5 ways to get the most out of your private lesson
After being both a mental performance coach and private pitching coach, a number of key things stand out to me in getting the most out of a private lesson. Oddly enough, this blog was inspired after a semi-private academic session. A student walked out of the lesson and made the statement that “We could have learned this is class!” And you know what? They were absolutely right, with one big exception, it was a lesson that student chose to attend on their own free time to level up a notch.
It may have been the same environment, but it was on a non-school day with different peers. It came with the expectation that growth was the goal. Tools were given and it was up to the student to then go practice. These same things translate into private lessons. So, with that said, there are 5 ways to get the most out of your private lesson:
Come in with a lesson mentality. A private lesson is not, and should not, be called practice. This is where you refine your craft, or learn specific tools to help you become more successful.
Write down what you have learned. It’s ok to bring your notebook and ask for time to write down a drill, draw it out, or put it in your own words so that you’ll remember (because chances are, you are going to forget!).
Create a plan for when you are going to implement and practice what you worked on. If it is during a team practice, be sure to connect with your coach and make time for that. Softball/Baseball note - If you are just throwing batting practice, that is exactly what it sounds like; it is for the batter, not for you. It’s not a time for you to practice the details and it is definitely not a bullpen session.
Come with an open mind and be ready to go. That specific time is dedicated to your craft regardless of what you were doing before it or what you are going to do after it. Your coach is there to teach you a skill, not hype you up to be there.
Know when it is time to stop. Parents, this one may be for you. If the athlete is consistently not wanting to be there, please listen. If an athlete is not willing to practice the craft outside of the lesson, they honestly may not be ready for that kind of commitment. There should not be a price tag conversation. If an athlete is consistently reminded of the cost and their effort should reflect that, it may be time to stop. The internet is free. If someone wants to learn something, free resources are available everywhere.
