How to become a triathlon coach

There are a number of reasons why people choose to become a triathlon coach. A parent might want to help out at their child’s club. An experienced age-grouper or elite athlete might wish to share their knowledge to give something back to the sport.

Whatever the reason, coaching can be a very rich and rewarding role – helping others achieve their potential and personal goals within the sport.

Although some elite triathletes advocate self-coaching, coaches can be vital to the success of triathletes at every level.

A coach’s role goes beyond just creating and delivering the training sessions. It encompasses athlete management, being a role model, being a motivator to their athletes and fellow coaches. Most importantly, a coach must build strong personal relationships with their athletes.

Why coach triathlon?

Whether you are looking to give back to the sport you love, inspire and coach others through their triathlon journey or if you are injured and want to keep involved in the sport, coaching could be for you.

From just 14 years of age, you can start your coaching journey with British Triathlon. 

By becoming a coach, you can develop your own skills and knowledge while supporting others to improve their technique and performance. Imagine that feeling when the participants you coach reach their own milestones, from their first open-water swim to completing their first event. 

Where do I start? 

If you don’t have experience of coaching, you might like to begin by shadowing a coach at your local triathlon club. This’ll provide you with a feel for what coaching entails, and the coach would appreciate the assistance.

It’s advisable to work with a range of individuals, including young people. This can present a variety of unique challenges while also being one of the most rewarding age groups to work with. 

Once you are ready to take the next step, check out the qualifications and courses to discover the best way to begin your journey as a triathlon coach. 

Coaching qualifications 

Undertaking a coaching qualification gives you a solid foundation to understand the role. It also develops a support network. This ensures you meet the standards required to coach safely and fairly, and understand how you can continually develop yourself. 

British Triathlon’s tutors are dedicated and passionate professionals who have undergone rigorous training to ensure a high standard of instruction for all coaches. 

There are a range of qualifications available including:

Foundation coach

Kickstarting your coaching journey, this qualification is structured to help you develop a foundation in coaching. It equips you with a diverse set of skills that will enable you to confidently facilitate basic coaching sessions.

Group coach

This qualification is designed to build on the knowledge, skills, and competencies developed through the Foundation Coach qualification. You will be able to independently plan, deliver, and evaluate coaching sessions, and mentor fellow coaches.

Direct Entry Scheme/Group Coach Award

This qualification recognises prior coaching and learning in other sports. 

Before you start your training to becoming a coach, you will need a British Triathlon membership and then, once qualified, you can upgrade to a British Triathlon Coach membership. 

What makes a good triathlon coach?

Coaching is seen as both an art and a science. A coach needs to have a number of ‘soft’ interpersonal skills when working with athletes in order to optimise their development through trust, engagement and motivation.

Coaches also need a number of more technical skills. For example, they must understand exercise physiology to teach and enhance the performance of their athletes.

Athletes wondering how to choose a triathlon coach should look for someone who will understand their athletes as an athlete and a person. They’ll balance these two areas to meet their specific needs and goals within the sport. In addition, an open mindset is crucial to getting the most out their athletes and to continue to grow as a coach.

We have seen some of the best coaches start with little or no coaching or triathlon experience, but they bring a drive to learn and support others.

How to get started as a triathlon coach

To start your coaching journey, book a place with British Triathlon at www.britishtriathlon.org/get-involved/coaching/become-a-coach. If you still have questions contact the team at coaching@britishtriathlon.org or 01509 837137.