Simple Coaching Tips for Up and Coming Fitness Professionals

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There is more to coaching than simply assisting clients to achieve their peak performance during training. It takes a certain level of skill and patience to motivate and condition people physically and mentally. In today’s post, we are listing down tips to help you rev start your career at coaching at any fitness and conditioning communities:

Always Consider the Angle, Literally

There is a reason why the 90-degree angle is important in fitness and sports. As a coach, you get a clearer perspective if you see things at a 90-degree angle. For instance, say you are coaching a client to perform a deadlift. By coaching at a 90-degree angle, you can observe if the athlete is pushing through the heels or toes. You can see if the movement is starting to turn into a squat and make the right adjustments. And from the front, you can watch as the athlete shifts his knees, his grip width, etc.

Motivate the Right Away

Again, it takes a certain level of patience and persistence to motivate a person to push himself harder. So make sure you are motivating your clients according to their personality and lifestyle. You have to adjust your motivation technique according to the disposition of your client. We also recommend using positive reinforcement as a way to get clients to reach their fitness potentials. Negative reinforcement may provide faster results but better fitness starts at positivity.

Pay Attention to Your Mannerisms

A stereotypical coach is usually yelling at his team/clients with arms crossed. But in real life, you have to give an impression that you are approachable. Habits and mannerisms associated with negative behaviors such as yelling commands, crossing the arms, frowning or intimidating your clients could cause you your career. Always interact with clients with open arms and an approachable demeanor.

Mind Your Posture

And speaking of bad habits, if you have the habit of slouching or sitting down for too long, now’s the best time to re-think your teaching technique. Remember, you want to make a great impression on potential clients. You are not doing yourself any favor if you spend most of the time training while slouching on a chair. If you want to motivate your clients to move, then lead by example. If your knees or lower back hurts from standing too long, you can always take 5.

If you are doing lots of ground-to-standing transitions, then demonstrate the exercises to get moving. To redistribute your weight, try doing single leg stances to give your legs a little break. Finally, wear your most comfortable spots shoes during training.

Getting to Know Your Clients

Some athletes are visual learners while others are mental learners. Get to know your clients to determine what teaching method works the best. For example, some athletes prefer if you demonstrate a certain move while others take directions very well. Usually, those who need demonstrations are beginners or do not possess strong athletic background. Clients who need very little coaching cues are typically fit and experienced exercisers themselves.

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