Athletics Coaching & Covid | Navigating restrictions

Fingers crossed we will see a return to training and competing in the coming months, but it would be naïve to think that the era of restricted training is coming to an end.  So how can we make the best of training going forward?

We talked to three coaches about what they have learnt over the past year - what works, what doesn't, and have there been any positives to come out of the experience?

Christine Harrison-Bloomfield (CC Sprints) coaches 400m runner Laviai Nielsen, as well as a whole range of athletes from beginners to top age-group sprinters.

Sam Hillier Smith (Yate & District AC) is a club pole vault coach with a large squad ranging from 9 to 40+ years of age.  She is also the club team manager.

Paul Wilson (City of York AC) runs Valhalla Throws Academy and TFT Management, as well as being club throws coach.  He has coached UK #1 shot putter Scott Wilson for a number of years.

How to coach athletics during COVID-19 restrictions

Sam, Paul & Christine coach very different events in different circumstances, so we asked their thoughts on:

• Adapting plans around lockdown-restrictions
• Areas of training that are working well or not well
• Setting goals for 2021
• Athletes' mental health
• Motivating athletes
• Coaches mental health
• Technology for virtual coaching
• Adapting to athletes' access to resources
• Positives to come out of lockdown
• What have you learnt from lockdown?

See the full video above to find out what the coaches have learnt and how they would manage ongoing restrictions in the future.

And drop us a line on social media to let us know your own experience and tips!