What to look for in a coach

Why finding the right coach is important

Finding a coach can be intimidating. I mean, you should probably just go ahead with the first one you find, because they’re the expert, right? To this, I respond with a gentle, but resounding, “No!” I would say run fast from this mindset, but not before you get your proper stretches in. What are your goals? Maybe you want to work on your flexibility and strength, maybe you want to establish a routine, or maybe you just want to find an exercise that you actually enjoy. Whatever your goals are, your coach will need to meet them. Finding a coach is all about you, your goals, and your needs.

Find a coach with expertise in what you are interested in.
How open is a potential coach with their abilities? Expertise in one area does not translate to expertise in all areas. Not everyone is great at everything – and that’s OK! You want to find someone who is not only an expert in what you are interested in, but also someone who can teach what you are interested in.

Find a coach with a coaching style appropriate for you.
How do you learn- are you motivated by engaging online content? Do you need variety, or do you need to focus on one thing at a time, keeping a focussed pace? Maybe you respond positively to someone who is blunt and gives you space, or maybe you prefer high-energy motivation and a sense of humour? Just like how every coach will teach differently, everyone learns differently. Find a coach who is flexible in both body and mind, to ensure they can listen to you and address your needs.

Find a coach who cares about getting you to your goals, not the ER.
A coach needs to make sure you are keeping safe. This can be by showing you photos and videos of what you want to do, and recommending the modifications you may need. The right coach will take the time to communicate what correct form is, whichever way this communication looks to you, because not learning proper form can hurt more than just your progress.

Find a coach who is inclusive.
You want a coach who is genuinely interested in YOU; a coach who welcomes, works with, respects, and celebrates the wins of, all bodies.

Or, to save you some time, I know a pretty cool flexibility coach who welcomes all bodies and values open communication, using gender neutral language, and staving off weight loss and diet talk – just sayin’.