Find a Triathlon Coach

Better Triathlete is an online triathlon coaching platform that helps match athletes with coaches who best align with their training demands and race objectives.

With over 20 specialized endurance coaches in our network, we make it easy for you to connect with qualified triathlon coaches who can help meet your needs, whether it’s training for your first sprint tri or competing in the Ironman World Championship.

Reach out to us to match with a coach or learn more about Better Triathlete below.

Featured Online Triathlon Coaches

Better Triathlete is a global community of triathlon coaches who are located all over the world. While most of our coaches are based in the U.S., we can match any international athlete with an online triathlon coach virtually. Learn more about some of the coaches who make up our platform.

Jeff Lukich

Jeff Lukich is a triathlon and endurance coach based in Georgia who specializes in long-course multisport athletes, ultra runners, and marathoners, as well as cyclists and athletes with unique events, like double Ironman, staged races, swim-run, and more. A veteran in his own right, Jeff has completed over 25 half-Ironman events and 9 full Ironman-distance races. Jeff leads Better Triathlete’s coach match program and runs Drive Multisport. Learn more about Jeff

Maria Simone

Maria Simone is a Colorado-based endurance and triathlon coach who leads No Limits Endurance, a virtual coaching platform for both triathletes and runners. Maria specializes in coaching long-course athletes, especially non-traditional ultra distances as well as data analysis. She works with athletes through online, in-person, and group coaching dynamics. Through No Limits Endurance, she provides virtual coaching services for a wide spectrum of athletes. Learn more about Maria

Katie Whidden

Also a Colorado-based triathlon coach, Katie Whidden is co-founder of Lifelong Endurance and head strength coach for Peak Performance Running. Katie specializes in coaching beginner-to-intermediate triathletes and cyclists, integrating functional strength workouts, data analysis, and effective communication to successfully balance an athlete’s training schedule with their other commitments. Katie prefers working with beginner to intermediate triathletes. Learn more about Katie

William Ritter

William Ritter coaches triathletes and runners of all levels from beginners to elites. From short to long or 5k to marathon, track, and cross country, William has an extensive background in endurance sports and has an impressive track record as an elite-level athlete. Primary operating online, William emphasizes a hands-on dynamic and provides personalized coaching to the athletes he works with. Learn more about William.

See all of the triathlon coaches in Better Triathlete’s coach directory.

What is Better Triathlete?

Better Triathlete is an online multisport community and training resource that shares insightful content across all types of endurance sports, particularly triathlon. This includes endurance and strength training, nutrition and recovery, and inspiration and guidance toward cultivating greater fulfillment in the sport.

Better Triathlete seeks to support the multisport community with valuable content that both triathlon coaches and triathletes will appreciate. From triathlon wetsuits, bikes, and gear to podcasts, books, and training resources, Better Triathlete seeks to serve as the online triathlon authority for coaching and beyond.

As a recognized triathlon blog in the endurance space, Better Triathlete also provides coaches, athletes, and endurance enthusiasts a platform to share their wisdom and perspectives. We allow guest blogging and editorial opportunities like featured content, reviews, and other quality ideas worth spreading.

The Dynamic of Online Triathlon Coaching

There are a number of reasons athletes prefer virtual triathlon coaching online. Some athletes seek elite-level triathlon coaches that are not accessible in their local area. Other athletes prefer the convenience and responsiveness that comes with online triathlon coaching relationships. Whatever the motive is, an athlete can still receive professional-quality and personalized tri coaching without face-to-face interaction.

Many top athletes who seek elite-level or professional triathlon coaching will often seek out the best triathlon coaches regardless of local limitations. There are many different triathlon coaching certifications, ranging from USAT and ASAF to ITU and Ironman. While these qualifications guarantee a baseline level of knowledge, we make sure to vet all online triathlon coaches who are part of our network and match the most qualified coach to meet your objectives.

Looking for Ironman Coaching?

Are you planning on doing an Ironman triathlon? Do you need help putting together an Iron-distance triathlon training program? We can help you find the right resources to meet your long-course objectives.

