Why Work With a Running Coach?
Working with a coach can be one of the best investments that you make, no matter your running goals. Whether you're aiming to run your first 5k, working toward a marathon PR, or simply want to run more consistently, a running coach can offer you valuable guidance, structure, and accountability.
A few reasons that working with a running coach could be a game-changer for you:
Personalized Training
Tailored to Your Goals: Your coach will design a run training plan that’s specific to your individual goals and fitness level. Whether you’re preparing for a race or just want to improve your speed and/or endurance, your coach will customize your plan, considering your unique strengths, challenges, and goals. Your coach will do the work of figuring out what you should be doing and when, including adjustments along the way, leaving you more time and energy for the fun part: running!
No One-Size-Fits-All Plans: Generic training plans found online are unlikely to address your specific needs, and may be inappropriate for your skill level or lifestyle. You’re far more likely to succeed in achieving your goals with a personalized plan that works for you, based on your fitness level, experience, and individual needs.
Expert Guidance and Knowledge
Appropriate Progression: You’ll follow a structured plan that gradually builds on itself over time, and you’ll be coached through each phase of your training.
Injury & Burnout Prevention: When training’s going well, it’s tempting to think, “more is better.” However, this often leads to injuries and overtraining. Your coach will help you increase your training load safely and will strategically prescribe rest/recovery periods; this is crucial in reducing your risks of injury, overtraining, and burnout.
Dealing with Setbacks: At some point in your running journey, unexpected challenges are inevitable. If you experience a setback, like an injury or a really bad race, your coach will help you adjust your training plan and make the most of your situation, providing support even when things don’t go as planned.
Improved Performance
Targeted Focus: Your coach will help you improve through focused, individualized training that’s focused on your goals, whether that’s improved speed, better endurance, hitting a new PR, or building general fitness.
Race-Specific Training: Whether you’re training for a 5K, marathon, or any race distance in between, your coach will help you train specifically for the demands of that event. Your training will be designed with purposeful workouts that help you build the strength and stamina you need to perform your best on race day.
Growth Over Time: If you’re in it for the long haul, your coach can help you continue to grow as your running goals (and life outside of running) evolve. Building a longer term relationship with your coach can be invaluable, as it fosters trust, good communication, and a deeper understanding of what you need to succeed.
Future Goals: Once you’ve accomplished your current goal, your coach can help you set new challenges and keep your training progression moving forward, whether that means improving your race times, running longer distances, or exploring new events.
Accountability
Consistency: Your coach will regularly check in with you regarding your training, making you less likely to skip workouts. And consistency is the key to progress!
Push Beyond Your Comfort Zone: Having someone to push you when you feel like quitting is invaluable. A coach knows when to challenge you and when to dial back, helping you avoid burnout while ensuring that you continue to progress.
Celebrate Milestones: Your coach will celebrate your achievements with you, whether that’s hitting a new distance or PR, or training more consistently ever before.
Race Prep & Planning
Race Planning: Your coach will guide you in your race-day strategy, including recommended pacing and potential pitfalls. Together, you’ll develop a plan for how to approach your race, including when to push hard and when to conserve energy, maximizing your chances of race-day success.
Mental Toughness: Running isn’t just physical; it’s mental. Training with a coach can help you develop skills like staying focused, managing negative thoughts, and pushing through tough moments.
Whether you're new to running or a seasoned athlete, working with a running coach can help you unlock your full potential and enjoy your running journey to the fullest.
Want to learn more? Click here to get started with Eat Run Thrive Coaching!
