Is coaching right for me?
Training for three sports around work and family commitments can put an unnecessary strain on relationships, and it is difficult to design a training schedule which achieves its goals without compromising an athlete’s daily responsibilities.
It is becoming increasingly common, therefore, for athletes of all abilities to employ an experienced coach to design their schedule for them. This has several benefits;
- A good programme maximises available training time, and often reduces the athlete’s previous training volume
- It takes the responsibility, hassle and stress away from the athlete and allows the coach to make the decisions
- You will be benefiting from the coach’s competition and coaching experience
- You will follow more effective training without making the mistakes you have previously made
- Your daily routine will become more structured and organised
Before employing a coach, please consider the following points;
If you’ve paid for it, follow it
Sessions are set for a reason, so swapping an unpopular session with one you enjoy is not going to produce results
What do you want out of it?
Be clear what you are paying for before you commit. Have definite objectives and ensure the coach is aware of this.
See the bigger picture
If you are aiming to peak in August, don’t expect to perform well in February. Be patient, and always think long term.
Coaches are not mind readers
A coach will respond to what information he receives. If you are struggling to complete the schedule or continuously feeling tired, tell the coach. The programme can be adjusted accordingly.
You can’t buy success
Paying someone does not take the hard work out of training. If you continuously miss sessions, or fail to reach the required intensities, no amount of money will make you faster.
Be realistic
A coach cannot perform miracles. If you run 5k in 30 minutes, employing a coach will not enable you to run it in 15 minutes. Everyone has a natural ceiling of potential ability, and a coach can only help you to get closer to it.
Who is the coach?
Most coaches obtain work through referrals. Speak to current clients if possible and get as much feedback as you can. Find out what the coach has achieved in his own athletic career and what coaching experience he has.
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