I have been thinking a lot lately about if I want to hire a running coach. I’m not quite convinced yet, but I’ve thought about it enough to start seriously considering what to look for in a running coach. I thought I’d share the things that I’ve considered and things that you might want to look for as well if you find yourself searching for a running coach.
Coaching Philosophy
What is your coaches philosophy on training? Do they exclusively coach their runners using Galloway or Hanson’s or [fill in the blank program]? You’ll want to figure this out early on. Are you a 3 run a week gal and your coach believes that in order to be successful you have to run 6 days a week? That’s something to consider – especially if you aren’t looking to change in that regard. Ask your potential coach about their philosophy on coaching – if they can’t answer this question, that’s a bad sign!
About your Coach
What is your coaches background? What is their running background? Have they received any formal training? I do not believe at all that a successful running coach has to have run in college or professionally. However, I do think they should have some serious running experience. That doesn’t necessarily mean they are an elite runner (particularly if you are a beginning runner), however they should have significantly more experience running that the person they will be coaching. For example, I’ve run four marathons to date. If I decide to enlist a running coach, I will seek out someone who has significant marathon experience. Honestly, I’d probably look for someone who has qualified for Boston or has at least come close. My reasoning behind this is that I want someone who has experience in what it takes to get faster.
A word on training and certifications. Training is important. Understanding the science behind running is important. However, I encourage anyone who is looking for a running coach to do their homework. Many many runners in the U.S. become certified as a running coach through the Road Runners Club of America’s course. While the RRCA is a great organization, the certification course consists of a weekend of learning and an open book exam. My opinion is that a RRCA certification is a beginning for a coach and not an end. I do not think that a certification is needed to be a great coach but an understanding of the science behind training and running is. Where a coach gets that information doesn’t matter that much to be, but they need to have it – and will not get it over one weeklong course. I see a number of running bloggers take the course and then immediately begin to market themselves as a running coach. Proceed with caution. For an example of a training program that I actually think carries some weight, go check out Angela over at Cowgirl Runs. She has been seeking her marathon coach certification through the North American Academy for Sports Fitness Professionals. The program is much more intensive than a weekend and typically takes a minimum of five months to fully complete. My point is to ensure that you know what it means when someone talks about being an “RRCA Certified Running Coach” or a certified Marathon Coach (in order to use that title, one must have successfully completed a marathon).
Online or In Person
I have a number of friends who have a coach that they only communicate with online. More rare are friends who have a coach that they see in person. I really think this is personal preference, but I think that I would want to be able to actually meet with my coach from time to time in person. I think that everyone is different and for most it might not be a big deal to never have met your coach, but I think that if I go the coach route, I’ll want to work with someone that I’ve actually met in person.
The bottom line is that you are going to have to decide what are the most important things you seek in a running coach and then search for the person who best meets your needs. There is also of course the issue of price. I’ve seen coaching packages ranging from 35$ a session to all the way up to 150$ with a three month minimum. Chances are there is a coach in your budget range – you might want a newer coach if price is a concern. Just something else to consider.
Have you ever hired a running coach? Any tips?
I think it’s important to really look at a coaches credentials. In this day and age anyone can take the test and by “coach certified” but do they have the background and knowledge to help you achieve your goals? Maybe…maybe not. There are a lot of great coaches out there but it’s def important to find one that works for you!
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Yes, you are right – it’s more important than ever that folks do their homework!
The first part said, “Do they exclusively coach their runners using Galloway or Hanson’s or [fill in the blank program]?”… if so, that would be a red flag that I *wouldn’t* hire the “coach” (for one, they are using someone else’s work). A good coach knows that different ideas work for different people. I am in the camp of running 5-6 days a week, but obviously that doesn’t work for people who are newer runners, more injury-prone, triathletes (have to fit in the other 2 sports), or someone who has a job/family/life schedule that doesn’t allow for running almost every day.
I’ve never hired a one-on-one coach. Running is fun and it’s a hobby- I’m not that great at it but it’s fun for me. I’ve continued to improve on my own each year and haven’t plateaued. I did, however, join a coach’s training program last year and it was great for me- I learned a lot! I’m still friends with him and ask him for advice occasionally because he has tons of experience running and coaching. I loved the training program and would do it again except the nights didn’t work for me. But that’s another good option if you want coaching but it’s not as expensive and you get to train with others and meet people too.
