online coaching recommendations?

[knapplaura]

All,
Am seriously considering getting a coach for IM AZ in 08, but am having a tough time deciding which to go with.

I really like what Rich Strauss / Endurance Nation says as far as philosophy, but am looking for any feedback folks have had w/ any online coaches.

I am prepared to spend some money but not go totally wild.

thanks!
Laura

[Running Mommy]

A "friend" (online pal from TNO) named Molly did very good with Mark Allens program. I liked how he made every workout mean something. No such thing as junk miles in his program.
And she did every well. She was the first place woman at IMLP in 06 (or maybe it was 05?). - They had no pro women that year...

[Jones]

My friend Lori coaches for and is coached by
http://www.counterpartcoaching.com
She always seems to do well in her races. I don't race Ironman though so I can't give and opinion on if they are good or bad.
Jones

[Wahine]

I have a friend that used Mark Allen for HIM distance this year and was really happy.

I have not used a strictly on-line coach so I don't have any personal experience in this department.

[lovetotrigyrl]

hi Laura,
i saw your query and thought that i would add some thought to it.

when choosing a coach, it's important to:

1) have them (the coach) share your training philosophies.
2) do you want a coach that can coach on line or do you want a strictly on-line coach.
3) do you want an individualized program based upon your needs, training time (and intensities) your family and work obligations also any injuries past or present or do you want a general/"cookie-cutter" program.
4) do you want weekly adjustments to your plan (as per what you have done during the previous week) or do you want a monthly program
5) how much interaction or support do you need from your coach
6) do you want a male or female coach.
7) do you want a coach that specializes in training women.
8) obviously experience but the ability to communicate and education levels are important. do you want a USAT coach?


i hope this helps you (and others) start the process in choosing a coach that fits your needs and is appropriate for you.

cheers,
--dorothy

[knapplaura]

Dorothy,
Thanks for the advice.

The coach-search is striking out. The one I wanted, EN Coach by Rich Strauss, is not taking new people. The others I have found that sound like philosophies I agree with cost over $200 per month.

I have decided to go it on my own again this year, and to use my money to pay for a personal trainer at least once or twice a week to work on core strength.

My other plan is to either do a masters swim group here in town (though so far they are not impressing me at all and seem to waste a lot of time) or work with a Total Immersion coach in Atlanta about once a month.

I bought Don Fink's Be Iron Fit book, and it has a decent program. I am combining his info w/what I know from Going Long and Crucible Fitness basic ironman training.

We'll see how this shakes out....if I don't reach my goal for this IM I will get a coach next time. But, I honestly believe I can do it w/focus. 6 months to go!
Laura