Buying In!

The concept of  “Buying In” is something that is mentioned a lot in sports.  “Buy In” refers to the athlete completely trusting the training philosophy and then following that philosophy without any alterations, omissions or complaining about the training by the athlete.  What most athletes don’t understand is that a competent coach will alter and change training to adapt to an athlete but they can only do that when there is “Buy In”.  If a coach has to guess what an athlete is or is not doing, then the coach is guessing about training.  To avoid poor training, the key to success is that the athlete completely “Buy In” to the program and training and then communicate with the coach if they have any issues or confusions or if they feel that the training doesn’t fit them.  Then it is up to the coach to help the athlete understand the training and adapt, when appropriate.  Success is virtually impossible without “Buy In” from the athlete.  The athlete is responsible in “Buying In” and communicating to the coach.  The coach is responsible for being receptive to the athlete’s concerns and finding ways to communicate or adapt.  The big issue that exists is that coaches want “Buy In” but feel that “forcing” the philosophy on the team will turn the athletes away.  No one likes forcing anyone to do anything.  But “Buy In” is crucial to have success.  So if “Buy In” does not come voluntarily by the athletes, it will be forced upon by the coach.  Help yourself have success by “Buying In” and communicating.  Avoid complaining.  It is not productive.