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Testimonials
“I surprised myself in this race.”
“My running has gone from strength to strength with minimum injury.” “I never thought I would achieve such success in my fell races.”
Trusted by clients. Real Results.
The best measure of our coaching isn’t what we say - it’s how our athletes perform. From first 5Ks to Ultra Marathon PBs, these are the improvements that matter most.
TRAIN WITH US, ELEVATE YOUR POTENTIAL TO ACHIEVE PEAK PERFORMANCE
From 16th… to the Front of the Field
“I surprised myself in this race.”
That’s often how breakthroughs begin.
After committing to structured coaching, this athlete didn’t just improve — they transformed. With training carefully built around work commitments, available time, and the terrain they actually run on, every session had purpose.
The result?
A huge leap forward compared to 2019 finished 16th, before we started working together.
This time, stronger. Smarter. Better prepared.
No guesswork. No wasted miles. Just consistent, tailored training and clear direction.
Progress like this isn’t luck - it’s what happens when structure meets commitment.
"Well I surprised myself a little in this race. Due to Brennan's structured coaching and advice I was able to achieve this position, so thank you. For perspective in 2019 I ran this race (a shorter route with less elevation) and came 16th , this was before working with Brennan. The training has been tailored to suite my work commitments which maximises available time and the terrain at hand."
Hamish
Busy Life. Big Progress. Real Results.
" I never thought I would achieve such success in my fell races."
Two years ago, this runner knew they wanted more than guesswork. Every run was full effort, every week felt exhausting, and race day never reflected the hard work.
Then everything changed.
With a structured, varied training plan built around a full-time teaching job and life with two children, training finally became sustainable, motivating, and purposeful. No wasted sessions. No burnout. Just smart progression that fits real life.
The impact?
Stronger performances. Breakthrough results in fell races. Confidence built through consistency and expert guidance.
This is what happens when training works with your life — not against it.
"I have been coached by Kat for the past two years and it was the best decision I ever made. Before that, I was self-coached, but I realised that if I wanted to take my running to the next level, I needed someone to guide me. I was constantly running every session I did at full speed and it left me exhausted when it came to races. Since working with Kat, my running has completely transformed. I now have a structured training plan with a variety of sessions that keep me motivated. Despite being a full-time teacher with two children, my busy lifestyle is never a barrier to training. Kat is able to work around my schedule and make the most of the limited time I have available! I've seen remarkable results since I started working with Kat. I never thought I would achieve such success in my fell races. These results are a testament to Kat's expertise and her ability to maximise the impact of my training. I cannot recommend Kat enough to anyone who wants to improve their running. Her knowledge, dedication, and flexibility have truly transformed my running and I am grateful for the progress I have made under her guidance."
Philippa
From Injury Cycle to Top-10 at UTS 100
“7th place finish at a massive
mountain race.”
A year ago, finishing UTS 100 felt completely out of reach. Repeated injuries had turned the early running journey into a frustrating cycle of setbacks.
Then everything changed.
Through consistent coaching, smart conditioning, and carefully managed training, this runner moved from constant injury to lining up healthy, confident, and prepared for one of the toughest mountain races out there.
The result?
7th place at UTS 100.
Stronger. Resilient. Racing at a level that once felt impossible.
This is what happens when training is built for long-term progress, not short-term burnout.
"UTS 💯 A year ago the idea of finishing UTS 100 was a goal that was simply unachievable for me, injury after injury made my first year or two of running a nightmare. The greatest thing I did was join Kat over at high peak running, she’s taken me from strength to strength and conditioned me to a 7th place finish at a massive mountain race, kept me injury free and pushed me to levels I could not have achieved on my own. Thank you Kat, you’re my strongest asset!"
Dave
PBs While Marathon Training - And Just Getting Started
" My running has gone from strength to strength with minimum injury."
Nearly two years of consistent coaching has turned steady progress into real breakthroughs.
Running stronger. Staying healthy. And now hitting personal bests during marathon training — times that once felt out of reach are becoming reality.
With the right guidance, support, and structure, progress stops being a hope and starts becoming the expectation.
And the most exciting part? This year is only just getting started.
