What makes successful sessions?

In this chapter we focus on instructional sessions such as those in which techniques or technical skills are introduced or refined. What makes successful sessions is answered by the presentation of a practical four-stage framework for leading these types of sessions, emphasising constructive instructional behaviours within each stage. The framework synthesises and draws on the literature of good practice from academic and coaching authors, many who contribute to "coach education" programmes (e.g. Sports Coach UK, Australian Sports Commission and the American Sport Education Programme). In addition, the author draws on his own experience as a national coach to make connections between ideas and link to practice. Much of the advice from the literature applies equally to anyone instructing physical skills, from Pilates and swimming teachers through to gym instructors and rugby coaches. It is recognised that instruction and teaching represent a narrow conception of what some coaches actually do, particularly at higher levels, and that coaching is often more complex and less episodic than it is made to look in this chapter