Athletes are always looking for the difference between them and the rest of the field, which is what makes employing the use of a one-on-one coach exciting.
Whether competing in solo or team sports, athletes often find the time they have with their coach short as their coach looks after others. Particularly in team sports, such as football, where a coach is responsible for the development and performance of an entire squad.
Depending on the level and setting, athletes may only have an hour’s contact with their coach in a group session. That can mean that, as far as an individual plan is concerned, it doesn’t lend itself to the athlete through no fault of the coach.
That is why many athletes seek out a one-on-one coach who can give them their undivided attention in sessions, creating a training plan unique to them. It is what can set an athlete apart from the pack.
Technical Development
Whereas coaches of teams will focus on the overall performance of the team, a one-on-one coach can take the time to break down your technique. They can evaluate what you are doing right and, importantly, key areas of development and form a plan around your needs.
Amateur athletes, especially, are encouraged to do more outside of their allotted training sessions if they are serious about being successful. Working with a dedicated coach in a one-on-one session allows more time to work on your own game, ironing out the kinks in your armour.
For example, Great Britain throws coach Paul Wilson works closely with elite athletes to push them to become the best they can possibly be. Having worked with Chase Jackson, he helped her to become a two-time shot-put world champion. Wilson was able to perfect her technique, as well as giving her the personalised approach that benefitted her performance the most.
Personalised Approach
There is no one-size-fits-all approach that works with every athlete. Some require and thrive off tough lough love, while others benefit more from an arm around the shoulder. It takes time to understand the wants and needs of any human and, like any form of relationship, sometimes two people aren’t quite the right fit for each other.
Just because an athlete thrives more with one coach than they do another doesn’t mean either coach is wrong, it just means one is more suited to an athlete than another. It also works the opposite way, where an athlete just isn’t suited to a coach – this could be for various reasons.
Having a one-on-one coach that you trust and form a strong relationship with offers far more than an on-field understanding. A good coach will be able to offer support and motivation across the board, recognising the human side as well as the athlete.
Commitment
For coaches and athletes alike, commitment ranks highly on the list of what is important in the other. Elite level coaches and athletes want to work with someone who is willing to commit themselves totally to the task at hand, otherwise they see no point in the process.
Finding a coach to commit to you, and you commit to them, will elevate your performance greatly. When you go back to your normal setting, especially if that is within a team, your development will not go unnoticed through your commitment to your sport, coach and, most importantly, yourself.
