ABOUT
FAQ
Why the Name, "Not Just a Phase"?
In addition to wanting you to learn how to love running in the long-term, I am a former emo kid who will never let go of her mid-2000s pop-punk and black nail polish.
Do you do virtual or in-person coaching?
While I'm focused on virtual coaching at this time (which includes Zoom calls, texting, and email communication), I am available for in-person coaching in the Northern Virginia area. To discuss pricing for in-person training, please reach out for us to discuss! My training plans all start as spreadsheets that can be easily shared, edited, and marked up with your notes without needing in-person coaching.
How much do I talk to you as my coach?
Ultimately, it’s up to you how much one-on-one contact we have during your program. If you are actively training for a race, I require a weekly email or text check-in and a Zoom or call at least every other week to connect and make sure 1) you’re feeling good, 2) you’re on track to meet your goals, and 3) you’re still having fun.
Every single one of my plans comes with 24/7 texting communication with me (although I do sleep and work a full-time gig, but I promise to respond to you ASAP!). If you would like to add additional communications, this can be discussed in your consultation call.
Do I have to be training for a race to use a coach?
Absolutely not! While a goal race is a helpful tool to motivate you and direct a training plan, running coaches can also help you learn the basics of running, or just help you maintain a base level of fitness. I’m happy to work with athletes no matter what goals they are working toward! (Just a quick note, while I am immensely impressed by those who run ultramarathons, I do not have any personal experience or specific certifications in ultramarathoning).
I'm a slow/newer/beginner runner. Do I need a coach? Will you coach me?
I coach runners of all abilities! And as a slow runner who started running in her 30s, my hope is that I can be the resource I needed when I first started running and felt like I didn't "deserve" to be here. I would be honored to be your coach if you run 8:00/mile or a 16:00/mile. My biggest piece of advice to new runners: invest in yourself. If a coach will help you, what better time to get a coach than when you are new and learning the sport? A coach never has to be earned, in my book.
What do I need to have in order to sign up for coaching?
A desire to run and the willingness to stick with a plan to the best of your ability. I recommend getting fit for shoes at your local running specialty store and ensuring you have appropriate apparel for running in the season in which you’re training so that we stay safe (designer labels not necessary - I get my running shirts from Costco sometimes!). Additional gear recommendations and insights will be provided as you are interested and as we proceed with the training plan.
MY COMMITMENT TO YOU: I fully disclose any relationships I have with any running brand (apparel, race organizers, etc.). I do not work with companies that I don’t personally use and believe in, and will never recommend a product or race that I don’t believe is in the best interest of the runner. We are all individuals and what works for me, might not work for you!
What’s the process?
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Schedule a Consultation Call. Come prepared to discuss your goals (including goal races), your preferred coaching style, and ask any questions!
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Sign Up for Your Plan. I use RunSignUp for payment processing.
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Fill Out the Required Forms. If you'd like to move forward after your Consultation Call, please fill out the health and athlete intake forms that will be sent to you.
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Schedule check-ins with Erin and discuss training plan delivery preferences.
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Start running!
Why do I have to schedule a consultation call before signing up?
I always want to speak with an athlete before I charge you anything. My coaching style may not be what you're looking for, you might not "jive" with me - and that's ok! Searching for the perfect coach shouldn't require you to pay anything upfront. I hope that you will want to work with me, but I want you to have the opportunity to get to know me before I make you sign up for a plan.
What's your pricing?
My pricing and plan options can be viewed at the link below! Note that if you are in Northern Virginia and would like in-person coaching, we may need to discuss pricing (depending on a variety of factors). I want to be as transparent with my pricing, and what you get, as possible.
Have a question that wasn't answered here? Reach out.
