach miles they never thought possible. I look forward to meeting you and helping YOU cross the finish line!”