Dear Harriers
This week it’s UK Coaching Week (5th – 11th June) and I’m using it as a shameless plug to ask whether any of you are interested in being a run leader/running coach. Ever wondered what a running coach does? Are you passionate about running and want to help support, motivate and encourage your fellow runners to achieve their goals?
We are looking for more new coaches to join our coaching team. If you think this might be you then please read on.
Do I need to be qualified?
To take a group you need to have completed a Leader in Running Fitness (LiRF) course provided by England Athletics and successfully pass a DBS check. The LiRF is a 1-day course which the club will pay for and there is no charge for the DBS check. Courses are often held at weekends so shouldn’t interfere with (most people’s) work commitments.
Do I have to be really fit or a really fast runner to be a coach?
No, you don’t have to be a fast runner, personal trainer or physio to be a coach. Enthusiasm and motivation to support you fellow runners are the most important aspects.
Will I have to do it every week?
No, we operate a rota system so that the weeks are shared out equally. It depends on how many coaches we have but expect to do two sessions a month. We all have work or family commitments from time to time so we build that into the rota.
Can I participate in a session and coach at the same time?
We prefer that if you are rota’d to coach that you don’t also participate in the session as well. This is from both a health and safety perspective (in case you are needed if there is an incident) and to be there to support your fellow runners. It may be possible to partake in some of the session or run alongside your fellow runners but your primary focus should be on the group rather than your own running. Obviously if you are not rota’d to coach you are more than welcome to join the session.
Will I get paid?
Unfortunately, not. This is a voluntary position. Fees paid by members for Monday night sessions just cover the hire cost of the track.
What will I get out of it?
You get to give something back to the club.
Help motivate and inspire your fellow runners.
An England Athletics qualification.
For me, it has improved my understanding about running form and body dynamics which has also helped my own running.
It has also helped my own confidence and assertiveness.
I’m sort of interested but not sure, who should I speak to if I want to know more?
Please feel free to approach any of the coaches for an informal chat (no obligation), via email or in person either on a Monday/Tuesday night or other Harriers’ event. You can also read more on the England Athletics website.
And finally if you have never been to a Monday track session or a Tuesday speed session then please do feel free to come along and give it a try. You don’t have to be fast or have run 100s of races. We welcome runners of all abilities and it doesn’t just help improve your speed but helps build overall endurance too.
If you have any questions about coaching or Monday/Tuesday night sessions please do get in touch with me or one of the other coaches,
With very best wishes
Sonja