Workshop Presenters
Rachel Hardies, MA
Presenting on Head in the Game for Runners
A runner, a coach, a mom, a professional. These are a few roles that Rachel Hardies, MA, has. No matter the role, she's inspired by helping others reach their goals and achieve a sense of mastery. Rachel has a bachelor's degree in Kinesiology (exercise science) and a master's degree in Counseling Psychology. She has coached youth and adult athletes since 2003 in a variety of sports and currently coaches middle school track and field. Rachel has been an endurance athlete since 1985 and completed the GOAT Run 50k in 2022 to celebrate turning 50.
Spencer Larsen, DPT
Presenting on Strength for Runners
Spencer is a licensed physical therapist. He earned his Bachelors of Science degree in Exercise Science/Kinesiology from Utah State in 2011 and then completed his Doctorate of Physical Therapy from the University of Utah in 2014, where he graduated with honors. He currently works for Olympic Medical Center Physical Therapy and Rehab, where he started and runs the Running Clinic and treats patients/athletes of all ages in outpatient care. Spencer's experience in the clinic has provided him with a great opportunity and background to help runners improve their efficiency and decrease the risk of injury through strength training. He helps runners identify muscle or movement imbalances and recover from injuries to get back to what they love.
Spencer has a passion for the outdoors. He is an avid runner, mountain biker, skier and loves to dabble in just about any outdoor activity. He currently sits on the board of directors of a local non-profit trail-building organization, Top Left Trails Co-Op. Spencer enjoys sharing his love for the outdoors with his two children, wife Becca, and their elderly dog.
Sara Shearer
Presenting on Yoga for Runners
Physically Yoga has done amazing things for my body: endurance, flexibility, and increased strength to name a few. After developing a personal practice, I realized the influence on my mental health and nervous system. My love of Yoga has fed my passion for helping others get to know themselves through movement, breath, and meditation.
I was introduced to yoga in 2001, and my regular practice began in 2008 and blossomed into a whole life change. I began sharing through teaching in 2012 and am continually taking steps towards gaining more tools and knowledge to understand myself better and serve my community.
Class Description: Gentle movement paired with the breath will lengthen muscles and release tension in the body's tissues from running.
