I say "absolutely not" does a coach have to be local. Start with the search function here on ST. Many good coaches add to the discussion.

Word of mouth is probably the best. Talk to friends, see if they have had any luck. I've had three coaches, the worst was actually a local teammate. Surprisingly I had more success with online coaches. I've been with my current coach for two years with much success. Make a list of a few coaches who come recommended and the interview them. It needs to be a good fit on both ends... it's not quite a marriage, but it can be pretty damn close so it's important you're on the same page.

I figured word of mouth was big, but I'm not really very social in the local triathlon scene. Kind of picked up the hobby on my own. Most friends are hunting and fishing (my old hobbies that I've put in hold) and think im crazy when I bring up tri stuff.

I think you need to decide a few things:

First, is probably budget. How much do you want to spend per month? There is a wide range of price points.

Second, what are your needs and goals? Do you need someone to observe workouts (swim or track workouts)? Do you want to talk to the coach once per week? Are you ok with just email communication? Then are you goals to just get faster, win your AG at a local race, qualify for Kona? And how much work are you willing to put in vs how much free time do you have?

Once you decide those two things, start with 1) word of mouth, 2) slowtwitch coaching directory 3) USAT directory of coachs (note: just because they are a USAT coach doesn't make them good; USAT level 1 is just a weekend class that anyone can do). And they don't have to be local.

Interview the coaches you find and share your goals and listen to how they plan to help you get there.

Also, don't overlook simply posting what your training and race results looked like and asking for slowtwitch wisdom. Sometimes, it's a simple fix (like pacing or nutrition) and maybe you don't need to spend money on a coach.

the way you find a coach is the same as you go about anything... you talk to them, ask questions, do your due diligence, see if there's chemistry and good mutual communication.

You've already gotten past the hard part, ie. deciding to get a coach, and just in time too. Next is to reach out and talk to some people.

good luck

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Eric Reid AeroFit | Instagram Portfolio
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I will only add that the interview or initial conversation is a two way street.

IE not like shopping around for a car. Good coaches in high demand might have 5-6 athletes applying for 2-3 positions.

Red flags are the overtly eager coach looking to sign you up for 12 months after a 5 minute conversation.

Maurice

I probably wouldn't go with a coach for additional 70.3's. My result was due to being a little undertrained, racing a week later than expected, and the course being much more hilly than expected (NOLA to Austun). I finished realizing I left a lot in the tank as well. So I know where I can improve and would be willing to try some things on my own.

But this might be my only full. At least for a while as work, kids, life, etc. probably only give me enough time for training for half distance long term. So I just want to do it right. Don't want to learn things on that first attemot that I could know going in. And the biggest advice I need is feedback during training. Race day advice is huge, but feedback on training and updating the plan where needed would be something I need.

I train mostly by myself too, most of my friends think the Ironman thing is crazy as well. I'm just getting back into triathlon, and Ironman training after an 18 year break (long story) I used an online coach then, but this time I'm going to buy pre-packaged 24-week training program offered through Training Peaks. The coach/designer of the program is accessible through email for questions and help.

That maybe another option/route to go.

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https://trigeek1969.blogspot.ca

Agree - Lionel's coach is available!