Most coaches have a solid grasp of the basics—run more, build aerobic capacity, and do some strength work. But where many fall short is in understanding how the body actually adapts to training over time, especially for athletes who don’t fit the "typical" mold.
It’s easy to talk about VO₂ max, lactate threshold, and heart rate zones. But real coaching isn’t just about prescribing workouts—it’s about understanding the physiology, biomechanics, and metabolic processes that drive performance and then adapting them to the individual.
Where Coaches Can Go Deeper:
➡ Physiology Isn’t One-Size-Fits-All
Runners aren’t just numbers on a pace chart. Hormonal shifts, stress, sleep, and recovery all affect how the body responds to training. If a coach isn’t considering these factors, they’re missing half the picture.
➡ Functional Anatomy Matters More Than You Think
Strength training isn’t just about lifting weights. Functional movement, tendon health, and neuromuscular efficiency play a massive role in durability and performance—especially as athletes age.
➡ Metabolic Processes Are More Than Just Carbs vs. Fat
Fueling strategies should be tailored to the individual, their training intensity, and their physiological needs—not just based on what worked for someone else. Metabolism isn’t static, and adaptation is key.
➡ Being Fast Doesn’t Equal Being an Expert
Just because an athlete runs a sub-3 marathon doesn’t mean they understand biomechanics or energy systems. And just because a coach isn’t an elite runner doesn’t mean they don’t have a deep understanding of human performance. Knowledge and experience matter more than personal race times.
Shifting the Conversation
Coaching isn’t about prescribing workouts—it’s about understanding the body, adapting training to the individual, and guiding athletes to long-term success. If we only focus on pace and mileage, we’re missing an opportunity to truly elevate performance and longevity in the sport.
What do you think? Have you worked with a coach who helped you see the bigger picture in your training?