11 Reasons Working with a Running Coach Makes Sense

There are few things within some running circles that is as divisive as the topic of whether or not a runner should think about working with a running coach.

As a running coach, I think that a good running coach can help any runner improve. But not every runner needs a coach to improve, and not every coach is the right fit for each particular runner.

So, how do you know if a running coach might be right for you? Here are 11 situations where it makes sense to at least think about working with a running coach. 

11 Situations Where Working with a Running Coach Makes Sense

1. Thinking About Taking Up Running–Running seems simple, and it is to a point, but there are a lot of lessons new runners can avoid learning the hard way by working with a coach.
2. Running First Half/Full Marathon–Taking on a new distance can be exhilarating, but it can also be the recipe for injury if you try to add mileage too quickly. A good coach can help pull back the reins and get you across the finish line in one piece.
3. Looking for a PR–One of the quickest way to improve is to work with a coach.
4. Chasing a BQ–If you’re right on the cusp of qualifying, but can’t get over the hump, a running coach may be just what the doctor ordered.
5. Coming Back From an Injury–The impulse when returning from a layoff is to do too much too quickly. A qualified coach can help you progress at an appropriate pace.
6. To Help Prevent Injury–A good coach designs your workouts, both running and non-running, to help you stay injury free.
7. Get Faster–If you want to get faster, but aren’t sure how to make it happen, spend some time with a good coach.
8. Reach Your Goals More Quickly–Even if you know what to do, a good coach can push you to achieve your goals quicker than you may be able to push yourself.
9. Keep You Accountable–It’s easy to skip a workout. It’s harder when you know your coach is texting/calling to check on you.
10. Push You to a New Level–We don’t give ourselves enough credit for what we are capable of achieving. When you work with a coach, the sky truly is the limit.
11. #1 Fan–Think you’re excited when you set a new PR, run a new distance, or break through a plateau? I guarantee I’m more excited for the successes of my clients than they are. Every. Single. Time.

In no way do I believe that a running coach is required for every runner, but if you find yourself identifying with at least a couple of the items on this list, it might be worth thinking about.

If you’d like to talk more about what a coach can do for you as a runner, let’s chat soon! Just click this link and schedule a free chat in the next few days and you can ask any questions about me or coaching in general that you might have.