How to Know When You Should Get a Coach
I almost wrote "couch" up there. That could've been weird.
Welcome back to the Weekly Hurdle! This newsletter is free and will stay free thanks to sponsors and the individuals that opt-in to give. If you enjoy getting this in your inbox weekly, I encourage you to consider signing up as a paid subscriber. Your support is really appreciated.
Presented by Goodr:
Yesterday one of my best friends, a three-time marathoner, texted me about training for her next race — Berlin in the fall. Last go around, she fell just short of hitting her sub-4:00 goal, which I know she’s entirely capable of it. That 2019 fall day feels like just yesterday. Me jumping out from the crowd and into the field wearing a wool coat, running alongside her as the sun poured down First Avenue to offer up a pep talk at mile 21. Her asking me questions like “what do my next five mile splits have to be?” and “how do I look?” And then, there was the phone call that I got afterward, tears in tow, with a sentiment along the lines of “I am proud of myself for doing that, but you’re the only person who I can actually be upset with right now because I was so close.”
“I’m getting a coach,” she said to me yesterday. “I think it’s time for me to get more specific with my training relevant to my goals.”
“I couldn’t agree more.”
Getting a coach can be something that’s both intimidating and hard to commit to, mostly because it’s a new challenge with a lot of unknown. (On this note, journalist and new author Michael Easter and I spoke about this earlier this week on Hurdle, chatting about how to get comfortable with the uncomfortable and how doing so can benefit you in all aspects of your life. Give it a listen, here.)
I’m not just talking about working with a run coach, either. This could be a personal trainer. A one-on-one yoga instructor. Whatever your schtick is, below are some reasons it may be time to finally make the leap and hire a professional:
1. You have a big goal.
When it comes to health and wellness goals, oftentimes we’re emotionally invested in what it is we’re going after. This means that we’re willing to indulge in a fair amount of opportunity cost. Defined, opportunity cost is the value of the next-best alternative when a decision is made. Think of it as what is given up in pursuit of what you want. If you’re willing to give up a fair amount of things to go after your goal (for example, indulge in a little less sweets and be more mindful of your diet, get to bed earlier so you can hit an early morning workout, turn down an invitation for drinks if you know you they’ll leave you feeling crappy the next day) — that’s a pretty big indicator that you’re really ready to invest in yourself and call in reinforcements.
2. You’re having a problem staying consistent.
This was me earlier this year. I’ll be the first person to tell you that sometimes, you just need to take some time off. Having grace with yourself is always important. I got to a point where I knew I wanted to move, but life felt hectic and frustrating and I was ready to let someone else tell me what to do for a while. Tack on the accountability that comes hand-in-hand with hiring a coach, and I can say that without a doubt this was one of the best decisions I’ve made in 2021.
3. You find yourself getting injured on the regular.
This is a red flag. If you’re used to navigating things on your own but keep getting sidelined by body wonkiness, it’s important to consult with an expert — period. Injury doesn’t have to be “part of the process,” something that a lot of runners specifically chalk up to the effects of pounding pavement. The right expert can guide you through a plan that will help you strengthen your body in smart ways, which can go a really long way in the long haul
4. You’re not seeing progress.
There are so many complexities to finding your fitness, many of which only a skilled expert really understands. Especially if you’ve been working super hard and are seeing little-to-no gains, a coach can help you understand what’s going on with your body and develop a smarter plan to get you to where you hope to be.
The next natural question: But how do I find a coach, Emily?
I’m glad you asked. The great thing about social media is you have a plethora of coaches and experts that you can message with a simple tap. My two biggest tips here: 1. Referrals are golden. If you have a friend who has worked with someone and can’t stop raving about them, that’s a great jumping off point. And then, 2. Make sure they are certified and knowledgable. It’s easy to find someone on Instagram who has great abs. BUT. Do they really know what they’re talking about and have the education to train you safely? Ask them upfront about their relevant experience and certifications, and don’t be afraid to shop around and talk to a few different individuals. It’s important that you feel comfortable with this person, and that they motivate you to keep showing up.
PROMPT: What’s one wellness goal that you can articulate today that scares you a little bit?
Thanks to Goodr — maker of fun, fashionable, and functional sunglasses that everyone can afford — for sponsoring today’s newsletter.
