Life as a Running Coach
A Journey of Mindset, Compassion, and Endless Goals
October 15, 2023
Coach Janelle
You know, coaching is a lot like a long-term relationship. It's filled with emotions, highs, and, yes, a few lows. But it's also incredibly rewarding, just like my journey with running. I want to take you behind the scenes of what it's like to be a running coach, how it rekindled my passion, and why it's a job that means the world to me.
The Dark Days
There was a time when anxiety and depression cast a shadow over my life. It's when I lost the joy in running, something that's been a part of me for as long as I can remember. I was pushing myself too hard, chasing personal bests, and comparing myself to others. I forgot my "why" for running, my true purpose.
Rediscovering My Passion
But like the sun after a storm, my passion for running returned. I began working on myself, my mindset, and I found that missing spark. It was then that I knew I wanted to help others through the tough times, whether in their running journey or life.
Daily Dedication
Being a coach isn't a 9-to-5 job; it's a 24/7 commitment. My mornings start early as I dive into training plans, offering feedback to clients in different time zones. I read articles, listen to podcasts, and stay updated on the ever-evolving world of running and coaching. I make sure I'm always giving my clients the best experience possible.
Race Day Rush
Before and after race days are my busiest. I schedule coaching calls to discuss race strategy, pacing, and mindset before the big day. Afterward, we debrief each race, understanding what worked and what didn't. It's all about learning and growing for the next challenge.
A Multifaceted Role
A coach wears many hats. Sometimes, I have to have tough conversations with clients to understand what's holding them back. Other times, it's all about celebrating their wins and setting new goals. Timing and knowing the client are everything. Building trust is my number one priority.
The Transformation
There's one client who stands out. They were hard on themselves, doubting their ability to reach their goals. Together, we developed mantras, affirmations, and a visualization strategy. On race day, they smashed their half marathon PB by over four minutes. It was a moment of pure triumph.
Sharing Emotions
As a coach, it's all about my clients. I set my own emotions aside, putting myself in their shoes. If they see a workout or a race as a "failure," I feel their emotions—regret, sadness, and frustration. The same goes for their triumphs, which I share wholeheartedly.
Coaching's True Power
Most clients start with specific time or distance goals, but they often find much more. They discover their true motivations, a sense of community, and belonging. I guide them through visualization and workbook activities, teaching them that mindset is an underrated tool we all possess.
Unlocking Potential
The best part of coaching? Watching people start to believe in themselves. They realize they can do hard things, set new goals, and achieve what they once thought was impossible. The mind is a powerful tool, and I help people unlock their potential through affirmations, manifestation, and the simple act of limiting negative self-talk.
Lessons in Setbacks
We all have setbacks, and as a coach, I'm here to help clients through the tough times. It's all about learning and growing. If there's one thing I've learned, it's that there's never a failure, only a lesson. And I, as a coach, continue to adapt and grow with every client's journey.
Choosing the Right Coach
If you're considering hiring a running coach, make sure they have your best interests at heart. Ensure they work with you to understand your goals and motivations. Your goals should be yours and yours alone, and a coach should be there to guide, support, and inspire you on that journey. Because in the end, it's all about believing in yourself.
So, this is the life of a running coach, a job that means the world to me. If you're curious about coaching, have questions, or want to share your running journey, please feel free to reach out. I'm always here to listen and help.
Want to learn more about how our coaching can help you? Check out our services available for both physical and mental training and unlock your full potential today.
