Do Runners Really Need a Running Coach?
Nah.
Probably not the answer you were expecting from a guy that makes his living coaching runners, eh?
But it’s the truth.
That said, do I honestly believe that most runners can benefit from working with a running coach?
Just so we are clear, here is where I (a current running coach) stand on the subject:
- A running coach is a want, not a need.
- A running coach is a luxury, not a necessity.
- You can be successful as a runner with or without a running coach.
Running: Not Exactly Rocket Science
On the surface, running is a pretty simple process.
You basically keep putting one foot in front of the other until you either get get tired, bored, or cross the finish line.
Don’t exactly need a coach for that, right?
In reality, running is quite a bit more complex than simply putting one foot in front of the other.
How so?
Injury
Few things in our sport are more frustrating than being sidelined due to an injury.
Statistically, a majority of runners each year will deal with an injury of some form or fashion.
Some injuries? Simply can’t be avoided.
But many of the more common running injuries are very much preventable.
Building your base intelligently. Progressing appropriately. Scheduling workouts strategically.
All of these things, and many others, influence the odds of suffering a running injury at any point during your running career.
How confident are you that you are structuring your training in a way that reduces, instead of increases, your odds of sustaining an injury?
Plateauing
Progress in our sport is rarely a smooth and steady process.
Instead, there are various starts, stops, regressions, and forward leaps over the course of our years in the sport.
Occasionally, runners will find themselves stuck on a plateau making seemingly zero progress for months, and sometimes years, at a time.
If you’ve experienced being stuck on a plateau, you know just how frustrating it is to know that you’re putting in the time and the effort without reaping any of the reward.
When that happens, when the work you’re doing doesn’t seem to be paying off, how do you respond? How do you know whether to change things up or keep grinding?
How do you make sure you’re not stuck on a plateau indefinitely?
Information Overload
In this day and age, there is no shortage of readily accessible information available at your fingertips.
Having access to a seemingly limitless amount of advice and information is a good thing, at least in theory.
In reality, information overload can lead to uncertainty. Especially when you come across conflicting advice.
Should you do A or B? This or that? More or less?
In many cases, instead of being helpful too much information leads to inaction simply because you don’t want to make the wrong choice.
The Value of a Good Coach
While running may not be rocket science, it is seldom as straight forward as we would like.
A good coach helps minimize the complexities and allows you to simply show up and run.
Minimize Your Injury Risk
Running is a contact sport.
No running coach can completely eliminate the risk of injury.
What a good coach can do is adjust your workouts, recommend specific strength training exercises, and encourage (mandate?) proper rest/recovery to help you stay healthy and strong.
Keep Moving Forward
Whether you’re looking to run faster, run farther, or a little bit of both, a good running coach can help you minimize the amount of time that you spend stuck on a plateau.
Progress in our sport is incremental and it is going to take time, but working with a running coach can help you avoid some common mis-steps that runners (novice and experienced alike) are prone to making.
A good running coach recognizes that what got you here may not get you there, and they can help you decide when to stay the course and when it’s time to do something different to continue making progress.
Chart the Course
A good running coach takes the guesswork out of your training.
Instead of hemming and hawing over which choice is the right one for you, a good coach makes the decision for you.
To be clear, this choice isn’t made without your input. Most of the time, the two of you work together to weigh the pros and cons of each option.
But when the rubber hits the road, a good coach eliminates the uncertainty and points you in the direction that is best for you.
Keep It Real
Perhaps the most important trait that a good running coach provides is a willingness to keep it real.
There are times that hard conversations need to be had, and a good coach isn’t afraid to have those conversations.
There are also times when you may fail to recognize the progress that you have made, and a good coach reminds you of how far you’ve come.
And sometimes you just need to vent, and a good coach is more than willing to simply listen when required.
It’s a tough pill for any runner to swallow when things don’t go right during a training cycle or a race.
But it has happened to all of us at one point or another, I promise.
