SWAP Coaching Philosophy
The Approach
The best place to start if you are on the fence is the Ultra Runner Podcast interview with Coach David, which goes over coaching philosophy in detail: http://ultrarunnerpodcast.com/david-roche-ultramarathon-coach/
And this podcast on Science of Ultra that goes into the details of training methodology: http://www.scienceofultra.com/podcasts/51
And this podcast on TriSpecific that details how unconditional support and belief work in SWAP: http://www.trispecific.com/fb222-david-roche/
The Little Things
SWAP training methodology is all about improving running economy, making faster and stronger running feel easier over time. We want athletes to breakthrough to new levels through speed, whether they're long-time pros or people exploring the speed skill for the first time.
For a breakdown of training minutae, check out these written interviews conducted with Coach David by SWAP athlete (and National Geographic Adventurer of the Year) Andrew Skurka:
- Training methodology, with coach David Roche
- A 526-Word Summary of the Complete Training Cycle
- Strength AND Speed: Ultra Training
For a write-up of our approach to the psychological side of coaching, check out this interview with Hold Fast Health: http://holdfasthealth.com/2017/07/19/david-roche-coaching-philosophy/
The Big Things
SWAP has had success over the years because of our main coaching emphases:
1. We are here for unconditional support, not just running coaching.
2. All we care about is fulfillment, and we don't give a single f%&$ about speed or results. Those things are a fun byproduct of enjoying the process of life.
3. Every athlete is "elite," pace and distance don't matter.
4. Consistency and joyful daily adventures are what lead to long-term health and happiness. We have built up an active online SWAP community that will be even more important than coaching in some cases, since your teammates will become your friends, confidants, and partners-in-crime.