If you’re new to coaching runners or simply looking for ways to advance as a coach, you might consider getting a certification. Several organizations provide certifications designed specifically for coaching runners. These most well-known ones are the International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA), Road Runners Club of America (RRCA), United Endurance Sports Coaching Academy (UESCA), and USA Track & Field (USATF).
But which one is best? What’s the difference between all of them? And do you actually need a coaching certification?
As a life-long endurance athlete, professional Nike marathoner, and coach of RISE Running, I’ve learned a thing or two over the years. And the answer to all of those questions is: it depends.
Let’s discuss the value of coaching certifications, dive into the details of the most common certifications, and look at other ways to improve your ability as a running coach.
The Value of Coaching Certifications
Coaching certifications can provide valuable foundational knowledge and credibility, but their impact is limited without practical experience.
While certifications offer essential training in coaching principles, anatomy, and nutrition, they’re just the starting point. Effective coaching requires hands-on experience in developing training plans, understanding individual athlete needs, and fostering motivation.
I’ve gained a lot of practical knowledge from certifications, but some of the most valuable coaching lessons came from experience.
I believe a successful coach blends their formal education with real-world application. The best coaches I know constantly seek knowledge and mentorship alongside certifications.
The true value of a coaching certification depends on how you apply what you learn to serve your athletes better.
Top Running Coach Certifications
The type of certification you get depends on your area of expertise (trails, ultras, track, etc.), how much time you’re able to commit, and what you’re willing to spend.
Let’s take a look at the most well-known certifications:
1. International Sports Science Association (ISSA)
The ISSA Run Coach Certification covers topics such as running mechanics, training adaptations, human anatomy, programming run training, and injury prevention and management.
This online program allows you to study at your own pace, and the 100-question, multiple-choice exam is open-book and untimed.
A CPR/AED certification is also included in this course.
Once certified, you gain access to unlimited educational support.
- Best for: General overview for all run coaches
- Approximate Cost: $650-$800
- Course length: Self-paced
2. Road Runners Club of America (RRCA)
The RRCA Coaching Certification Program provides a baseline education for prospective coaches. The program goes over programming training plans, coaching ethics, and injury prevention.
The RRCA Coaching Certification program is comprised of two levels. The Level 1 Coaching Certification course focuses on adult distance running, while the Level 2 Coaching Certification program provides a deeper understanding of the scientific, psychological, competitive, and managerial aspects of working with individual clients and training groups.
The Level 2 certification is open to RRCA Level I Certified Coaches who have been certified for a minimum of one year. Both certifications consist of an online exam.
- Best for: Road running, half marathon, marathon, ultra, youth athletes
- Approximate Cost: Level 1 = $350, Level 2 = $750
- Course length: Level 1 = 2 days (online or in-person); Level 2 = 2 days (online)
3. United Endurance Sports Coaching Academy (UESCA)
The UESCA Running Coach Certification program is one of the most comprehensive running certifications on the market. It consists of 22 online modules that present science and evidence-based content curated from top experts across multiple disciplines. These disciplines include human physiology, psychology, biomechanics, nutrition, environmental physiology, injury prevention, strength training, and of course, coaching.
Many of the modules use multimedia content. Plus, you’ll gain lifetime access to modules, email support, and access to a private Facebook group for coaches.
The certification requires passing an online exam with up to one year to complete from enrollment.
- Best for: Trail running, ultras, road running
- Cost: $599
- Course length: Self-paced (takes approximately 25 hours)
4. USA Track and Field (USATF)
A USA Track and Field (USATF) certification is ideal if you plan on coaching track athletes of any age. It consists of three levels and covers topics from fundamentals to event-specific training.
Level 1: The course prepares an individual to coach teaching the fundamentals, progressions, rules, safety, and risk management. Certification requires passing a final exam.
Level 2: Focuses on more technical aspects of coaching with the knowledge and skills to write a comprehensive training program for diverse groups of athletes at any level. Requires a minimum of 2 years of coaching experience.
Level 3: The highest of the USATF coaching education programs with instruction from top sports scientists and coaches and a focus on specific running events (e.g., sprints, hurdles, jumps, throws, etc.). Requires a minimum of 5 years of coaching experience.
- Best for: Youth athletes, track athletes, cross country, 5k, 10k
- Approximate Cost: Level 1 = $250
- Course length:
- Level 1: 22 hours (self-paced and in-person)
- Level 2: online, in-person and hybrid formats
- Level 3: 32 hours (approximately a year-long course from start to capstone evaluation results) (online and in-person)
Other Ways to Boost Your Coaching
In my experience, the best running coaches are committed to lifelong learning and continually expand their expertise.
Whether it’s staying updated on the latest training methodologies, delving into sports psychology, or exploring advancements in nutrition and injury prevention, it’s your job as a coach to stay on top of new research.
Knowledge Is Power
Becoming a knowledgeable and credible coach takes effort. You can start by attending workshops, engaging with other coaches, and spending time analyzing performance data. Constantly learn and refine your coaching techniques. The landscape of this sport is ever-evolving, and the best coaches know how to adapt.
There are many opportunities to learn about the latest training techniques and research. Personally, I absolutely love all of the courses provided by TrainingPeaks University and looking up peer-reviewed research articles on different topics.
Find Support & Stay Connected
Feeling supported and connected is a fundamental part of being successful at anything. As a coach, I find subscribing to educational newsletters (like the TrainingPeaks coach newsletter) allows me to feel connected and up-to-date on research and coaching tools.
If you don’t know where to start, the TrainingPeaks coaching community is a great resource for coaches seeking support and guidance.
Conclusion
Certifications are just one way to improve as a running coach. My advice is to constantly seek opportunities to learn, grow, and better serve your athletes. And, most importantly, enjoy the journey!
