Remote vs In-Person Coaching: Why Remote Coaching is a Game-Changer for Triathletes

When most people think about triathlon coaching, they imagine meeting a coach poolside, riding in a group at the weekend, or working through drills on a running track. That traditional model of in-person coaching has its place — but in today’s world, it isn’t the only option.

More and more athletes are discovering that remote coaching not only works, but often provides greater flexibility, support, and long-term results. As a coach who has worked with athletes across Ireland, the UK and beyond, I’ve seen first-hand the power of remote coaching to fit into busy lives and unlock potential.

Let’s take a closer look at how in-person and remote coaching compare — and why remote coaching could be exactly what you need.

1. Accessibility: Work with the Right Coach, Not Just the Closest Coach

• In-person: You’re limited to the coaches within travelling distance.

• Remote: Geography isn’t a barrier. You can work with the coach whose philosophy, experience, and approach suits you best, wherever you are in the world.

This opens up opportunities to be coached by someone who truly understands your lifestyle and goals, rather than settling for what’s local. See how my coaching packages work HERE

2. Flexibility: Training That Fits Your Life

• In-person: Sessions are often tied to a specific club timetable or location.

• Remote: Training plans are adapted in real time to your work, family, and travel schedule. Missed a swim because of a late meeting? Your plan can be reshaped instantly, so nothing is wasted.

For time-short athletes, this flexibility is a game-changer. See how it works for ITR athletes HERE

3. Communication: More Than Just One Session a Week

• In-person: Feedback is often limited to the time you’re physically together.

• Remote: With training apps, WhatsApp, Zoom, and video analysis, feedback and support can happen daily.

Many athletes are surprised to find they have more contact with their coach remotely than they ever did face-to-face.

4. Personalisation: One Athlete, One Plan

• In-person: Club sessions can be energising, but they’re often “one-size-fits-all.”

• Remote: Every session is designed around you — your current fitness, your strengths and weaknesses, and your race calendar.

This level of tailoring means every session has purpose and moves you closer to your goal.

5. Support Beyond Training Hours

• In-person: Coaching input may only happen during sessions.

• Remote: Support extends to fuelling, recovery, race strategy, mindset, and lifestyle. Athletes aren’t just guided on what to do, but how to approach the bigger picture of training and racing.

6. Community Without Borders

Remote coaching doesn’t mean going it alone. At Team ITR, athletes connect online, share experiences, and support each other at races across the UK and Ireland. That sense of belonging and motivation isn’t tied to geography — it travels with you.

Why Remote Coaching Works

Remote coaching isn’t a second-best substitute for in-person support. For many athletes — especially those with careers, families, and limited time — it’s actually the smarter option. It offers the structure, accountability, and flexibility needed to train consistently, without the stress of trying to fit into someone else’s timetable.

If you’re ready to see how remote coaching could help you balance your triathlon goals with the rest of your life, I’d love to chat. You can contact me by visiting the ITR website, book a call or drop me a DM at instagram @intherunningcoaching and we’ll explore how remote coaching could work for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is remote triathlon coaching effective?
Yes. Remote coaching gives you tailored training, real-time adjustments, and regular feedback through platforms like TrainingPeaks and WhatsApp. Many athletes actually get more contact and support from a remote coach than they would in a traditional in-person setting.

What are the benefits of online triathlon coaching compared to in-person?
In-person coaching can be motivating, but it’s often tied to fixed schedules or group sessions. Online coaching offers flexibility, daily communication, and personalised training that adapts to your lifestyle — making it especially effective for busy triathletes.

How do I know if remote coaching is right for me?
If you’re balancing triathlon with work, family, or travel, remote coaching could be ideal. It gives you structure, accountability, and support wherever you are, without the need to fit into a coach’s timetable.