When the shit hits the fan, literal or figurative, a good coach can help you to calm down, regroup, and keep the bigger picture in mind.
Looking for a Good Coach?
I know a guy…
To me, that means that a good running coach should have different options available for runners to choose from based on their goals, their needs, and their budget.
I offer a variety of different coaching options, each of which are detailed below.
Options for Coaching Abound
Just like there are no one-size-fits-all runners or training plans, there are also no one-size-fits-all options for working with a running coach.
To me, that means that a good running coach should have different options available for runners to choose from based on their goals, their needs, and their budget.
I offer a variety of different coaching options, each of which are detailed below.
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What is The Coterie?
I guess that makes us a bit of a secret society then, eh?
Not exactly.
The Coterie is my hybrid coaching program that I’ve created to combine the positive aspects of a group coaching program and 1-on-1 coaching with a quality running coach.
Too often when deciding to work with a running coach, runners are torn between choosing a one-size-fits-all group program (which is more budget friendly) and working 1-on-1 with a coach to receive a custom program tailored to their needs (which is often quite a bit more expensive).
Within the Coterie, runners have a viable option nestled between those two ends of the coaching spectrum.
The Brass Tacks of The Coterie
The Coterie is a hybrid option that combines the benefits of group coaching and 1-on-1 coaching.
I’m glad you asked. Please, allow me to explain.
Custom Training Plan:
When it comes to working with runners, I have one guiding principle: every runner is unique. As far as I’m concerned, there is no justification for having several different runners attempt to follow the same training plan. Even if their levels of fitness and their goals for the race are the same, there are still too many other variables at play to think that what’s right for one runner is going to be right for anyone else. Therefore, every member of the Coterie has a completely custom plan created specifically for the needs of said member. Period.
A Sense of Community:
The Coterie is a group, a community. The members of the Coterie support each other and encourage each other no matter where they are in their running “careers” (or the world). We have a private community on Slack (a simple to use, free app available on any mobile or computing platform) that allows us to easily communicate, crack jokes, share photos, and just support each other as needed.
Shared Resources:
Membership within the Coterie allows for free and unlimited access to several other resources that many runners may find useful.
- Not sure what type of strength training exercises you should be doing to supplement your running? There is a guide within the Coterie that you can use to create as many different strength training routines as you’d like, with a list of simple exercises (and video demonstrations) that you can do at home with or without any equipment.
- Coterie members receive access to the videos and resources in my Runner Problems series (currently in creation). Plantar fasciitis, runner’s knee, patellar tendonitis, shin splints, Achilles tendonitis, and more are all topics that will be included in the series. (Plantar fasciitis course is the first one that will be available, followed by ITBS)
- On the last Tuesday of every month, there is a live webinar discussing a particular topic related to runners that is only open to members of the Coterie. At the end of each webinar, I open up the floor for live Q&A for anyone that is in attendance. Whether your questions are related to the evening’s topic or not, members have a chance to receive free live coaching at each month’s webinar.
I’m always looking for ways to add more perks to the Coterie, but these core features of the Coterie won’t be going anywhere any time soon.
How Much?
Currently, the price of membership in the Coterie is $75 (USD) per month. However, if you sign up for longer terms (3, 6, or 12 months) you can save a few bucks each month.
Prices are subject to change, but only for new members. Once you’re in, I’ll NEVER raise the price on you. Guaranteed.
Join Us!
Are you ready to take your running to the next level?
Not quite ready to sign up yet? No worries.
Click Here to Join the Waiting List
“I’ve found that coaches are extremely useful for up-levelling a skill, helping you get through a particular period in your growth, or providing a sounding board and subsequent advice for what you are doing.”
~Dan Meredith
Do You Know Where You Want to Go, But Have No Clue How to Get There?
You have your running goals. Good. Those are important.
But what is your plan to successfully achieve them?
I’ve heard it said that a goal without a plan is nothing but wish or a pipe dream.
