Three Reasons Why You Need A Run Coach.
Let’s acknowledge it: the Covid-19 restrictions have brought out the fitness enthusiasts in our people like never before. It is understandable. Those fleeting hours of being able to feel the sun on our faces and the tropical breeze surround us are moments of freedom in the midst of uncertainty.
As the number of persons jogging along the streets, parks and beaches of New Providence increase, many ponder “Maybe I should get out there too.”
With that thought comes questions: “Where do I start?” “Should I go out on my own or with a group?” “What is the right group for me?” “Does this fit my lifestyle and goals?” “What are my goals?”
I am here to break it down for you. Here are three reasons why you need to hire a run coach:
- To deliver proper running form and technique.
Running is a low maintenance sport. The only need that the sport requires is a pair of sensible running shoes. All of the other gear and gadgets that you see runners acquire are preferences. Often times we mistake low maintenance for easy. When we believe that running is easy, we jump out of the blocks making some rookie mistakes. Improper form. Improper breathing. Taking on too many miles too soon. Running daily. Not taking the time to warm up and cool down. A combination of one of more of these elements, at best can leave a new runner feeling discouraged and disengaged. At worst, a new runner can experience injury.
Having a run coach helps to address all of the issues mentioned. A new runner gains appreciation from gradual progress and success without sacrificing comfort. A new runner is armed with knowledge about the sport and is able to utilize the tips to make his new journey a satisfying one.
2. Accountability.
Accountability is one of the greatest advantages of having a run coach. It has been proven time and again that when the early morning running alarm goes off, the likelihood of hitting the snooze button is increased versus knowing that your coach and your fellow group members are waiting at the training location for you to arrive. Within the confines of a run group and with a run coach, you are also more likely to complete the required distance for that day. Let’s be honest – when you are running alone and it begins to get hard or you just do not feel like going any further, it’s very easy to cut the workout short, walk and head back. A run coach, on the other hand, is your motivator and accountability partner. A run coach knows that fatigue is not a rationale for cutting a session short. It is a barrier that can be broken with tenacity. A run coach is your conscience – checking in on you when you appear to be slacking off.
3. Tracking progression and helping to create greater goals.
For some reason, we are our own worst critics when it comes to our fitness goals. While we think we are making little to no progress, a run coach will help to put things in their proper perspective. A run coach is in a position to track where you started and where you are at in the present – and will guide you on how to move from one level to the next. This sets the stage for you as the runner to begin to adjust and create greater goals – training for that first race or a new, bigger race distance. This helps to boost confidence as a runner as you begin to achieve the personal goals you have set for yourself at the beginning of your training program.
Are you thinking that it’s time to engage a run coach? Let me know in the comments below.
Linda