Coaching My Way

Last week we discussed the factors to consider when selecting/matching a coach. Consolidating those points made me reflect on what coaching means to me. 

Firstly I’m not and never have been an elite athlete which is both a weakness and a strength. There is a scene from the baseball film Moneyball where they say that good hitters don’t make good coaches because they don't have to think about hitting; bad hitters make the best coaches because they have to think about it.

I think there’s something to this, the gist of the idea being that bad hitters often make good coaches because they have had to analyze the mechanics and nuances of the game more deeply than naturally gifted players, who may rely on instinct and talent rather than a detailed understanding.

I have a parallel from my time as a ski instructor in the Alps, when one of the local French instructors said that the few Brits that worked there had an advantage with developing skiers because we remembered learning ourselves. My journey to become a competitive age-group athlete is very much recent memory!

I’m not saying the very best can not be great coaches but I will say that it isn’t a given, and I think it is often given too much weight.

The concept of 'Good Enough' Coaching

I now coach predominantly Masters athletes, individuals typically aged 35 and up, this comes with unique challenges and opportunities. They bring a wealth of life experience, intrinsic motivation, and a desire to improve or stay active. Yet, they also present a broad spectrum of abilities, goals, and physical conditions.

For many coaches, the temptation is to strive for perfection: perfect training plans, perfect techniques, and perfect outcomes. But the reality is, Masters athletes benefit far more from an adaptable, human-centered approach. That’s where the philosophy of being “good enough” comes in.

What Does It Mean to Be a 'Good Enough' Coach?

Being a “good enough” coach means recognizing that perfection isn’t always the goal; progress, engagement, and longevity are. It’s about creating an environment where athletes feel supported and empowered, and where their unique needs and circumstances are prioritized over rigid standards.

For Masters athletes, this means:

• Recognizing that they may balance sport with careers, families, and other life commitments.

• Accounting for diverse physical conditions, including prior injuries and age-related changes.

• Respecting their goals, whether they’re training for competition or simply staying active.

The Perils of Perfectionism with Masters Athletes

Aiming for perfection often leads to:

Rigid Training Plans

Masters athletes come with varied schedules and recovery needs. Perfectionist coaching can result in plans that are too rigid, leaving athletes frustrated when life inevitably gets in the way.

Over-Emphasis on Control

Micromanaging every detail of an athlete’s performance can lead to overtraining, burnout, or loss of enjoyment. For athletes balancing sport with other priorities, this approach often feels unsustainable.

Ignoring Individual Differences

Masters athletes are incredibly diverse. A one-size-fits-all approach ignores personal history, physical condition, and motivation, leading to disengagement or even injury.

The result? Athletes may feel misunderstood, resentful, or even drop out altogether.

Why 'Good Enough' Works for Masters Athletes

A “good enough” approach aligns perfectly with the needs of Masters athletes, fostering better results and stronger relationships:

Adaptability is Key

Masters athletes often face unpredictable schedules and recovery needs. A good enough coach prioritizes flexibility, understanding that life sometimes takes precedence over sport.

Respecting Their Journey

Masters athletes have a wide range of goals, from achieving personal bests to simply enjoying the process. A good enough coach tailors their approach to honor those goals without imposing rigid expectations.

Encouraging Lifelong Engagement

For many Masters athletes, sport is about more than competition—it’s about health, community, and personal fulfillment. A good enough coach focuses on fostering a positive, sustainable relationship with sport.

Practical Tips for Being a 'Good Enough' Coach

Here’s how to implement this philosophy with Masters athletes:

1. Individualize Your Approach

Masters athletes come with unique histories, goals, and limitations. Take the time to understand their background and adapt training accordingly.

2. Prioritize Recovery and Wellness

Age-related changes mean recovery takes longer, and the risk of injury can be higher. Build recovery into the program and listen when athletes signal the need for rest.

3. Focus on Process, Not Perfection

Encourage athletes to value the journey rather than fixating on outcomes. Celebrate small wins, improvements, and consistency over time.

4. Stay Flexible

Life is complex for Masters athletes, with work, family, and other commitments often competing for attention. Offer plans that accommodate their schedules rather than adding stress.

5. Communicate and Collaborate

Masters athletes often bring a wealth of knowledge about their own bodies and training preferences. Engage in open dialogue to create a plan that works for them.

8. Build Community and Foster Connections

Good (enough) coaches don’t just train athletes—they build communities. Whether it’s organizing group workouts, facilitating introductions among team members, or encouraging athletes to share their journeys, fostering a sense of belonging can make a significant difference.

A strong community provides:

• Support: Athletes can share advice, experiences, and encouragement during challenges.

• Accountability: Training with others helps athletes stay committed and consistent.

• Enjoyment: The camaraderie of a group adds an important social dimension to training and competition.

As a coach, creating opportunities for athletes to connect—both online and in person—can transform the experience from a solitary effort into a shared journey. This network of relationships often becomes a lasting source of motivation and joy for athletes.

Takeaway

Masters athletes don’t need a perfect coach - they need a thoughtful, adaptable one. By embracing the philosophy of being “good enough,” you can create a supportive environment that prioritizes their well-being and long-term engagement in sport.

Whether your athletes are training for competition, aiming to stay active, or seeking community, the “good enough” approach helps them feel seen, valued, and empowered to achieve their goals.

Perfection isn’t the answer. Progress, connection, and adaptability are - and that’s more than enough.

Are you a coach or a Masters athlete with insights to share? I’d love to hear your stories and thoughts - reply to my email or leave a comment below!