Coaching from yesterday to today: the essential evolution of the profession to meet new expectations ?
In the world of sport, coaching has undergone a real revolution.
Until yesterday, the coach was often seen as a simple facilitator, a "conductor" motivating his clients with standardized exercises. But today, expectations have changed. The profession is no longer limited to organizing training sessions. It is now about being an expert, capable of observing, analyzing, and adjusting each movement to meet the specific needs of the clients.
A necessary evolution
The expectations of athletes today
Athletes, whether amateur or professional, are increasingly demanding. They are not just looking to sweat. They want measurable results, rapid progress, but above all a safe practice. And this is where the role of the modern coach becomes crucial: understanding what works, detecting what is blocking, and correcting what needs to be corrected.
Why is this transformation essential ?
Recent studies, such as that of Schoenfeld et al. (2019), have shown that individualized programs, based on the detailed analysis of movements and asymmetries, not only improve performance but also significantly reduce the risk of injury. But this individualization cannot be improvised. It requires a sharp eye and a solid methodology.
However, this is precisely where many coaches encounter their limits. Without ongoing training, it is difficult to develop this "expert eye" that distinguishes the good coach from the very good.
The challenge of the coach's eye
Developing the expert eye: a key skill
The coach's eye is this ability to observe details that the client himself does not perceive. A knee that collapses during a squat, a subtle rotation of the pelvis while running, or asymmetrical muscle tension during a bench press. These discreet signals are often the keys to effective training... or to a future problem.
Methods for observing and analyzing with precision
But how to develop this skill ? It requires :
A solid foundation in biomechanics and functional anatomy.
A capacity to cross-reference field observations with precise assessment tools.
And above all, a structured method for analyzing and correcting.
Towards a new generation of coaches
My experience: between rehabilitation and improvement
Personally, I have always been passionate about this quest for precision. During my experiences in rehabilitation, in training, or even by supporting coaches, I have seen how much these skills can transform their practice. My goal is simple: to help professionals improve their approach, so that they become sought-after experts, capable of bringing real added value to their clients.
How to meet the challenges of the profession?
What is your biggest challenge as a coach?
Do you think that the profession still needs to evolve to meet the expectations of today's practitioners?
If these questions resonate with you, stay tuned: I will soon share some concrete solutions to develop these essential skills.
And you, where are you at ?
Sources :
Brad Schoenfeld et al. (2016): "Mechanisms of Hypertrophy: Muscle Growth and Strength Development." Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research. DOI: 10.1519/JSC.0000000000001709.