Why Hire a Coach?

Individualization:
Coaches use their expertise to create individualized training programs that meet your specific needs.

Feedback:
Coaches provide experienced feedback and evaluation of your training and racing.

Measurement:
Coaches can measure improvement in your performance through physiological and performance testing.

Motivation:
Coaches provide the guidance and advice that are necessary to maintain confidence and motivation.

Perspective:
Coaches offer a trained perspective that may be different than your own.

Improvement:
For all of the above reasons, a coach can take you to a higher level of performance. Take your cycling to the next level!

What to look for in a coach:

Hiring a coach is an investment in your health, fitness, and your quality of life as well as an investment of time and money. These are just a few factors to take into consideration when you are looking for a coach.

• Experience - Has your coach ever participated in the event they are coaching? Not all coaches have to be former champions or professionals to be good. Good coaches will have knowledge and first-hand experience in the sport you are interested in.
• Certifications/Credentials - Is the coach certified by the governing body the sport you are interested in? What additional credentials does the coach have that may be an added bonus? What type of continuing education does your coach pursue to keep up on the latest breakthroughs in training and equipment?
• Philosophy - Is the training personalized and tailored to your specific goals? Does the coach focus only on experienced racers or all types of clients? Is there flexibility in the approach or do things have to be done a certain way with no room to change?
• Communication - Is your coach available to answer your questions? Is training feedback given in a consistent manner? Does your coach explain workout objectives in an easy to understand manner?
• Goals - How much emphasis is placed on goals? Does the coach use this same approach when setting up his/her own training plan? Will they take your goals into consideration when developing your annual training plan? Is the achievement of your goals the most important factor in the client/coach relationship?
• Personality - Is the coach you are interested in an effective communicator? Does the coach have a personality and sense of humor? In order for the coach/client relationship to be successful, you cannot have personality conflicts. Can your coach keep you motivated? Is your coach willing to help expand your knowledge of the sport you love?
• Support - Is your coach supportive? Most endurance athletes are hard enough on themselves without having a coach add to the problem. One of the reasons many people hire a coach to begin with transcends the simple need for a plan. Coaches are our mentors, friends, and an ear to listen at times. If your coach isn't supportive of you and your goals, then you might want to look elsewhere.
• Passion - Most importantly, is your coach passionate about the sport, living a healthy lifestyle and having some fun? Is enjoying your workouts part of the coaching program? Is there a true passion to help you achieve your success or is it merely a paycheck for the coach?