Demystifying the online ultramarathon coaching process.
Prior to working with an online ultramarathon coach many runners are unsure of how the coaching process works. Below the process is explained as well as why this is the best way to operate.
Training Peaks is essential in the coaching process. Training Peaks is coaching software that allows your coach to plan and analyze your runs and above all communicate with you.
What is particularly important about Training Peaks is that once you have an account it is private, this gives you piece of mind and confidence. Only you and your coach can see it.
Below is a screen shot from one of my coached runners. This is an overview of what their week looks like. Of course your would be personalized and periodised (long term structure) to you. This means your goals, your weekly structure, your weekly number of runs and your ability are all taken into account when making your plan. You get given a road map from A to B. From where you are now to improving your running by 30 seconds/km.
Ultramarathon Coaching Plan Overview
This is the overview of this ultra runners next two weeks. Naturally this would extend through to the runners goal race. From there if you click on each box it then includes the details of the set. More or less information is included depending on what is needed. I.e. This is a 10×6 minute run set, it’s a fantastic set and a favorite of mine.
A planned ultramarathon run set
However the real reason for using Training Peaks is because of this magnificent little box. ‘Post Activity Comments’ (bottom right) This give a direct line of communication between you the runner and your coach. Any questions, comments or concerns can be placed in here.
Questions could be related to nutrition, pacing or what is expected in the set to name a few. This means that your coach then knows which run set you are referring to and can compare your question and feedback to the data of your set, yep all your data from your watch is there if needed and lastly they know where the run set falls in your run program. They can see your question in relation to the big picture.
This box also allows your coach to ask questions if there is more information that is needed from you.
Coach and Ultra Runner Communication is Vital
Further to this if a phone call is need to talk or an email is needed to convey more information then that’s no problem either.
This is the personalization and support that comes with 1v1 online ultramarathon coaching.
You are never on your own, your coach, in this case me, has your back!
Are you ready to run your best ultramarathon?
Enjoy the adventure.
Run, smile and have fun!
Nick Muxlow