Author: Vernon Gambetta
More on the Coaching Process
No algorithm, no formula – High degree of emotional intelligence & flexibility Grounded in pedagogy – A coach is a teacher first Driven by clearly defined core beliefs – Core beliefs are actions not just words Lifelong learner – Seeking answers by asking better questions The coach is a communicator – That means listening as well as talking Life/sport balance for the coach and athlete – We coach people who compete in sport. We have lives also.
Stop and Think
Before the day starts today take a minute and reflect. Why are you doing what you are doing when you are doing it and with whom are doing it? If you can’t sensibly and logically answer these questions in the context of the whole development process of the athlete then maybe you should not be doing it
Thinking about strength again
It seems that at least once every couple of months the question comes up as to how much strength is enough? I realize more and more that strength is totally contextual. Bosh defines strength training as coordination training with resistance, that is not good enough. It is coordination training with appropriate resistance to develop strength you can use, strength you can transfer. It is essential to thoroughly understand the strength demands of the sport or activity you are developing the strength for. Develop those strength qualities in context. If you do this then your strength programs will look different. It may consist of traditional strength movements applied differently with the result a more positive transfer not more artificial numbers in the weight room.
Neural Confusion
Neural confusion is a term, a metaphor if you will, that I use to explain what happens when you use exercises that attempt to isolate one muscle at one joint either to enhance performance or to prevent injury. Let recognize that the brain does not recognize individual muscles rather it recognizes and organizes patterns of movement to take advantage of muscle synergies. Attempting to isolate an individual muscle creates “neural confusion” by sending mixed messages to the brain. Stop and think what happens in real life. Muscles work in synergies, in patterns to produce smooth efficient movement. That is the way we should train and rehab. Select multi-joint, multi-plane exercises that trigger efficient adaptable movements that transfer to performance. A simple rule of thumb is to integrate not isolate.
The Glue
What is the glue that binds everything together in your program? Everyone does the same exercises, practices and trains in similar manners. What is your difference maker – the glue? You may not be able to see it, but successful programs have it. It is what gives depth and meaning to the familiar. Look around at consistent winning teams and individuals, look for their glue. You may have to dig but it is there.
The Little Engine That Could – I Think I can & I will!
Maybe this is subliminal programming from my childhood, but I grew up thinking I could. One of my favorite books as a child was the Little Engine That Could. When I had children, I read it to them at least once a week. There is a clear message – Embrace the challenge. Look at possibilities. What can you do? How can you do it? Take one step at a time, move forward, never look book. Recognize that doubt and fear of failing are real – acknowledge that, but don’t be consumed by it. You can, if you think you can. No Pollyanna approach here – so many people never give themselves a chance. Is talent and ability necessary and important? You bet it is and if anyone says otherwise don’t listen. But how many people really use their talent and ability? How many people fully exploit what they have? In my experience and observations not many. Why? In many cases, it is because they think they can’t. Realistically assess your talent and abilities then devise an action plan to do everything in your power to develop that talent to the fullest. If you fall short so be it, but rest assured that you did everything in your power to be the best that you
Green Eggs and Ham
Green eggs and ham uses 50 different words and only one of those words has more than one syllable! Shouldn't we be able to do the same in movement? Imagine combining pulling, pushing, reaching, bending & squatting into into the movement equivalent of “Green Eggs and Ham.” Use your knowledge, imagination and creativity to grow robust adaptable athletes capable of solving the most complex moment problems, its not that complicated just think of Green Eggs and Ham.
Stop and Think
Before the day starts today take a minute and reflect. Why are you doing what you are doing when you are doing it and with whom are doing it? If you can’t sensibly and logically answer these questions in the context of the whole development process of the athlete then maybe you should not be doing it.