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Frequently Asked Questions
Will running help me to lose weight?
Running is probably the most effective way to lose weight.
One thing you must learn though. You may not lose it right away. You may actually gain a few pounds in the first couple of weeks due to increase muscle tissue gain. This is more likely to occur if you have been inactive for a while. This happens because muscle tissue is 2-3 times heavier than fat tissue, so even though you may decrease or stay the same in size, you may gain weight. The key is to stick to the program. In a couple of weeks, when the muscle tissue gain reaches a plate and your fitness has increased, you’ll literally run off
If you have been fairly inactive, and commit to running 3 or more times per week, your fitness will probably increase dramatically within 2-3 weeks. As for Weight Reduction, you would probably expect to see results after 3-6 weeks (depending on the individual and training intensity)
If you have a good diet and run 5 times per week, which is optimum for weight loss you’ll get great results within 2-3 weeks providing you train at the right intensity. Personally, I think the right intensity is training in your “cardio ” zone (60-80% of your maximum hear rate), not your “fat burning” zone (40-60% of your maximum heart rate).
What can I expect from you as my coach?
No matter what level of fitness you start at when you see me, I will inspire you, motivate you and guide you personally with a training program that I’ll integrate into your lifestyle without sacrificing other important aspects of your life such as your career and relationships.
I will also train all energy systems in your body which you require to be a better runner. For example your aerobic and your anaerobic energy systems.
In addition to giving you a detailed program of time and distance, I will also gear the program towards your strengths and weaknesses.
As an Olympic athlete, I understand the value of both talent and first class training. I will share some training and racing secrets which probably won’t make you an Olympian, but will give you the edge over your rivals.
What if I don’t want to compete or race, but I just want to train for myself. Are your programs for me?
Of course. I am a coach for athletes of all abilities. A lot of runners I deal with are not competitive, but want some guidance from an expert.
I will provide you with the framework, the knowledge and encouragement for you to enjoy the program .
How quickly can I expect to see results from the coaching package?
It depends on your fitness and the distance of your event.
If you are a beginner, you will probably see dramatic results in just a few of week.
If you are more experienced it can take 3 -6 months to see results, as your body needs to adapt to the new training program.
Also you may need 10-12 weeks of solid, consistent aerobic training (mileage) before you can move into the next training phase – adapting your lactate threshold energy system.
You need patience and commitment without looking for short-cuts for your best results.
How much time do I need to allow for training?
This depends on what you hope to achieve.
It might be 3 hours per week or it might be 12 hours per week. We need to talk about what’s possible considering other commitments.
Once we integrate the training into your lifestyle we will go over what you can and can’t achieve. We have to be realistic.
I would expect you to train at a minimum 3-4 times per week and upwards depending on the individual and what goals you are looking to achieve.
What is the minimum fitness required to start one of your training programs?
There is no required level of fitness. You can start as a walker if you are of that level and I may have you walk/jogging for some time until your leg muscles get stronger.
The most important thing is for to you get clearance by your doctor before starting one of my training programs if you are very overweight or have health issues.
Will I get to meet you?
Of course! If you want to meet for a coffee and a chat to go over the questionnaire after you have joined, we can certainly do that.