How to Choose Strength Coach
How does one choose a coach?
With social media and the endless flow of information, it can become overwhelming to say the least! Almost anyone can create a social media presence - but does that make them qualified to coach a strength athlete? I’ve seen too many times a first time competitor - stepping off stage for the first time and boom - they are now a coach! How do you sift through all the nonsense to choose a great coach?!
1. What qualifies the coach you are looking to hire?
You wouldn’t hire a tennis coach to teach you how to play rugby. The same goes when hiring a fitness, bodybuilding, powerlifting coach, etc. Preferably you want a coach who has been in the same arena you are going to be competitive in. Now there may be a bit of cross over in strength sports, but a long distance runner and a strongman competitor aren’t the same, even if you can find some similarities. Also, you don’t necessarily have to have a pro as a coach in the sport you’re choosing to compete in. Not all pros/athletes make good coaches.
2. Does their resume do the talking?
More importantly, does the prospective coach have other clients that have made it to the level you want to achieve? This is helpful for sure, but not the end all. Just as when hiring a plumber to work on your home, does this coach have the experience and reviews from other clients to prove what they are telling you? Most clients do not lie when leaving reviews. This is an easy way to avoid getting yourself into trouble.
3. How does this coach align with your projected outcome and goals?
With the initial consult, is this prospective coach able to give you an outline toward the direction he/she sees fit? Does this direction align with your desired outcome? Most coaches aren’t going to map our a day to day schedule until funds are in hand, but they can give a general outline of the process.
4. What are this coaches communication methods?
You want a coach who sets an expectation of what he/she needs, to get you the results you desire. They will also need to have a consistent form of communication in the process. Ask the question, “how will I be communicating with you”? For most, a general outline of when and how, should be sufficient! You can always reach out to others who are currently working with the coach for the best feedback.
5. Can this coach asses your current abilities, and while working with you?
Again, a quick way to figure this out, is ask some of his current clients! A good coach will provide you with some of his clients so you can ask them these questions you have. Specifically, to bodybuilding, every prep is different and unique to itself. Having a coach that is able to make adjustments accurately and on time is most important. A professional coach doesn’t need time to practice while coaching at a high level. Yes there are individual circumstances with each athlete, but with an experienced coach, adjustments will be made in the timely way.