"I have been with Kat for nearly 2 years now and can honestly say its been the best decision i have made. My running has gone from strength to strength with minimum injury. This year iv managed pbs already while marathon training im achieving times i would have dreamed of. With the help and support off Kat im excited to see where this year takes me ........"
Shelly
From Burnt Out to Ultra Podium
“3rd female which without Kat's coaching there's no way I would have achieved that!”
"I started with Kat May 2023 and within 3-4 months I made huge improvements. I even managed to finish in a good time (for me at least!) at my first ultra in Sept 23 (5 valleys) getting 3rd female which without Kat's coaching there's no way I would have achieved that! Before coaching I used to run inconsistently and trying to PB every run and not really enjoying it and seeing no improvement and was constantly tired. Now I am enjoying running more than ever, I look forward to the runs that Kat schedules in and I enjoy the variety. It’s not even just running, its strength and conditioning, mobility, yoga, nutrition and more.
I have since had a major surgery in Jan 2024 and after some time off Kat's coaching has got me fit again and have recently done my 2nd ultra with more planned :) Kat really knows her stuff and is an amazing runner herself, so I feel like I'm learning from the best and her wealth of knowledge, experience and advice is invaluable to me. She regularly checks in and cares about how you are doing. She is super friendly and professional and also I’d like to add having a busy life when I need to switch things up Kat changes my training to suit (thank you!)"
Hayley
From Setbacks to the Bob Graham Round
" My running has gone from strength to strength with minimum injury."
Eleven months of focused coaching turned years of injuries and frustration into a breakthrough running journey.
Starting from a low base, the focus was simple: stay healthy, build consistently, and trust the process. The transformation that followed speaks for itself.
First ultra completed.
Bob Graham Round conquered.
35-minute PB at the Trigger Fell Race.
Along the way came weight loss, resilience, and the confidence to achieve goals that once felt out of reach.
This is what happens when smart, structured training meets commitment and belief.
"Under Brennan's guidance for the past 11 months, I've experienced a remarkable transformation in my running journey. Despite starting from a low base and facing numerous injuries and setbacks in the 3 years prior, Brennan's structured coaching has been instrumental in helping me achieve my goals while maintaining my health. With his support, I've not only shed excess weight but also achieved milestones I once only dreamed of, including completing my first ultra race, conquering the Bob Graham round, and even achieving a 35-minute personal best at the Trigger fell race. Brennan's expertise and dedication have truly been the driving force behind my success, and I couldn't recommend more."
Damien
From Ultra Walker to Ultra Marathon Finisher
“3rd female which without Kat's coaching there's no way I would have achieved that!”
Starting as an inexperienced ultra marathon walker in the VF40 category, the goal was simple: get fitter, start running ultras, and feel better.
Eighteen months later, the transformation tells a much bigger story.
With a patient, adaptive plan built around real life and a demanding work schedule, progress came step by step - navigating niggles, building resilience, and steadily raising the bar.
The results?
The Lap completed. Half marathons finished. Lakeland Trails Marathon conquered.
But the biggest win goes far beyond the trails: stronger, more resilient, and more confident in everyday life.
This is what consistent, personalised coaching can unlock when commitment meets the right guidance.
"Kat Townshend of Townshend Performance is a superstar. She was willing to take me on as an inexperienced ultra marathon walker and VF40 category with an aspiration to build up my fitness to run ultras, feel better about myself and really achieve something. My experience has been so much more than that. Having had an initial detailed consultation on what experience I had, my running journey and my goals, Kat built a plan that assessed what I was really capable of. Setting a target of The Lap that was 7 months away she built up my running steadily, adjusting as we went as I experienced strains and niggles that set me back, but each week I felt like I was moving forwards. Kat is patient and understanding and takes the time to listen and adapt training to my crazy work schedule.
Now 18 months in to working with Kat, and The Lap, a few half marathons, and the Lakeland Trails Marathon under my belt I have never felt more resilient in my every day life, not just on the trails… and I am excited about what’s to come as we run on! If you want a challenge and are willing to put the time and effort in, the reward will be immeasurable."
Catherine
Running Faster in Your 50s Than a Decade Ago
" I never imagined I'd be able to perform at this level at this age"
After years of fell running and adventure racing, coaching for the first time changed everything.
