Is your Training Program Helping or Hurting your Performance?

How do you know if your trainer or training program is helping improve your performance?

Here’s what you want to be on the lookout for when choosing a qualified, certified strength coach to have in your corner.

Today’s world is filled with an abundance of information about strength training. It can be easy to get lost in the noise of trendy Instagram exercises or the suggestions of popular fitness “influencers”.   While no one exercise will make or break your game (unless it’s REALLY off the wall and you get injured), there are certain things you should look for in a coach or strength trainer when seeking one to improve your on-field/court/pitch game. Here’s what you want to consider when choosing a qualified, certified strength coach to have in your corner.

Expertise - An experienced coach has the knowledge and expertise to design a training program specifically tailored to the needs and goals of your sport. They understand the biomechanics of strength training and your sport and can ensure that exercises target the muscle groups and movement patterns most relevant to optimal performance.  This also includes knowing the most common sports-related injuries and taking steps to prepare your body to withstand such damage.

Safety - Weight training, if done improperly, can lead to injuries. A qualified coach can teach proper exercise techniques, ensure the correct form, and provide guidance on appropriate weights and progression. This reduces the risk of injury and ensures that training is conducted safely.

Individualization - A qualified trainer/coach will assess an individual's current fitness level, strengths, weaknesses, and any existing injuries or limitations. Based on this assessment, they develop a personalized training program that addresses the specific needs of the individual, whether it's improving overall strength, addressing muscular imbalances, or targeting specific areas of weakness relevant to your sport.

Monitoring - Experienced strength coaches understand the importance of tracking progress over time, and adjusting the training program as needed to ensure continued improvement. They will measure strength gains, assess movement quality, and make adjustments to optimize performance and prevent plateaus.

Accountability - Working with a strength coach provides accountability and motivation, which can be particularly beneficial for maintaining consistency and sticking to a training regimen. A coach can provide encouragement, support, and guidance, helping you stay focused and committed to your strength training goals.

Maximized Results - Qualified strength coaches understand how to optimize training variables such as volume, intensity, frequency, and exercise selection to maximize strength gains and performance improvements. They can also provide guidance on other aspects of training, such as nutrition and recovery, to ensure that individuals are taking a comprehensive approach to their performance goals.

Bonus - In our experience in the world of sports there is another attribute we have found to be present in most, if not all, of our best strength training coaches. You can identify it by asking this question - do they geek out over the subject matter!?  All the best coaches love what they do and are excited to help you get better at your sport.  You’ll never find someone more excited to argue the lack of benefits to completing a cool-down or the pros of a particular type of periodization.  Find people who put this kind of energy into the training they are planning for you!

Working with a qualified, certified strength coach or trainer can enhance the effectiveness of strength training for your sport, helping you achieve your goals safely, efficiently, and effectively.

If you’d like more information on anything in this article or want advice on the best programming for your team click here.