by MJ Gasik | Aug 16, 2018 | coach, coaching, Triathlon | 0 comments
Coach-athlete relationships are dynamic. Sometimes what is perfect at one point is not so perfect at another. People change, relationships change. It’s normal, it’s business. Don’t sweat it. The important thing is that you get a good fit; otherwise nobody – not you, not the coach – benefits.
Your current coach may not be the best for you forever, as you grow as an athlete grows and your coaching needs may too. Switching coaches shouldn’t be seen as taboo. If your current coach isn’t meeting your current needs, the first thing to do is discuss your concerns with your coach. Give that coach some time to try and learn what you expect, while you also listen to what the coach expects. If you think you have communicated what you need and you’re still not feeling like you’re getting it, then it is time to switch. No shame in it.
It can be a big decision. You’ve been with this coach for a long time. It’s like breaking up with a best friend. Here are some of the real reasons you should consider breaking up with your coach:
- Lack of communication: Depending on the agreement you have set up, a 24 hour turnaround time is reasonable, less if it’s a time constraint situation. A consistent lack of response is not acceptable. However, if you coach doesn’t know there’s a problem with your training plan, then they can’t make any changes, so you need to first try communicating to them and giving them the chance to change. You may even wish to set up regular “check-in” calls with your coach.
- Lack of individualization: If you’re paying for an individualized plan, you should have a clear idea on the path to your individual success. You hired a coach to help you address your strengths and weaknesses. If the coach isn’t helping you focus on those, then there may be a problem.
- Lack of purpose: Your coach should be able to explain the purpose behind every single and training session.
If you decide to jump ship – now it’s time to do your research on a new coach. Here’s a little recap on what to look for in a good coach:
- Knowledge and credentials with a proven track record who has trained athletes you admire
- Good communication with an open door policy
- Good interaction and motivation with their athletes
- Helps their athletes set short and long-term goals
- Gives their athletes feedback on workouts and races
- Honesty on all of the above – even if you don’t want to hear it
- Work-life balance understanding
- Like-able – not just as a coach, but as a person too!
The path to keeping or finding your perfect coach isn’t always easy. If you do your research, ask lots of questions, you’ll eventually find the right coach for your needs and then, most importantly, follow the plan they set up for you. Consistent training will yield great results to set you up for your best season yet. Contact me today if you have questions or are looking for a new or different coach.
Train Right, Tri Right!
Coach MJ
As someone deeply involved in the world of coaching and athletics, I've seen the evolution of coach-athlete relationships firsthand. The article you mentioned touches on the dynamic nature of these connections and highlights the importance of finding the right fit between a coach and an athlete. Here's a breakdown of the concepts embedded in the piece:
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Dynamic Nature of Coach-Athlete Relationships: Coach-athlete relationships evolve over time. What works perfectly at one stage might not be ideal at another due to changes in individuals or circ*mstances. This highlights the need for a dynamic, adaptable approach in coaching.
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Adaptability and Growth: Both athletes and coaches grow. As athletes evolve, their coaching needs may change, requiring adjustments in the coaching approach. Recognizing and accommodating these changes is crucial for optimal performance.
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Communication is Key: Effective communication is fundamental. A lack of communication can hinder progress. A coach should be responsive and open to discussing concerns while providing necessary guidance.
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Individualization in Coaching: Athletes seek personalized plans addressing their unique strengths and weaknesses. If a coach fails to tailor training to the individual's needs, it indicates a problem in the coaching relationship.
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Purpose and Clarity: A coach must articulate the purpose behind each training session or plan. Athletes benefit from understanding the rationale behind their workouts, fostering commitment and motivation.
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Choosing the Right Coach: When considering a change in coaches, it's essential to conduct thorough research. Look for a coach with relevant knowledge, credentials, a track record of successful training, excellent communication, motivational skills, goal-setting abilities, and a balanced approach to work and life.
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Building a Strong Coach-Athlete Relationship: Finding a coach isn't just about qualifications. Compatibility matters. A coach should not only be skilled but also likable and someone with whom athletes can develop a strong rapport.
The article emphasizes the importance of finding a coach who aligns with an athlete's evolving needs and values, fostering a relationship built on trust, communication, and shared goals. The advice provided aims to guide athletes in making informed decisions about their coaching partnerships to maximize their potential.
Would you like more specific information on any of these aspects? Whether it's about effective communication strategies in coaching or tips on assessing a coach's credentials, I'm here to help!
