PCG COACH VS LOCAL COACH
Coach Comparison: PCG Coach vs Local Coach
Topic
PCG Power Certified Coach
Local Coach
Coaching Knowledge
Certified coach of at least 5 years, then is required to take PCG certification test. 
Could be good but no way to know. must rely on references.
Power Training  Knowledge
All coaches trained by Hunter Allen, many coaches have 10+ years of power coaching.
Often say they know about power. but are just using numbers and not analysis
Periodization of Plan
Very important for proper build--coach creates customized annual plan for your race and event specific goals
Big picture planning often missed, as they are sending you plans weekly "off the cuff"
Analysis and Diagnosis
Regularly set up online meetings (skype or similar) to review progress or setbacks, through pre-designed charts, power file review and more.
Call or meetings usually just offering "Atta boys," and job well done, no in depth discussion about progress, strengths and weaknesses
Ability to ride and work on athlete form
Coaches often set up places to meet athletes regionally or at camps. Ride form can be done through picture exchange and analysis.
In person meeting a big benefit to solve form and riding bad habits. Regular riding doesn’t usually occur since pace/style is often different from coach. 
Shares a close relationship with athlete 
Online coaches often understand the athlete better through regular sit down phone or skype meeting. 
Ride and meet locally is a benefit
Meetings to share data 
Regularly scheduled online meetings to discuss data and refine and solve problems quickly and efficiently

Often meeting at coffee shop and talking more about yesterdays ride than discussing data that can better prepare you for the upcoming race

Entire team part of a whole group of
nationally respected coaches
Almost 60 of the best USAC Power Certified coaches, 3 with PhD's, 3 USAC instructors, many with World and National Championships 
Usually working alone
Expert coaches mentoring and sharing knowledge with team
Peaks Google Group of coaches regularly share knowledge with each other, answer questions, ask for power files, etc. No question unanswered.
Usually working alone
Discounts on power devices, food, gear and
clothing
 Discounts year round based on level of coaching purchased
 Probably not
Surveys and Staff behind the scenes to make
sure athlete is happy
3 month confidential surveys, and then annual. PCG staff always available to answer questions and support you. 
Probably not
Training and racing knowledge from Hunter
Allen Blog site, PCG newsletter, Facebook,
You Tube etc.
Tons of information offered to athletes free of charge; Regular monthly
newsletters, active blog site, active Facebook and You Tube channels
Maybe Facebook
Cost
Custom one-on-one coaching packages start at $189 per month
Usually around 150.00 a month
Cancellation policy
30-day cancellation with no long-term contracts
Individual to coach
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