3 Types Of Coaching

Style of Coaches:

Autocratic Coach

Autocratic have 2 kinds of style which is Telling and Selling.

1. Telling

· The coach decides on what is to be done.
· The athletes are not involved in the decision making.
· The coach define on what to do and how to do it

Example: On a circuit training session, the athletes are only told to do the exercise in the circuit.

2. Selling

· The coach decides on what is to be done.
· The coach also explains what is required and the objectives.
· The athletes are encouraged to ask questions to confirm understanding
· The coach defines what to do and how to do it.

Example: On a circuit training session, the athletes are informed of the exercises in the circuit. The coach explains the object of circuit training and the purpose of each exercise. Athletes can ask questions to clarify any points.

The advantages about this coaching style are that at least you are told why. It also may gain more commitment than dictatorial.

The disadvantages are that it is still one-way communication. And it is also have little initiative given to subordinate.


Laissez Faire Coach

It also known as “laid back approach”. The coach only does the easiest style to put in practise and let the athletes run the exercise. It is not really helping athletes learn skills.

The advantages about this coaching style are that it gives high motivation and high commitment by subordinates.

The disadvantages are that some athletes need direction, lack of experience of the athletes, authority undermined and poor coordination. The athletes will get high risk of injury because of less supervision.



Democratic Coach

Democratic have 2 kinds of style which is Sharing and Allowing.

1. Sharing

· The coach outlines the training requirements to the athletes.
· The coach invites ideas/suggestions from the athletes.
· The coach makes the decision based on the athlete’s suggestions.
· The coach defines what to do and how to do it.

Example: the coach identifies a circuit training session. Athletes identify possible exercises for the circuit. The coach selects from the suggestions a set of exercises.

2. Allowing

· The coach outlines the training requirements to the athletes.
· The coach defines the training conditions.
· The athletes make the decision
· The athletes define what to do and how to do it.

Example: the coach identifies a circuit training session. The coach identifies the conditions of the circuit to ensure it is safe and meet the overall objectives of the session. Athletes identify possible exercises for the circuit and then select the set of exercise than meet the coach’s conditions.

The advantages for this coaching style are it makes a greater interest, involvement and motivation to athletes. It also contributes knowledge and experience by athletes. And the last one is to train the athletes to become leaders or managers by giving more experience.

The disadvantages are longer decisions because of consultation, the athletes may not be experienced enough to be consulted and lastly no good in times of crisis.