Consistency is often the hallmark of a successful running career, but even the most consistent runners often have to change coaches periodically. Miler Dan Wilson has experienced success at the high school, college, and professional levels—and has had four different coaches along the way.
"It’s hard to put all of your trust behind someone who you don’t know, especially if things worked well for you [before]," Wilson observes. "You’re used to a system and you’re used to doing [things] a certain way."
The most common reason for changing coaches is moving on from high school to college, and Wilson cautions against going into college blind. "I think you’ve got to talk with your old coach and talk to your new coach, without sounding like you’re telling him what to do. Discuss how you did things and what worked for you, and see if you can maybe reach a middle ground."
After all, says Wilson, "if things are working, you don’t want to change up your system entirely, so the best thing is communication." Even in a smooth transition, the change to college can be difficult, though, given the increased intensity and volume of much of the training.
