Becoming a Certified Running Coach

Marathon Runners Often Turn to Personal Trainers for Improvement

Oct 22, 2009

More runners are turning to personal coaches in order to maximize their training and improve their race times. There are several methods of becoming a training coach.

Many runners want to run faster and often seek a personal running coach to help with their training program. Becoming a running coach can be a great way for a runner to turn an fitness hobby into income. The certification process for coaches adds credibility and knowledge for better coaching. There are various programs available for certification.

Running coaches work with all levels of athletes from beginners to seasoned marathoners. Coaches design specific training programs with the focus according to the runner's goals, whether it's a faster marathon or 5K. Coaches may work individually with athletes or as part of a group training program for a specific race. Local running stores may offer training programs led by a running coach for particular local races.

RRCA Coaching Certification Program

Road Runners Club of America offers a two-day road running and racing coach certification class. This certification is primarily designed for trainers who want to focus on working with adult distance runners. The program is available in several cities across the United States. It is usually associated with a local marathon. Cost for the class is $250. Coach candidates learn

After participating in the class, coaches take an online certification exam which does not require renewal. Coaches must also be certified in basic first aid and CPR which can be obtained through organizations such at the Red Cross.

USATF Coaching Certification Program

USA Track and Field offers coaching certification geared toward coaches who are interested in track and field events. Coaching levels start with a Developmental program for beginning coaches. There are three additional levels which focus on sports science, training techniques and safety. Training includes information for coaching junior high, high school, college and club teams. The Developmental school costs $15 while fees for the level 3 program are $175.

American College of Sports Medicine Personal Trainer Certification

ACSM claims to have been the first group to offer certification for fitness professionals. The Certified Personal Trainer is a general certification in fitness training. Personal trainers develop individual exercise programs for their clients while keeping safety in mind. They are trained in general exercise, but some do specialize in running programs.

Study textbooks and workshops are available to aid in passing the certification exam. The exam is computer-based and costs $219 for ACSM members, $279 for others. Certification through ACSM must be renewed every three years. Trainers also must earn continuing education credits to maintain certification.

Benefits of Coaching Certification

Coaches learn training and safety techniques while participating in a credentialing process. Having a certification also increases credibility when seeking clients or applying for a coaching position. Certifying organizations often offer resources for keeping up with new information in sports science as well as opportunities for advertising availability as a coach. Interested individuals should contact one of the certifying organizations for more information.

The copyright of the article Becoming a Certified Running Coach in Running Training & Fitness is owned by Melissa Murfin. Permission to republish Becoming a Certified Running Coach in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.