Amy Lauren recently posted…Weekly Rundown: August 24-30 Training Log
I love training with a group – right now I’m doing my long runs and track work with a group and it’s awesome. I still haven’t decided 100% on coaching but I’d probably wait until I had a really big running goal.
Credentials are important but so is experience. What really drew me to my coach was that she had tons of testimonials from runners from all different ranges of experience, and they all shared how they’ve improved since working with her. She’s local to my area, so we first met through an in-person consultation, so there are definitely perks to that. I’d highly recommend her to anyone who’s interested in a running coach – runthelongroadcoaching.com
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So glad you found a great coach that you are enjoying working with!
Great post. You know I write about this a lot, since I went a different route and hired a CrossFit coach to give me that something I was missing from my running. But her credentials make her qualified to coach me on running too. Credentials are important, experience is important, and ask for references! And if it doesn’t feel right, cut your losses and move on.
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Your last sentence is clutch “if it doesn’t feel right, cut your losses and move on.” So true!
There is really SO much to consider and one big one is your personal goal and if it aligns with the coaches training and expertise. The other biggie, which you unfortunately can’t know until you work with them, is personality! I’ve had a coach now for almost 2 years and it’s one of the best investments I’ve ever made. She is ALWAYS available to me, I see her in person all the time and, because my goals are to be competitive in triathlon, it helps that she is a USAT coach and official. Great post and a lot to consider here…
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Yes – personality is a huge factor and you’re right, you won’t know that until you actually know them. So glad your coach is a great fit for you, Allie!
You know– I would have thought personality was a big selling point, too… until I hired a coach who is way higher on substance than personality. I have been with DC Running Coach (Mike Hamberger) for about 6 months now. He is super nice, and after our first meeting I was like– oh, how fun… a new running friend! But then after a few track practices I came to really appreciate how he is totally about the business of running–not into a ton of small talk at track practices, doesn’t need to know your whole life story in order to make a great plan for you. I’ll admit- a few times I thought to myself, “the only way he could get better is if he were chattier,” but then I thought about how productive each session with him is, and how much I LEARN in even short interactions with him and I thought… meh, I Have lots of running friends. I’m glad I have a COACH.
Anyway, I highly recommend MIke and am so glad he would rather chat about form and drills than my weekend. Who knew?
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I’ve heard good things about him! I think personality is important not in the sense that you are going to be bestie w/your coach but in the sense that if there is just something personality wise that doesn’t work, it will be hard to have a productive coaching relationship. SO glad you are enjoying working with Mike!
Great tips here, Courtney. I agree that doing your homework is so important. I think experience is also very important and finding someone who has been where you want to go. I have not had a running coach before but hear so much about it in the running world. I could see myself getting one at some point. I wish you luck as you continue considering and looking!
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I’ve had running coaches and a tri coach. Coaches seem to be a dime a dozen all over the internet. You posed a question I’ve wondered about: Is it desirable to have a coach that is “fast” or was “fast” at one point? If you are not fast yourself, can you teach it? It’s like an out of shape personal trainer. They can talk the talk but aren’t necessarily walking it.
In my experience, the biggest blind spot I’ve seen coaches have is not training you for the specific race you are doing ie: is it hilly? Altitude? Climate? Etc.
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I’ve thought about it but then paying for that right now is not an option. I’ve been running races since 2006 and have a degree in kinesiology. I may not be a certified running coach but I do have some idea on how ruNing affects your body. Since I haven’t done a marathon in years and don’t foresee qualying for Boston any time soon, getting a running coach would not be the smartest thing for me. Now if running was more than a hobby for me then I would definitely consider it, but for now I am happy where I am. Good luck deciding. I know quite a few people that truly loved it.
Daisy @ Fit Wanderlust Runner recently posted…Places To Run In San Diego: Mission Beach
Its certainly important to find the right fit for YOU. Not every coach is going to be the best fit for everybody, just like not every person is going to be the right mate for everybody. Getting references is certainly great, but its also important that you do your own research.
Kathryn @ Dancing to Running recently posted…Sole Sister Run Virtual 7 Mile Race Recap
I prefer training in small groups.
