Empathy or Wimp-athy?
Do you agree?
"Is empathy important when coaching a group of athletes (any age) as opposed to one on one with a general population client?"
This is the question I was asked to write about. I have to admit, it's not the easiest subject to speak concretely on. I mean there is such a fine line between being a 'mean old drill sergeant' to being an understanding coach. Where do you say good job kids, take a break; from is that all you go, keep moving.
I believe that you have to be very discernful when working with athletes. Especially in a group setting, where no one wants to be the 'first one down'. Every one is trying to compete for bragging rights of who is the most fit.
However a lot of times kids will push their selves waaaayyyy beyond what they can physically endure. Hence- the rise in adolescent athletic injuries.
As a coach and as a trainer, I am constantly evaluating the performance of my kids. They will show signs when they are truly being pushed too far. Some won't verbally admit it, but they will physically admit it.
So it's my job to teach the young athlete how to listen to their bodies.
As far as having too much empathy, I say suck it up. You won't get stronger by playing with daisies or by twirling your thumbs. You have to challenge your self to improve each time you step on the field.
I will allow some kids to end a particular drill/exercise sooner than others. Only due to the fact that some kids are novice and some are "pre-pro-bound"
So to answer my opening statement....
Parents don't baby your kids; (Proverbs 13:24 He that spares his rod hates his son, but he that loves him chastened him in good season) by babying your kids you are setting them up emotionally and physiologically to be more of a wimp than champ.
Related Tags: exercise, parents, god, athletes, kids fitness, wimps
Matt Shuebrook is a certified personal fitness trainer. He specializes is women's weight loss. Matt is also the health and fitness editor for Suavv Magazine.
For more information on how to develop a praise worthy body simply visit www.ChristianHealthandFitness.com to download your free copy of
"The 40 Must-Have Fitness Tips For Christians"
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