About Yanasi Endurance & Coach Jay
Welcome to Yanasi Endurance. "Yanasi" is the Cherokee word for what European settlers called Buffalo. To native populations, the buffalo, was a sacred symbol representing strength, abundance and resilience. I'm drawn to the Yanasi, as it is said, when a herd is in the path of an oncoming storm, they will move directly into the storm, unlike other animals who try to flee. The herd understands if they move towards and through the storm, the quicker it will pass. I believe we would all be better off if we faced the adversity and challenges in our lives just like the buffalo herd.
I’m coach Jay and I’m a certified running coach. I’m passionate about living a healthy and active lifestyle. But that hasn’t always been the case. As I was starting out my professional career, work was my main focus. Inactivity, poor food choices, unhealthy habits and stress became my new normal. I was making my mark professionally, but at the expense of my health. Then I was introduced to running and everything changed. As my running increased, I realized the benefits of strength training and the importance of eating healthy to help fuel my body. As my health and body composition improved, I saw the benefits in all aspects of my life, including professionally.
I had to make the changes, but I’ve had so much support along the way. My family, close friends, and training partners have been there for me for the past twenty plus years. They’ve helped me get up early, held me accountable for my runs and workouts, and even supported me through long-distance running events that lasted over 30 hours. Their support has been key to my success, and it’s inspired me to help others. This inspiration led me to start Yanasi Endurance.
In 2020, I became a certified running coach with the Road Runners Club of America (RRCA). In 2024, I took my coaching skills to the next level by becoming a certified ultra running coach through The United Endurance Sports Coaching Academy (UESCA). I absolutely love helping endurance athletes achieve their goals, but I know endurance sports is not everyone’s goal . So, in 2025, I decided to became a certified personal trainer and nutritionalist with the International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA).
I’ve made my fair share of mistake in my health and fitness journey, and in my endurance training. But now, with over 20 years of strength and endurance experience and rigorous certification programs under my belt, I’m here to help you achieve your goals. Whether you want to shed some pounds, get active, and make real changes to your health, or you’re dreaming of conquering marathons, Ironman triathlons, or Ultra marathons. With me as your coach we will work together to expedite your results and increase your chance of success.
Just like the Yanasi, when the storm hits, we’re stronger together. Coaching for me goes beyond just writing training plans and sending emails. It’s a true partnership, and effective communication is the key. I’ll personally create a training package just for you, based on your needs and goals. From the start, we’ll work together to put your training plans and nutrition strategies into action and help you achieve your objectives. As your coach, you can always reach out with any questions, seek my advice, and get the support and motivation you need to succeed. Let’s face the storm together and come out stronger, fitter, and healthier!