When I talk with triathletes I frequently get asked “Why do I need a triathlon coach?” And, you know what? I think that is a reasonable question to ask. After all there is a wealth of information out there about how to prepare for all manner of events and most athletes are highly motivated.
But just because its a reasonable question doesn’t make it right. So here are my top 7 reasons why you should consider employing a triathlon coach.
- Accountable - Having someone set your training programme means that you become accountable to them. Taking the easy option, is no longer an option and if you do too much, too little or nothing at all, you can bet that your coach will be taking you to task
- Research – yes there is lots of information out there, but how do you know what is right and what is wrong. In truth most of the information is probably OK (although not necessarily the unqualified opinions) but you could spend so much time making your mind up about what is right for you that you actually miss out on what you are supposed to be doing – training! With a coach you have someone who can help you to sort through the mass of data and point you in the right direction. This also means that…
- You only have to worry about the training - I know many athletes who are capable of writing their own plan, including some coaches but they still end up working it out on the fly. With a coach you should have a plan well in advance of the start of your training cycle so that on any given day all you have to do is pack the right kit and off you go.
- Download – When things don’t go quite according to the plan, who do you talk with? It helps if you have someone who understands your situation and can suggest an appropriate course of action. Maybe someone who has helped other athletes with similar problems. A tri coach might be the person you are looking for.
- Satellite Navigation – Seeing where you are going is always easier when you have a detached, almost overhead, vantage point; a bit like a satellite. Its easy to get lost and make a wrong turn when you are focussed on day to day life as well as training. It’s the job of your coach to prompt you into making a U-turn when necessary or suggest a slight change of direction.
- Hold you back – Highly motivated people have a habit of charging off and doing too much. Most triathletes fit into this category at least some of the time. Coaches sometimes need to hold onto the reins to slow down the charge!
- Confirmation - triathletes typically read a lot and are often highly knowledgeable about their sport and their bodies. Often, you may know the answer to a problem, but it doesn’t harm to have someone else confirm what you probably already know.
So hopefully I have cleared up in your mind why you should think about having a tri coach help you. If you already have a coach, congratulations on being one step ahead of the game. If not, then next time, maybe I can point out what I think you should look for in a triathlon coach.
Stay healthy & have fun
