Practice, Practice, Practice…
Wiithout a doubt, programming is one of the most difficult things to learn when you are a new coach. However, there are a few things you can do to help!
The More The Merrier
This month alone, I have written more than 150 weeks worth of programs. This stat is not meant for me to brag…I am simply making a point regarding volume. The more you sit down and do something, the better you will become.
If you are a young coach, the best thing you can do is write a program for everyone that will run one. Does your mom want to get into better shape? Write her a program. Have a neighbor that wants to increase their squat? Write them a program!
When someone runs one of your programs in its entirety, you will get valuable feedback on your work. You can tinker from there and make it better! Even if they do not finish the program, by simplly going through the motions, you will get better.
When you first start writing your own programs, make sure you have a variety of clients. This includes: power lifters, general adult clients, athletes and post rehab clientele…
Write More Than One
When I sit down to write programs, it is never just one. You have to get some momentum going… So, you will need to block of some time during your week to get these bad boys written. I usually do most of my mine on Sunday mornings. This allows me to not be interrupted at the gym and get 5 or 6 of them done at once. After my first program, I am in full swing and my keyboard begins to catch on fire!
If you are early in your career and you do not have a lot of clients to program, write hypothetical ones. Make up different client scenarios as well…Have some with different movement issues, goals, and experience levels. When the opportunity comes to write for a real person, you will be ready!
Use Your Time Wisely
I say this all the time…If you want to get better at something, you have to do it every single day. We are all busy and have responsibilities that take up time. However, you have 24 hours in a day just like everyone else. It is very easy to find an hour here and there throughout the week to practice your craft. If you find yourself with ample time on your hands and do not capitalize on effective time management, you are only hurting yourself!