Why Personalised Coaching Could Be the Key to Unlocking Your Running Potential
If you’ve ever downloaded a generic training plan online and tried to follow it to the letter, you’ll know it doesn’t always go to plan. Life gets in the way. You miss a session, your legs feel heavier than expected, or maybe you’re progressing faster than the plan allows. That’s where personalised coaching comes in — and it’s something we’re passionate about here at Running Bear.
To dig deeper, we spoke with Coach Nick, one of the expert running coaches we work with, to get his thoughts on what runners often get wrong — and why a tailored training plan can make all the difference.
The Common Mistake: Trying to Improve Too Quickly
According to Nick, one of the biggest mistakes runners make when trying to improve is doing too much, too soon.
“Athletes often try to improve too quickly by running too fast too often,” says Nick. “They forget to allow time for proper rest and recovery.”
Running fast all the time might feel productive, but in reality, it can lead to burnout, injury, or plateauing. Improvement happens during recovery — when your body adapts and grows stronger.
Nick doesn’t strictly follow the popular “80% easy, 20% hard” rule; instead, he believes in listening to the individual. Every runner’s body responds differently, and a coach can help find the right balance for you.
Why a Personalised Plan Always Wins
A personalised training plan is flexible and dynamic — it adapts as you do.
“Generic plans can’t allow for life’s interruptions,” Nick explains. “A dynamic training plan moves with you and your progress. If you’re improving faster than expected, the plan can change. If you miss a session, it can adjust.”
This flexibility is what helps runners stay consistent and motivated. Instead of feeling guilty for missing a session, you can refocus and move forward with guidance that keeps your long-term goals in sight.
Real Results: Rob’s Story
Nick shared an inspiring example of how personalised coaching can transform performance.
“Rob was a talented runner who ran a 2:43 marathon but felt something wasn’t quite right,” Nick says. “After six months of personalised coaching, he ran 2:25 and placed 6th at the Chester Marathon.”
The key? A dynamic relationship between coach and athlete, a science-backed approach, and consistent feedback.
The Importance of Intensity and Recovery
Nick structures his coaching in training blocks, each with a specific focus. Within these blocks, training intensity builds gradually, and recovery is carefully planned in.
“We use training apps to track stats, but it’s the ongoing feedback and discussions between coach and athlete that really make the difference,” Nick explains.
That two-way communication helps ensure every workout has a purpose — and that athletes recover enough to perform at their best.
Coach Nick’s Final Piece of Advice
“Enjoy yourself. You’re doing this to be the best version of you — and to believe in yourself.”
Running should always bring joy and satisfaction. Whether you’re chasing a PB, building consistency, or simply running for mental health, personalised coaching helps make the process enjoyable and sustainable.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
At Running Bear, we work with experienced coaches like Nick who can create a personalised plan tailored to your goals, lifestyle, and ability. Whether you’re training for your first 5K or your next marathon, expert guidance can make all the difference.
👉 Find your perfect running coach today and start your journey to becoming the best version of yourself.