There are people who are naturals in their sports and they rise to conquer every challenge... I am not one of them. Like most, I've fumbled a lot in my various sports over the years and managed to do well at a few things, just through a lot of really hard work. It wasn't flawless or efficient, but I managed to get it done.
I always see a lot of questions about coaches and for a long time and sort of dismissed that as an option for those who are elite or really trying to podium at a specific race. More and more, we are seeing runners at every level of ability using coaches to achieve their goals, and what a difference it is making in the sport. Let's talk a little bit about what coaches can bring and what you should expect.
Setting Goals
A coach will look at what you want to do and figure out a plan to get you there. They will also help you to be realistic and look at the big picture. Sometimes you will be chomping at the bit to run a specific race, but it might make more sense to focus on something much later in the season or wait until the following year so that you really crush it at the next one. That means they have to understand where you are now, and where you want to be within a certain timeframe. They want to see you hit those goals so they will make sure you have a good chance of achieving them, and hopefully let you know if they think it will take more time.
Pushing You
A coach will encourage you and even be your cheerleader, but more than that, they need to push you. That comes in different forms but if you aren't feeling challenged then something isn't quite working. This goes hand in hand with setting goals. A coach will ensure that there are milestones for progress and set up a workout schedule to take you there. The other side of this coin is that a coach will also help keep you accountable. Sometimes things go off the rails; when it isn't working, your coach will look at all of the factors and help you recalibrate.
Bringing it All Together
A coach will help you to stop floundering your way through inefficient workouts and scheduling. Ideally, they will look at you as a whole, and then focus on making running fit your life instead of making your life fit into running. They ensure you are doing appropriate cross-training and strength training as required in order to achieve those goals faster.
What You Should Expect
All of this really hinges on picking the right coach. While it's normal to sometimes clash a bit with a person who is pushing you and holding you accountable, you do need to be able to connect with them. You will need to feel comfortable with this person because at some point you will be sharing your vulnerabilities and mishaps along the journey. You need to have the sense they genuinely care about what is working for you, and your wellbeing as a whole. Sometimes you get to a point where you advance past what your coach can offer, and that's actually a great thing; it means you're reaching a new plateau.
A coach needs to be the kind of person who will practice what they preach; if they aren't passionate about the sport, then that indifference will rub off on you. While it's their job to help you, it isn't just a job; they are invested in your success throughout the journey.
Your coach needs to be accessible. They don’t just throw you your schedule and say, "see you in a month". They have to help you pivot and adapt your program if needed with little things that come up with life.
Ultimately, they are a helper and a guide along your journey. Getting a coach is a commitment to improving your abilities and it's your responsibility to put in the work. You're the one who brings the inspiration; they will help you shape that into something remarkable.
Wolf Pack
In December, we met with several running coaches and trainers, and we are pleased to offer a new, free online video series called Wolf Pack. These sessions will be live every month via our website. Our panel will discuss a different topic in trail and ultra running each month, and the trainers each bring their own unique perspectives. Our trainers include Keri Bowzaylo, Joanna Ford, Evan Birch, Travis Brown, and sometimes a special monthly guest; all of them have extensive ultramarathon and endurance race experience, and it's a real treat to hear them share what they do.
Each session will be on the third Sunday of the month. Our topic for January is Winter Training and Cross-Training.
Head on over to the signup page and register. By registering you will get notifications about, access to past videos, and wee perks from Sinister Sports. https://raceroster.com/events/2023/83895/wolf-pack
Happy Training!
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