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I have a friend that’s had great success with a coach. I might get one for my 2016 NYC Marathon training since I’ll want to run that for time. I think I’d also want an in-person coach to make sure my form is ok and to keep me motivated!
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these are great tips as I am currently debating signing up with a coaching program. I think I found one that I like but I want to do a bit more research. My main concern is like you mentioned-time and technique. I am 100% exclusively a Galloway girl and can only run 2 days during the week and 1-2 days on weekends depending on how I am training (working full time and going to school full time for my Doctorate keep me very busy) so I need to find a coach that can cater to that. I know how to get the miles in but I want help with speedwork and paces to hit to improve
All of your points on run coaching are great!
I emailed quite a bit with my coach and talked to a friend who used her as well before signing up.
Thanks for referencing my post as well.
I have updated my post this week to reflect that the coaching must be done in-person for the program (which I only found out about on Monday – I can’t say I’m pleased about learning that so late in the game) and they’ve not been great in getting back to me if there are other options. I’m really hoping we’re able to resolve the practical portion of things, since I’m so close to being done.
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I saw that! I really hope you’re able to resolve that as well because you’ve done so much!!
I have had two coaches (currently working with #2). Both I have been able to meet in person which is important for me if I’m going to spend the money, so they can analyze my gait and movement. I would look for a coach who uses Training Peaks as their source of training/scheduling, or an interactive type so they can view your runs daily. My first coach did not, so she didn’t know my exact performance until I turned in my log at the end of the month. A whole month of programming is too much in my opinion.
The coach I am working with now is also a physical therapist which is a total jackpot. Harder to find, but I would recommend!!
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In my experience in having a coach since my first half marathon training cycle four years ago is this: once you’ve found the coach you connect with (personality is HUGE), know what you goals are and communicate honestly and often about your commitment to training.
The best coaches are going to meet you where you are today in order to set you up for the best version of success that is possible – a vision that you should craft together. They should not be touting “I can get you to Boston running 3-4 days a week” if you don’t have an adequate racing history or schedule that would enable the time/effort to put in the work.
Coaches should absolutely take into consideration the whole athlete’s LIFESTYLE before passing a canned program off as “custom.” For me, I receive a schedule that is adjusted weekly, based on a balance of life/work priorities first, then running. I’ve experienced time and time again that my stress levels outside of physical training stress matter, and great coaches know how to incorporate these fluctuations into a schedule to get the best out of their athletes. The athlete’s expectations can then be adjusted based on where they are in terms of the work they’ve put in prior to their goal events. Overall health and well-being should come first before the clock.
Yes! I knew you’d have a great perspective to add to the discussion. Thanks for sharing your experience!!
These are really great tips and I’m glad you shared. Hiring a coach is something I have thought about for a long time, but have never committed to doing. I may think about it again once I “restart” marathon training.
Interesting things to consider for sure. I am a new RCCA coach and I agree it is a beginner level coach cert. I would look more for years of experience than the actual cert. Good luck in your quest!
Deborah @ Confessions of a Mother Runner recently posted…Reset & Refocus September
This is a fantastic resource. Hiring a coach has been something weighing on my mind as well but I never thought too much about what to consider when asking the question who that coach should be.
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Fantastic post and timely too since I’ve been thinking of one for 2016-2017 for triathlons/running 🙂 I completely agree with you on the RRCA certification, personally I do not want to hire someone who is not that much faster than me. I have never heard of the Marathon Coaching Program, so that may help in narrowing down some coaching candidates (when I search RRCA there are so many options that pop up).
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This came at a great time, I am thinking about looking for a running coach myself. Going into this first marathon is quite scary to say the least. I want to be smart about it, I don’t mind putting in the work I just don’t want to overwork. I would not mind having a coach away from me as long as I could have contact with them. I’d like to come up with a training program that would take into account my already full race and work schedules one that I could really believe in and get me excited about knowing I can do this marathon!
Tricia@MissSippipiddlin recently posted…Accountability
I too have been thinking about a running coach… but not really sure. These are great reminders, thanks. Let us know if you decided to find one, I would love to hear about your experience.
Karen – Fit in France recently posted…Weekly wrap #4 : The calm before the storm
Yes I agree, let us know what you decide to do, I’m interested in this too! 🙂
Tricia@MissSippipiddlin recently posted…Accountability
I myself have a coach and love working with her.
