Train Smarter. Run Stronger. Reach Your Goals.

As a dedicated running coach, I offer personalized, performance-driven training plans tailored to runners of all levels, helping you optimize your training and achieve your running aspirations.

— About me

I help runners train smarter and achieve their personal bests.

Hi! I’m Chelsea, a certified running coach with over two decades of personal experience in the sport. My journey has taken me through countless miles, races, and milestones — fueling a deep passion for running and a commitment to helping others achieve their goals.

As the founder of Ascend Running, I specialize in performance-focused coaching for runners of all levels. I combine evidence-based training principles with personalized plans that build consistency, strength, and injury prevention. My approach is supportive and motivating, and I love being part of each athlete’s journey toward becoming a stronger, more confident runner — whether you’re training for your first 5K or chasing a new PR.

Chelsea Harp

Services

Monthly Coaching, Training plans and More.

Monthly Coaching

Monthly coaching includes a personalized training plan tailored to your goals, schedule, and fitness level, with adjustments based on your progress. You'll also get ongoing support, feedback, and guidance through regular check-ins to keep you accountable and moving forward.

Experience personalized coaching tailored to your unique goals, fitness level, and schedule. I provide a individualized weekly training plan, regular check-ins, race strategy planning, strength and mobility guidance, and ongoing support to help you train smarter and achieve your personal bests.

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Group Training

Road to Kiawah is a 16-week marathon and half training group led by Coach Chelsea and physical therapist Dr. Felicia Sciortino, built to get you to the December 12 Kiawah Island start line strong and healthy. You'll get a personalized plan, a strength program, group long runs, and a PT on your team from day one. [Fill out the interest form →]

16 Week Group Training

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1:1 Coaching Session

Each session focuses on 1–2 targeted areas of development. The first session includes a movement and form assessment to identify specific needs and set goals. Ongoing sessions provide review, new techniques tailored to the athlete’s progress, and hands-on instruction in form drills, strength exercises, and running-specific skills—plus take-home routines to reinforce gains between sessions.

1:1 Coaching Session

Our 1:1 coaching sessions are tailored for runners of all ages and levels, starting with a 45-minute assessment of form, gait, strength, and mobility. Each follow-up session (60 minutes) focuses on 1–2 key areas, with personalized drills, feedback, and take-home exercises to help you run stronger, more efficiently, and stay injury-free.

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What are clients saying?

Real runners. Real results.

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Chelsea is an amazing runner and coach. Not only did my mile times become faster but she pushed me in ways I never thought possible. She holds everyone around her to a higher standard and makes them want to be better. She has put years into running and learning how to be the best coach. I cannot recommend her enough!
Sarah Parlet
Marathon Runner
Stephanie2
I was looking for a running coach to work with my daughter over the summer. Coach Chelsea was the perfect fit! She took the time to understand where my daughter was starting from, what her goals were, and created a plan that was simple to follow and made my daughter excited! Her expertise is impressive and she even helped with shoe recommendations. Now my daughter is ready for soccer season without having to play catch up with her endurance. We highly recommend Coach Chelsea and will definitely be using her services again in the off season!
Stephanie Machacek
Runner
Steven Adams
Since working with Coach Chelsea, my training has gone from "just getting miles in" to truly purposeful. Every workout has a reason—whether it's building aerobic strength, sharpening VO2max, or dialing in race pace. I've seen huge gains in performance and consistency, all while avoiding burnout. If you're serious about chasing PRs and want a coach who actually understands how to build a smart, sustainable plan around your goals (and life), this is where you want to be.
Steven Adams
Endurance Athlete
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I started running with Coach Chelsea in October of 2024. It has been an amazing experience so far. I would recommend Coach Chelsea to anyone who is wanting to get serious about their running. Not only has she helped me beat my half marathon PR, she has also taught me to really listen to my body and take breaks when I need to. I’ve had a few medical setbacks the past 6 months and Chelsea has been the best supporter through it all. I can’t wait to see where the next year of training takes me. She’s the best!
Katie Eleam
Runner

— How it works?

Ready To Get Started?

It all starts with a single first step.

Embarking on your running journey is an exciting step toward achieving your fitness goals. At Ascend Running, we’ve streamlined the process into four simple steps to make your experience a good one.  

