You’ve been training without seeing any results, you’re frustrated, and you’ve started telling yourself, “it might be time to hire a running coach.”  But you don’t know how to find the right running coach for you! 

Let me share my recommendations for what to look for in a running coach. I recommend the same approach that I use when I decide to coach someone, that is, treating this like if it were a date. Ask yourself: 

Can they make you laugh?

 I don’t literally mean can they make you laugh, but that is a bonus. The athlete-coaching relationship requires a level of intimacy. 

A coach should be keen on other areas of your life aside from training, to help plan around life and adjust accordingly to unexpected highs or lows. To do this, it’s important that you feel like you can have a genuine conversation with this person. I find that this is the number one thing when deciding to work with someone. The way I like to determine that is by inviting them out on a coffee date and seeing how the “date” flows. Would you want a second date with this person? 

What is their experience level? 

Do they hold a certification or higher degree in a relatable field? The majority of certifications require you to only attend a weekend course and pass an exam. Don’t get me wrong, you can get a lot of the initial knowledge from these courses, but is it enough? 

I find that having a Doctorate in Physical Therapy, has helped to keep my runners out of harm’s way. We tend to recognize patterns early and address them promptly. Of course, X amounts of certifications or degrees, don’t guarantee a good coach, but it does show that they are invested in continually learning their sport. 

However, I like to look at their actual hands-on experience with coaching and the success they’ve had. 

• How long have they been coaching?

• What types of runners have they coached?

• Have they had success coaching the particular event that you want to train for?

Do their offerings fit with what you need?

Depending on what you need, there is a coach out there for you. Before engaging in a coaching relationship, it’s important to ask yourself a few questions:

• How much communication do I want from a coach?

• Will they provide me with additional resources (i.e., strength training plan)?

• Who makes up their network (i.e., nutritionists, physical therapists, etc.)?

• Do I want in-person sessions?

• Is this their hobby or profession?

These are just a few of the questions that you should ask yourself. Depending on all these factors, the price will vary, but it’s important to consider these things when making a decision.

I might be biased because I’m used to having a very close relationship with my coach, but I find that the value that you get from being able to pick up the phone and dial your coach, is priceless. 

Look for a running coach that makes you feel heard, is knowledgeable, and most importantly, is as committed as you are, to your success!

Thank you for taking the time to read! If you'd like to chat more about our run coaching services, schedule a complimentary call today and let us help you find the right running coach for you!