Coaching Problem-Am I asking too much?

Some coaches offer affordable coaching options with the premise that communication might be limited hence if that is the case then you might have your answer right there. OTOH if the coach suggested you could communicate as often as possible then you are not getting your money's worth.

If you are not happy now and it is more than a year before your IM consider switching.

Like Jorge said often their are options of coaching levels and you need to find one that works right for you as to the level of contact within the context of your goals and the program that appeals to you.

Lots of coaches to choose from with different ways of running their coaching business as well as their philosophy of coaching. Be happy you found out now it isn't working instead of in the midst of your IM build.

When I looked into coaches 4 years ago I really wanted to work with a women. I contacted a few coaches and had my list of questions to ask. With the women I wanted to like she just kept dropping the ball. I learned later she would give all her clients the same training plan even though they hired her for individualized coaching. I'm pleased that I opted to go with the coach I did as he asked me lots of questions of what my goals/dreams were and about me and my lifestyle. Now 4 years later he still remembers what we talked about and when something positive happens in one of those area he comments about it. The goal I recall was to be a good example for my kids and positively influence them into a healthy fit lifestyle.

Other thing I like about my coach is he does it full time which shows a deep level of commitment to doing a good job. He is doing coaching during the day not another job so he is reachable to answer questions. Other thing I like is he trains and enjoys fitness but isn't racing now which means he is around and not traveling or building/peaking for his events which may interfer with his coaching me and others.

There are lots of great coaches but I think it is all about fit and knowledge. Do they fit well with you ie they way you communicate with you, attitude, style, all those intangable things that are important . Do they have the knowledge to help you achieve your best and reach your goals.

There was a thread about questions to ask a prospective coach; I'll see if I can dig it up but basically it is going to involve research.  Not only what is presented on their website but several conversations (either phone or email) with the coach about philosophies, number of athletes they coach, results of their athletes, communication, plan delivery, etc.  Following that, if you can contact current/former athletes then you can talk to them about their experiences, improvements, why they left the coach, etc.

Here's the link:

http://www.beginnertriathlete.com/discussion/forums/thread-view.asp?tid=100435&posts=9&highlight=coach&highlightmode=1#M1141607

Shane

Andrew,

If I were you, I would contact the coach, preferably in writing so that you can clearly outline all of your concerns.  Hopefully it is just a misunderstanding and you and your coach will be able to work things out.  If not, I would let the coach know that things aren't working out, providing the reasons (this may help their next client) and then begin the search all over.

Good luck,

Shane

your expectations aren't being met. sounds like he's not holding up his end of the proverbial bargain.

 and as such... you've got PM.

~B

I always think a personal reference is the best way to go.  You and your wife definitely need to feel comfortable with this piece of your Ironman training.  My coach is working with several IMCdA clients right now and I'd be happy to share her information.  In fact, after this post, you'll probably be flooded with wonderful coach recommendations!

Best of luck to both of you.  How cool that you are doing this together!

I haven't read the other posts, so this is probably a repeat.  You are paying for a service.  If it's not what you expected, talk to the provider of the service about your concerns.  If there was a misscomunication, either come to an agreementunderstanding, or discontinue.  Not under contract are you?

That describes tthe experience I had with my coach two years ago.  I was supposed to get weekly emails with workouts.  Was okay at first but after a couple of months they started coming several days late.  When I would call or send an email to remind him, I got stuff back that didn't make any sense at all.  I figured part of it was that I was a BOP'er and he focused more on his elite clients, but at the same time he was cashing my checks, so I didn't feel bad about complaining. 

Mark

That includes Jorge himself. 

To be fair... from what I've heard, Jorge is a good coach.

Andrew,

Good luck with your search for a new coach; I hope that your next experience is more positive than the last

I would echo Jorge's point about not getting hung up on having an IM finisher as your coach; find someone who you click with, provides the program in a way that you are comfortable with, allows for as much contact as you require and you should be all set.

Shane

jazz82482 - 2008-06-04 9:06 AM Jorge is a GREAT coach!!

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