Meet the Coaching Team
Steve Hopwood – Head Coach
I'm Steve Hopwood, a UESCA-certified ultra running coach and the head coach at Zone 2 Coaching. Based in the stunning Yorkshire Dales, I live and breathe trail and mountain running, training on the same rugged terrain I love to race on.
I've competed in some of the biggest ultras across the UK and Europe, earning some top results along the way. But more than the podiums, I thrive on the adventure, the challenge, and the process of pushing limits—something I bring into my coaching.
My approach is open, honest, and athlete-first. Every runner is different, and I believe in flexible, sustainable training that fits around your life, not the other way around. Whether you're chasing a first ultra finish or looking to step up your performance, I'll help you train smarter, go longer, and enjoy the journey.
Let’s build something epic—one step at a time.
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Results;
2nd - Grizedale Half Marathon - 2025
3rd - Tour de Helvellyn - 2024
6th - Scafell Skyrace - 2024
6th - The Fellsman - 2024
2nd - Grizedale Trail Marathon 2024
14th - Tot Dret (Tor de Geants) 2023
10th - Ultra Trail Monte Rosa 100k - 2022
4th - The Lap - 2021
Bob Graham Round 19hr 51min -2020
Abrahams Tea Round 5hr 54min - 2020
5th - Grand Tour of Skiddaw - 2019
Will Newbery – Ultra Running Coach
Hi, I’m Will!
Like many, I didn’t grow up as an endurance athlete. In my mid-twenties, I found myself out of shape and searching for something more. Running became that something—starting with shorter distances before I caught the ultra bug. Since then, I’ve pushed my own limits, racing everything from marathons to 100km ultras, including a top-5 finish at the GB Ultras Beacons Way 100km and a podium at the Icing on the Cake Marathon.
Now, as a UESCA-certified ultra running coach with Zone 2 Coaching, I’m here to help you chase down your own goals. Whether you’re taking on your first ultra or looking to level up, I’ll guide you every step of the way. Let’s make your next adventure one to remember!
Coaching packages
At Zone 2, there are two non-negotiable things that have to be considered before starting this journey.
It has to fit in with your life. Life happens, family, friends & work for 99% of people comes before running and that's ok. Life happens so training has to be flexible, which it can be!
Training has to be fun. It has to be varied and never boring. Sure, there will be days that are hard or you struggle to get out of bed for that hill session but that happens to everyone. You will never regret a run once you're done.
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Everyone is different and our approach will be different depending on what you need.
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Coaching for us isn't just about giving you a training plan and telling you to get on with it. Support is always there and questions are invited. It's a team effort!
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Running is obviously the focus but strength and conditioning, mobility & drills sessions will more than likely be included at some point on the journey as well as cross training.
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Scientifically backed research and training methods.
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Free initial consultation
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Bespoke to you training delivered through Training Peaks
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Always at least 2 weeks of future training available to see
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Strength & Conditioning programme as part of the package
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Unlimited contact via phone, WhatsApp or Zoom etc. No restrictive monthly calls etc.
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Flexible approach, life happens
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Free initial consultation
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Bespoke to you training plan delivered through Training Peaks
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Strength & Conditioning programme as part of the package
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Easy to follow plan
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Built around you and your life
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Free initial consultation
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Bespoke to you training delivered through Training Peaks
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Included Training Peaks Premium
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Always at least 2 weeks of future training available to see
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Strength & Conditioning programme as part of the package
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Unlimited contact via phone, WhatsApp or Zoom etc. No restrictive monthly calls etc.
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Quarterly in person 1:1 running technique days in The Lake District or Yorkshire Dales
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Flexible approach, life happens
Zone 2 coaching
UESCA Certified Ultra & Trail Specialists
07557768839