On the right path but never there – coaching development

The learning environment

I recently attended the USA Cycling Level 1 coaching certification.  But wait, I’m already a Level 1 coach.

Doesn’t that seem redundant?  Yes and no.  The nature of coaching is the ever-evolving science, interpretation and application.  The beauty comes when the aspects of both the science and art meet at a crescendo.  So yeah, I’ve attended multiple Power-based training clinics, possibly 3 Level 2 coaching certs and countless other webinars and continuing education classes over the years that may overlap.   But the key is I’ve gotten something new out of each and every one of them.  Maybe a new nugget of knowledge from the instructor or maybe a challenge of my coaching application view from another attendee.  Bottom line is I’m growing and adding depth to be more prepared for the athletes I coach.

And honestly each time, I come away with more feelings of having a better grasp, while still seeing there is so much more to learn and apply.  This is a great message to correlate to athletes training or general life.  Keep learning, keep trying, keep lining up for challenges, step outside of your comfort zone and don’t become stagnant.  In training, I say if you’re content with the way you are performing, keep doing what you are doing. And if not, change it or address it.

And in-general, I noticed something of high performers (both athletes and coaches but also in business).  The little things matter!

If you take the time to execute the little things effectively and with care on a day to day basis, when the big things come along, the process in engrained and automated.  Think about it, intervals or training sessions are like mini-practice sessions so half-assing them only shortchanges yourself for when you really need to perform.  And this doesn’t necessarily apply at the elite level specifically, but even for the weekend warrior.  Get good at the process and the end result or outcome will be that much more natural.

I didn’t have to attend this clinic, but I chose to challenge myself.  I see some people tout their credentials as signs of expertise and accomplishments, but I’d argue that even without the credentials it’s about continually challenging oneself to stay on the forefront.  I’m happy to say I have some credentials (as I think they are necessary), but I’ll let my athlete’s referrals and results speak for me.

Thanks to all those I’ve coached since 2003 and even those that encouraged my athletic history that obviously effects where I am now.  Onward and upward!