I practiced and taught martial arts for many years before making the transition to strength training. A number of important lessons have been learned over the decades.
Here are a few that might be of some help to those who are committed to coaching over a lifetime.
- You MUST always train! There is no wiggle room here. You have no credibility if you do not train your own self.
- Keep the standards high. Do not give in to the soft culture around us where “everyone is a winner” and should get a trophy for just showing up.
- Hold people accountable. Don’t allow people to drift in and out of training, and never hesitate to kick someone out if it is needed.
- Do not get involved in your clients personal lives. Draw “the line in the sand” and do not get sucked in to their pity parties.
- Do not give free trials at your gym. Your time and experience is valuable. Charge well for it.
Coaching can be very simple and enjoyable unless you choose to make it a nightmare for yourself.
The Cave 