Techniques for weight room coaches

You should be able to do what you ask of your athletes. Being stronger than all of them is NOT necessary, however you should definitely have a certain degree of strength. Not only does this gain more respect for the coach, but if a coach CAN'T do something that he requires of his athletes (i.e. clean, squat, etc.) then how in the world can he teach it? The book knowledge one can acquire will only go so far...there comes a time when you have to get in the trenches and learn how it feels to have weight on your back in a full squat. Being strong is important (as well as continously getting stronger) because as you get stronger, think of how much you will learn about training in the process. Strength & Conditioning is a continous learning process and the best lessons are learned in the weightroom under a bar. If you want to be an average (at best) strength coach, just read. If you want to be a good strength coach, read and train.

As for when to train...do it on your own time. You need to be teaching and coaching when the kids are lifting. If you only have 2 or 3 training, then jump in for kicks...but in a classroom setting, teach and coach...nothing more. Don't just supervise...(ie sit in the corner and watch)...move around and get involved.

Jimbo