Maximizing video feedback

I’ve previously written on using video feedback and on how to set up a delayed video system for practice. Alexis from Coaches Corner posted the following graphic in a coaching Facebook group I thought worth sharing.

This graphic speaks to something I mentioned at the end of the delay post. That’s the need to train players to properly use the system. First, they need to get into the habit of looking. Then, they must do it the right way.

So, based on the points from the graphic, you want them to…

  • Have a sense of what happened
  • Watch the video analytically
  • Come away with a plan of action for the next time

There is a risk of players coming to watch video with a “What happened?” thought process. This is OK sometimes, but that shouldn’t be the normal approach. It’s a part of the process of teaching players to coach themselves. If you do so, they’ll understand where errors tend to come in and how they manifest. This way players approach the video with an “I think I did this” framing that is then confirmed or rejected by what they see. It is a lot quicker – and likely more productive – than having to watch for every possible thing to see what happened.

You’ll notice I didn’t include coaching points in the bullets above. That’s because in some cases you need them and in some you don’t. If you’ve trained your players to self-diagnose, then they don’t need you. At least not all the time. While players are developing the awareness of what they’re doing, though, your input is necessary.

Of course, all this applies equally when watch video outside the gym context as well.

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John Forman

John is currently the Strategic Manager for Talent (oversees the national teams) and Indoor Performance Director for Volleyball England. His 20+ years of volleyball coaching experience includes all three NCAA divisions, plus Junior College, in the US; university and club teams in the UK; professional coaching in Sweden; and both coaching and club management at the Juniors level. He's also been a visiting coach at national team, professional club, and juniors programs in several countries.

Please share your own ideas and opinions.

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