It’s shameless plug day…
I know you’ve been thinking about it – maybe I need a coach. Maybe you do. Maybe you don’t. But maybe this will help. Here are some comments I hear when people ask about coaching, and here’s what I have to say:
I’m not fast enough or good enough to have a coach.
Coaches work with athletes of all abilities and speeds. Beginners to advanced, sprint to Ironman. Anyone can benefit from a skilled coach.
I don’t know if I need a coach.
If you want to breakthrough a plateau, if planning your workouts is not appealing, if you start your season with a bang and fizzle out, if you’ve got a big goal (IM), if you want to try to take your performance to the next level – a coach can work with you for these or any goals you may have.
Only people that want to win races work with coaches.
Not true. There are many reasons why athletes seek coaches. Some want to win, some want to lose weight, some want to finish an Ironman, some just want to train smart and safe. Anyone can work with a coach.
I don’t know what coaching entails.
A coach will help you plan your season and then organize meaningful workouts to help you reach your goals. In addition to planning your workouts they are a resource, a mentor, and a friend.
I don’t know how to tell if a coach is the right coach.
Find the coach that fits right for you, your personality, and goals. There are many different coaches with different philosophies, fees, and training plans. Interview them as you would someone for any job. Ask for references and ask lots of questions.
A coach is going to make me train like they do with lots of hours each week.
Not unless they are a bad coach. Each athlete is an individual. The best coaches are those that respond to your individual needs and design a training plan specifically for you. They will work with you to plan a schedule that fits your training and lifestyle needs.
I don’t know about working with a female coach.
I’ve worked with a female coach for the past 5 years and I have had my rear kicked to the curb and back many times. Same with my husband. Don’t underestimate the power of a female coach. There will be nothing froo-froo or “lite” about your experience. Go with who you are most comfortable with but don’t let gender get in your way.
I can’t afford a coach.
Add up all of the money you’ll spend on equipment, race fees, travel, lodging, sports food, gear, gym memberships, etcetera. Now throw in the added risk of not reaching your goals because you did too much too soon, got injured, or overtrained. You can’t afford not to have a coach. A coach will help you effectively work towards your goal. They make no promises or guarantees but they will guide you as best they can to achieve your goals.
December or January is a perfect time to start working with a coach to set you up for a successful season ahead. For more coaching information, please contact me at ef1278 at yahoo dot com.
