You don't need to be an elite runner to require the services of a coach. 95 percent of runners in America train unguided including some of the best runners. Improvements are sporadic based on a myriad of suggestions from friends, in-training programs, books and running magazine articles.
Good coaching can provide more than information and analysis. We all like recognition, applause and someone to inspire us. A coach will give you this attention and help keep you focused on your specific goals and to reach your potential. They begin by building a relationship with you based on support, trust and sharing decisions on a day-to-day or at least a weekly basis. Then they help you stick to a plan or modify it based on circumstances as they present themselves.
It is human nature to want to take it easy when you are tired or find ways to cut corners. A coach won't let you get off the hook so easily and they make you responsible to someone other than just yourself. They confirm what you are doing is right, relieve those nagging doubts and encourage discipline.
We all have rough spots during races and in our training. We can't be "in the zone" every race or speed workout but we can enlist the help of someone to keep us there more often. We are not always the best observers of ourselves either. Hopefully a coach's experience will help point out things that have happened to other runners striving for the similar accomplishments.
Good coaches understand the mistakes we are likely to make and eliminate as many as possible. Every race presents different circumstances. Your coach should help you list the criteria with which to evaluate them and take the right precautions to improve your chances of a better performance.
So where do you find a good coach? The Road Runners Club of America is one of the few organizations that provide a listing by state. There are none listed for Michigan. USA Track and Field offers coaching classes and certification but they aren't designed for road racing. Few coaches work solely with one athlete. By coaching groups there are usually more rewards for their efforts and the runners benefit more by running with a group.
A place to look for a coach is with the organizers or speakers at your local running store in-training programs. Some of them do coaching or know of potential coaches in your area. Other places include major road race clinics, their expos and at running camps. Check advertisements in local running magazines or web sites too.
Tip of the Week: Coaches can help motivate you and point you in the right direction. You are still the one that has to do the work.
