Why Being Open to Coaching Might Be the Key to Unlocking Your Full Potential
At CrossFit Alberton, we see a wide variety of athletes come through our doors—some experienced, some brand new. But there’s one quality that consistently sets people apart.
It’s not natural talent.
It’s not a background in sport.
It’s not even a big engine.
It’s being coachable.
What Does It Mean to Be Coachable?
Being coachable means being open to feedback, staying curious, and trusting that there’s always room to get better. It’s showing up ready to learn, even when you’re already performing well.
It’s not about doing everything perfectly. It’s about being willing to listen, adjust, and grow—especially when it feels uncomfortable.
Traits of a Coachable Athlete
Athletes who make the most progress, who stay injury-free, and who continue to enjoy training all tend to have a few key traits in common:
- They’re present. They show up focused, with a willingness to engage in the moment.
- They listen with intention. They’re open to hearing feedback and don’t get defensive when it challenges their current habits.
- They apply what they learn. They try out the cues, give them a real chance, and trust the process.
- They let go of ego. They don’t tie their worth to the weight on the bar or their score on the board.
- They stay consistent. They understand that showing up with the right attitude, day after day, leads to long-term results.
What Gets in the Way?
Sometimes, without realizing it, we put up walls that make it harder to be coached. Here are a few things that might block growth:
- Ego. Feeling like you need to prove something can stop you from hearing what you need to hear.
- Insecurity. Being afraid of looking “bad” or failing can make feedback feel threatening.
- Assumptions. Thinking, “I know this already” can close you off from learning something new.
- Distraction. If your mind’s somewhere else during class, you’ll miss key opportunities to grow.
- Comparison. Watching what others are doing instead of focusing on your own journey can create blind spots.
The Best Athletes Are Always Striving to Get Better
No matter the level—local comp athletes or global champions—the best athletes all have one thing in common: they stay coachable.
They seek out feedback. They crave growth. They surround themselves with coaches and teammates who help them see what they can’t see.
As legendary coach John Wooden once said:
“It’s what you learn after you know it all that counts.”
Having a coach by your side gives you a fresh set of eyes. Sometimes they’ll spot a movement pattern that needs adjusting. Other times, they’ll challenge your mindset or push you to believe in yourself when you’re holding back.
Coaches help you see things differently—and that’s where breakthrough happens.
Coach Cam’s Story
I’ll be honest… I don’t think I was the most coachable athlete when I started my CrossFit journey.
I had a big ego. I wanted to do everything my way. And I definitely resisted feedback at times—thinking I knew better or didn’t need the help. Looking back now, that mindset slowed my progress.
But I was fortunate to have some great mentors around me. Coaches who cared enough to challenge me, guide me, and teach me how to be better.
And that’s what coachability really is. Not about being perfect. Just about being willing to learn.
So… Are You Coachable?
Take a moment and ask yourself:
- Am I coachable right now?
- Do I listen, apply, and stay open?
- What’s one area in my training where I could be more coachable?
Coaching isn’t about pointing out flaws—it’s about helping you grow. And your willingness to receive it might just be the key to unlocking your full potential.
Let’s all commit to learning, growing, and doing it together.
#BeLekker 💪
