How to Find a Running Coach

COACHING

Introduction

Who Needs a Coach

Finding a Coach

Why You Need a Coach

What to Expect From a Coach

Checking Out Your Coach

How to Find a Coach

List of RRCA Certified Coaches

About the Author

INTRODUCTION

THE ROAD RUNNERS CLUB OF AMERICA offers this text to runners who want to find a coach. As Hal Higdon suggests in his opening remarks: "Many runners could benefit from a coach. Most do not have one, nor have they had one." This is written specifically to help runners locate coaches and learn how to use them.

In offering "How to Find a Coach," the RRCA sees three distinct audiences:

--Running clubs, wanting to add coaching as a service.
--Experienced runners, hoping to run faster.
--Beginners, seeking help in getting started.

Not to be overlooked is the social benefit derived from having a coach, who guides the training of a group of like-minded runners.

The RRCA also sees this text as an opportunity to encourage adult road runners to broaden their running experiences. Without question, many runners never ran track or cross country in school. They have never run on teams or relays. Many joggers never bother to compete. Coaches may be the key to introducing the varied aspects of running to a new audience.

The RRCA is currently developing a resource base of qualified distance running coaches through its coaching education program geared to distance running. The list of coaches at the end of this text -- coaches now certified by the RRCA's Coaching Certification Program -- is the first step toward providing qualified coaching for runners of all ages and abilities.

Freddi Carlip, President
ROAD RUNNERS CLUB OF AMERICA

© 1994, 2000, The Road Runners Club of America

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