Coach Development: In Situ Examples of Translating Research Into Practice Within Strength and Conditioning

Abstract

Researchers highlight the importance of using constructivist, learner-centered approaches to develop effective strength and conditioning (S&C) coaching practice, such as reflective practice and community of practice. Such approaches are relational meaning that the S&C coach developer must build effective relationships with the learner (i.e., S&C coach) to enhance cooperation and engagement, which can take a considerable amount of time. Constructivist learning strategies are essential to develop an athlete-centered coaching approach, which focuses on developing not only performance but also the overall wellbeing of the athlete. Yet, there has been a considerable lack of evidence of how to integrate and utilize reflective practice and community of practice within S&C coach development, as well as documenting their impact. This practical advance article aims to address this knowledge-to-action gap by examining how a S&C coach developer, who is paid by and in situ working with an organization, implemented an effective longitudinal, learner-centered coach development program to promote athlete-centered coaching practice. In doing so, we outline the importance of relationship building, creating community, and trust, which underlines the organic process that seamlessly integrates guided critical reflection and community of practices as valued learning strategies to develop S&C coaches’ psychosocial skills.