Top Five Reasons You Should Be Working With a Professional Coach When Training for an Ultra

Considering your first ultra? When you commit to this goal, it's easy to be overwhelmed with emotions - excitement, nervousness, a little bit of fear (what did I just get myself into?), all packaged together with a number of questions. How do I start training? What do I need for race-day? How can I make sure that I don't get injured? And so much more... We've all been there and we get it. That's why working with a professional coach can be extremely beneficial for ultramarathon runners, especially those who are new to the sport.

Here's a few reasons why:

1. Personalized Training Plan: A coach can create a personalized training plan that takes into account your individual goals, fitness level, and schedule. They can help you structure your training to ensure that you are making progress without risking injury or burnout.

2. Accountability: Having a coach means that you have someone who is invested in your success and is holding you accountable to your training plan. This can be especially helpful on days when you don’t feel motivated to train or are struggling with a particular workout.

3. Expertise: Coaches are trained professionals with experience in the sport of ultramarathon running. They can provide guidance on everything from proper running form to race-day nutrition to injury prevention.

4. Feedback and Adjustments: A coach can provide feedback on your training and adjust your plan as needed to help you achieve your goals. This can be especially helpful if you are experiencing setbacks or aren’t seeing the progress you’d like to see.

5. Mental Support: Running an ultramarathon requires mental as well as physical toughness. A coach can provide support and motivation to help you push through the mental barriers that may arise during your training and on race day.

Knowing you're not alone can make all the difference in the world.

While working with a coach is not necessary for everyone, it can be a valuable investment for those who want to improve their performance and reduce their risk of injury. If you’re considering working with a coach, be sure to choose someone who has experience working with ultramarathon runners and who you feel comfortable communicating with.