In-person local coach or remote coaching?
The accessibility of remote coaching through video analysis and regular check-ins makes finding your ideal triathlon mentor possible, regardless of proximity, by opening up options to work with the best coaches aligned to your needs.
One of the first big decisions when seeking a triathlon coach is whether you want an in-person local coach or are open to remote coaching. Each approach has pros and cons.
Local coaches allow for regular face-to-face meetings (which I lvoed doing back in the day), hands-on stroke analysis and adjustments, course previews together, and side-by-side training. You develop closer rapport in person. However, your options are limited by geography, so you may not find the optimal experience or specialty you seek.
Remote coaching opens up your options to work with the best coaches for your needs, regardless of proximity. Through video chat and data sharing, many top coaches can still analyse and tweak your technique. The downside is less in-person interaction and accountability.
Consider if you truly need or want regular in-person contact or are comfortable connecting virtually. Do you crave proximity for motivation and tough love? Or are you self-driven enough to thrive with remote check-ins?
Think about the specialty you seek - for example, open water swimming expertise or a coach who knows your goal races inside out. Location of the best fit should be secondary.
While challenging, the accessibility of remote coaching today makes finding the ideal coach for your needs and goals possible, regardless of geography. An openness to virtual training guidance unlocks next level performance.