Why I Have a Running Coach (And Maybe You Should Too)
Not too long ago, someone asked me why I have a running coach, wondering if shaving a few seconds off a race time is actually worth it. While my immediate response was a resounding "yes," their question prompted me into considering all the reasons that went into my answer. As well as why I consider it to be one of the best decisions I’ve made since returning to competitive running six years ago.
I started working with Tim Ives from The Body Project following physical therapy for a wicked hamstring injury brought on by overtraining in 2018. (I learned the hard way that a “sore butt” was not a good thing for a runner.) I admit that it seemed an odd decision at that time. I wasn’t exactly a spring chicken. Nor were there any endorsement deals hinging on the outcomes of my races. I also have to add that it felt sort of strange to have this guy following me on his bicycle while I ran.
Nearly five years later, I cannot imagine training without a coach. To the point that I believe that all of you should consider having one as well.
The Reasons to Have a Running Coach
These recommendations stem directly from my experiences with Tim. If he were no longer an option, I would expect them from any other running coach.
Improved Results. The proof is in the pudding on this one. My first year with Coach Ives provided immediate gains in my races. On average, I dropped between 7-10 seconds per mile in each race. With the exception of the Bix 7, I won my age group in each race that year and have usually done so since. Overall, my paces have remained consistent for the past four years - even as I’ve had several more trips around the sun. But there’s more to it than simply outcomes. Thanks to Tim, I’ve become a “smarter runner.” Someone who can better manage the challenges that come with our sport.
Determine and Maintain Goals. I want to run competitively. But that’s not everyone’s goal. Nor should it be. Other runners seek fitness, weight loss or simply the joy of being able to run each day. Tim and I talk about my goals. We consider what's realistic and what's not. (The time I floated running a marathon had Tim bringing me back to Earth when he outlined the commitments that would entail.)
Schedule Workouts That Enhance My Performance. Although Tim coaches high school students, he knows that at my age, it's "quality over quantity" in terms of miles. No more than five days running per week with somewhere between 25-30 miles max. We limit speed workouts to no more than two per week with at least 48 hours between them. Those workouts are also carefully planned to prepare me for my next race. A good example of this occurred a few weeks ago when we did three-minute fartlek's in a hilly neighborhood the Tuesday before Bix to simulate the conditions in that race. It was the perfect workout at the exact right time - clear down to the heat and humidity.
Deal with Injuries and the Recovery. As much as we hate injuries, they can happen to any of us. A good coach helps you when they do occur. Coach Ives has always been supportive, but firm, when I’ve experienced them. He understands my frustrations. But, more important, he's also cautious with my workouts in returning to me to a full workout schedule - as much as I’m often chomping at the bit to do otherwise.
Provide Motivation. It kind of goes without saying that a good coach should be able to motivate you. I’m twenty years older than Tim and over forty years older than the high school students he coaches. Nonetheless, he always finds the right words to light the fire for an upcoming set of 800’s or how to make me feel better on those days when I’m disappointed with my speed workout.
Opportunity to Network. An unanticipated benefit of working with Coach Ives has been meeting a number of other runners and clients before and after workouts. Likewise, the privilege of being on The Body Project’s relay team also been an absolute kick. Despite being someone who typically runs alone, I greatly appreciate any chance to meet and talk with other runners in person.
Save Me from Myself. Bottom line - I wouldn't be where I am with running if not for Coach Ives. Left to my own devices, I know that I'd have pushed myself too hard, racking up too many miles based on unrealistic expectations with dismal outcomes. The first week of August is a good example of his guidance. Having just ran a race, my schedule consisted of fewer miles at an easy pace. While I definitely wanted to resume my normal mileage, reality was that my body needed time to fully recover. Taking it easy that week allowed me to literally "hit the ground running" when I returned for my speed workouts the following week.
What Should You Look in a Running Coach?
While this could be the subject of another post, if I were looking for a running coach, I'd consider factors such as cost, experience and knowledge. I would also strongly consider compatibility. This would be someone who I'd spend time with and who would hopefully motivate me with my running. If nothing else, it would need be someone who I enjoyed talking with between intervals on a speed workout.
Your Thoughts?
As a rule, runners have strong opinions. (Let's not even bring up favorite training shoes!) What brings us together is a shared passion for a physical activity that demands endurance, determination and discipline. I believe having a coach helps me address that passion. But that's me. I'd truly like to know your thoughts either below or on Facebook.
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