Running Coaching Certification

For the avid runner, taking the next step and becoming a running coach could be the fulfillment of a dream and a life's ambition. A running coach can volunteer his or her skills or it can become a new career. There are many types of certifications; it's important that you pick the one that you are interested in.

  1. Significance and Types

    • A certification from a reliable authority in the sport of running will legitimize you as a coach and enhance your resume. There are many reputable authorities in the sport of running. A few of the most respected and best known are USA Track and Field, the Road Runners Club of America, the POSE Method and Chi Running.

    USA Track and Field

    • USA Track and Field is the governing body of track and field competitions and long-distance running in the United States. It helps develop new athletes for international and Olympic competition. There are three levels of coaches in USATF. To attain the first-level certificate through USATF you need to complete a two-day seminar that covers track and field coaching, including running events. The second-level coaching certificate gives you more intense training in your chosen track and field event. You must apply to this program and have three years of coaching experience before you can be considered for level two certification. Level three coaching certificates provide you with specific, cutting-edge scientific knowledge for your event and are open to all level two-certified coaches.

    Road Runners Club of America

    • The largest running club in the United States, the Road Runners Club of America (RRCA) has its own certification program. To be certified as an RRCA coach you must complete a two-day course at one of RRCA's certification courses that are held throughout the country.

    POSE Method

    • POSE method is a running technique that strives to make running easier for the participant, make a runner faster and less injury prone. It is based on Russian Olympic team techniques. There are currently three levels of certification for POSE coaches. To reach the first level a candidate must read the POSE method book and view the DVD, attend a running clinic and attend a coaching clinic to receive his/her certificate. Level two coaches demonstrate a deeper knowledge and experience in the POSE method. Level three coaches have the most advanced knowledge of the POSE method. Level two and level three certifications are acquired through seminars.

    Chi Running

    • Chi running is a method of running based on the ancient Chinese art of Tai Chi. Chi running instructors are required to take a home study course, complete a four-day certification course and spend at least 40 hours teaching the method before they can be certified.