I agree with han-grrl.

I've gone both routes. I started out with a 'fitness specific' coach who was great in terms of getting my zones where I wanted them to be but when it came to the races it seemed I just could not perform.

Then I moved to a coach who knew me well and knew my sport very well. The training became very specific to the race length and type that I wanted to excel in ... and it paid off. I moved from 11th to 7th in the Pro field ranking in Ontario in one year.

I now have a mix of the two and it's the best of both worlds. I definately think that too much racing can burn you out ... but also that the best way to learn to race ... is to race! Just remember that not every ride can be a race.

My 2 cents!

I pay $110/month but it includes 4 VO2/Zone tests per year. Pricing varies but the most impt thing is to get the one who meets your needs.