Balancing demanding work, long events, shorter fell races, and the realities of wear and tear, training needed to be smart, structured, and sustainable. With a plan built around real life, progress followed quickly.
The results speak loudly:
• Racing at PB pace not seen for 10–15 years
• Top 20% finish at the Lakes Traverse
• Course fastest finisher at the Great Lakeland 3 Day
Stronger. Fitter. More balanced. And performing at a level that once felt impossible in the 50s.
Proof that the right guidance can unlock a whole new chapter of performance.
"Brennan's been coaching me for nearly 2 years now. I've been fell running and adventure racing since my mid-30s (I'm now 53) and having a coach for the first time has been a revelation. My focus has been longer events but also mixing in some shorter fell races - and dealing with the injuries, wear & tear that accumulate over the years. Brennan's expertise, insight and thoroughness in creating me a plan that works around a very intense job has been seriously impressive. He inspires trust and under his guidance I'm a fitter, stronger, more balanced and happier runner. In the last year I've run fell races at PB pace (as fast as I've been for 10-15 years), come in the top 20% at the Lakes Traverse and been course fastest finisher at the Great Lakeland 3 Day. I never imagined I'd be able to perform at this level at this age and I've no doubt that the main reason is Brennan's coaching."
Martin
From Injury Comeback to
UTS 50km Finish Line
The goal started with one challenge: recover properly and get to the start line of UTS 50km ready.
Through careful progression, smart volume increases, and targeted strength work, training stayed consistent and controlled. No rushing. No setbacks. Just steady, purposeful build-up.
The result?
Not just making it to the start line - but crossing the finish line strong and able to truly enjoy every mile of that incredible course.
That’s the power of tailored coaching: arrive prepared, perform with confidence, and actually take in the experience along the way.
"I came to Kat for help getting over an injury and to prepare for the challenge of UTS 50km. Her coaching has kept me on track, balancing a steady build in running volume with targeted strength work. This tailored approach got me to the start... and the finish line, but most importantly allowed me to really enjoy this stunning course and incredible experience. Thanks Kat, for all your help and encouragement!"
Hollie
From 23 Stone to Mountain Ultras - And Just Getting Started
" I have not been just completing these events, I have been in the middle of pack, which I still find unbelievable"
"It has been a pleasure working with Brennan and Townshend Performance, I started running in 2021 and being in my 40s I wanted to make sure that I did things "right" especially as I just reduced my weight from over 23 stone and I didnt want to risk any long term layoffs and have my weight yo-yo again. I set some lofty goals and challenges as competition has always been something that has motivated me. Rather than saying these goals were out of reach, Brennan has guided me into make these achievable and has helped with setting the stepping stones to achieve these. Like a lot of runners, races like UTMB and the Dragons back are dreams and for myself I can now see they are achievable in the next few years, which looking at where I have come from is unbelievable. It is not just training that Brennan and Townshend Performance have helped me with, being a complete novice I had no idea about kit and what to do at events etc. and Brennan has provided valuable insight on what I should to to prepare for events in terms of recceing the routes, nutrition to try and kit to use. He has even helped me with what shoes to wear which could suit my strange (wide) foot shape. In addition to this when I have been unsure of anything Brennan has helped, answering questions like does he have an recommendations for a physio, as I found finding a good one isnt just google search away. Other aspects that may seem minor to experienced runners like when to push harder and when to ease off the training have all been answered and nothing has been to much trouble. I am incredibly pleased to have gone from zero to completing the Copper Skytrail, UTS 50 and the Lap in my first year of trail running and I have not been just completing these events, I have been in the middle of pack, which I still find unbelievable. This year we have more events planned which still seem way above my current capability but I know if I follow the advice and the coaching I am receiving that we will get there."
James
From Random Running to Real Ultra Progress
After a lifetime of running in the FV55 category, the dream of tackling ultras had been waiting for years. What was missing? Structure, direction, and a plan built for real life.
In just six months, training was transformed with a periodised approach combining strength work, cycling, walking, hills, and proper recovery — all balanced around work and family commitments.
The progress has been huge:
• First 50k completed
• A stone lost in weight
• 4 minutes knocked off 10k time
• Building towards a 43-mile race and a 50-mile event
Consistent guidance, regular feedback, and the right plan can turn long-held ambitions into real, exciting momentum.
