Study Shows Coached Triathletes Improve Nearly Three Times Faster

A new study from the University of Colorado shows that triathletes who train with a coach have significantly faster improvement rates than those who follow self-designed training plans.

The research tracked 847 amateur triathletes over two years, comparing coached athletes against self-coached ones with similar training volumes and experience levels.

Key Findings

Coached athletes improved their race times by an average of 8.3 percent annually, compared to 3.1 percent for self-coached athletes. The difference was most pronounced in the swim portion, where technique improvements require external feedback.

Interestingly, injury rates were also lower among coached athletes. Researchers attribute this to better periodization and recovery planning.

Why Coaching Works

Lead researcher Dr. Sarah Hendricks suggests several factors explain the gap. Coaches provide objective assessment of weaknesses, prevent athletes from over-training their strengths, and adjust plans based on life stress and recovery status.

“Many self-coached athletes train too hard on easy days and too easy on hard days,” Dr. Hendricks noted. “A good coach maintains appropriate training intensity distribution.”

Finding a Coach

For athletes considering coaching, USA Triathlon maintains a certified coach directory. Remote coaching options have made quality guidance accessible regardless of location, with monthly costs typically ranging from $100 to $300.