THE LANGUAGE OF COACHING with Dr. Nick Winkelman - Part 1
May 27, 2021
auto_awesome
Dr. Nick Winkelman, Head of Athletic Performance for the Irish Rugby Football Union and author of 'The Language of Coaching,' dives into the power of language in coaching. He discusses how effective communication can elevate athlete performance and engagement. The conversation highlights the significance of different feedback types like Knowledge of Results and Knowledge of Performance. Winkelman also emphasizes the importance of empowering athletes through self-selected feedback and creating environments that foster independent learning.
Effective communication through well-crafted language enhances athlete engagement and creates a motivating learning environment for optimal performance.
Blending knowledge of results and knowledge of performance feedback is crucial for athlete development, ensuring they receive actionable insights without information overload.
Deep dives
The Significance of Communication in Coaching
Effective communication plays a crucial role in coaching and athletic performance. A personal trainer's success often stems not just from their technical knowledge but from their ability to engage and motivate clients through well-crafted language. This engagement cultivates a better learning environment, where athletes feel encouraged to perform optimally. The practical application of communication techniques can lead to significant improvements in athletes' movement and skill execution.
Understanding Knowledge of Results and Knowledge of Performance
Feedback is essential in skill acquisition, differentiating between two primary types: knowledge of results (KR) and knowledge of performance (KP). KR focuses on the outcomes achieved, while KP provides insight into the execution of the skill itself. For example, a volleyball coach may inform a player whether their serve landed in the designated area (KR) but also provide details on the technique employed during the serve (KP). Successfully blending these feedback types can support both novice and experienced athletes in their development, ensuring they're not overwhelmed with information during competitive scenarios.
Facilitating Learning Through Strategic Feedback
Geared feedback is fundamental for fostering athlete independence in learning and performance. Research indicates that athletes are more inclined to seek feedback when their performance is positive, as it provides valuable insight into effective techniques. Coaches need to balance their feedback strategies to avoid overwhelming athletes, especially during learning phases, allowing them to rely on intrinsic feedback from their performance. By shifting the focus from simply pointing out errors to constructive, solution-oriented guidance, coaches can enhance the learning experience and promote athlete autonomy.