The best online running coach can help you focus, hold you accountable and set realistic targets to achieve your running goals.
A online running coach is standard for an elite runner. Most non-elite runners on the other hand do not have a coach, as it’s much more of a nice to have. You still have goals personal and in context to your level so an online running coach can give you a solid plan, help you focus, hold you accountable and expert advice.
Finding an online running coach who is a good fit can take time. You’ll want a coach and plan which is flexible to your lifestyle, as we still have bills to pay. 😎 Word of mouth is probably the most popular way to find a coach, although you also do your own research.
Tips for finding an Online Running Coach
1. Know What You Want
Look for a coach whose training philosophy aligns with yours. Think about this ahead of researching. Questions like, how many times a week can you run, what distance is achievable and more wider, what are your running goals. In addition, if you’re an older man you may want a coach who is similar and understands your challenges, equally for a young female.
2. Credentials and Qualifications
Are you looking for a coach who trains athletes based on what they’ve learned through their years, or a qualified coach? This may come down to cost or word of mouth. If you’re really serious about hitting your goals, you may want to look for a certified coach. In addition, credentials and qualifications don’t guarantee that someone will coach with kindness, understanding and respect, which comes down to aligning with your philosophy.
3. Running mates
If your running mates have coach or know somebody who does, then likely they’ll recommend their’s. It’s great to ask around, if the people you’re training with are a similar level and mindset to you then it’ll help with finding a coaching who aligns with your philosophy. You can then dig into questions such as responsiveness, type of sessions and availability.
4. Cost
This comes from the philosophy, credentials and qualifications. You may find a hobby coach, who does it for free simply because they love the sport. On the other end, there are professional coaches who charge a fee. Depending on your goals or financial situation, you’ll know what works best. Most professional coaches will charge a monthly fee for personalised one-to-one coach for similar rates to what a gym membership maybe, but with the added bonus of giving you a clear and focused plan.
Why you need an Online Running Coach
1. Planning
A good coach can take your goals and turn them into a plan that works with your lifestyle, history and ability. Working long term with a coach who can help establish a good foundation, helping you with goals which may seem unachievable currently.
2. Accountability
Do you struggle to still to any plans, or be consistent with your training? Do you find yourself running your easy runs too fast or skipping/make sessions easier? A running coach can keep things in check and hold you accountable to not just completing workouts, according to your goals, but also doing them at the correct paces.
3. Feedback
A running coach can be valuable in reviewing your training. If you’re logging them in an agreed format for them, they can provide feedback on pace, if you’re running too much, too little or not pushing hard enough. They can also provide positive mental feedback, if you’re finding training tough or lacking confidence ahead of your next race.
4. Confidence
Paying for a running coach is often the trigger for runners to experience performance improvements. Having someone else invested in your goals and holding you accountable can motivate you to perform better. A good coach will have an optimistic, but realistic outlook and will keep their expectations honest based on your training. You’ll find yourself hitting the numbers prescribed in sessions to build confidence, which you will cash in come race day.
Online Running Coach Summary
Your first impressions and guy should be your first gauge of whether or not a coach is right for you. Perhaps you agree to work with them for 1 month then assess how you’ve found the experience? If it works for you, then great. If not, revisit other options to find the right coach.
Over the years of being coaching, I’ve set personal bests at each distance, which would of been unlikely if left to my own devices. Setting my own schedule I fall into the trap of too many junk miles, running my easy runs too easy and skipping hard sessions. 😁
If you’re looking for an online running coach, try JM Coaching. They have a range of coaches with different specialisms and credentials.
Also, for running inspiration read my previous post on running consistency. 🏃♂️
