Runner Profile: Visually Impaired Running Coach Jared Broughton
By Marnie Kunz, NASM-certified trainer, USATF- RRCA-certified run coach
This runner profile highlights the persistent and encouraging spirit of running coach Jared Broughton, a visually impaired runner based in Canada. Jared offers personalized running training plans and coaching to athletes around the world through his business, Run2Potential. His dedication to runners and his pursuit of running despite visual impairment are truly inspiring.
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“Running is already a lonely sport, so my objective is to make the journey less lonesome,” Broughton says. “Accountability and support drastically decrease the chance of giving up or not hitting your goals. I never give up on anyone I work with as long as they are open to growing as a runner and person.”
For this runner profile, Broughton sat down for an interview to delve into the highs and lows of running and what makes his training philosophy unique. Here are his insights:
RS: How long have you been running?
JB: 16.5 years (consistently)
RS: How did you get into running?
JB: A former school running and gym teacher inspired me with his dedication to exercise and said, “You have potential; do not waste it,” despite my visual impairment. I never gave it up ever since. I struggled to be good and enjoy any of the activities offered to me at my private school. But my mentor saw something special in me to be a good runner. The fact he never gave up on me and cared that much had a profound effect on me. Running was a by-product of my wanting to be a coach or fitness trainer as well.
RS: What motivates you to run?
JB: Many reasons - empowering myself to be good at something that comes naturally. I also like that it’s a simple activity and form of exercise and very cheap to do. Running also has many health benefits. I want to make coaching a full-time career, so it forces me to practice what I preach.
RS: How does your vision impairment affect your running? How do you adjust?
JB: It limits my route options, and therefore, I cannot just drive somewhere to a safer location or more scenic place. During the winter, I compensate by using the treadmill when it is bad outside. In addition, I cannot do trail running safely by myself unless I am with a group or an experienced guide. Thus, I unfortunately have not been able to try ultra-marathons or trail racing due to my visual impairment. I adjust by embracing road and track running to the best of my ability. I also advocate for myself in getting guides for races, especially for courses I’ve never tried before. I have a photographic memory so I compensate further by repeating the same route over and over again. At a certain point, I memorize the footing, divots, potholes locations, curbs, sewers, etc, and how to avoid and navigate them. Overall, I make the most out of my personal situation, accomplish what I can without getting injured, and never let my disability prevent me from being ambitious.
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RS: What is one lesson running taught you that you’d like to pass on to others?
JB: You have more ability and mental fortitude than you think!
RS: What is your coaching philosophy?
JB: Running does not have to be a lonely sport and activity. No one can be so self-objective to reach their potential; this is why coaches exist! If you focus on comradery, having fun, staying relaxed, and learning to zone out, everything fits into place. When you make running a lifestyle, you never lose motivation. My training philosophy is that EVERY structured running program must be tailored to the individual with no exceptions. The cookie-cutter programs or coaches are doing a disservice to runners. I help aspiring, social, and experienced runners fit training into their busy schedules while achieving their athletic performance & fitness goals. My personalized training plan and coaching help you boost mental, physical, and longevity health without injury, pain, or “falling off the wagon.”
RS: What is your biggest running accomplishment?
JB: My current Marathon PB is 3:02:10. I was also nominated and qualified to be on the Board of Directors for Run Ottawa.
RS: What’s your favorite pre-race food? And post-race food?
JB: Pre-Race, I like energy bars (Clif bar, Noami energy, Xact Nutrition energy bar, croissant, and an energy gel, etc). Post-race, I like bananas, bagels, yogurt, anything from a restaurant/pub to celebrate, and coffee.
RS: Where can people find out more about your coaching services?
JB: Run2Potential, my website.
RS: Anything else you’d like to add?
JB: I want runners to know that they do not need ambitious goals, to be competitive, or even to be fast. I want to show even social runners a side of running they have yet to discover in themselves. I became a certified coach because my peers saw an uplifting side of me. I am good at making people feel good about themselves. Also, if something is important enough to you, you’ll make time for it no matter what. Success comes automatically when you put everything into the journey and trust it regardless of pitfalls and mistakes.
You can follow JB’s journey on Instagram at @run2potential and check out his website at Run2Potential. For more running tips and inspiration and a boost of mid-week motivation, sign up for our Wellness Wednesday newsletter. Follow @Runstreet on Instagram for more training tips, to share your running journey, and get cheered on.
Happy running to you!
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Marnie Kunz is a NASM-certified trainer and USATF- and RRCA-certified running coach based in Brooklyn, NY. Marnie likes helping people get and stay active to enjoy a better quality of life. When she’s not doing fitness things, Marnie enjoys exploring with her dog, a mischievous rescue Akita.