Goodr makes awesome no-bounce, polarized sunglasses that are uber comfortable and super affordable, starting at just $25. They’ve got a style for every taste; I’m big on their Operation: Blackout, but they recently released some new picks that are covered in tacos and pizza slices. Need I say more?
Summer is in full force, and you deserve a great pair of inexpensive sunglasses, perfect for whatever activity you’re getting into! Get 15 percent off of your next purchase at goodr.com/hurdle by using the code “HURDLE15” at checkout.
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE WEEK
EVENTS: PRIDE IS SATURDAY!
Love is love! No matter where you live, there are loads of celebrations going on over the next few days to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community. Here in New York, the parade is this weekend. At this link, you’ll also find ways you can donate to support annual programming and other events that help inspire, educate, commemorate, and celebrate love in each and every form.
LISTEN: “The Truth & Consequences of Dating as a Trans Woman With Jen Richards” on The Laverne Cox Show
Laverne Cox and Jen Richards address the struggles of dating as trans women in this powerful, candid conversation — delving into topics such as why some men are attracted to trans women, why men have a hard time being honest about their attraction, and what Jen thinks is the biggest kept secret about trans women.
WATCH: Final days of the Olympic Track and Field Trials
I've been GLUED to the TV watching some of the biggest names in running make their Games dreams come true. There are still plenty of final races to catch this weekend, and I am amped to see who else punches in their ticket to Tokyo.
READ: “Athlete CeCe Telfer Says Sports Allow Trans Youth To Be Seen As People First” on Women’s Health
CeCe Telfer is a trans woman and collegiate national champion. In this article, she gets vulnerable in describing her childhood, the struggles of embracing her identity, and the impact sports had on her life growing up.
GEAR: Athleta Legend Shortie
These SHORTS! Allyson Felix and Athleta partnered to create this super cute 5-inch short, which has three great pockets including two fold-over ones ideal for gels, keys, and cards — plus, a back zipper one perfect for your phone.
My favorite part about them is the inscription on the inside. It reads: "Defy expectations. How far do they think we'll go? How many reps, how many sets, how many years? Together, we're stronger than we've ever been. And we like to do things the right way — not the easy way. So they can keep waiting and watching as we push each other past possible. We'll never be done."
🎧 NEW PODCAST EPISODE: #HURDLEMOMENT: An Expert On How to Get Comfortable Being Uncomfortable
For this episode, I’m chatting with Michael Easter, author of the new book The Comfort Crisis, Embrace Discomfort To Reclaim Your Wild, Happy, Healthy Self. He’s a contributing editor at Men’s Health magazine, columnist for Outside magazine, and professor at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. He's traveled the world researching the benefits of why it's important to get comfortable with the uncomfortable — going as far as trekking up to the Arctic to do just that. In our conversation, he shares his biggest takeaways from the other professors, adventurers, and researchers he spoke to along the way, helping us gain a better understanding of why we must break through our comfort zones — and what to do if you get stuck along the way.
🎧 NEW PODCAST EPISODE: 164. Bob Abbate, AKA Dad
With Father's Day last weekend, I felt like it was as good of a time as ever to bring my Dad, Bob, onto the show. For episode 164, we talk everything from his proudest and scariest moments as a father to his best advice for me as I continue to grow my business. I think it’s cool because you really get some insight into where I got this entrepreneurial bug from. My dad — aside from being my best friend — has been one himself since after college when he opened his first audio equipment store and then after that, multiple marketing agencies.
We also talk about his earliest memories, his hopes for me in my new Brooklyn chapter, and his advice for all of you when the hurdles arise. I know that for some Father’s Day (and Mother’s Day) can be tough, but I am more than happy to share my dad with you. Always here if you need someone to talk to.
Don’t Forget to Check Out: HURDLE SESSIONS!
How to Start (and Stay!) Running
How to Take Your Running to the Next Level
Intro to Freelance Writing
Intro to Podcasting
How to Turn Your Side Hustle Into Your Main Gig
Finding Your Power Alone
How to Build a Social Media Presence
Media Strategy for Fitness Professionals
AND *30-Minute One-On-One Consulting Call*
PLEASE LEAVE ME A VOICE MESSAGE! Whether you just want to say hi or have a question you want to ask, I’d love to hear from you! Bonus: Your listener question could be answered in an upcoming episode of the show! No topics are off limits.