LTBP #27 - Nick Winkelman Interview: The Art & Science of Coaching
Apr 10, 2017
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In this episode, Stuart interviews Nick Winkelman, head of athletic performance at the IRFU. They discuss work-life balance, cueing in coaching, explicit vs implicit learning, autonomy supportive coaching, and the importance of reflective practice.
External cues in coaching facilitate motor learning and enhance performance.
Reflective practice helps coaches identify areas for improvement and continuously improve.
Achieving work-life balance through prioritization, time management, and self-awareness is crucial for coaches' well-being and effectiveness.
Deep dives
The Power of External Cues in Coaching
The use of external cues in coaching is crucial for facilitating motor learning and improving performance. External cues, such as focusing on the outcome or the effect of the movement on the environment, have been shown to be more effective than internal cues, which focus on specific joints or muscles. Research has consistently demonstrated that external cues lead to better retention of skills and are especially valuable in high-pressure situations. Coaches should strive to use external cues to guide their clients and athletes, helping them achieve optimal movement patterns and enhance their performance.
Reflective Practice in Coaching
Reflective practice is a valuable habit for coaches to cultivate. Taking a few minutes after each session to reflect on strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats can help coaches identify areas for improvement and capitalize on successes. Reflective practice allows coaches to become aware of their coaching habits and make necessary adjustments. By reflecting on their coaching behaviors, coaches can identify potential growth areas and make micro-goals for future sessions. Reflective practice is a stepping stone to progress and can help coaches refine their coaching skills and continuously improve.
Balancing Work and Life
Achieving a balance between work and personal life is crucial to avoid burnout and maintain overall well-being. Prioritizing family, managing time efficiently, and cultivating self-awareness are key components of achieving this balance. Setting aside specific time for personal activities, such as exercise or hobbies, and being present and engaged during family time can help create boundaries between work and personal life. Additionally, seeking external resources and strategies, such as reading books on time management and self-help, can provide valuable insights and tools to manage work-life balance effectively.
The Importance of Autonomy in Coaching
Coaches can enhance the coaching process by adopting an autonomy-supportive coaching style. This involves involving athletes or clients in the learning process and giving them some control over their own training. By empowering individuals with a sense of ownership, autonomy-supportive coaching fosters motivation, engagement, and ultimately, better learning outcomes. Coaches should aim to strike a balance between providing guidance and allowing clients or athletes to make decisions and take responsibility for their progress. This approach helps create a collaborative and empowering coaching relationship, which can lead to enhanced motivation and overall success.
The Value of Reflecting on Coaching Habits
Creating a habit of reflecting on coaching habits is essential for coaches to refine their skills and become more effective. By identifying strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement, coaches can continuously grow and develop their coaching abilities. Reflecting on coaching behaviors can lead to the recognition of potential bad habits and the implementation of positive changes. It is important for coaches to have a vocabulary and understanding of coaching science principles to have meaningful reflections and make specific goals for improvement. Reflective practice is a tool that allows coaches to recognize patterns, adjust their approach, and enhance their coaching impact.