Do you need a running coach? You might!

Saturday, December 08, 2012 · Mike Davis

This is a story that was posted on Active.com, writen by Michael Clark

It’s no secret that running isn’t always easy. Even the most seasoned runners are plagued with injuries, successful race results, plateaus and a lack of motivation from time to time.

Whether you’re looking to improve your marathon time or are training for your first 5K, a qualified running coach can not only help you to eliminate these issues, but he/she can tailor an individualized training program that will help you reach your greatest potential as a runner.

According to the Furman Institute of Running and Scientific Training (FIRST), a good personal coach can help a runner to “improve one or more of the primary variables of running performance—maximum oxygen consumption, lactate threshold, running economy and running velocity.”

By encouraging you to step up your game in these important areas, a running coach will ensure that you get the most out of each and every workout.

How to Find the Right Coach

With the Internet, there are literally hundreds of coaching resources out there. Unfortunately, not all of them are equal.

The wrong coach can not only be a waste of money, but also do more harm than good. Because anyone can call himself a “coach,” it’s always a good idea to ask potential coaches for qualifications and/or references.

Here are seven resources to help you find a coach who is not only qualified, but also suited to best meet your needs.

No.1: Visit the Road Runners Club of America (RRCA.org)

By clicking on the “Find a Coach” link and selecting your state, you can access a list of certified coaches by city or town.

If there are no coaches listed near your area, it might be helpful to contact the closest coach and ask for a recommendation. He/She may know of a great coach near you.

No.2: Find a Coach...While You Shop for Shoes

Most running specialty stores have coaching programs that are offered directly out of the store. Ask for a coach who is qualified to work with a runner of your fitness level. (Or ask the staff if they have any recommendations; they’ll often know some of the best local coaching talent around.)

No.3: Go Back to School

An excellent source for qualified coaches is the track and cross country team of your local high school or college. Many of these coaches take on clients before/after school hours. (And you don’t even have to take Pre-Algebra again.)

No.4: Embrace the Digital Age

Having trouble finding a coach in your area? Then an online training plan might be in your future.

Of course, an online coach can’t offer the same level of support an in-person coach can, but there can be a surprising variety of customization available. (Many plans also offer a social community component, which can help keep you motivated and on track.)

No.5: Yelp! Ain’t Just for Food

This online resource offers real reviews from real people.

Of course, online reviews should be taken with a grain of salt. But they can be a great way to find local coaches who may not have the marketing acumen that other lesser-talented coaches have. Before agreeing to meet up with a coach, see what other runners have to say about him/her.

No.6: Get a Little Help From Your Friends

Don’t be shy about asking a new friend for a recommendation on a running coach. Your local running group is a great place to find others who can share their recommendations for local coaches.

Or even just a quick status update, “Anybody know a good running coach?” on Facebook can do wonders.

No.7: Find a Good Training Book

When all else fails in your quest for a running a coach, a good runner’s training book can help you reach your training goals. One good option might be a book like, Run Less, Run Faster, from the experts at the FIRST training program.

Though books aren’t as ideal as a live running coach assessing you every step of the way, a good training book can do wonders to maximize your running potential.

Best of all, by scanning the reviews of the book an Amazon.com, you can get a quick sense of whether the book will suit your needs and help you reach your running goals.