KISS - Keep It So Simple

Reflecting on my coaching career, I confidently recognize that my most successful seasons and training sessions arose from a commitment to simplicity.

As coaches and trainers, we are driven by the desire for our athletes to achieve specific gains. This ambition often leads us to complicate training sessions in pursuit of those results. However, over-coaching can obscure the fundamental aspects of effective training.

So, why is it crucial to maintain simplicity in our training and coaching sessions?

Simplified training sessions sharpen focus and enhance execution. When we keep things straightforward, athletes can concentrate on mastering proper techniques, minimizing errors, and honing the fundamental skills crucial for peak performance.

A clear and uncomplicated training plan promotes consistency and adherence. It empowers athletes to follow a regimen they can stick to. In contrast, complex training plans can overwhelm and discourage athletes, leading to skipped workouts and burnout. By executing simple, repeatable sessions, we cultivate consistency, build lasting habits, and fuel progress.

Moreover, simplified workouts make it easier for both coaches and athletes to measure and track progress consistently. This clarity enables us to pinpoint what’s effective and make adjustments as needed.

A straightforward training plan also alleviates decision fatigue for everyone involved. Athletes can enter training sessions with confidence, knowing exactly what to expect, while coaches can dedicate their energy to teaching, observing, and providing valuable feedback.

Complex workouts can push athletes beyond their recovery limits, heightening the risk of injury and burnout. In contrast, simple training sessions prioritize essential movement skills and achieve a balanced approach to stress, progression, and long-term development.

Regardless of whether you’re coaching elite, youth, or recreational athletes, understanding and prioritizing simplicity is key. We must focus on long-term objectives rather than fleeting moments of instant success or results.