Tips for Finding a Run Coach

July 22nd, 2024 by Mike Sohaskey

No matter where you are in your running journey, chances are you’d benefit from a Run Coach. Maybe you’ve reached a plateau and are ready to take your performance to the next level. Maybe your goal is to run injury-free. Or maybe you’re looking to rejuvenate your training with a healthy dose of guidance, support and accountability.

Whatever your inspiration, no one is more qualified to help than the Road Runners Club of America (RRCA), the nation’s oldest and largest association of runners and running organizations with a worldwide network of thousands of RRCA Certified Coaches. So we asked our friends at RRCA for their tips & tricks on finding the right Run Coach to help you achieve your personal goals.

1. Determine Your Goals

Determine your goals and why you want to hire a Run Coach. Having a basic outline of your goals will help you find the best Run Coach to fit your needs.

Do you have a distance or time goal in mind?
Is there a specific race you want to train for?
Do you want to increase your event distance from 5ks to half marathons or longer?
Are you looking for a personalized training plan with an online coach? In-person meetings with a local coach?
Are you interested in group training options? You might want to join a coached group to meet like-minded people, make new friends, and be part of a community.
Are you willing to commit the time and effort to follow a structured training plan you pay for?

2. Find a Knowledgeable Run Coach

Utilize the RRCA’s Certified Coaches Database to find a knowledgeable Run Coach.

For nearly 30 years, RRCA has trained a national community of knowledgeable and ethical distance running coaches to work with runners of all ages and abilities through its Coaching Certification program. RRCA Certified Coaches emphasize the use of intelligent training plans that are based on a scientific body of knowledge and are designed to help runners achieve their specific goals while minimizing the risk of injuries.

Many RRCA Certified Coaches list their website on their profile, which makes it easy to see the services they provide.
You can also email a coach listed in the RRCA’s Certified Coaches Database to learn more about their services.

3. Do Your Homework

Reach out to a few Run Coaches, communicate your goals, and learn more about their services.

Ask prospective coaches about their services, fees, and coaching philosophy or strategies.
Look for someone who will be a good match for your goals and your personality.
If you struggle with motivation, you may need a strong cheerleader who can help keep you on track with regular check-ins.
If you tend to push too hard, you may need a gatekeeper to help you manage the urge to do too much too soon, which can lead to injury or burnout.

4. Commit to Working with a Run Coach

Commit to a period of time, and budget a specific amount of money to work with your Run Coach.

A Certified Run Coach brings a level of experience and expertise to you that has value.
Your coach should spend time developing a realistic, personalized training plan for you that works with your goals and your other obligations in life.
Hiring a Run Coach to create a personalized training plan will allow you to safely build both distance and speed over time to avoid injury in pursuit of your goal.
Understand that coaches are usually upfront and clear about the fees they charge for the services they provide.
Read their information closely to understand what you are committing to and what you can expect in return.
Your results will be a direct result of following the plan and putting in the work to reach your goals.

5. Join an Organized Run Club

Look for run clubs or crews that offer formal training programs organized by RRCA Certified Coaches.

Many urban areas have organized clubs that offer training programs developed by RRCA Certified Coaches. Utilize the RRCA’s Find a Club Database.
Joining a run club is ideal if you want to meet like-minded people, make new friends, and be part of a supportive running community.

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About RRCA

The Road Runners Club of America (RRCA) is the oldest and largest national association of running organizations and runners dedicated to growing the sport since 1958. The RRCA champions the development of community-based running clubs and events that serve runners of all ages and abilities in pursuit of health and competition. The RRCA’s vision is Empowering Everyone to Run.

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