Sam Allcott
1. What inspired you to become a CrossFit coach?
I was inspired to become a CrossFit coach because of the profound impact CrossFit has had on my own life. It helped me overcome my self-consciousness and dissatisfaction with my sporting abilities, transforming my outlook on fitness and personal growth. The supportive community of friends I found through CrossFit played a crucial role in this journey. By becoming a coach, I aim to inspire others in the same way, helping them discover their potential and fostering a sense of belonging and confidence.
2. How long have you been involved in CrossFit, both as a participant and as a coach?
I have been involved in CrossFit for a total of three years. I spent the first two years as a participant, during which I also competed in various competitions. For the past year, I have taken on the role of a coach, helping others achieve their fitness goals and experiencing the benefits of CrossFit.
3. What certifications and qualifications do you hold related to CrossFit and fitness training?
I hold several certifications and qualifications in the field of fitness and CrossFit, including:
CrossFit Level 1
Personal Trainer Level 3
Kids Fitness Level 3
Yoga Diploma
Spin Instructor
Bootcamp Instructor
Nutrition Qualification
BWL Judge
England Boxing Coach
4. Can you describe your coaching philosophy and approach to training athletes?
My coaching philosophy centres around leading by example. I believe in being a "lead from the front" coach, ensuring that I never expect any member to do something I wouldn't do myself. I approach each member as an individual, tailoring their progressions and scaling exercises to meet their specific needs and goals. This personalised approach ensures that every athlete can progress at their own pace while receiving the support and guidance necessary to achieve their fitness objectives.
5. What do you believe are the most important qualities of a successful CrossFit coach?
I believe the most important qualities of a successful CrossFit coach include:
Approachability: Being accessible and open to communication ensures that athletes feel comfortable seeking guidance and support.
Expertise: A deep understanding of CrossFit techniques and principles is crucial for providing accurate instruction and effective training.
Knowledge: Continually expanding one's knowledge in fitness, nutrition, and related fields helps in offering comprehensive coaching.
Humanism: Showing empathy and understanding towards each athlete's unique journey fosters a supportive and motivating environment.
Confidence: Demonstrating confidence in coaching abilities reassures athletes and helps in still confidence in their own progress.
Visible Progression of Knowledge: Continuously improving and updating coaching skills and knowledge ensures that athletes receive the best possible training.
6. How do you customise workouts to accommodate different skill levels and abilities within a class?
I customise workouts on a person-by-person basis, ensuring I understand each member's individual abilities and how to push them to be their best. This involves adjusting not only the weights, but also the number of repetitions and the skill level of the exercises. By tailoring these elements to fit each athlete's needs, I can create a supportive and challenging environment that promotes progress and helps every member reach their fitness goals.
7. What strategies do you use to keep your athletes motivated and engaged?
To keep our members motivated and engaged, I employ several strategies:
Humour and Fun: I incorporate humour and fun into the sessions to create an enjoyable and positive atmosphere.
Motivation: I provide constant encouragement and motivation to help members stay focused and driven.
Showcasing Skills: I allow members to showcase their skills, giving them opportunities to demonstrate their progress and achievements.
Continuous Coaching: I offer continuous coaching and feedback, ensuring members are always improving and refining their techniques.
Highlighting Positives: I make it a point to highlight their strengths and accomplishments, fostering a sense of pride and confidence in their abilities.
These strategies help maintain a dynamic and supportive environment where athletes feel valued and inspired to keep pushing their limits.
8. Can you share a memorable success story of an athlete you have coached?
A memorable success story involves a member who was struggling with their toes-to-bar, which had left them feeling disheartened. Recognising their frustration, I spent dedicated time working with them on different progressions and techniques. By the end of our focused sessions, they were able to link two toes-to-bar successfully. This breakthrough was achieved through a few key pointers and adjustments, showcasing the impact of personalised coaching and persistence. Seeing their progress and renewed confidence was incredibly rewarding and a testament to the value of tailored guidance and support.
9. How do you stay updated with the latest CrossFit techniques, trends, and research?
I stay updated with the latest CrossFit techniques, trends, and research by regularly listening to podcasts, reading magazines and internet articles, and building a strong network of coaches and members. This network allows us to share knowledge and skills, ensuring that I am always informed about the most current developments in the CrossFit community. This continuous learning process helps me provide the best possible coaching to my athletes.
10. What advice would you give to someone new to CrossFit and considering joining your class?
CrossFit is a sport that anyone can do, regardless of your starting level. It's an excellent platform to build solid fitness foundations while forming strong friendships with like-minded individuals. CrossFit helps secure your mobility as you age, contributing to a better quality of life. The constantly varied workouts keep things exciting and challenging, ensuring you never get bored. Embrace the journey, stay consistent, and you'll see remarkable improvements in both your physical and mental well-being.