Fall tends to be the season for athletes to set intentions and goals for the upcoming year. Often as coaches, we see an uptick of inquiries during this time. Finding the right coach fit is important. As an athlete, you have big goals and getting the right support and guidance can be a game changer. So how do you find the right fit? It is important to interview coaches and find one that fits your goals, personality and your budget.
Who needs a coach? Of course, in the business of coaching, we say anyone can benefit from a coach. Athletes hire a coach for a variety of reasons:
- Improve performance
- Accountability
- New distance or challenge
- Coming back from injury or illness
Here are some important things to consider prior to talking with prospective coaches:
- What are you goals for the upcoming season? Knowing these and a list of potential or key races, can help guide your conversations
- Define what is important to you as the athlete in a coaching relationship.
- How often would you like feedback?
- Is there a limit to communication?
- How does the coach interact with the athlete?
- What is included – video analysis, group training, etc
- Is there a contract?
Likewise coaches that you interview, should have questions that are important as well. A good coach is going to make your goals a priority and want to help you be successful. In talking with prospective athletes, we want to make sure that the timelines of their goals and expectations align with our coaching philosophy. Some of the things our coaches want to know:
- What kind of feedback are you looking for? Data analysis, emotional supprt, etc
- Your preferred communication or learning style? We have found that this ver y different depending on the athletes
- What motivates you?
- What would make this relationship a success?
Athletes hire coaches for a variety of different reasons. A coach can help with an objective view of your training. They can be a support system for your goals and provide a community of like minded athletes. Looking for the 2026 season? Check out our coach bios here:
