Theory vs Practice & the "Goldilocks Rule"

Something I often get asked about, is do I have a preference between ‘theory’ or ‘practice’. Like many things in this S&C game, I always refer to “The Goldilocks Rule”. Not too cold, not too warm, but just right. That Goldilocks may have been a fussy lass, but you can’t deny she wouldn’t rest until she found the perfect balance. The most important necessity is to find that “Goldilocks” sweet spot – and find a happy place to blend theory and practice together to compliment each other.

As a coach, if you only engage in practice without theory, then you may be just doing exercises and drills with little rhyme or reason. It’s important to have the theoretical knowledge and understand the many elements that provide purpose behind what you program, while explaining the positive and potential negative effects if not performed correctly. It should delve far deeper than simply ripping off the favourite exercise flavour of the month.

At the other end of the spectrum, if theory is all you have, then connecting with and investing in your athletes may be more difficult than originally envisioned. We are dealing with human beings. Yes, we need to have a plan of where we are headed, but we also need to understand that in the real world of sports performance – things change. Athletes get injured, life stressors get in the way, confidence levels change etc. If the ability to adapt to real life situations, or to connect with the athletes is lacking - then it may fail to make a practical difference.

Certain elements of this coaching gig take time and there is little way to fast-track them. But get out there and coach, coach, coach… Get out there and read, read, read… Do extra courses/workshops to work on professional development. Even after 20 years in the game, I try to aim to be the ‘dumbest person in the room’. Surround yourself with people you can constantly grow and learn from. By building your theoretical knowledge and putting it into constant and consistent practice, you can learn what works and what doesn’t, what may work better on paper and what works better in real time. All with the aim of helping to develop your own style and philosophy of training.

Much love folks,

JV