Running and walking have long been recognized as affordable and effective activities to promote health and well-being, and the challenge of distance training has created a continually growing and dynamic marketplace for the fitness industry. The marathon market, once a course closed for all but the elite athlete, is now entirely supported by running and walking enthusiasts who strive to successfully meet the challenge. Every year millions of runners cross the start line of marathons throughout North America.
The North American Academy for Sport Fitness Professionals (NAASFP) Marathon Coach certification is centered around performance enhancement and injury-free training providing students with the knowledge and skills to successfully coach at all levels of long-distance running and/or walking. The Marathon Coach designation, MC, will give graduates internationally recognized status in the field of marathon training.
If you are just embarking on your career in the Sport Fitness industry let NAASFP start your career in the right direction. If you are already a certified Personal Trainer, adding the NAASFP credentials of certified Marathon Coach will enable you to expand your services and programs to athletes and running enthusiasts, as well as help to increase your earning potential!
THE PROGRAM: The NAASFP Marathon Coach certification is a comprehensive 4-day in-class course designed to prepare graduates to plan, market, and deliver safe and effective training programs in a one-on-one or group setting. Topics include:
• Coaching fundamentals and philosophies
• Principles and practices of athletic training
• Exercise physiology and energy systems
• Anatomy and biomechanics
• Conditioning programming and testing
• Sport-specific training exercises and drills
• Peak performance periodization
• Sport psychology
• Injury prevention and reconditioning plans
• Sports nutrition
• Training cycles and progressions
• Effort-based and heart rate training
• Training plans
• Individualization of coaching
• Client screening and assessment
• Business of coaching
Candidates with a university degree in a health/fitness discipline or who are certified Personal Trainers may opt out of Day One of the course, but will be required to write the corresponding portion of the exam.
WHAT TO EXPECT: We’ve provided some information that we commonly get asked by future coaches. Check out Course Expectations.
DESIGNATION: The Marathon Coach (MC) designation may be used only by those candidates who have actually completed a marathon. All others may use the Running Coach (RC) or Walking Coach (WC) credentials. For marketing purposes, the Sport Professional who qualifies to use the MC may opt to use the designations of Running Coach or Walking Coach. NAASFP must be notified of the designation that will be used.
COURSE PREREQUISITES:
• At least 18 years of age
• Proficient use of verbal and written English
Marathon Coach MC Experience with at least 1 distance to be full marathon, and others at least 2 half-marathon distances
Running Coach RC experienced runner
Walking Coach WC experienced long-distance walker
CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:
• Score of 80% or better in each of three sectors:
• Practical participation
• Case study
• Written exam
• First Aid and CPR (online programs not recognized)
RECERTIFICATION ANNUAL REQUIREMENTS:
• 4.0 Continuing Education Credits (CECs) annually
• Current First Aid and CPR, (less than one year old)
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES:
Specialized coaches with experience, knowledge, and skills are now in big demand from running clubs, race organizers, fund raising organizations, private individuals and clubs, fitness clubs, and community centers. Coaches can specialize as a Running Coach, Walking Coach or the all encompassing Marathon Coach. Employment opportunities can be found at:
• Marathon events
• Schools
• Running Clubs
• Running stores
• Fitness Centers
• Community Centers
• Private one-on-one and group coaching
COST: $450 + HST – includes all study materials
TO REGISTER:
NAASFP Registration Form -Word
NAASFP Registration Form – PDF
CERTIFICATION DATES:
NAASFP-hosted sessions are held on demand if sufficient spots are not available through Hosted sessions. Contact registration@naasfp.com to add your name to a wait list. Be sure to include your location, how far you are willing to travel, and daytime contact information. You will be contacted when a seat is available.