Physical activities, such as fishing, hunting, and wrestling have been necessary part of our survival since primitive times. Sports probably began when various physical activities were undertaken for fun rather than survival. The first organized athletic events occurred around 775 B.C. when the Greeks initiated the ancient Olympic Games. In the United States, the interest in sports greatly expanded during the 1800s. The English sport of rugby led to the development of American football, and in 1869, Rutgers and Princeton Universities played the first inter-collegiate football game. Golf and tennis were organized into competitive events soon after, and the first championship boxing match was held in New Orleans in 1982.
As the popularity of sports grew, so did training employment opportunities for sports-related occupations. Now, health clubs, community centers, park and recreational facilities, and private businesses all offer sports activities for young and old alike. This has led to an increased need for qualified, dedicated instructors. The specific job requirement of a sports instructor varies according to the type of sports being taught and who they teach. For example, a person teaching advanced skiing at a resort will have a different duties and responsibilities than a person teaching beginning swimming at a health club. The skills taught will be different, the location will be different, and the teaching method will be somewhat different. Nevertheless, all sports instructors must combine knowledge of their sport with an effective teaching method that clearly reinforces correct techniques and procedures. They also must be very knowledgeable in the basic rules and strategies of the game, and they must be open to new procedures and techniques.
In their training careers, many sports instructors develop their own teaching style through experience. They find individualized ways of demonstrating skills that are clear and effective. Of course, instructors must gear their presentations to their students’ level of ability and understanding what works for a group of advanced golfers may not work with a group of beginners. Also, an instructor should be able to work with students of varying backgrounds. As leisure time has increased in the United States, more and more older adults have become involved in sports that were formerly reserved for younger, more athletic people. A primary concern of all sports instructors is the safety of their students. They ensure that students have the right clothing and that they know how to use properly any equipment, such as a ski pole or hockey stick. A major component of safety is helping a student feel comfortable and confident with his or her ability. This entails teaching the proper stances, techniques, and movements of a game, instructing students on the basic rules and regulations as well as answering any questions the student may have.
Part of the trainer jobs, an instructor may work with a large group or tutor students on an individual basis. In each case, an instructor will use lectures and demonstration techniques to show the student or students the proper skills and help them correct any deficiencies. An instructor may incorporate films or illustrations to help explain an activity. The main emphasis is usually on helping students enjoy the sports that they are learning.
Motivation is another factor in sports training job. Particularly with a sport that requires stamina, preparing a trainee psychologically is as important as physical training. A sports instructor also has administrative responsibilities. He will evaluate the students’ progress and give a grade when appropriate. The instructor may also plan and organize contests or events in which athletic proficiency is shown. The instructor is also responsible for maintaining the sports equipment while the class is in progress.
Training and educational requirements vary as to the specific nature of the job. Most instructors need to combine several years of successful experience in a particular sport with some educational background in teaching.
In training careers, advancement opportunities depend on the individual’s skills, abilities, and drive. Sports instructors should continue their education and training to advance quickly. Expert instructors often build a good reputation and get more students. A few instructors may become sufficiently well-known to open their own sports school.
Well-known instructors may write articles for local publications and this may lead to publication of a book or series of pamphlets on proper instruction for a particular sport.
To add more information about training career, you can find more listings at TrainingCrossing.com. You can sign up for a free trial today to gain access to all these jobs.
