Do you need a running coach?

by Claire Charlton

December 15, 8:26 PM

Maybe you are working toward big running goal, like a 10K or a half marathon.  Or maybe you are looking to run a full 26.2.  Perhaps you'd like to increase your running speed or your efficiency, or maybe you just want to start running but don't know how to take that first step.

These are all valid reasons to consider hiring a running coach, says Jennifer Gill, certified running coach from Germantown, MD. Does Gill's name sound familiar?  Maybe that's because she's the DC Running Examiner -- my running pal in the eastern part of the country.
 
I spent some time chatting with Gill to learn more about why a runner -- or a runner-to-be -- might find value in working with a coach.  I learned that many people don't even know such expertise is available.  "A lot of people don’t know that running coaches even exist," says Gill.  "I liken myself to a personal trainer, but specialized for a runner's needs."
 
And like a personal trainer, Gill says a running coach can provide an individual look at your form, talk with you about your running habits, even help assess the suitability of your shoes.  "Then we focus on a plan, depending upon the goal you might have," says Gill.
 
Seem like something that only a pro might do to prep for the Olympics?  Not at all, says Gill.  A running coach's services are just as appropriate for a beginning or a moderately experienced runner as they are for an elite competitor.   "Maybe you want to qualify for Boston, or maybe you are just starting out.  Anyone can benefit from having a running coach," says Gill.
 
If it sounds too one-on-one for you, consider group training, which offers the camaraderie of a community of runners, all working toward the same goal.  You'll all benefit from some individualized attention, plus you can learn from the questions and concerns of the group, as well, says Gill.  "Running can be very social.  When you join a group, you start to make bonds with those who are trying to reach the same goal.  It becomes like a family," she says.
 
One great benefit of working with a coach is the individualized running plan you'll get.  Your coach will help you focus on your goals and work toward them at a pace that is suitable for you, says Gill. And you can approach them one week at a time -- great if you are easily overwhelmed by what you may be expected to achieve five weeks down the road.
 
The key word here is individualized.  "You can get any information on the Internet, but if you find a distance program to follow, it might not be the right program for you," warns Gill.  "Standard programs are designed for the average Joe and don’t take into mind your own fitness level or pace." Gill says she customizes her running plans for each individual client's fitness level, motivation, time constraints and schedule.  This is incredibly helpful to avoid burnout or the feeling that you can't keep up with an "off the rack" running program.
 
It may sound like a no-brainer, but running coaches are highly skilled, certified individuals who are trained to develop individualized programs.  "When people think about a running coach, they don’t always take into consideration that a coach won’t just tell them to run faster," says Gill.  "A coach is experienced in designing something that is right for your fitness level."
 
Consider what having your own professional on staff might mean to your running practice.  You might move from being a mediocre runner to a achieving a pace you only dared dream about. Or you might learn how to finally overcome that pain you get in your knees or hamstrings when you run.  Because a running coach knows all about the physiology of the running form, he or she can help you nail down whatever running issues you face.  "Part of the reason a running coach is helpful is to keep you injury free," says Gill.  "A coach can be tremendously helpful to prevent injury, and develop plans and strength training and to help you come back from an injury."
 
Sound like a luxury?  Consider it an investment, says Gill.  "Running is your way of being healthy, and this is making an investment in that health," says Gill.  "Running can help support your sanity and provide stress relief, which can help in all aspects of your life.  Hiring a running coach is something you can do for yourself that will help you in the long run."
 
 
Considering it?  Here are some questions to ask your prospective running coach:
 

• Ask your prospective if he or she has been certified by the Road Runners Club of America (RRCA)
• Find out how often your coach plans to meet with you.  Once a week?  Once a month?
• Ask if you can run with your coach.  A lot of questions come up when you are in motion.
• Talk about fees.  Compare the pricing of different coaches.
• Learn about the various methods of support you can expect.  Can you email questions to your coach 24/7?  Or will you talk by phone or just in person?
• Your running coach probably has a coach of her own.  Talk about your coach's successes and challenges in working with her coach.  You may learn that running can be, at times, difficult for all of us!
• Be clear about your goals. This will help your coach design a program especially for you.
• Be honest with your coach if you are unable to meet your training goals during any week.  He'll use that knowledge to tailor your next week's plan.
• Try to approach your training program with an open mind, a sense of humor and an optimistic attitude.