Why Training with a Coach Could Be Your Next Step: A Focus on Next Best Run
At Mount Olive Running Club, we understand that every runner’s journey is different. Whether you’re just getting started, preparing for your first race, or pushing the limits of your marathon time, it’s easy to feel like you're navigating it all on your own. But working with a coach can change that. It’s not just about someone telling you what to do; it’s about having the right support, motivation, and expertise to help you unlock your full potential.
Why Train with a Coach?
Personalized Training Plans
When you train with a coach, you get a plan that's built just for you. It’s not one-size-fits-all. A coach takes the time to understand where you're at, what your goals are, and how you’re feeling. Whether you want to finish your first 5K, improve your marathon time, or build strength, a personalized plan helps you get there safely and effectively.Expert Guidance
A coach is an expert in the field, and they know what works. They help you improve your running form, offer tips for pacing, and guide you on how to race smart. With their expertise, you don’t have to spend time figuring things out on your own.Accountability and Motivation
We all know how hard it can be to stay motivated, especially on those days when your couch is calling your name. A coach provides accountability, cheering you on and reminding you how far you've come. That encouragement is often just the push you need to get out the door and keep going.Injury Prevention
Running can take a toll on your body, especially when you’re pushing yourself. A coach ensures you're training in a way that avoids overuse injuries, with proper technique and balanced training. They help you listen to your body and make adjustments as needed to stay healthy and avoid setbacks.Race Day Strategy
Nerves are a natural part of race day, even for the most experienced runners. A coach helps you build a strategy to approach race day with confidence, factoring in pacing, energy management, and the course. With a solid plan, you can approach race day knowing exactly what to do.
Next Best Run – Coaching Runners to Improved Performance
If you’re looking for a fresh way to level up your running, consider joining Next Best Run. This company offers the perfect opportunity to experience personalized coaching that will take your running to the next level. Coaches Kim Conley and Drew Wartenburg are both dedicated to helping runners of all levels reach their goals. Whether you’re just starting out or preparing for a major race, Next Best Run provides expert guidance every step of the way.
When you join Next Best Run, you’ll receive a tailored training plan designed to improve your running form and overall performance. Whether you're working on building endurance, improving speed, or preparing for a marathon or triathlon, Drew and the team are there to help you meet your goals.
One of the best parts about working with Next Best Run is that you’re not doing it alone. You’ll become part of a supportive running community, all striving to improve and push each other forward. The knowledge and resources you get from Drew and the team will give you the tools to succeed, not just in your next race, but in your overall journey as a runner.
So, whether you’re preparing for your first 5K, aiming to improve your race strategy, or focusing on injury prevention, Next Best Run is there to help you achieve your running goals. For more information or to get started, visit www.nextbestrun.com.
Interview with Coach Drew Wartenburg
We recently sat down with Coach Drew Wartenburg to get insights into his coaching philosophy, approach to training, and thoughts on what makes a good runner. Here’s what he had to say:
What inspired you to become a running coach, and what keeps you passionate about the sport?
For me, coaching is rooted in my time as a teacher and coach at the secondary school level. Eventually, I honed my focus to coaching exclusively, but I still approach coaching from a teaching perspective.
What is your coaching philosophy, and how do you tailor your training plans to individual athletes?
A training program must meet an athlete exactly where they are in a given moment. While running has many common principles, the challenge is finding the right elements that make each individual thrive. Philosophically, I use an athlete-centered model, which always places the runner at the core of all decision-making.
For runners just starting out, what are the most common mistakes you see, and how can they avoid them? For new runners as well as experienced runners, the period of starting, or starting back, with consistent training presents a challenge. The first days and weeks of a new training cycle can be hard, and it’s easy to lose motivation before a habit is formed and runs begin to feel manageable.
How do you approach injury prevention for runners, and what are some key techniques or drills that can help runners stay healthy? Balancing the demands of a training program is a good way to help prevent overuse injuries common to running. It’s important to keep in mind a model of stress-recover-repeat in order to facilitate adaptations that lead to improvement without overdoing any aspects in the process.
Can you explain how a runner’s mindset impacts their performance and how you help athletes overcome mental barriers? At the core, running should be an enjoyable pursuit, and a runner’s outlook can have a significant impact on any run, or training in general. I don’t ever ask an athlete to do anything s/he isn’t capable of, but sometimes it is still hard for a person to believe that certain challenges really are attainable. Whether a day calls for an easy run or a hard workout, it’s always good to find a way to ‘win’ each day.
What is the most rewarding part of being a coach, and do you have any success stories you'd like to share?
The most rewarding part is seeing athletes achieve their goals. Coaching isn’t about me—it’s about the athlete. I’m just along for the ride as they work toward their personal victories.
What would you say to someone who is unsure about the value of hiring a coach?
Many people believe they’re not “good enough” for a coach, but coaching isn’t just for elite athletes. Everyone can benefit from expert insight and motivation. It’s the same reason we hire professionals for other aspects of life—coaching makes things easier and more efficient.
What do you believe are the key factors that differentiate a good runner from a great runner?
Running, like many sports, has a genetic component, but a lot of it is about the mindset and commitment to continuous improvement. Good and great runners are both individuals, and the key is to be the best runner you can be.
How do you support athletes in preparing mentally and physically for race day?
Race day preparation is a cumulative process. Every workout and tune-up race builds toward the big day. I also provide athletes with race notes for major races, including tips on the course, weather considerations, and race strategy.
Looking ahead, how can new members get involved in your coaching programs?
The best way to get involved is to fill out the interest form on our website, which triggers an immediate follow-up call. We’ll discuss your goals and connect you with a coach who’s the best fit for you.
For more information about coaching programs with Next Best Run, visit www.nextbestrun.com.
