The Difference Between Good and Great: One Critical Choice

Do You “Need” a Coach?

Obviously, the answer is no. No one strictly “needs” a coach. BUT if, as an endurance athlete, you have specific goals, the right coach will always be hugely beneficial.

Anyone can do it themselves, just like anyone can cut their own hair, paint their own walls, or hang their own doors. However, paying for expertise generally means getting the job done faster and to a higher standard.

I often hear athletes proudly proclaim, “I achieved ‘X’ on my own through pure determination, discipline, and willpower. I don’t need anyone else.” To which I always respond: That’s impressive – now imagine what you could have achieved with the extra support the right coach provides.

There’s a reason why every great sportsperson has a coach. You might not be aiming to be a world champion, but don’t you want to be the absolute best version of yourself?

Notice I’ve repeated “the right coach” – and that distinction is crucial.

After years in this game, I’ve learned that the relationship between coach and athlete is everything. Sometimes a partnership starts brilliantly but evolves to reveal fundamental misalignments. When that happens, the healthiest approach is to part ways professionally, thanking each other for the journey.

For a coaching relationship to work, you need shared core values and beliefs. I’ve separated from athletes whose approaches conflict with my fundamental philosophy that a better person makes a better athlete. If an athlete is willing to cut corners or prioritise outcomes over integrity, we’re not a good match.

I’ve also moved on from athletes who consistently undermine structured training. Rest days aren’t suggestions – they’re critical. An athlete adding an “easy” 10-mile run on a recovery day or sneaking in unnecessary strength work isn’t demonstrating commitment; they’re potentially sabotaging their own progress.

My mantra is always “Your Goals are My Goals” – but that doesn’t mean blindly supporting every impulse.

I’ve invested years studying endurance, biomechanics, and strength conditioning. For the right athlete, I can be transformative. For the wrong one, I’m likely seen as an obstacle.

The Tangible Benefits of Coaching: 

A great coach transforms your athletic journey through systematic, science-backed support:

Structured Learning and Optimisation:

Coaches provide training plans rooted in scientific principles and proven methods. Unlike self-devised programs, these structured approaches are designed for maximum efficiency, ensuring every training session has purpose and precision. For athletes balancing training with work, family, and other responsibilities, this targeted approach means achieving better results in less time.

Customised Performance Strategy:

 Cookie-cutter training plans are a thing of the past. A skilled coach tailors programs to your:

• Unique physiological makeup
• Individual strengths and weaknesses
• Specific age and fitness level
• Personal performance goals

This level of personalisation is virtually impossible to achieve through self-teaching or generic online resources.

Accountability and Psychological Support 

Beyond physical training, a coach serves as:

• A motivational catalyst
• An emotional support system
• An accountability partner who ensures you:
  
  • – Stick to training schedules
  • – Push through performance barriers
  • – Overcome mental and physical setbacks

Safety and Technical Mastery 

Coaches bring critical expertise in:

• Proper form and technique
• Injury prevention strategies
• Recognising signs of overtraining
• Biomechanics optimisation

Advanced Insights and Continuous Improvement 

Leveraging years of experience working with diverse athletes, coaches offer:

• Nuanced performance feedback
• Constructive criticism
• Performance monitoring
• Strategic technique refinement

The Holistic Approach 

A great coach doesn’t just improve your athletic performance – they invest in your comprehensive development as an athlete and individual. They bring a wealth of knowledge accumulated through years of working with athletes across various disciplines.

Remember, the goal isn’t just to train harder, but to train smarter. The right coach can be the difference between good and great – between potential and breakthrough.

Closing Thoughts: Your Potential, Unleashed

Ultimately, a coach isn’t about replacing your drive or undermining your self-belief. A great coach is a catalyst – someone who helps you unlock potential you didn’t even know you possessed. They’re the mirror reflecting your capabilities, the strategist mapping your path, and occasionally, the gentle but firm voice that keeps you accountable.

Whether you choose to work with a coach or continue your journey independently, the most important thing is maintaining curiosity, commitment, and a growth mindset. 

Keep learning, keep challenging yourself, and never stop believing in your capacity to improve.

Your athletic journey is uniquely yours. Own it.