We began training yesterday with some goal-setting and sharing. Learning to set goals, track progress and evaluate performance is far more than just a ski-specific skill, but for skiers at every level various goals are a prime motivator for training, racing and maintaining focus. We used simple ‘goal pyramids’ to outline and visualize multiple goals…the idea is to think about how certain goals build into one another. At the top of the ‘pyramid’ is a big goal that might seem daunting. What part of the process is all about, however, is actively thinking about what leads to the accomplishment of that top goal. Wider elements of the pyramid are building blocks along the way, and they all matter!
I also spoke a bit about the power of intrinsic motivation heading into a tough and challenging part of the season. As a coach I could bark orders for intervals or distances or repetitions and expect complete compliance, but if there’s no personal motivation to accomplish a tough workout other than my wrath everyone might as well drop skiing and jump in with one of the army convoys the next time they go to the Range…that’s not what it’s about! It’s about having the internal drive to seek out new challenges, embrace some seriously difficult training now and then, and also have fun and enjoy the sport. As a coach I want to facilitate that motivation and nurture it, and help skiers embrace what inspires them to push hard and improve.
Fresh off a yoga-class retreat, coach Sara had a great idea to incorporate. After filling out goal sheets for the ‘short term’ (this season), everyone paired up and each partner spent 1 full minute talking about their goals to their teammate. Then the role was switched and the listener became the sharer. Sara also discussed the power of a “1-degree change”…a simple one degree change may not seem like much initially, but over time it creates a big impact!
We came back as a group and each athlete (and each coach) shared 2 goals with the group: one goal that was result or performance-based, and another goal that was not related to a specific race or event. I took down these goals on paper and compiled them here. It’s nice to look at what drives our athletes to succeed and be reminded of why we challenge ourselves with every session. Here’s to the accomplishments and work toward these goals in the coming months!
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