Working with an Online Running Coach
For my first blog post I thought I would take a small dive into online running coaching as it is an area, I have recently become more involved in. Hopefully this helps some people and maybe, if I’m lucky, even convinces them to consider working with me!
All runners can benefit from an online coach and before you say you are not a “proper runner”, if you run then you are a runner and even if you don’t run but plan to start you will be a runner soon!
There are many options to help you in your running journey, from online coaches to running groups to generic online training programmes. It can be overwhelming. Hopefully, this article will provide some clarity in your understanding of what working with an online coach entails.
Running is a very accessible sport and pretty much anyone can do it. It requires minimal equipment and can be done pretty much anywhere, anytime, by almost anyone. However, to reach your running goals, you will likely need guidance to make sure you are training smartly, minimising injury risks, and balancing running with the demands of everyday life. This is where a coach comes in.
A running coach is qualified and knowledgeable in running and running-related topics which most people are (understandably) not experts in. Take advantage of their expertise and remove stress by letting them take care of all the details allowing you to get on with your life and enjoy the benefits of running.
With an online coach, the training programme is tailored to you and only you. It is designed around your current fitness, ability, and lifestyle commitments with your future potential and running goals in mind. This is important because no two runners are the same and what works for one may not work for you. While generic training programmes follow the right principles of training, they don’t account for individual factors.
Additionally, generic plans don’t consider what happens if you need to deviate from the plan due to injury, illness, or some other reason. When the inevitable setbacks do arise, a coach will adjust your training to keep you on the best path towards success.
Everyone is motivated to run at the start of a training programme but as the weeks go by, that motivation can fade and not having someone there quickly leads to missed training, meaning that once realistic running goal is now unachievable. A coach will hold you accountable by regularly checking in with you, ensuring you are coping with the training, and reminding you of that goal you are working towards.
In running, consistency is king. Results come from regular consistent training. It may not have the appeal of new diets, fancy recovery devices, and the latest and greatest gear that promises to make you quicker, but consistency leads to long-term success. A good coach knows this and will structure your training to ensure consistency and gradual improvement.
A happy athlete is a successful athlete. While it can be hard and even daunting, training and racing should be enjoyable. That joy may not come until the run or race is over but for running to be sustainable it must be enjoyable. A coach will help find what gives you joy in running and what motivates you to run to ensure this guides your training.
Hiring an online coach involves investment in both time and money. You are buying into the coach’s philosophy and must believe they can help you reach your goals. This requires your commitment. If you don’t follow your coach’s guidance and advice, then you most likely won’t reach your potential and won’t enjoy the experience.
So, take some time to determine if an online coach is right for you. Figure out if they are a good fit and what you are seeking from a coach. Remember working with a coach is a team approach. A coach can help you but only if you are transparent and communicate your needs. If you are ready to be honest with them and know what your needs are then I guarantee you, working with an online coach will only benefit your running
I am currently taking on new clients so if you are interested in being coached by me then visit my website www.jdwrunclub.com or drop me an email at jamie@jdwrunclub.com
I would love to help you in your running journey!