This blog is all about why having a running coach can be a game-changer!
Hiring a running coach can offer many advantages, particularly for people that want to improve their running performance, set and achieve specific goals, or address challenges in their training. Here are some reasons why some have chosen to work with a running coach:
Personalised Training Plans
A running coach will create a customised training plan tailored to your individual specific goals, fitness level, running type and schedule. This ensures that the training is optimised to your needs, capabilities and goals.
Expert Guidance
Coaches bring expertise and experience to the table. Typically, they have been runners, and many have learnt the hard way. Most, though not all, have a qualification. They can provide valuable insights into proper running form, pacing, and techniques. This can help prevent injuries and optimise performance. Ultimately a coach will cut through the many sources of information out there and provide clear and precise direction with you and your goal in mind.
Goal Setting
A coach can assist in setting realistic and achievable running goals. Whether it's completing a certain distance, improving race times, or working on specific skills, a coach can help you map out a plan to reach those goals. Most importantly, a coach will share their insight around key workouts and how this means that you are progressing toward your goal.
Motivation and Accountability
Possibly one of the most important aspects of coaching. One that cannot yet be replaced by artificial intelligence, well not just yet. Having a coach provides a level of accountability that is motivating. Knowing that someone is tracking your progress, providing feedback, and expecting updates will help you stay committed to your training.
Feedback and Adjustments
Coaches can analyse training data, such as pace, time, effort, heart rate, and overall workout performance, to provide constructive feedback. They will then make the necessary adjustments to your training plan to optimise progress and address weaknesses.
Injury Prevention
The key to enduring and sustainable running is avoiding injuries A coach will help structure a training plan that minimises the risk of injuries. They typically have an incentive to do so, if you are injured, then the demand for their services may change. They can identify potential issues and provide recommendations for injury prevention strategies.
Nutritional Guidance
While not a substitute for a registered dietitian, running coaches can offer general nutritional advice to support your training, racing and recovery needs. As you start to look at longer endurance events, how you fuel your body becomes a critical component of not only your success, but also your enjoyment.
Race Strategy
Coaches can provide guidance on race-day strategies, whilst this is typically by helping you visualise the race, understand how to start, when to push, when to conserve energy, and how to navigate various race scenarios. Just as important they can provide strategies and guidance for pre-race day, calming those race day nerves and keeping you focussed on the job in hand.
Psychological Support
It is well known that the mind will always give up before the body. Running coaches often play a pivotal role in providing psychological support and motivation. They can help you overcome mental barriers, develop a positive mindset, and stay focused on your goals.
Skill Development
Coaches can work on refining running skills, such as breathing, pacing, running mechanics, interval training, speed training, hill training, to enhance overall performance and efficiency.
Time Efficiency
We all have busy lives, a coach understands this and will design efficient training plans that maximise the benefits of each workout, making the most of your available time.
Honest Feedback
A coach will assess your readiness to race, compete or complete a particular workout. They may not tell what you want to hear. But they will tell you what you need to hear. We all need this sometimes to counter our inner voice.
Working with a running coach offers numerous benefits. However, it's important to find a coach with the right qualifications, experience, and communication style. A good coach will encourage you to communicate openly about your goals, preferences, and any concerns to ensure a successful relationship.
Our Training Plans & Coaching:
Novice / Beginner / Recreational / Intermediate to Advanced
Durations 8, 12, 16, 20, 24 weeks