So you hired a coach, now what? | IRONMAN U

So you hired a coach, now what?

First off, congrats! Hiring a coach is a very big step in reaching your goals as an athlete. The most effective way for you to benefit from having a coach is for your coach be in the know. Simply put, you need to communicate. But what do you communicate and what's considered TMI (too much information)? While the answer to that can vary from coach to coach, there are three things that your coach needs to know in order to have a successful relationship. 

#1 - Goals 

Anyone can do a quick search to find a generic training plan that may or may not get you to the finish line. One huge benefit to hiring a coach is that the coach can create a training plan that is specific to your unique goals. Are you looking to improve your swim form, take time off your marathon, or qualify for Kona? Make sure your coach knows so that he can work on a plan that helps you achieve those goals. 

#2 - Schedule 

Outside of your race schedule and your "A" race, make sure you're communicating about your daily availability. Do you like to train in the morning? Have obligations on Wednesday each week? Inform your coach so that he can build a plan that works best for you. Additionally, if you have changes to your schedule it's important for your coach to know. Have an out of town meeting and you’re trying to figure out how to fit in that 3 hour bike ride? Is there a local 5K, but you have a swim/bike brick on the schedule? Bring it up in a text (or email, or whichever method of communication you’ve agreed upon) to your coach. My bet is they will do their best to accommodate, based on your previously mentioned goals.

#3 - Comprehension

A common mistake that athletes make, is thinking that they’re “bothering” their coach with too many questions. Are you getting seriously confused by acronyms?  “FTP, SS, LSR, SLD, etc.”?  Please don’t guess, take a minute to ask what's expected. Really, we don’t mind. More often than not, an athlete with a better understanding of what is expected will get the most of their coaching arrangement. 

Best of luck this season, and enjoy the benefits of having your very own coach!