If you’ve ever worked out at our gym, you’ve probably experienced firsthand the power of a coaching cue. Cues are a core part of what makes our gym special: they’re the quick, simple instructions your coach gives to help you improve your movement patterns. A cue might be a verbal reminder, like “chest up!” during a squat, a tactile nudge to correct your posture, or even a visual demonstration that clarifies what proper form should look like.
At their heart, cues are designed to get you moving better, feeling better, and progressing toward your goals more efficiently—all while helping prevent injury. But here’s the truth: not every cue works immediately. In fact, the process of finding the right cue is often one of trial and error, and that’s perfectly normal.
The Challenge of Finding the Right Cue
Just this morning, I was working with an athlete during a workout on their kettlebell swings. I noticed that their form was off—not dangerous, but inefficient and not as effective as it could be. I quickly gave them a series of cues, hoping to fix the issue. First, I tried a few verbal corrections, each one intended to get them to shift their weight or adjust their hip position. The athlete made small adjustments, but their movement still wasn’t quite right.
We both felt a little frustrated, as this was happening right in the middle of an intense workout. Sometimes, when you’re in the middle of pushing hard, it can be difficult to process new information or adapt your form quickly. So, I decided to take a step back and give the athlete a break from my constant cues. I coached a few other members for a moment, then circled back to give it one more shot.
This time, I tried a different approach. I said, “Sit back on your heels.” And just like that, the athlete’s kettlebell swings were suddenly spot-on. It was a breakthrough moment, a reminder of how important it is to stay patient and flexible as a coach—and as an athlete.
Why Some Cues Work and Some Don’t
So why didn’t the first few cues work? And why did that last one finally click? It comes down to how people understand and internalize information. Every athlete is unique, and that means they respond to coaching differently. For one person, a simple verbal cue might be enough to make a change. For another, a tactile adjustment or a visual demonstration may be necessary.
The truth is that no single cue will work for everyone, every time. Factors like how your brain processes language, how you interpret physical sensations, and even what you’re focusing on in the moment all play a role in how you receive and act on coaching. More on coaching cues: HERE
The Importance of Patience and Curiosity
If your coach gives you a cue and it doesn’t make sense right away, don’t get discouraged. This is where communication comes in. Feel free to ask your coach for more information or to explain things differently. Sometimes, you might need a completely new cue or even to revisit the movement on a different day when you’re less fatigued. The key is to be patient—with yourself and with the process.
When you approach your training with an open mind and a sense of curiosity, you set yourself up for success. It’s normal to need multiple tries to get things right, and the best thing you can do is keep asking questions and experimenting with your form. Remember, we’re here to support you, and every coach on our team is invested in your progress.
Coaching for Continuous Improvement
At our gym, we pride ourselves on being hands-on and attentive. We want to see you move with intention and efficiency, not only so you can get stronger and faster but also so you can work out safely for years to come. The cues we give are meant to guide you, and when they don’t work right away, it’s not a failure on anyone’s part. It just means we need to keep searching for that lightbulb moment.
So, next time you’re cued during a workout, embrace the opportunity to learn and improve. Your coaches are dedicated to finding what works best for you, and with a little patience and persistence, you’ll be amazed at what your body can achieve.
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