In a world where everything is available right at your fingertips, it seems normal to consult the internet for a training plan to prepare for an upcoming race. However, these programs are cookie cutter methods based on norms that don’t take into consideration the uniqueness of the individuals that use them. So what does proper coaching offer that a run-of-the-mill program doesn’t?
“With proper coaching, an athlete just might discover the best version of themselves, or they might start to let go of all those heavy expectations that they carry around. And through this process they will learn more about themselves. Proper coaching allows an athlete to make clear choices and carve out a path to where they want to go. Proper coaching builds the bridge between who the athlete is today, and who they will be. Proper coaching filters and flows into every area of an athlete’s life so that all of the practicing, resting, recovering, training, racing, and dreaming is purposeful. With proper coaching, we grow and get better.” – Kate Gustafson, Mile2Marathon Coaching.
Not only do coaches provide one-on-one coaching, they usually form a group of athletes that can train together. This not only ensures that the athletes are provided guidance, but they’re also supplied with a team that gives a team-like dynamic in a very solo sport. This community supports, pushes, and enhances those who are involved.
The words of Coach Kate from Mile2Marathon in Vancouver eloquently explains the benefit of having a coach that can guide an athlete on their running journey. Having someone understand the ebbs and flows of the athlete’s life, commitments, vices, and dreams is crucial. Accountability to a coach, to one’s own goals, and to the betterment of one’s skills, is something that a generalized program from the internet won’t offer. A coach can help make the solitude of training become a camaraderie, through the rapport a coach-athlete relationship cultivates.