If you’re serious about successfully achieving your goals–whatever they are–you need to have a detailed plan in place that will keep you progressing steadily toward your goal.
Without a plan, your odds of success are practically zero. Period.
Injuries Suck.
Thanks Captain Obvious.
You’re welcome.
No runner wants to be forced to deal with a running related injury, yet recent studies and surveys of runners report that more than half of the running population suffer a running injury annually.
Why is that number so high?
Because running is hard on the body.
However, regular running and pushing your limits doesn’t mean that you’re going to wind up injured at some point provided you train intelligently.
So the question becomes: are you training intelligently?
Adapting to Life
Life happens.
Just when you think things are going smoothly, something crazy and unexpected pops up and makes you want to pull your hair out.
Or scream.
Or both.
When something unpredictable happens, how do you adapt your training?
When you feel like you’re not making in a progress, or perhaps regressing, how do you talk yourself off the ledge?
Can a Good Coach Help?
And let the record show, I’m a good coach.
I’m not saying that to brag, I’m saying that because it’s a fact.
I know what I’m doing, and I can help you.
Not sure how to create a plan that will allow you to demolish your goals?
I can do that.
Sick of dealing with the same injury issues over and over and over again?
I’ve been a certified athletic trainer since 2004. I’ve got you covered on the injury front, promise.
Struggling with the ups and downs of running while dealing with the demands and uncertainties of life?
I’ll help you get through it.
No Fine Print: 121 Coaching Details
Life is too short for fine print and other such bullshit, so let’s cut to the chase.
Here is what you will get from me as your coach:
- Custom Training Plan
- Unlimited Updates to Plan (as Needed)
- Unlimited Text/Voice Messaging for Coaching/Feedback/Accountability
- Initial Phone Consultation
- Monthly Call to Maintain Clear Communication
- Monthly Webinar Covering Various Running Related Topics
- Access to Private Forum
Cost: $150 per month
Point blank, this is the best value you will find from an on-line coach. Period.
You may find some that are cheaper, but no coaching package at this price point compares. #guaranteed
The Ball is in Your Court
I can help you reach, and exceed, your goals.
No doubt in my mind.
Not quite ready to sign up yet? No worries.
Click Here to Join the Waiting List
To Finish Strong, Train Properly!
Do you have a race on the horizon? How are you planning to train for it?
There are an almost infinite number of free one-size-fits-all training plans available online these days, but before you fire up the Google, ask yourself one question: when is the last time that anything one-size-fits-all actually fit?
Every runner is unique, and as such, the way one trains a runner should also be unique.
From workouts and paces to recovery days and training schedules, having a training plan that is created specifically for you (and for the particular race you are running) is going to give you the best odds of having a strong finish and a successful race.
Training Plans: The Nuts & Bolts
What, exactly, do I get if I sign up for one of your training plans?
There is one “option” on my menu, and this is exactly what is included if you decide to work with me as your coach for your next race.
Custom Training Plan:
When I say custom, I mean custom. Your plan is created specifically for you, period. I don’t believe in one-size-fits-all training plans, and that will never change. Your plan is designed to help you reach your goals AND fit within the confines of your daily life.
Weekly Check In:
Your training plan will “live” on a shared Google spreadsheet (calendar) and each Monday for the duration of your plan I’ll be checking in to see how you’re doing and to answer any questions/quell any concerns that you may have.
An “Evergreen” Plan:
It’s one thing to have a plan created specifically for you, it’s another thing to have a plan that changes and adapts as needed during your training cycle. The reason that I don’t write out your entire training plan at once is simple: there is no way that I can possibly anticipate what is going to happen in your life over the duration of your training plan. When I’m checking in on Monday mornings, I’m also adjusting the plan based on how the last week has gone so that it fits your current needs/demands.
