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As both a runner and a running coach, I know a lot about the importance of having a coach to help you train for an important race or to help you reach a goal. In fact, as I prepare to train for my 40th marathon, I know first hand about needing a coach. I’m very fortunate that my husband is also a running coach who has trained me since my very first marathon almost 25 years ago. Though I don’t always recommend being coached by your spouse!
Do you want to be a better runner? Consider hiring a running coach! Here are 7 reasons a coach can help you reach your #running goals whether you're a beginner, preparing for a race, or just want to run better (and stay injury-free).Click To Tweet7 Reasons You Need a Running Coach if you Want to be a Better Runner
Now, you might say, “well, I’m not an elite runner,” or “I’m pretty slow,” or “I just want to finish that marathon,” as reasons that you think that you don’t need or even deserve a coach. I’ll tell you, everyone can benefit from getting professional coaching, and here’s why.
1. Your running coach can help you choose your goals
Many runners aren’t sure where they should go next. Whether you’re a beginner, deciding to run a race for the first time, or a more experienced runner making the jump to a longer distance, or if you are seeking to set a personal record or to qualify for the Boston Marathon, a coach can take an objective look at your ability, fitness, and goals, and help you take that step.
2. Your running coach can provide motivation
More than providing motivation, a coach can remind you of your goals and what steps you need to take to achieve them. Frequently in the middle of a long training cycle, runners get tired and start to question themselves and their commitment. Your coach will help you get back on track and get your focus back on your ultimate goal.
3. Your running coach can provide accountability
Sure, you may be tired at the end of the day and maybe think about skipping that speed workout on your schedule. Then you remember that you’ll have to report to your coach and you scoot your butt out the door.
4. Your running coach will design a plan individualized for you
Yes, you can use a cookie-cutter program off the internet. But that program will not recognize your individualized needs, your schedule, or your tendency to get a twinge in your Achilles if you run three days in a row. Your coach will create a plan that will fit with your schedule, your goals, and your body.
5. Your running coach will be your cheerleader
Sometimes things don’t go as planned. A workout is tougher than expected or you fall short of your own expectations. Your coach knows what you are capable of and will provide encouragement and support to help you feel better about what you are accomplishing.
6. Your running coach can help you train smart
Many runners who train on their own don’t realize that rest and recovery are as important as training. Your coach will make sure that you give your body the care that it needs so that it can grow stronger and faster.
7. Your running coach can give you a kick in the pants when you need it
Your coach knows you, which means she knows what you need in order to stick with your training. Sometimes that is an understanding ear and empathy. Other times it’s a command to just get out there and do your workout. Without complaining. Too much.
A coach will help you plan, train for, and achieve your running goals no matter what they are. She can help you run faster, longer, or just simply, run.
Hiring a running coach is a lot more affordable than you may think. For more information about my coaching programs, check out my Coaching Page or email me at debbie@coachdebbieruns.com
I’d love to know. Have you ever worked with a running coach?
And Now It’s Time for the Runners’ Roundup!
Weekly Linkups
My weekly linkups! Please stop by and check out all of the great recipes, workouts, and information that all these awesome bloggers share every week!
Meatless Monday with Sarah and Deborah
Inspire Me Monday with Janet
Tuesday Topics with Kim and Zenaida
The Runners’ Roundup with Deborah, Lisa, Jenn, Laura, and Me!
The Weekly Run Down with Deborah and Kim
Fit Five Friday with Darlene, Michelle, Renee, Jenn, and Zenaida
I’m a big fan of coaches for all the reasons you mention, Debbie.
The last coach I had was a virtual one, Garmin’s Greg McMillan, for a time trial last year. I reached my goal of a sub 21 minute 5k. I doubt I could have done that without a coach!
Your experience shows exactly how helpful a running coach can be!
There are so many reasons to work with a coach! Its been interesting to see so many people work with coaches over the last year without really having races to train for. They are still accomplishing great things and will be more than ready when races start back up! Its funny you mention being coached by your spouse. I coached my husband for a marathon a few years ago which was interesting. I don’t think he liked having someone drag him out of bed every day to do his workout!
I think it can be hard to coach your spouse. It’s too easy to get a little annoyed when they tell you what to do!
Having a coach can be a huge help in achieving your goals. I think it’s great that there are so many affordable ways to take advantage of using coaches now. I sure miss coaching my girls on the run team and can’t wait to get back out there with them in the fall
I’m glad you’ll get to be back with your girls in the fall! It’s such an important program and helps the girls so much!
All great reasons to have a coach.
Unfortunately I can justify the money at this point in my running.
But maybe someday.
We all have to pick and choose where to spend our money. The last year has been rough!
I have to runfess, I’m pretty gun-shy. I worked with a coach, several years ago, and was too intimidated to question the workouts and mileage on my plan. I did what I was told to do, and toed the start line (I think) injured. It’s been tough to get over that experience…
It’s so important to find a coach that fits you and understands your needs. And especially stays alert to possible injuries. And also speak up if you don’t feel right about something. The coach is working for you and if they don’t listen to your feedback they are definitely not the coach for you!
I think Kim’s comment above sums up why a lot of people hesitate to get a running coach. It’s like finding a new doctor- you might have to go through some trial and error to find one that works for you. I’ve never worked with a coach but I’m considering the idea more and more these days. For me it would be primarily for reason #6- I need some help in training smarter!
Thanks for the article!
I totally agree. Anyone who hires a coach needs to interview them first, find out their philosophy and make clear their own goals.
All great reasons! I also find a lot of runners benefit from a coach to hold them back at certain times, whether that is easy runs too fast or wanting to do too many races.
I agree. A lot of runners, especially beginners, will run the same thing every day, think they have to run hard all the time if they want to get faster, and basically seem to try hard to injure themselves. 🙂
Running coaches are great! It’s so helpful to have someone who is trained to help you do the things to get you to your goals (and even help you set those goals).
Obviously I agree. It’s nice to hand over control of the program and just run.
I worked with Rachel for a while, and I had great results! Even though I enjoy training, I loved not having to think about it. 🙂
Rachel is a great coach. She knows when to push and when to hold back.
I know people have probably rolled their eyes about me working with a running coach, but it has made such a HUGE difference in my growth and in getting faster! Great advice!
I would never roll my eyes at someone using a coach. It doesn’t matter whether you’re fast or slow, want to run faster, or just want to avoid injury, a coach can help.