Do I Need a Running Coach?

If you’ve been running for a while, you’ve probably heard people mention the benefits of having a running coach. But is it something you need? Whether you’re just getting started or aiming to hit a new personal best, a running coach can offer support, structure, and guidance. But the decision to hire one depends on your goals, experience, and personal preferences. Let’s break it down.

1. What Can a Running Coach Do for You?

A running coach is like your personal guide to achieving your running goals. They provide tailored training plans, help with technique, and offer motivation and accountability. Here’s how a coach can help:

• Personalised Training Plans: A coach can create a training plan specifically for your fitness level and goals, whether you're training for a 5k, half marathon, or marathon. No more guessing which workouts to do—they’ll map it all out for you.
• Injury Prevention: Coaches focus on proper form and recovery, helping you avoid common running injuries. They’ll guide you on strength training, stretching, and how to manage niggles before they turn into bigger problems.
• Motivation and Accountability: We all have those days when it’s tough to lace up and get out the door. A coach provides that extra bit of accountability to keep you on track and motivated, especially on tougher days.
• Race Strategy: If you’re targeting a specific race, a coach can help with pacing strategies, nutrition, and tapering—everything you need to be race-day ready.

2. Our Coaching Partner: New Levels Coaching

At RunThrough, we believe in the power of community, and that's why we’ve partnered with New Levels Coaching. Like us, they operate on the ethos of "by runners, for runners." New Levels Coaching offers tailored, expert guidance designed to meet your individual needs, whether you're training for your first race or aiming to smash a personal best. Their coaching plans focus on the same principles we believe in at RunThrough—support, inclusivity, and a passion for running.

With New Levels Coaching, you'll get:

• Bespoke Training Plans: Tailored to your goals and schedule, ensuring you progress safely and effectively.
• One-on-One Support: You’ll have access to experienced coaches who understand the ups and downs of running and will guide you through every step of your training.
• Flexibility: Whether you're training for a 5k, marathon, or ultra, their plans adapt to your life and fitness level.

If you're looking for that extra push to improve your performance, New Levels Coaching offers everything you need to take your running to new heights. Plus, their experienced coaches are all runners themselves—so they understand the challenges you face and how to overcome them.

3. Who Can Benefit from a Running Coach?

A running coach can be beneficial for a wide range of runners:

• Beginners: If you’re new to running, a coach can help you build a strong foundation. They’ll ensure you’re progressing at a safe pace and developing good habits from the start.
• Runners Chasing a PB: If you’ve been running for a while and are looking to hit a new personal best, a coach can fine-tune your training, focusing on speed work, pacing, and race strategy to help you push through plateaus.
• Injury-Prone Runners: If you’ve had trouble with injuries, a coach can identify weaknesses and help you incorporate the right strength and recovery strategies into your training.
• Marathon or Ultra Runners: Tackling a marathon or ultra-distance event requires smart planning. A coach will help you manage your mileage, nutrition, and mental preparation so that you’re ready for race day.

4. Can You Go It Alone?

While having a coach can be incredibly beneficial, it’s not essential for everyone. Plenty of runners train successfully on their own by following online plans or using running apps. If you’re self-motivated, enjoy researching training methods, and have a good grasp of how your body responds to running, you may do just fine without one.

However, if you find that you’re struggling to stay motivated, unsure how to reach your goals, or stuck in a plateau, a coach like the team at New Levels Coaching could be the key to taking your running to the next level.

5. Is It Worth the Investment?

Coaching often comes at a price, so it’s important to consider whether the investment is worth it for you. If you’re serious about improving, staying injury-free, or hitting a major running milestone, having a coach could save you time and help you avoid costly mistakes. Many coaches, including New Levels Coaching, offer flexible packages to fit different budgets, so it’s worth exploring your options.

So, Do You Need a Running Coach?

In short, it depends on your goals and where you are in your running journey. If you’re looking for structure, personalised advice, and someone to hold you accountable, a running coach—especially one from New Levels Coaching—could be a game-changer. But if you’re confident in your own ability to plan and stay motivated, you might enjoy the flexibility of self-coaching.

Ultimately, the decision is yours. Whether you opt for a coach or go it alone, the most important thing is that you enjoy the process and keep pushing towards your goals.

Happy running!