Exercise Technique and Training Instruction
What this domain tests
This domain tests coaching execution: safe setup, clear cueing, exercise selection, progressions/regressions, and spotting.
Core rules and concepts
- Teach the position first: alignment, stance, breathing, and bracing before load or speed.
- Cueing: short external cues (“push the floor away”) often work better than long anatomical lectures. One cue at a time; check the response.
- Progressions and regressions: manipulate leverage, load, tempo, range, stability, or complexity-not all at once.
- Spotting and safety: know when a spot is required, keep hands ready, and never compromise joint alignment to complete a rep.
- MMA-specific technique: sprawls, level changes, and takedown mechanics require hip hinge and deceleration control; drill them with the same alignment standards as lifts.
Worked example
An athlete's kettlebell deadlift shows the back rounding at the bottom. Reasoning: the limiting factor may be hip hinge motor control or hamstring/hip mobility, not “weak back.” Regress to a hip hinge drill with a dowel and reduced range; cue “push hips back, keep ribs stacked.” Progress load only when the spine position holds.
Traps
- Cueing too many corrections at once.
- Progressing load before position is stable.
- Treating sport drills as exempt from technique standards.