The differences between training & coaching

[KatyMac]

DD has been being coached for the last 5/6 weeks for a competition

We have never really done that before; just training and extra practise occasionally before a comp

Does coaching change anything? Is it a good way to work? Is there an optimum length for this more intensive?

What does she do?

Competitive Ballroom & Latin dancing

It depends really. What size is the class that she is normally in? A coach cannot always notice small errors in a group class and small errors could mean the difference between first and last place in an important competition. I would probably opt for long term private coaching once a month on top of group lessons rather than a block of 5/6 in a row unless it was a major comp.

Normally she has a group class a week and a private lesson a week - but she does lots of other dance classes & her fitness is very high

This last few weeks we have had group class, 2x private lessons & a practise each week, with 2 practises last week & this

The normal private lesson is about technique but these have been a combination of technique & style

Over training is always an issue

Seems very unnecessary imo. The brain needs time to assimilate new information and technique so having so many lessons is rather fruitless and one private and one group would do the same job as one group and 2-3 private per week.

It's the nationals at the weekend and some of it is assimilating a new partner

It's been a tricky few weeks but she has thrived on it

Well if there is a new partner then that's entirely different.

I hope so; I think getting them to work together was important