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ISSA (International Sports Sciences Association): Certified Running Coach

Course program

The Running Coach certification by ISSA (International Sports Sciences Association) trains fitness professionals to coach runners across goals and abilities. The program focuses on the science of the running stride, performance programming, and long-term injury prevention, framed within ISSA’s broader specialist track for trainers building a coaching business.

This certification is built for fitness professionals and aspiring coaches who want to work with runners of any level. No prior fitness credential is required to enroll, but a current CPR certification must be uploaded before certification is awarded. It suits trainers adding a running specialization, group coaches, and anyone planning to build a running-focused coaching practice.

The curriculum centers on the biomechanics of human stride and how to adapt training to different body types. You’ll study programming strategies and workouts tailored to each client’s needs, including drills and techniques that build speed, endurance, and strength.

A dedicated section covers methods to prevent and manage common running injuries, with an emphasis on long-term performance and sustainable progressions. You’ll also develop coaching skills to motivate runners physically, mentally, and emotionally at every stage of training.

The program closes with practical strategies to implement running training into a coaching business — for group programs, weight-management clients, competitive runners, or general fitness enthusiasts. A bonus lecture from running scientist Jason Karp complements the core curriculum.

The course is delivered 100% online and is fully self-paced, so you can study anytime, on any device. ISSA estimates the program can be completed in as little as 4 weeks, with no fixed schedule. Materials include a digital textbook, course outline, an exercise video library, and a 3D exercise animation library. Progress is reinforced with low-pressure quizzes, and the program concludes with an online, open-book, open-note exam.

The curriculum centers on the biomechanics of human stride and how to adapt training to different body types. You’ll study programming strategies and workouts tailored to each client’s needs, including drills and techniques that build speed, endurance, and strength.

A dedicated section covers methods to prevent and manage common running injuries, with an emphasis on long-term performance and sustainable progressions. You’ll also develop coaching skills to motivate runners physically, mentally, and emotionally at every stage of training.

The program closes with practical strategies to implement running training into a coaching business — for group programs, weight-management clients, competitive runners, or general fitness enthusiasts. A bonus lecture from running scientist Jason Karp complements the core curriculum.

Keep practicing with ISSA (International Sports Sciences Association)

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