​Leadership and team building reflection essay.

Leadership is an important part of being a good coach, and along the way, I have learned how to build strong teams, lead others, and create a positive atmosphere in the gym. Through my work at Igone Fitness and as a CrossFit athlete, I’ve learned how to inspire, guide, and support people to be their best in the gym and in life.

Building strong teams 

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As a trainer, one of my main goals is to create an environment where people feel motivated and supported to challenge themselves. At Igone Fitness, I have worked with many different groups, such as school children and professional athletes, who each need a different approach to grow as a team. Teaching group classes has shown me the importance of communicating clearly, adapting to different situations, and understanding how teams work.

For instance, when I led a fitness program at a school, I encountered some kids who were initially reserved or less enthusiastic about participation. I introduced fun, team-based activities to help them feel more at ease and bond with each other. Witnessing their transformation from hesitant and quiet to confident and energetic was a powerful reminder of  how teamwork can bring out the best in everyone, instilling a sense of inspiration in me and, hopefully, in you. Their journey from overcoming initial challenges to feeling confident and energetic is a testament to the power of teamwork and personal growth.

Being a mentor

As a trainer, mentorship means helping others reach their fitness goals and understanding how fitness fits into their lives. It is about building their confidence and helping them grow in ways that go beyond just working out.

For example, I once worked with a client who wanted to get better at lifting weights but did not feel confident. I helped them improve their form, showed them how to plan their workouts, and encouraged them to ask questions and try new things.
As they gained confidence, I pushed them to think more about their workouts and even help others in the gym with essential tips. Seeing them go from unsure to confident and willing to help others was incredibly rewarding.

This showed me that being a good trainer isn’t just about leading workouts; it’s about giving people the tools and confidence to take charge of their fitness journey and inspiring others
along the way.

Creating a positive gym culture

As a trainer, I focus on making the gym a welcoming and supportive space where everyone feels encouraged, no matter their fitness level. I work hard to connect with my clients by being friendly, professional, and genuinely excited to help them reach their goals.
I celebrate even the most minor wins because progress is progress. I also like to add fun activities like partner workouts or group challenges. These help clients stay motivated and create a sense of teamwork and support.

By creating this positive atmosphere, I help clients feel more confident, push themselves further, and build strong connections with others in the gym. I aim to make the gym a place where people look forward to coming, knowing they will leave feeling accomplished and supported.

One way to create positivity is to celebrate everyone’s progress, no matter how small. For example, we hold monthly fitness challenges that encourage participants to push themselves and cheer each other on. This creates a community where clients not only improve their fitness but also make friends that motivate them further. The joy of celebrating progress, no matter how small, is a powerful motivator that inspires everyone to push their limits and strive for their best.

What CrossFit competitions have taught me

Participating in the CrossFit Games has taught me lessons in resilience, discipline, and planning, which I now impart as a coach. The experience has taught me how to ensure that everyone’s strengths contribute to our common goals. I apply this approach with my clients and other coaches, empowering them to recognize their potential and how they fit into a team. The importance of resilience and discipline learned from these competitions is a powerful tool that empowers us all to strive for our best. It instills a sense of determination and focus that is crucial for achieving our goals.

Summary

Looking back, I am proud of the leadership and team-building skills I have developed as acoach. From mentoring new coaches to creating a supportive gym culture, my experiences have made me someone who truly cares about helping others succeed. My goal is to continue to create a space where people feel motivated, supported, and connected as they work towards their fitness goals.