Do Runners Really Need a Running Coach?

Probably not the answer you were expecting from a guy that makes his living coaching runners, eh?

But it’s the truth.

With all of the quality information available via books, blogs, podcasts, and on YouTube, you can figure out how to create a solid training plan for yourself.

You can also find information for dealing with injuries, adjusting your training when life happens, nutrition advice, and whatever else you may need if you are willing to look hard enough.

The question then becomes, do you want to spend the time and effort to create your own training schedule, make the necessary tweaks/adjustments, and figure out how to navigate the inevitable obstacles that crop up over years of consistent running and racing?

If so, then you probably don’t need a coach.

But if that sounds like a bit more than you’d like to tackle on your own, then working with a running coach may be beneficial to you.

Just so we are clear, here is where I (a full-time 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.