We often see questions from runners about whether or not they should hire a running coach. Questions like, is it worth the cost? Will I become faster or stronger? Can a coach adjust to my busy home life and work schedule? How will we communicate? Are coaches experienced enough? If I am new to running, do they work with walkers? What about veteran runners?
To answer all of these questions and more, Team Injinji Coach Jill Becker gave us the lowdown on being a running coach and the benefits of working with one to accomplish your athletic goals.
Injinji: What made you want to become a running coach? How long have you been coaching?
JB: I love helping create stronger, injury free runners in the world. I became certified in 2013, so I have now been coaching for almost 10 years.
Injinji: Do you have any professional training?
JB: Yes! I have an assistant degree in Physical Therapy and a Bachelor of Science in Sports Science with a minor in Psychology. I also have many certifications such as Road Runners Club of America (RRCA) certified running coach, National Council on Strength and Fitness (NCSF) certified personal trainer, and National Exercise Trainers Association (NETA) Wellness Coach.
Injinji: What is it like to work with a running coach?
JB: When working with a coach you have a daily customized program mapped out for you which comes with accountability, support, and monitoring to keep you moving forward as efficiently as possible. A coach is someone to help you set goals and track your progress.
Injinji: What are the benefits of a consistent training program?
JB: Benefits include building up your training safely to avoid injury and burn out, plus the physical and mental benefits keep you strong and motivated. Variety is key so I incorporate cross training as well as stability, strength, dynamic warmup drills, post exercise stretches and mobility.
Injinji: What are the benefits of having a running coach?
JB: Someone certified and knowledgeable can help you achieve your goals and be a source of inspiration and encouragement through their love of the sport.
Injinji: As a coach, what do you provide your clients?
JB: I provide my clients with a customized training program using the TrainingPeaks app. Additionally, I include coaching calls, tips and advice to help with training and discuss any questions that may come up.
Injinji: What is expected from your clients?
JB: I expect them to communicate with me about how they are feeling, any conflicts in training that might be coming up, to upload their workouts to TrainingPeak and to do the work!
Injinji: Why should someone get a running coach?
JB: Coaches help you to get started and learn the proper buildup of a running program with advice and suggestions to help make running easier. They can also guide you through the racing process.
Injinji: What are some tips on finding a running coach?
JB: Make sure the coach is certified, knowledgeable, motivating, caring, builds customized programs, and is someone you feel comfortable working with.
Jill’s knowledge of science and coaching brings results to her clients. She has experience in rebuilding fitness after an injury and specializes in coaching runners from 5k’s to ultra marathons and triathlon run segments. She has competed in over 20 ultras, 10 marathons, 25 triathlons, and most recently began Spartan racing. She works with athletes of all levels with Boundless Coaching and can be found on Instagram at @jbeckruns.
