Top 4 Ways To Improve Your Coaching

These tips are helpful whether you’re trying to influence your kids, or you’re coaching a class. I know that these reminders have helped me over my 10+ years of fitness coaching. You can know more than anyone about a specific topic, but if you can’t follow these tips, you may never really make an impact on someone. Of course, you’ve gotta know what the hell you’re talking about, but beyond that, use these 4 suggestions

For coaches, leaders, influencers or parents:

1. Bring the passion and enthusiasm. We all respond to leaders who are energetic. The more you can show that you love what you do, the more you’ll rub off on others. Many people are having tough days, or are feeling lethargic and unfocused. You can bring the fire to whatever it is that you’re coaching. You can use your body language to show others your excitement. I’m not saying that you need to be jumping all over the place, acting crazy (unless you feel like it) but simply remind yourself to bring the enthusiasm.

2. Use real-life, relatable language. Want to make a big influence on others? Speak their language and keep it real. You don’t need to prove your knowledge with explanations that your audience doesn’t get…instead, you can explain why something is important and how to do it correctly. When your audience understands a concept, they’ll be more likely to be motivated to commit to it. Help them by using simple, concise language that they can benefit from.

3. Inspire with your actions and words. Want to help others be more positive? Be optimistic and give them examples of what you say. Want to help them push themselves, show them how. If you’re trying to teach a specific method or lifestyle that you believe in, show them how it’s helped you and that you follow it. Consider sharing a personal story to build rapport and encourage others.

4. Connect. Show that you care by using eye contact, high fives, hugs, pats on the back and conversation. Ask specifics about their day and find out how things are going. Check in with people and reach out to them beyond the topic you’re coaching about. Personal connections are where we gain meaning and you can make an effort to show appreciation and care to each person you engage with.

Bottom Line: Be enthusiastic, be relatable, connect and be an example.