I am getting my certification so I can begin coaching, but plan on continuing to learn and take more classes.
Abby @ BackAtSquareZero recently posted…Dirt Dash Half Marathon – 2015
I know you love your coach – is your coach local to you?
You made great points – I do light run coaching for beginner runners at corporate sites, and don’t have an RRCA certification. I am a certified personal trainer, I do have a strong background in exercise science – but the RRCA certification fills up in like a day every time they announce them. I’m looking into other certifications at the moment, but I really love your point about picking a coach that’s at the right level for you and picking a coach that understands the science and training behind running.
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Yes! I think someone understanding the science is more important than a certification!
Like many, I have the RRCA certification and totally agree that it’s a beginning step. I have zero background in anatomy or physiology or personal training and while I have coached a few friends to 5ks and 10ks, I really feel like there is so much more knowledge I should have before I could be a really good coach. Since I have enough other interests and no desire to take any more classes, I’ll just use what I learned to tweak my own training. ;o)
And I doubt I’ll ever hire a coach. My running goals are not the kind that most coaches would want to work with LOL.
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I am hiring a running coach when I get back from Virginia Beach. To be honest, I don’t know what it’s going to do for me, or what it’s going to accomplish, but I figure it can’t hurt to try. I guess we will see how it goes.
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Can’t wait to hear about your experience!
All very good things to think about. I had a triathlon coach for two years and am currently looking at a cycling coach. Knowing how you prefer to interact, what level of rigidity or flexibility you need in a schedule, whether you need support or tough love, all very good to think about when looking at style in addition to qualifications.
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These are super helpful tips – especially because Im looking at getting certified as a running coach myself 😉 I totally agree that having a certification is not the be-all and end-all. It shocks me how many personal training and coaching programs allow people to become certified after learning a few things over a weekend and passing a test. There is soooo much more to coaching, whether it’s for running or in the gym, that can’t be taught in just a weekend.
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I agree along with credentials, experience is a must. And good referrals come so handy.
So many great points here. I think coaching is a serious business. For me, I want the coach to actually be a runner and at some point in their life they need to have been a lot faster than me.
I just can’t see hiring a coach that is significantly slower – if they haven’t walked the walk, how can they really guide a runner to where they ultimately want to be?
Also, science is very important… It takes so much to become a great coach – not something to be taken lightly.
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I so agree on the speed point – I think it’s really important that they have achieved at least some of the goals you’re striving for!
i have a running coach and love her! She is knowledgeable and really carters to your needs, plus she is almost always available by email which is awesome.,
great tips! I think something else too is to consider how you’re motivated. Do you want more of a cheerleader coach or a tough love/Jillian Michaels type coach. I like more of a cheerleader type but someone who can also tell you when you’re slacking and need to get back on track.
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12This is a great post! While I received RRCA certification last fall, I have learned so much more about what works/doesn’t work by actually coaching clients. It is a good baseline, like you said a beginning not an end all, and provides some structure, but it is not “real life”. Completing 14 marathons, 2 ultras and dozens of half marathons certainly hasn’t hurt either!
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Awesome post and I agree 100%. I am one of those people that got the RRCA certification but I have really no intention of coaching anyone professionally until I get further education. I felt like that did not prepare me well enough to be a coach that can be taken seriously. I’ve looked into the program that you referred with with Ange’s post and am also considering taking Jason Karp’s course as well. I’m using a coach right now and am so thankful that I am. You want someone who will push you out of your comfort zone a LITTLE bit, and that is what he is doing and I’m seeing results. I just hope I can carry it through the marathon 🙂
i love that you are seeking further education before coaching. that’s fantastic and super smart – it’ll make you such a better coach!
Having coached about two hundred runners across their first marathon finish line over the course of many years, I have to say that for me it just wouldn’t be as rewarding not to meet with them and train them in person. These days though, I get the most joy out of having a non-running PT client (decide on their own) that they want to run a 5K. There’s nothing like watching the joy in their faces when they cross that first finish line, and it’s one of the most rewarding parts of my job!
i think that you are probably the perfect coach. you have so much experience and knowledge. your clients are lucky to have you!