Need to ask a question?

Not sure which coaching option suits you best? Have specific questions or need more information? Feel free to reach out—I'm here to help you make the right choice for your running journey.

All queries are replied to within 24hrs.

Choose your coaching option
Select the service that aligns with your goals: 1:1 Coaching for personalized training and ongoing support or 12-Week Training Plan for a structured, one-time race-specific program
1
Complete athlete intake form & payment
Provide essential background information about your running history, current fitness level, and objectives. This form also includes a secure payment link to finalize your registration.
2
Schedule a call or in person session (if local)
After submitting your intake form, schedule a consultation to discuss your training plan. If you're local to the Spartanburg area, we can meet in person; otherwise, we can connect via phone or video call.
3
Start training and achieve your goals
Begin your tailored program with the support and guidance needed to train smarter, stay disciplined, and reach your running aspirations.
4

Not Sure If Coaching Is For You?

Not sure where to start? Sometimes the hardest part is just taking the first step. That’s why I offer a free consultation so you can see what working with a coach looks like before committing. No pressure, no strings attached — just a smart, supportive start to your running goals. Let’s get you moving. Fill out the form below and get started with a free consult today!

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Chelsea Harp - Ascend Run Coaching
Chelsea Harp - Ascend Run Coaching
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5.010 Google reviews
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Christina Holladay
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Honestly- can’t say enough kind words about Chelsea! She was sooo present as a coach- always tweaking my runs as I needed and commenting on runs I completed my hard ones! You can tell she truly cares about this sport AND about you reaching your goals too!! I just PR’d on my third marathon with her help- thank you Chelsea!!!!!
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CeCe Davis
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Absolutely fantastic running coach that cares about their runners.
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Lauren Starks
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Working with Coach Chelsea at Ascend Run Coaching has been a game-changer. Over the past six months, I’ve hit personal bests at every distance while staying consistent and healthy. The accountability, structure, and support have made all the difference—and it never feels rigid or joyless. Training is challenging but fun, and I always feel confident in the plan. If you want real results and a coach who truly invests in your success, look no further.
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Jeremiah Stout
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As a Physical Therapist who treats active people like runners and lifters, I was very impressed by Chelsea and her ability to analyze, coach, and communicate how I could become a better runner. The drills alone made me realize how valuable working with her could be. I'm excited to improve in my own running journey and collaborate with her to help Spartanburg Runners CRUSH their goals!
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Erin Rassel
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Wonderful experience with Chelsea as a beginner runner! She offers flexible training plans along with stretching and strength routines. Very easy to community with and answers any questions quickly! Absolutely recommend
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Tricia Cowart
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Chelsea Harp is an incredible running coach! She takes the time to understand your goals, creates a thoughtful plan, and motivates you every step of the way. Through her coaching, I’ve been able to reach several milestones and set new PRs, including recently placing 1st in the Dark Horse Trail Half Marathon. Her knowledge, encouragement, and genuine care makes training not only effective but also enjoyable. I highly recommend Chelsea to anyone looking to improve their running or take their training to the next level!
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Haley Krek
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I had a wonderful experience with Coach Harp. It was exciting to have a plan that fit my needs and helped me meet my weekly mileage feeling strong and fit. Loved her thoughtful notes and pointers, definitely has helped me on my running journey! Highly recommend Coach Harp!
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Sarah Parlet
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Chelsea is an amazing runner and coach. Not only did my mile times become faster but she pushed me in ways I never thought possible. She holds everyone around her to a higher standard and makes them want to be better. She has put years into running and learning how to be the best coach. I cannot recommend her enough!
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Drew McAbee
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I cannot recommend Coach Chelsea Harp enough! Her extensive knowledge and experience carries directly into her coaching and performance services. She provides individualized coaching that goes above and beyond. I am very thankful for Coach Harp in her collaboration when working with runners post-rehabilitation to return to running confidently!
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Rufus White
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I have really enjoyed training with Chelsea, she not only creates new workout plans each week to help me reach my goals but will also adjust plans based on my ability to perform the workout. I also enjoy having someone there to help explain new workout routines and the benefit, as well as setting the pace for quicker runs.
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