Research Summaries Research Summary 37 Power Bases in Coaching
Sports Coach UK Research Summary 37:
© REUTERS/Stefanie Loos
Power Bases in Coaching
It is generally accepted in sport that you do what the coach says. But where does this stem from, and does it
always lead to positive outcomes and satisfied participants? New research from Sweden suggests that power
plays a key role in coaching relationships, with some types of power producing better results than others.
If your aim is satisfied participants then relying on the power you take for granted ‘because you’re the coach’ is
not the most effective way to get results. Understanding your own power base can help make you a better
coach.