"As a lifelong running FV55, I was looking for a new challenge and ultras have been my ambition for such a long time. Looking for a coaching team with ultra experience, Townshend Performance fitted the bill. Kat has revolutionised my rather haphazard training in the last 6 months introducing a periodised plan including strength work, cycling, walking (oh yes!), hills (although I live in Essex and our hills don’t quite match up to Kat’s) and proper rest and recovery. An ultra calendar plan has focused me on the key events I want to do whilst steadily increasing race distance. All balanced around my work and family commitments. Kat is very accessible and monitors daily sessions with regular feedback, support and when needed the occasional pep talk. So far I have enjoyed my first 50k, lost a stone in weight and knocked 4 minutes of my 10k time and am working towards a 43 miler later this month and 50 mile race later in the season. I’ve also spotted a local 75 miler in the autumn but Kat doesn’t know about that one yet!"
Tracy
Consistent. Confident. Injury-Free.
" My consistency with running has come on so much! "
Over the past year, the biggest change hasn’t just been fitness - it’s consistency.
Racing now comes with confidence: knowing how to fuel properly, when to use poles efficiently, how to recover well, and most importantly when to push and when to hold back.
The outcome?
Multiple ultras completed.
No injuries.
No DNFs.
Sessions are planned in advance, making it easy to fit training around work and family life. With a coach who understands the juggle of parenting and busy schedules, training feels realistic, manageable, and sustainable.
This is what steady, intelligent coaching looks like - progress that lasts.
"I’ve been working with Kat for over a year now and my consistency with running has come on so much! Each race I feel more confident not just with running but fuelling, using my poles, recovery & knowing when to push a bit and hold back. I’ve completed a good number of ultras now and each race there’s been no injuries no DNFs (may this continue) Kat is really easy to chat with, Kat sets your sessions in advance so you can plan ahead and lets you crack on. Kat has her own family with young children so I find that really helps as she can relate to juggling family life & working."
Laura
From Complete Novice
to 34-Minute 10K
Starting out in March 2020 with no experience and no direction, progress was limited by guesswork and uncertainty. Bringing in structured coaching changed everything.
With patient guidance, detailed planning, and consistent encouragement, improvement became measurable — and rapid.
The progression speaks for itself:
• 10K: from 40:xx to 34:19
• Half Marathon: from 1:54:40 to 1:15:37
That level of improvement doesn’t happen by chance. It comes from meticulous planning, smart training, and committing to the process.
Proof that with the right structure and the willingness to do the work, the ceiling is far higher than you think.
"I started running as a complete novice in March 2020, and after a few months working alone and unsure what to do, sought a coach - I started working with Brennan at High Peak late that year. At all stages Brennan has been incredibly helpful - patient with my questions (no matter how daft), thorough and meticulous in his coaching methods and training plans, and encouraging and positive in his approach. Under his guidance I've improved from 40:xx times for the 10k in 2020 to 34:19 in May 2022, and from 1:54:40 before Brennan to 1:15:37 in February 2023. There is no doubt in my mind that I've seen a much greater scale of improvement over this time frame than I'd have been able to achieve alone and would recommend Brennan's coaching to anyone looking to improve their running and willing to put in the work."
Sam
9 Months. Clear Progress. No Guesswork.
" These guys know what they’re doing to help you achieve the results you want. "
In less than a year of structured coaching, performance has already taken a noticeable step forward - and the trajectory is still rising.
Regular check-ins. Quick responses. A clear, purposeful training plan that removes the stress of figuring it all out alone.
No second-guessing sessions. No wasted miles. Just consistent, focused work that delivers results.
When your training is mapped out properly and adjusted when needed, improvement stops being accidental - it becomes expected.
Coaching isn’t an expense. It’s an investment in doing things right.
"I have been coached by Brennan for 9 months now. My running has improved a lot, and I’m sure it will continue to do so with his help. He regularly checks in with me, and is responsive to any questions I have about my training plan. Having a coach helps to keep me on track and makes training easy as I don’t need to think about what to do. Definitely money well spent. These guys know what they’re doing to help you achieve the results you want. Would recommend 100%"
Hannah