A Year in Reflection: Building a Unique Coaching Journey

February 2023 marked the beginning of a new chapter for me: launching James Sieber Run & Strength Coaching. My journey, rooted in ski coaching and personal training, evolved into a passion for helping others achieve their fitness goals through safe, informed guidance.

The Early Days: Challenges and Realisations

After launching, my initial burst of enthusiasm was quickly tempered by a stark realisation: I lacked any expertise in marketing and had an aversion to social media. It was a daunting start, but one that taught me the value of adaptability in business. Nevertheless, some enquiries rolled in and athletes started signing up. There was a lot of wasted energy and money building and launching ads that I didn’t run effectively. Time spent learning how to develop a website only to realise it didn’t capture nor convert into enquiries. The learning curve was massive and scary. I often doubted if this is what I should be doing.

Growth and Evolution

As 2023 unfolded, my athlete roster gradually expanded, and my coaching services evolved. I noticed a gap in the market: low-cost programs often compromised on quality, especially when coaching was only an after work engagement, while premium services were prohibitively expensive. This observation shaped my offerings: comprehensive Run Coaching with tailored Strength programs, and specialised Strength Coaching for endurance athletes. My initial goal was modest yet daunting – five athletes in six months – but by year’s end, I proudly coached 16 dedicated individuals, all of whom stayed with me from the start.

Building a Team: A Holistic Approach

The year was filled with unprecedented challenges that pushed me to expand my knowledge and skills. My scope and qualifications only stretch so far and thus the expansion of my team, including Anna from Pickle & Herb Nutrition and Naturopathy, and Tim from This Foot & Ankle, providing expert podiatry advice, was the natural evolution. Together, we’ve created a multi-disciplinary team that emphasises easy-to-use software, open communication, and a holistic coaching approach.

Reflecting on Success and Looking Ahead

2023 was an extraordinary year. Coaching a diverse group of 16 incredible runners from across the globe has been incredibly fulfilling. I have never felt so committed to any work I have done and never wanted to learn this fast to be able to help others. Sitting down at the laptop still feels like work, I mean I am not running in the mountains so yes I am working, but the level of fulfilment is unparalleled.

Looking forward to 2024, my focus shifts away from in-person class and strength training to online coaching and event management, achieving a goal I set last year much sooner than anticipated. While growth remains important, my primary focus will be on maintaining the quality of my offerings whilst having space for only a couple more runners. As I embark on this next phase of my coaching journey in 2024, I’m filled with a sense of purpose and excitement, ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead and the journey’s that are yet to unfold.