It Takes Two:
Ah, the start of a new year—a fresh slate for goals, dreams, and maybe even a new coach to help you crush them. Whether you’re chasing a new PR or training for your first ultra, a running coach can be your secret weapon. But here’s the catch: coaching is a two-way street. If you’re paying for guidance, you need to do your part to make the relationship work.
Let’s dig into the nitty-gritty of finding the right coach and getting the most out of this partnership. Spoiler alert: it’s not just about having someone fast-track your running progress—it’s about creating a connection that helps you thrive.
Step 1: Do Your Homework
Not all coaches are created equal, and that’s okay. Start by researching potential candidates. Certifications are a great starting point—they show your coach has invested in learning the craft. But experience matters too. Are they seasoned runners, experienced coaches, or ultra-savvy crew members?
Don’t skip the vibe check! Set up a conversation to ensure your personalities click. A great coach-athlete relationship is built on trust and understanding. After all, you’re spending time (and money!) on this partnership—make sure you’re compatible.
Pro Tip: Avoid hiring a coach solely because they’re fast. Speedy runners don’t always make the best coaches. Coaching requires teaching skills, patience, and the ability to adapt training plans to different needs. If speed is your goal, find someone who knows how to coach it, not just someone who’s genetically blessed.
Step 2: Communicate Like a Champ
Communication is the backbone of any coaching relationship. Your coach can’t read your mind—so speak up! Share your thoughts on workouts, your struggles, your wins, and even those “meh” runs. The more they know, the better they can adjust your training plan.
Personally, I’m a huge fan of the Marco Polo app for video messaging. It allows my athletes to send quick video updates, and it’s a game-changer for context. Sometimes, a thumbs-up emoji just doesn’t cut it. I want to see your excitement when you crush a run—or your frustration when a workout doesn’t go as planned. It helps me tailor your training (and your pep talks) to exactly what you need.
Step 3: Know When to Break Up
Here’s a truth bomb: it’s okay to outgrow your coach. Whether your goals change, the relationship doesn’t feel right, or you just want some change moving on is normal. A good coach won’t take it personally—they’ll support your decision because your success is what matters most.
On the flip side, if things are working great, stick with it! Consistency with a coach who understands your needs can be a huge asset in reaching your long-term goals.
Step 4: Understand Your Coach’s Limits
Coaches aren’t superheroes (although we try). Every coach works within their certifications and the legal regulations of their state. For example, a running coach without a strength certification shouldn’t be designing your weightlifting program. Similarly, nutrition advice often has restrictions unless your coach is a licensed dietitian. We often do provide guidelines however.
Why? Liability. A coach who steps outside their expertise risks legal trouble—and so do you. Instead, ask about your coach’s qualifications and how they handle areas like strength training or nutrition. A great coach knows when to refer you to a specialist and when to stay in their lane.
Step 5: Demand Personalization
The real value of a coach lies in their ability to customize your training. A good coach doesn’t just hand you a cookie-cutter plan—they adapt it to your life, goals, and physical condition. For example, I recently noticed one of my athletes looking fatigued in her training metrics. Her communication confirmed this, and I adjusted her schedule to allow for more recovery. That’s what personalized coaching is all about.
Red Flag: If a coach has too many clients or a demanding full-time job, they might not have the bandwidth to give you the attention you deserve. Don’t hesitate to ask about their workload before signing up.
Final Thoughts: It Takes Two
Hiring a coach is more than just signing up for a training plan. It’s a partnership that requires effort from both sides. Do your homework, communicate openly, and don’t be afraid to reassess the fit. When you and your coach are in sync, magic happens—whether it’s crossing your first finish line, hitting a PR, or simply falling in love with running again.
Remember: it takes two to make this work. So, invest in the process, and let your coach help you soar. Here’s to crushing those goals in the new year and beyond!
Runners of the Corn Coaching 