How to Find the Right Online Running Coach: What to Look For and Questions to Ask

If you're thinking about working with a running coach, it can be overwhelming to figure out where to start. There are so many options out there, each promising something different — and a lot of things that sound the same! How do you know which one is right for you?

This guide will walk you through what to look for in an online running coach and the kinds of questions to ask before making your decision.

Why Work with an Online Running Coach?

First, let’s talk about why working with a running coach is worth considering. Whether you’re training for a race, coming back from injury, or you just want to find a better running routine, having a coach will give you a personalized plan, support, and accountability.

A coach can help you explore your ambitions and set the right goals to keep you motivated, and they will be able to take a big-picture look at your training and see when it’s time to push forward or pull back. It’s never too early or too late to consider coaching — all levels of runners benefit from coaching, just in different ways. 

Online coaching, in particular, offers flexibility — you can access expert guidance without needing to meet in person, which makes it more convenient and easier to fit in an already busy life. It also gives you a lot more options when you don’t have to find someone who lives in your local area. 

Like with any service, it’s important to make sure you’re choosing a coach that matches your goals, personality, and lifestyle. Coaches and runners are all different, and it’s worth putting in the time to find a coach whose services, communication style and philosophy are a great match for your needs!

What to Look for in an Online Running Coach

1. Credentials and Experience

One of the first things to check is the coach’s background. Do they have certifications in run coaching, personal training, or sports science? Make sure you work with someone with the appropriate training and qualifications.

Experience is important too. Have they worked with runners like you — whether you’re aiming for your first 5K, a marathon PR, or just trying to balance running with a busy life? What ages and experience levels do they coach? Many coaches specialize in certain types of runners and have additional skills and knowledge in that area. 

Look for:

• Certifications in run coaching, from organizations like RRCA, UESCA or USATF.

• Practical experience, including how long they’ve been coaching and their work with runners at your level (whether beginner, intermediate, or advanced).

2. Coaching Style and Philosophy

Every coach has their own approach. Some focus on performance and PRs, while others might emphasize running as a long-term, healthy habit. To be successful and enjoy the process, it’s crucial to find someone whose philosophy and personality align with yours.

A few questions to ask yourself:

• Do you want someone who will push you hard, or do you need a coach who provides positive encouragement and guidance?

• Are you looking for someone to direct you closely and take charge, or would you do better in a collaborative relationship?

• What are your needs when it comes to wellness and longevity, recovery, race goals, and training intensity?

3. Communication Schedule

Since you’re not meeting face-to-face, clear and consistent communication is key. Find out how often the coach checks in and what methods they use. Is there flexibility to agree on a communication schedule that works for you, or does the coach offer a set package? Some include monthly or quarterly video calls, while others might give you a weekly email or ad-hoc messaging.

Think about what type of support you need and would be most successful with — do you want frequent feedback, or are you okay with a more hands-off approach?

Look for a coach who:

• Communicates in a way that works for you — whether that’s weekly calls, regular messaging, or detailed feedback on your runs.

• Offers the right level of accountability and check-ins for your needs.

4. Tailored Training Plans

A good run coach should provide you with a plan that’s tailored to your specific needs — not just a cookie-cutter program. Make sure they take into account your current fitness level, injury history, lifestyle, schedule, and goals. They should also be flexible enough to adjust your plan if life gets in the way or you need extra recovery time.

Check if the coach:

• Customizes training plans based on your personal fitness level and goals. 

• Adjusts the plan as needed based on your progress or any unexpected obstacles.

5. Support Beyond Running

Some coaches offer more than just running plans. They might include strength programs, nutrition guidance, or advice on injury rehab or recovery. Many runners work with dedicated experts in each different area, but if you want the same person to provide more than run coaching, look for extra qualifications and experience.

Depending on your needs and priorities, you may want to look for:

• Coaches with experience in strength training, nutrition, or injury prevention.

• Coaches who focus on whole-body health and balanced wellness.

• Coaches who provide additional services like gait analysis, technique assessments or mindset coaching.

Note that a running coach shouldn’t offer personalized nutrition or strength training programs unless they also hold a certification in that area. However, general discussions about cross-training and fueling are within a running coach’s scope of practice and something you can expect a knowledgeable coach to be able to advise you on.

Questions to Ask a Potential Coach

Once you’ve narrowed down your options, reach out to the coach and ask a few key questions to make sure they’re the right fit for you. Many coaches will offer an introductory phone call, which is a great opportunity to see if they feel like a good match for your needs and personality —and all should be happy to at least answer your questions by email.

1. What’s your training philosophy?

This will give you insight into their overall approach to training and how they’ll support you in reaching your goals.

2. How do you communicate with your athletes?

Find out how often they check in, what platforms they use, and how quickly you can expect to hear back from them.

3. How will you customize my training plan?

Make sure they’re planning to design something specific to your goals, fitness level, and lifestyle, not just sending out generic training programs.

4. What type of runners do you typically work with?

Knowing who they’ve coached in the past can help you see if they’re familiar with runners like you, whether you’re a beginner, aiming for your fastest marathon, or juggling running with a busy life.

5. What do you expect from me?

It’s important to know how much time and effort the coach expects you to put in, both in training and in communication. This can help you figure out if it aligns with your own expectations and availability.

6. How do you handle setbacks like injuries or missed workouts?

Life happens, and sometimes you might miss a workout or need to slow down because of an injury. See how flexible they are when things don’t go perfectly according to plan.

Lastly, cost is a factor for most of us — just keep in mind that for the best chance of success and a positive coaching experience, the right fit is by far the most important thing. When comparing prices and packages, note any minimum contracts, how often you're billed, and make sure you understand what's included. Don't compare apples to oranges!

Final Thoughts: Take Your Time!

Finding the right online running coach isn’t something to rush. Take the time to chat with a few coaches, look at their backgrounds, and ask plenty of questions. The right coach will not only help you become a better runner but will also understand your unique needs and challenges, keeping you healthy, motivated, and inspired.

And remember — coaching is a relationship. The best fit will be someone you can communicate with easily and feel comfortable trusting with your goals. After all, running isn’t just about hitting a number on the clock — it’s about enjoying the journey.

Happy running!

If you're currently looking for a running coach, I would be happy to chat about your goals and answer all your questions. Learn more about working with me, and start the conversation by completing the coaching interest form or reaching out by email.

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About the author:

Heini Tallent is an RRCA Level 2 certified distance running coach and licensed massage therapist with a holistic, client-centered approach to coaching. She helps recreational runners aged 40ish and up train with more confidence, feel more motivated, and discover sustainable ways of making running a healthy and enjoyable lifelong habit. She is currently training for her first Boston Marathon and studying to become a functional medicine certified health coach in 2025.