Why do I need a Running Coach?

Why do I need a running coach? This is actually a very important question to ask yourself. As Simon Sinek says - start with WHY!
I think there are a number of reasons why a running coach is a good idea and why a running coach can be a valuable resource for any runner - regardless of their level of experience.

• Accountability. How often do we set ourselves goals and targets but after a few days or weeks of earnest adherence to our new program, we fall off the wagon. This is because we are only accountable to ourselves and when you are trying to get out of bed at 5am to complete your long run or resist that second slice of chocolate brownie, your lazy, hedonistic side usually trumps your motivated, disciplined side. Having someone to be accountable to gives you an extra layer of protection from the late night cake and early morning lie-in demons.
• Knowledge. Your coach (should) know what they are talking about. They should walk the walk and have experience actually doing the things you are training to do yourself. They should also be qualified and educated so that they can share this knowledge with you. A coach is a teacher not a dictator and you should be learning your craft guided by the experience and knowledge of an experienced and knowledgeable coach.
• Programming. Let's face it, sometimes it's nice to just be told what to do! Rather than having to deliberate about where to run, how far, how fast, a coach can lay out your week for you in advance. In a world of decision fatigue, don't make your training more of a stress than it needs to be.

• Feedback and communication. Having someone to bounce ideas off, to discuss your training with in great detail, and who is genuinely concerned about your training is priceless. Do your family's eyes glaze over when you start talking about your latest shoe purchase, or whether you hit your target pace  in your morning tempo run? Mine do! But having a coach who you can talk to and brainstorm your way through your training means that you don't have to bore your partner and friends with training talk. Feedback on your own training is also invaluable as you can track the progress you are making with your training rather just wondering if the training you are doing is right.
• Effectiveness of training. You spend a lot of time training and running and it is an important part of your life. You want to make sure that the training you are doing is actually going to help you achieve your goals, whatever they be - this could be anything from running 2km for the first time, all the way up to competing at a high level in international competition. It doesn't matter who you are, the principle is the same - you want your training to give you results.
• Injuries. A good coach (should) be keeping a close eye on your recovery and making sure that you aren't running yourself towards an injury. They should also be aware of  injuries you  have had in the past and tailor your training around your injuries. It can be very difficult to track this yourself, so having someone in your corner to help you, can make navigating this tricky aspect of training much less painful.

Running coaching is my passion, and if you are looking for a running coach, or have any questions please get in touch.

For more information about my coaching services please click this link.