About / Coaching Philosophy

ABOUT

Miki Sawada
Più Mosso Running founder & UESCA-certified coach

Hi, I’m Miki, and I’m a professional classical pianist and ultramarathon runner (read my piano bio here).

I’ve raced events ranging from 5kms to 80 miles, on tracks and on mountains above 12,000’, with some wins and some spectacular failures.

However, I am not a natural athlete. Running is something I picked up slowly after college, the majority of it unstructured and learned by trial and error. If I became a runner, you can, too. I will help you get there with more structure and less error than in my case, with experience I’ve gained over the years and knowledge fortified by my UESCA coaching certification (United Endurance Sports Coaching Academy).

While starting out my career as a freelance concert pianist - an arduous and unpredictable endeavor - running was the one place in my life where I felt totally free, where I felt empowered, where I could simply exist as a human in a primal way. The practice of running, and practicing piano, which I believe are endeavors spiritually related to one another, grounded me when everything else felt out of my control. Running continues to surprise me in the adventures it leads me to. I hope for you to experience the same.

Coaching Philosophy

Classical musicians are some of the toughest, most disciplined people out there. This makes you well-equipped to be excellent runners. Classical musicians can also be self-critical, perfectionist, or obsessive (just me?). This can hinder you from taking up a new endeavor which takes time, patience, and humility. Or you might be too hardcore from the get-go and get injured (guilty again). You also lead very busy lives and your time is valuable. I understand the musician mindset and lifestyle, and will carefully consider your musical life and your individual needs and quirks when I assign your coaching plan.

I believe running should bring joy and gratitude. Yes, a run might feel terrible in the moment, but there is joy to be found in the process, and gratitude to our bodies for the things it can do, not what it cannot do. Being able to find this joy is the key to creating a habit that sticks.

I believe that no matter at what speed or intensity or mileage, a consistent running practice can make you a healthier musician, both physically and mentally.

Here is a non-exhaustive list of potential benefits:

  • Less physical discomfort associated with playing instruments or sitting for long periods

  • Achievable and measurable running goals give you satisfaction and confidence, whereas musical progress is often less straightforward or tangible

  • Better understanding of your body and better connection to your body, leading to better playing

  • A better understanding of how our bodies learn, adapt, and improve, leading to better musical practice

  • Less discomfort associated with traveling, and better defense against jetlag

  • Sleep better at night when performances/music schedule are stressful

  • Provides meditative, tech-free space where you can contemplate music you’re working on (or take a break from thinking about music!)

sounding fun?

let’ s get started.