Race Day Blueprint:
A couple of weeks before the race, we will discuss the specifics of your race based on how your training has gone, how you’re feeling, and what your goals are for the race. I’ll look at the course profile and give you a strategy for navigating the intricacies of the course. In short, your race day strategy will be much more in-depth than to simply “have fun.” That said, having fun will absolutely be a part of your race day blueprint!
Post-Race Recovery Plan:
Your training plan doesn’t finish when you cross the finish line. Well maybe it technically does, but I’m not going to leave you high and dry just because the race is over. I’ll give you a set of guidelines for handling your recovery and a general timeline for when you should resume your “normal” training after your race. And I’m never more than a tweet or an email away if you need a bit of advice in the aftermath of your race.
Is a Custom Training Plan Right for You?
I believe that the stock answer that I’m supposed to give, both as the coach and as the guy who makes his living from people hiring him to be their coach, is yes.
That said, my actual answer is a bit more vague: it depends.
If you’re unsure about how to train for your next race, a custom training plan may be right for you.
When you’re working with a coach, it’s nice to have the peace of mind that there is a plan to follow to help you be fully prepared on race day. It also prevents you from second guessing your decisions about which workouts you should be doing.
If you trust the coach AND trust the process, you’ll be ready on race day.
You also need to be able to motivate yourself to do the workouts as scheduled, since I won’t be checking in on you every day to see how things are going.
If you need that additional level of accountability from a coach, it is available. Send me a message via the contact form below, and I’ll give you the details of my 1-on-1 coaching.
Cost
The cost of a training plan is $150 USD.
Click here to pay with a credit card via PayPal.
If you’d rather pay a different way, please contact me and we will make the necessary arrangements.
I am Happy to Help!
One of the things I love most about my job is the opportunities that I have to offer advice to runners that are struggling.
I’m always happy to answer a question on twitter/reply to an email, so feel free to drop me a line anytime!
That said, there are some questions/issues that runners face on occasion that simply can’t be answered in 140 characters or with a quick email.
When Does a Consultation Make Sense?
There really isn’t a black and white definition for when a consultation call would be better suited than an email.
That said, a good rule of thumb is that if we are going to need a bit of dialog to get to the root of the issue that you’re facing to help resolve it, then a call is in order.
Here are a few examples, but this list is far from conclusive.
Injury/Ache/Pain:
If you’re dealing with something physical, it’s much better (for both of us) to be able to speak instead of trying to go back-and-forth via email. Having the ability to ask questions, get clarification, and get instant feedback are essential for helping to narrow down exactly what the issue is that you’re dealing with and to give you clear direction on what steps to take next.
Training Plan Trouble:
If you find yourself deep into your training plan and life throws you a curve ball, do you know the best way to alter your plan to keep you on track for success on race day? If not, let’s talk so I can get a feel for where you are in your training cycle and then I’ll revamp your plan to help you get back on track.
Pre-Race Pep Talk:
For many runners, dealing with a case of the taper crazies is more challenging than putting in the time and energy to train for the race! A quick chat can help to calm your nerves and reaffirm that you are, in fact, ready to put forth a good effort on race day. And if you need help creating your strategy for the day of your race, we can talk about that as well.
Let’s Talk!
If you think a you would benefit from a quick chat with a coach, then what are we waiting for?
To schedule a call with me to tackle whatever running issue you’re dealing with, here’s exactly what I need you to do:
- Click the link below to pay via PayPal ($20 USD)
- After payment is received, you’ll be redirected to my calendar
- Pick an open time slot*, schedule your call
- Be ready for me to call at the scheduled time!
That’s all there is to it! (I promise, it’s really that easy!)
Click Here to Schedule Your Private Coaching Call Now!
*If there are no time slots available that fit your schedule, please contact me via email (email address is on your PayPal receipt) and we will schedule a time to chat that will work for your schedule, I promise!
Questions/Comments/Concerns?
Denny Krahe is a Certified Athletic Trainer & Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist that specializes in injury prevention in runners. Click here to learn more about Denny.