If you’re seeking an experienced Ironman coach to work with remotely via an online dynamic, then Better Triathlete can help. We can help connect you with some of the best triathlon coaches who can help to design and program an Ironman training plan fit for you.

We understand the independent nature of Ironman training – most Iron-distance athletes are disciplined, self-sustainable, and focused. This makes online triathlon coaching a great option for many athletes planning to go the distance.

FAQs About Triathlon Coaching

A lot of questions can crop up when weighing the investment in triathlon coaching services. Here we address some of the most frequently asked questions about Better Triathlete’s coach match program and triathlon coaching in general.

How much does a triathlon coach cost?

Coaching prices typically align with a coach’s experience, credentials, and educational background, along with the level of personalized communication and feedback provided. The greater the communication, guidance, and accountability, the higher the coaching fees. Today, thanks to advancements in technology and online coaching platforms like Training Peaks, a majority of endurance coaching is done virtually. 

While one-on-one triathlon and endurance coaching fees can range from $175/month at the lower end to over $350/month at the upper end, the national average tends to be around $250/month. However, prices may vary depending on the specific region of the country. It’s important to remember that hiring a coach goes beyond the cost in terms of value —it’s an investment in subject matter expertise, tailored strategy, and improved performance.

Some triathlon coaches offer additional services, such as fueling advice, form analysis, sports psychology and mental health services, and race day support, which can add to the overall cost of the coach’s services.

What are the benefits of hiring a triathlon coach?

Working with a triathlon coach can be an important investment for athletes of all levels. Some of the benefits of hiring a triathlon coach include:

• Personalized training plans: One of the most highly-sought reasons for recruiting a coach is getting help customizing a training plan that’s individually tailored to the athlete’s specific goals, abilities, and needs.
• Accountability: As a foundation for support and guidance, a coach can help hold athletes accountable for their training, enabling them to stay on track and stay focused. 
• Improved performance: In addition to assembling training plans, coaches can help athletes optimize their performance by analyzing their form and technique, prescribing drills and workouts, and balancing training with recovery. Data analytics is also an important part of performance management for a coached athlete. 
• Reduced risk of injury: Some coaches specialize in recovery and injury prevention/rehabilitation, helping athletes avoid overtraining and injury.
• Less stress: A good triathlon coach can take the stress and uncertainty out of training, allowing athletes to free themselves from distractions and focus on their training and racing objectives.
• Expert guidance: Certain triathlon coaches are subject matter experts and provide athletes with specialized advice on nutrition, fueling and hydration, race strategy, recovery, and race-specific training.
• Increased motivation: Coaches can offer a wealth of encouragement and support, which can help athletes stay motivated and committed to their training.

The overall benefit and ROI of working with a triathlon coach will depend on the athletes, their goals, and the type of coach they’re looking for.

When should you start using a triathlon coach?

It’s recommended to start working with a triathlon coach at least 9-12  months out from your target A-race, prior to starting your triathlon season. However, this timeframe varies depending on your goals, experience level, and the distances you’ll be racing. 

Beginner athletes aiming to complete their first triathlon often need coaching and guidance to address their questions about the training, technology, logistics, etc. Elite age groupers looking to compete often require a specified approach that’s more tailored to their race objectives and fitness level. 

In short, it’s best to get started sooner than later with a coach to realize your fullest potential. Most coaches will always recommend year around coaching for athletes who tend to race year to year. That is because, during the winter months, coaches can focus on building a higher FTP, along with skills and drills in the pool. Improvement tends to happen from the fall months to early spring, and that’s when the hard work is done. 

Long-course athletes participating in Iron-distance events will usually start working with a coach 9 to 12 months out from their A-race, again, depending on their experience level and target goals. 

What can you expect from a triathlon coach?

