
Skill-Based Training: the missing part of the puzzle
In the dynamic world of sports coaching, the pursuit of excellence often hinges on the strategic development of skills. Embracing a skill-based training approach goes beyond traditional biomechanics and effort-centric methods. It taps into the inherent way our bodies are designed to learn – through doing.Â
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Let's dive into the benefits of skill-based training and how it can reshape the landscape of sports coaching.
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The body's innate design
Our bodies are intricately designed for skillful development. The most effective learning takes place when we engage in a whole-systems approach to training. Skill-based training strategies recognise that a workout is more than just a physical effort; it involves cognitive and proprioceptive development. Instead of focusing purely on strength, power, or mobility, we narrow the lens to look at a sport-specific skill we want to achieve, break it into bite-sized components, and tackle these one at a time.Â
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Efficiency beyond biomechanics
Learning with a tangible goal in mind allows our bodies to respond more efficiently to a training stimulus, engaging a whole-system response that extends beyond muscle targeting and fat loss. Skill-based training promotes problem solving by involving all systems in skill and fitness development. This dynamic approach transcends the traditional boundaries of training, creating a more purposeful and engaging experience for athletes.
Intrinsic motivation through accomplishment
The incomparable feeling of accomplishment of mastering a skill or achieving a goal is a powerful motivator. Skill-based training taps into this intrinsic motivation, keeping participants or athletes coming back for more as they pursue the next goal and unlock new skills. This ongoing cycle becomes a driving force that fuels commitment to training.

Upgrading your training facility
Training centres, sports and fitness clubs can introduce skill-based training by incorporating progressive, varied training sessions and classes that blend skill with physical activity or fitness. Cross-disciplinary activities such as callisthenics, gymnastics, dance, tai chi, yoga, Pilates, martial arts, and parkour can be seamlessly integrated with body conditioning or fitness-focused elements. The key is thoughtful class planning that inspires participants to learn something new, creating a meaningful progression that goes beyond calorie burn or muscle hypertrophy.
Gym design for skill development
Gyms have the potential to revolutionise their spaces by transitioning from more static, machine-based training to areas dedicated to skill-based equipment and natural ranges of movement. This shift encourages a departure from a purely aesthetic and calorie-burning mindset, opening the door to a more people-centred, social, and sustainable training approach. Larger spaces for skill-based training can foster a sense of community and elevate the overall training experience.
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BODY BEFORE SKILL Training Academy
The Body Before Skill (BBS) Training Academy stands as a beacon for coaches seeking to cultivate a resilient and capable body upon which we can then build our sports-specific skill. Through CPD and CE courses that focus on a deeper understanding of the body and a holistic conditioning approach, coaches can enhance their skills and apply them to individual disciplines, sports, or training techniques. The eLearning format of our courses ensures accessibility and our license-free courses empower coaches to infuse skill-based training into their practice immediately.
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In today's sports and fitness scene, skill-based training is a game-changer, allowing coaches to break free from the current constraints of training to bring about real transformation in their athletes. Embracing this approach not only elevates athletic performance but also fosters a stronger connection between coaches and athletes. BBS Training Academy equips coaches with the skills they need to bring about a remarkable change in the quality of coaching, unlock the true potential of skills-based training, and reshape the future of sports coaching.
As featured in Health Club Management, December 2023