Hello DC!

I am looking to run my first 5k in March and have been steadily running on my own since December following a couch to 5k program. I can already run continously for 30 minutes but am really insecure about my running form and scared of injuring myself running for a long time with bad form. Where can a beginner like me find a trustworthy coach in DC? If there's a class or bootcamp you recommend, i'd like to hear some recommendations too!

If it helps, I typically run in the Lincoln Memorial/Foggy bottom area. Thank you!

Comments

You must log in or register to comment.

tehruben t1_j5ej8ct wrote on January 22, 2023 at 12:45 PM

I have several friends with running coaches that focus on racing and competition, but sounds like you need a coach that can focus on more basic stuff. I'd suggest going to Pacer's or Georgetown Running. They can critique your running style and suggest shoes, insoles, or other things to help. If you're looking for a next step, I've gotten good form help from my sports doctor and PT. They've helped me sort out my cycling issues, specifically, to keep me from injuring myself.

IcyWillow1193 t1_j5eny5l wrote on January 22, 2023 at 1:35 PM

If you have a fitness watch, it likely has training programs already built in that are pretty decent. You also want to make sure you have the right shoes (and right fit) and Fleet Feet is good for advising you. A 5k is very attainable especially if you can already run 30 min... you shouldn't need a coach. Consider using short walk breaks to increase your distance and reduce injury risk (Google run walk run).

NPRjunkieDC t1_j5ekqdn wrote on January 22, 2023 at 1:02 PM

Fleet Feet is another place that sells running shoes and might be able to help. They have groups that meet there I think

jd4885 t1_j5fbt0v wrote on January 22, 2023 at 4:40 PM

I'm relatively new to the area so unfortunately don't have recommendations but good luck and it's great you are getting into running! A life-long health positive activity, and DC is one of the best cities for it!

brrn66 t1_j5gqa1j wrote on January 22, 2023 at 10:03 PM

Hi! Shameless plug, I’m a virtual coach and work with beginners through advanced. I love customizing programs weekly around my athlete’s schedules, preferences, and proofread. I Used to coach a Local running team and now do individual coaching locally (NYC) and virtually across the US incl DC. Happy to share details if interested, you can DM me here or find me on IG @neverstoppingnoa

OldBen18 t1_j5h1pzt wrote on January 22, 2023 at 11:16 PM

Would you be interested in joining a running group?

t3hdebater t1_j5jxi5h wrote on January 23, 2023 at 3:23 PM

Are you looking for form critiques or like a whole program? I second the suggestion to hit up Pacers and see what classes/trainer recs they have. I have also heard good things about chi running specifically for getting better form.

old_bay_usa t1_j5lw1ix wrote on January 23, 2023 at 10:48 PM

I've worked with Tammy Whyte from TW Training and Wellness. She has a variety of training packages and I did the Connect and Run group package a while back. It was a fun motivator, and you had access to her expertise as well as a community of runners also involved with her programs. She's based in Chicago now, but trains people in various locations and could probably do assessments virtually if she does not have DC-based IRL trainings planned.

https://www.twtrainingwellness.com/connect-and-run