Having a coach doesn't mean it's a full time deal

This is a concept that I want to share with USA Cycling. Much of the USA Cycling coaching information is related to coaching and training bike racers. I see it much differently. I like the Golf Pro model.

Every golf course across the country has a Golf Pro. He's the guy that teaches the local golfers how to get more out of their game. Golfers have simple goals. They want to lower their score or specifically, they want to improve their putts, drives or chip shots. For some people, this means that they meet with the Golf Pro every week on a regimented plan. For others, it means that they only make appointments when they feel the need. Most of all, it's about helping the golfer accomplish his goal. Most Golf Pro's don't coach PGA or LPGA golfers. They coach the hobby athlete.

Cycling has become a huge industry over the last 10 years. Of all the bikes that were purchased, very few were for pro cyclists. Bikes were purchased by people who love the sport. Every cyclist I've met wants to get more out it. The golfer wants to lower his score. The cyclist wants to ride faster.

Do you need a full time cycling coach to help you accomplish your goals, most likely not. Like the golfer, you probably need someone to take a look at what you are doing. You need someone to make some observations and offer some corrective actions and recommendations. That might mean you need one or two training sessions on an infrequent basis. For others, they want something regular and regimented. For them, full time coaching is best.

What are your goals? Are you accomplishing them and how do you know?