Working with a Coach
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RRCA Certified Coaches Help Runners:
Find a Coach
Join a Club
- Get started,
- Get faster,
- Go farther,
- Return to running after injury or a long break,
- Stay motivated,
- And more!
What is an RRCA Certified Coach
The RRCA has trained a national community of knowledgeable and ethical distance running coaches to work with runners at all ages and abilities through our Coaching Certification program.
- RRCA Certified Coaches work with runners and emphasize the use of intelligent training plans that are based on a scientific body of knowledge and designed to help a runner achieve their goals, while minimizing the risks of injuries.
- RRCA Certified Coaches lead training programs and group runs for their local running clubs. The programs and group runs may be a free benefit of membership, or there may be additional fees on top of dues for training programs that are led by a trained coach.
- RRCA Certified Coaches may also coach clients one-on-one for a fee, which may include in-person or virtual only coaching services designed to help a runner achieve their goals.
- RRCA Certified Coaches may also lead organized training programs for a fee as a coaching business, which may serve groups of runners working towards a common goal, such as completing a 5k, half marathon, or marathon.
Individuals that have completed the RRCA Coaching Certification course and earned the title RRCA Certified Coach are not employees, nor contractors, with the RRCA. All coaches are independent from the RRCA. They have agreed to abide by the RRCA’s Coaches Code of Ethics, which includes revocation of the credential for serious violations.
RRCA only verifies that RRCA Certified Coaches have completed a formal education program and have completed the requirements to earn the credential of RRCA Certified Coach and be included in our searchable database of coaches.
Tips for Finding a Coach
1. Consider joining a running club
Joining a club is a great way to get started or to take your running goals to the next level. Most clubs only require a reasonable dues rate to join.
Many clubs offer organized training programs and group runs designed to meet the needs of all different paces and abilities. It also provides a great social network in a supportive environment.
Many clubs have RRCA Certified Coaches that lead programs, and they can be a resource for helping you find a coach if you are seeking more individualized, one-on-one coaching services. Club’s may also offer structured training programs under the guidance of a certified coach for an additional fee.
2. Have an idea what you are looking for if you want to hire a coach
- Do you have a distance or time goal in mind?
- Do you have a specific race you want to train for in an attempt to set a personal record?
- Do you want to move from running 5ks to half marathons?
- Are you looking for online only coaching, a personalized training plan, in-person meetings or running together?
- Are you willing to commit the time to follow a structured training plan?
Outlining your goals in advance will help you find the right coach for your needs.
3. Utilize the RRCA Certified Coaches database to find a coach near you
Many RRCA Certified Coaches list their website on their profile, which makes it easy to check out the services they provide.
Some coaches will include their email where you can reach out to learn about their services.
Coaches that work specifically with their running club will often list the club website on their profile as a way to encourage membership in the club.
4. Reach out to a few coaches and outline your goals
Ask them about their services and fees and coaching philosophy or strategies. Look for someone that will be a good match for both your goals and your personality. If you struggle with motivation, you may need a task master that can help keep you on track. If you tend to push too hard, you may need a gate keeper to keep you in check from going too hard, too fast, too much.
6. Be willing to commit a period of time and money to working with the coach
A coach brings a level of experience and expertise to you that has value. They will spend time developing a realistic, personalized plan for you, saving you lots of time and guesswork.
A personalized plan will outline how to safely build both distance and speed to avoid injury in pursuit of your goal.
Coaches are usually upfront and clear about the fees they charge for the services they can provide. Keep in mind you should read their information closely to understand what you are committing to and what you can expect in return.