I’m back at it again, gearing up for marathon number 12, and the burning question remains: Will I finally conquer the sub-4-hour finish? My pursuit of this goal began in 2020, and I’ve been transparent about it since. Initially training for the London Marathon, the pandemic threw a wrench in my plans, leading to cancelled races and a shift in focus. Over the past two years, I’ve faced multiple marathon training setbacks, which has led me to focus on finding the right running coach. Now, I’m left wondering if reaching my ‘pre-pandemic’ fitness level is still possible.

Why Manchester Marathon is Perfect for a Personal Best

Manchester Marathon is always a favourite race of mine because of its flat, fast course—perfect for attempting a new personal best. Last October, I took a leap and accepted coaching for the first time. A running coach approached me, offering a partnership in exchange for ambassadorship, and after years of using free online training plans, I was curious to see how guided coaching could impact my performance.

Race Day Recap: Highs, Lows, and Lessons

Race day conditions were perfect as Becca and I made our way to the start. With staggered start times and wave settings, the initial congestion was minimal, though it left us with a lot of waiting—hello, nervous bathroom breaks! After joining several toilet queues, we finally started just after 10am.

This was my first time running the new Manchester Marathon course, though honestly, I was so zoned out that I couldn’t pinpoint the “new” section. The atmosphere, however, didn’t disappoint—Manchester’s crowds are always brilliant. I felt strong through the first half, crossing the 13.1-mile marker in 2:03, but that’s when my lack of long runs began to show.

The Struggles of the Second Half: Hitting ‘The Wall’

As notifications of my friends’ successful races popped up on my watch, I could have felt disheartened, but I was genuinely happy for them. My focus was on finishing. The second half was tough, and by the time I reached the finish line, I was emotionally spent. Despite the support from the crowd, I crossed in 4:35:28, disappointed but determined to learn from it.

Manchester Marathon

Marathon training setbacks: The coaching experience

Looking back, my first experience with coaching didn’t quite meet my expectations. The pairing between coach and runner felt mismatched; however, I still gained value from incorporating yoga, stretching, and gym workouts into my routine. Initially, I had high hopes for a structured approach to my training, believing a coach would provide the guidance I needed to finally break the sub-4-hour barrier.

Yet, I learned that coaching styles vary widely, and finding the right fit is crucial. The biggest takeaway? Training is deeply personal. Just because a coaching method works for someone else doesn’t mean it will work for you. My experience taught me the importance of adapting training to fit my needs and preferences, rather than rigidly adhering to a plan that doesn’t resonate.

Tips for Finding the Right Running Coach

  1. Clarify Your Goals: Before you begin your search, define your running goals clearly. Are you aiming for a personal best? Looking to qualify for a specific race? Or simply trying to enhance your technique and prevent injuries? If you’re seeking structure for your weekly runs, a coach specializing in elite marathon training may not be the right fit.
  2. Check Qualifications: Not all running coaches bring the same level of expertise. Seek out a coach with relevant certifications and experience, especially in areas like marathon training, strength work, or injury prevention. Don’t hesitate to ask about their qualifications and previous coaching successes.
  3. Communication Style: This is a big one. Some coaches lean toward tough love, while others offer a more supportive and flexible approach. Determine what motivates you. Do you thrive on constant feedback, or do you prefer more independence? Ensure your coach’s communication style aligns with your needs so you feel empowered throughout your training.
  4. Access and Flexibility: Consider how much access you’ll have to your coach. Will they check in with you weekly or only provide feedback post-race? Some runners value regular check-ins and quick responses, while others appreciate a more hands-off approach. Discuss this upfront to prevent any frustrations later on.
  5. Trial Periods and Flexibility: Many coaches offer trial sessions or short-term packages—take advantage of these opportunities to assess fit before making a long-term commitment. Also, consider how adaptable the coach is with adjusting training plans. Life can be unpredictable, and you’ll want a coach who can pivot when necessary.
  6. Cultural Fit: This can sometimes be overlooked, but having a coach whose philosophy and values align with yours is important. If you’re all about balance and self-care, but your coach only values high mileage at any cost, it may not be a good fit. You want a coach who respects your approach to running and works with you to achieve your goals in a sustainable way.

Lessons Learned from My Marathon Training

Marathons never go perfectly, and that’s the beauty of them. Whether or not you hit your goal time, the months of preparation—early mornings, cold-weather runs, and juggling a busy life—are what truly matter. A marathon is a beast that humbles even the best runners. Each one teaches you something new, reminding you that sometimes, just finishing is the real victory.