USATF Cross Country Specialist Course

USATF Coaching Education presents a 12-hour course specific to the discipline of cross country. Learn periodization training for the cross country season, adapted from USATF Legend Coach, Dr. Joe Vigil, in addition to team building strategies and long term athlete development for the endurance runner. 

Each coach who completes the course and achieves a passing score on the final exam will be awarded a USATF Cross Country Specialist certificate.

Units

• Introduction and History of Cross Country
• Science of Cross Country Training
• Application of Cross Country Training
• Mental Strength Training
• Stimulus, Fatigue, and Recovery
• Peaking Strategy
• Team Dynamics
• Supplemental Training and Resources
• Coach and Athlete Panel

Requirements

To register for the USATF Cross Country Specialist Course, you must:

• Be a current USATF member and at least 18 years of age

Prior coaching education or exercise science background is helpful but not required to register.
 

Benefits

• Recognition as a USATF Cross Country Specialist Coach
• Comprehensive digital course materials covering sports science, microcycles, and more
• Skills and knowledge to coach youth through elite level athletes
• Interaction with USATF Coach Educators and top minds in the endurance community
• Eligible Level 1 Recertification continuing education course for current USATF Level 1 Coaches

Recertification

No recertification requirements are currently in effect for USATF Specialist certificate holders (subject to change).