Frequently Asked Questions:
Are the running tools easy to use?
Yes, 5 Speed runners find the tools easy to use and that is important as it keeps the accountability up and the motivation high when you can see your progress right there in your training pages. If you are not used to working on the computer, Coach Rickerman will go out of his way to show you how easy it is to log your runs and give him the feedback he needs for you to get the most out of the program.
Do you train teams online?
Yes, Coach Rickerman successfully trains entire teams utilizing patent-pending team platforms that he has created. Runners are able to both train and communicate on the state-of-the-art training pages. Contact Coach if you have a team or a group of runners that would like to train together on your very own custom branded training pages.
How do you know how I'm doing?
Coach Rickerman continuously monitors his runners to ensure their success. Aside from email, phone, message center communication, the system even alerts Coach when a runner indicates in the running log if they did not complete the workout as scheduled. With this level of engagement and awareness, he can update your training schedule as needed and the changes are instantly available on your online training pages.
How does 5 Speed train runners they never met to personal records?
5 Speed Running is a combination of numbers and communication. Coach Rickerman knows the numbers, i.e. what a runner of a certain speed and ability "should" be able to run at other race distances and workouts. he knows the energy systems, how to calculate one's vo2max, anaerobic threshold low and high point, etc, how to put together a training plan that is built on where a runner has been, is currently, and where they want to go.
But the numbers will only work when there is communication as to how the runner is responding to the training. With a message center, email, and phone conversations, Coach Rickerman stays engaged with your running and schedules according to how your body is responding to the training. This combination of the art and science has worked for hundreds of runners across the country and internationally.
How much can I improve?
Everyone is different and that is why everyone can benefit from specific training. It's difficult to know how fast one can improve and it can be unsafe to improve at a very fast rate, even if it is possible. 5 Speed Running utilizes a 2% gradual improvement benchmark system. 2% doesn't sound like a lot but if you go to our calculator you'll see how it adds up to shave minutes off your race times. It is rare that a runner doesn't improve at least 2% under a 12 week 5 Speed Running training program and in many cases the improvements have been 4-8%.
Is this online training?
5 Speed Running is physically located in Los Angeles.
If you are outside of Southern California and are looking for a coach to run with you, then 5 Speed may not be your first choice. 5 Speed Running successfully coaches people all over the country with its innovative, affordable and effective training. In fact, many runners have said they are more engaged with their 5 Speed training and coach thousands of miles away than with their club coach across the street.
