The SilverSneakers Way of Coaching empowers older adults to live their best lives and to seek a feeling of success through program participation. Since BOOM MUSCLE may draw athletes and those with a competitive spirit, lead class in a motivating way that helps all participants feel welcome.
Here are cues that will help you create an inclusive and motivating class experience:
- Pay attention to how you are feeling today and adjust accordingly.
- Avoid the temptation to keep up with others in the class.
- Challenge yourself within your limits.
- Start with the base move of each exercise and progress only when you feel ready.
- You can prevent injuries by “listening” to your body.
- Enjoy yourself!
To further motivate participants, consider the environment, tone and style of leadership you provide.
Here are additional tips to enhance motivation:
- Connection – Arrive early and mingle with your participants. Introduce new participants to others in the class. Help foster the sense of community that will keep them coming back.
- Accountability – Empower the participants by helping them understand the “why” behind the work. Once they better understand the work, they can start to set individual goals for improving their health and well-being.
- Mirroring – For safety and motivation, face your participants when teaching. Practice your mirroring skills.
- Positivity – Avoid negative cueing (words like “don’t”). Think of ways to provide more positive cues (for example, instead of saying, “Don’t lock your knees.” say, “Keep knees slightly bent.”)
- Voice – Lead participants with a strong voice. Encourage them to challenge themselves while respecting individual limitations.
- Demonstration – Provide movement demonstrations while maintaining a seamless flow of the class. Use the entire room to teach. Work across the entire front of the class and occasionally come into the group to increase the motivation and energy.
- Be prepared for an on-time start time and smile!