Teaching and Coaching Technique--Organizational Tips
By: xcskiworld
I. BE ORGANIZED
A. Have a written outline
for any organized practice, share/post it when
appropriate/possible ahead of time.
B. Know where, when, how
long, how hard/easy, etc..
C. Be prepared for adjustments
(weather, etc.) but try not to make a habit
out of taking the easy way out.
D. Treat every second of
practice/lesson time like gold.
II. KNOW YOUR AUDIENCE
A. Take into account abilities,
goals, fitness/technical levels, equipment.
It is possible to under and over estimate with the same group.
B. Communicate with individuals
and groups. Understand the different needs
of different ages and sub-groups. Ask questions; listen; pay attention;
encourage feedback.
III. TEACHING NEW SKILLS
A. Introduce using clear,
simple language; demonstrate slowly.
B. Have group try skill;
provide brief (encouraging) feedback; re-introduce;
re-demo; have them try again several times.
C. Always start and end
with fundamentals. Limit focus to 1-3 key points.
D. Summarize and prepare
for skiing on own.
IV. REINFORCING AND DEVELOPING SKILLS
A. Methods
1. Skiing without poles in easy terrain
2. Skiing very slowly (heart rate at level 1 or lower) with or without
poles emphasizing complete motions.
3. Repetition drills in easy terrain. Keep drill sessions to 10-30 minutes.
4. Modeling behind superior skiers--slowly, in easy terrain.
5. Mental focus on 1-3 points in any given session.
6. Concentrating on good technique while practicing.
7. Skiing in different situations--classic without tracks, skating on
crust, skiing in tough grooming or non-groomed situations.
8. Working on technique year-round.
9. Insist on appropriate performance clothing for ages 13 and up.
B. Feedback Techniques
1. Video--limited footage of subjects, always compare to elite footage.
2. Coaches Evaluation--careful what you say or don’t say; start and end
positive.
3. Educate everyone as to the value of different/opposing points of view.
V. OFF-SEASON TECHNIQUE DEVELOPMENT
A. Methods
-Skiing (as much as possible year-round)
-Rollerskiing (double pole/skating only, limited under 16)
-Skiwalking/Foot imitation drills
-Hill bounding/plyometrics (with or without poles)
-Running with poles(varied terrain, trails primarily)
-Circuit Strength, Balance, Coordination Drills