While every coaching dynamic is different, some of the most common things you can expect from a triathlon coach include:

• Tailored training programs: Your coach will create a personalized training program based on your fitness level and race objectives. They’ll consider your specific requirements and design a plan that fits your busy schedule.
• Adaptive sessions: Your coach will adjust your training sessions as necessary. They’ll monitor your progress, listen to your feedback, and accommodate any changes in your circumstances.
• Race strategy: A triathlon coach will help you develop effective race strategies. They’ll offer guidance on pacing, nutrition, transitions, and other crucial aspects of race preparation.
• Timely feedback and analysis: Expect regular feedback on your workouts. Your coach will analyze your training data and provide valuable insights to enhance your performance, making necessary adjustments along the way.
• Communication and support: Effective communication is vital in a coaching relationship. Your triathlon coach should be accessible and responsive, offering continuous support and guidance throughout your training journey.
• Expertise and experience: Look for an experienced triathlon coach with relevant credentials and race experience, particularly in the distance you’re training for. Their expertise can make a significant difference in your training and performance.

It’s important to note that the specific services and offerings may vary among coaches and coaching programs. Our goal at Better Triathlete is to match athletes with coaches who best align with their objectives and expectations.

How do I find a good triathlon coach?

Finding a good triathlon coach can feel like an overwhelming task, but there are several ways to narrow down your options and find the right coach for you. Here are some tips:

• First, consider your goals: Make sure your coach’s experience and expertise align with your goals. If you are new to the sport, ask whether a coach has worked with beginners. If you are hoping to qualify for Kona or earn your pro card, make sure your triathlon coach has the track record to help get you there.
• Ask for recommendations: If you’re involved in a local triathlon club, team, or training group, ask around for recommendations. This can be especially helpful if you’re interested in a local triathlon coach who you can work with in-person versus online. 
• Search online: It’s never been easier to find triathlon coaching and training resources online. Most coaches have their own websites where you can learn about their backgrounds and coaching services. You can also find online directories where many coaches are listed for hire. 
• Utilize coach match programs: Some websites and coaching platforms like Better Triathlete offer coach match programs that put you in touch with qualified coaches who align with your goals, budget, and preferred coaching dynamic (online versus in-person). These services are low-commitment and free to use for athletes.
• Interview potential coaches: Once you have a list of potential coaches, reach out to them and ask for a consultation. This is a great opportunity to ask questions and get a sense of whether the coach is a good fit for you. Some coaches may even offer a free trial period so you can test out their coaching style before committing

Remember, finding the right coach is a personal decision and may take some trial and error. While the coach’s prices, professional background, and expertise are important considerations, don’t overlook the coach’s character traits and the vibe you have with the coach. You should feel supported, respected, and encouraged.

How to become a triathlon coach?

If you are interested in becoming a triathlon coach, here are some steps you can take to get started:

• Gain experience: Before you can coach others, it’s important to have first-hand experience with the triathlon. Participate in triathlons, particular events, and distances that you want to specialize in, and gain experience in all three disciplines (swimming, cycling, and running). Explore what aspects of triathlon you want to be an expert and carve a niche.
• Get certified: It’s important to get certified as a triathlon coach. USA Triathlon offers a Level I Coach Certification Program that is designed to educate aspiring coaches on how to train athletes on different aspects of triathlon. IRONMAN offers a coaching certification as well. You can eventually explore different or higher levels of certification, including that of single disciplines like cycling or running certifications.
• Continue learning: Attend clinics, seminars, and conferences to stay up-to-date on the latest training techniques and trends in the sport. Learning from other experienced coaches is one of the best ways to progress as a coach. These relationships can also be powerful networking assets that can help grow your coaching business.
• Refine your coaching skills: Coaching requires a unique set of skills, including communication, motivation, and organization. Work on developing these skills through practice and training. You’ll also become more efficient at programming training plans for athletes and working with athletes with special needs and goals. 

Remember, becoming a triathlon coach takes time and dedication. Keep learning and gaining experience, and eventually, you may be able to turn your passion for triathlon into a rewarding coaching career.

Related Content About Triathlon Coaching

• Ironman Triathlon Coaching
• Triathlon Training 101
• Triathlon Distances & Average Finisher Times
• Best Indoor Bike Trainer?

For more triathlon information and resources, see our pages about triathlon types, distances and length, bikes, swimming, running, and inspiration.