There’s a lot of chatter in the fitness and coaching world about credentials. Some people believe the only way to be a legitimate trainer or coach is through a four-year degree in exercise science, physiology, or kinesiology. Others argue that hands-on experience and specialized certifications can be just as valuable.
So, which is it?
The truth is, both education and experience matter—but the best coaches are the ones who never stop learning.
The Reality of Coaching Credentials
There’s no denying that a degree provides a strong foundation. Studying exercise physiology, anatomy, biomechanics, and sports science in an academic setting can be incredibly valuable. It gives you access to research, mentorship, and a structured approach to understanding movement and performance.
But let’s be real. A degree alone doesn’t make someone a great coach. Coaching is about more than textbook knowledge. It’s about how you apply that knowledge to real people with different bodies, histories, and goals.
On the flip side, someone who’s spent years coaching athletes, completing certifications, and staying up-to-date on the latest research can be just as, if not more, effective than someone with a degree who has never worked with a diverse group of clients. Experience teaches things that classrooms can’t.
The Best Coaches Keep Learning
What really separates great coaches from the rest isn’t whether they spent four years in a university or six months earning a certification. It’s whether they continue to learn, evolve, and adapt.
The best coaches:
- Stay up-to-date on the latest research and training methods
- Invest in continuing education, whether through workshops, courses, or mentorship
- Have hands-on experience working with a variety of athletes
- Know how to communicate, adapt, and meet clients where they are
Degrees and certifications are tools, but the real magic happens when a coach knows how to take what they’ve learned and apply it in a way that actually helps their athletes succeed.
Why This Matters for You
If you’re looking for a coach, don’t get too caught up in titles. Look at their approach, experience, and how they continue to grow in their field. A piece of paper doesn’t guarantee results—knowledge, application, and experience do.
As a running and strength coach, I bring a combination of education, certification, and real-world coaching experience to the table. I work with masters and menopausal athletes who need a coach who understands both the science and the lived experience of training through different life stages. My approach is evidence-based but also rooted in practicality.
If you’re looking for a coach who values both education and experience—and who will help you get stronger, faster, and more resilient—let’s work together. Reach out and let’s talk about your goals.