Below is a list of commonly asked questions.
Q: Who could use a coach?
A: A common misconception is that only elite athletes need work with a coach. The truth is anyone who has a desire to improve their athletic skills and fitness should consider working with a coach. Your time and energy are very important; they should be put to use in the most efficient way so you can make the greatest gains in the shortest time. Mark enjoys working with both novice and experienced athletes, as each individual presents a unique dream and challenge.
Q: What is the difference between Level 1, 2 and Triathlon Training?
A: Level 1 and 2 are personalized training programs with varying levels of feedback; Level 3 offers a series of standardized programs, designed by Mark, that are designed for someone looking for a proven schedule that will help them reach their goals.
Q: What is the ideal time to begin a program with 321 Coaching?
A: More than one week before your first eventJ Depending on your current fitness level and goals, you may need more or less lead time to prepare for your novice season. A lead time of 7-12 months prior to your major goal is ideal for preparation. Seasoned triathletes usually join with 321 during their off season after reflecting upon their previous season and deciding they need help to improve for the following season.
Q: What qualities do I need to be successful in a partnership with 321 Coaching?
A: Athletes that have the greatest success with a 321 program are those that communicate openly and honestly with Mark, and have a strong desire and motivation to work hard and to challenge themselves to new levels of fitness.
Q: Do you coach individual sports?
A: Yes, Mark works with a number of athletes who want programs for road cycling, mountain biking, marathon training and 10km road racing. As well, Mark offers periodic clinics for swim stroke improvement and one-on-one training sessions.
Q: I live in the USA. How do you handle payment?
A: 321 Coaching accepts payment with personal cheques, and credit card payment is available with a secure online payment system. Payment is made in Canadian funds.
Q: What happens in the event of a major illness or injury?
A: Though infrequent, illnesses and injury can occur, even with a guided training system. If athletes are unable to train for more than a month, they are encouraged to consult with 321 Coaching to arrange a method of crediting unused payments towards services for a later date.
Q: What is 321 TriClub?
A: 321 TriClub is a Vancouver-based club founded by Mark in 2002 which is growing quickly. It is aimed at providing a way for athletes of all levels to train under the direction of a coach, to meet other people and have fun. A number of workouts are offered each week in areas like UBC, Kits, Stanley Park, Burnaby, and North Shore. Check under Group Training for details or contact Mark. Come out for a free trial week and check us out!
Q: Do you coach elite athletes?
A: Yes, elite athletes should contact me to discuss how we can work together to best meet their unique needs and goals. My 11 years experience as a pro are invaluable in what I can offer to this group.
Q: What if I am just getting into the sport?
A: I work with a number of people who are starting the sport for the first time and don’t know what to do. Don’t worry, I enjoy helping people complete their first race or getting fit as much as helping a more experienced athlete try to win their age group.
Q: What are the benefits of professional coaching?
A: I think this is best summed up from a letter I received from an athlete:
Dear Mark - If it is of any value to you and your clients, here are five reasons I believe a professional coach like you can help others like me. I didn't hire a coach or spend any money but I learned a lot of lessons the hard way. Perhaps the following reasons will help others benefit from professional coaching and the top notch services you provide:
1) Each of us are unique and it is very important to consider how various training programs apply to us individually taking into account athletic background, training time available and individual strengths and weaknesses.
2) With the right advice from an experienced coach in areas such as getting the correct equipment which includes a bicycle, wet suit, footwear and a sound training plan, the chances of completing any distance triathlon event are greatly improved.
3) At first, training for triathlons can seem very complex and a professional coach can take the mystery out of how to build proper programs and fitness gradually, focus on nutrition and stay motivated.
4) A professional coach helps take the guesswork out of what to do and can be money spent wisely. Learning from someone else’s experience can be more efficient than making the mistakes other have made.
5) A professional coach can help avoid injuries and, if needed, set the right direction to deal with soft tissue damage and obtaining the proper therapeutic care when it is needed most.
-W.L.
If you have any other questions, please send me an email.
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