23 Mar The Power of Coaching
In March 2010 I deployed to Iraq for one year. During this time I worked at
Al-Faw Palace on a General’s staff. I had access to a computer and a burgeoning
interest in nutrition as it related to my athletic performance. For an entire year I
immersed myself in nutrition books and blogs. There were a ton of quality
resources at the time and my nutrition knowledge was greatly improved. I gave
others who were interested in what I was doing advice and was able to help a bunch
of people.
In 2012 I decided to take the plunge and get a true nutrition coach. I decided
to work with Eric Uresk who has worked with a ton of fighters at the highest levels.
To say it made a difference would be huge understatement. Eric gave me a plan for
everyday training, 2-3 weeks out from weigh ins, 1 week out and a rehydration plan.
Despite being someone who previously prided myself of nutrition knowledge I do
not understand 100% of the why behind the plan. Having a coach with proven
results has allowed me the freedom to turn off my brain a little when it comes to
diet and instead spend that time focusing on improving as a fighter.
More importantly is the accountability. Finding ways to set up feedback
mechanisms that encourage the best behaviors is incredibly important. For me,
utilizing a plan based on my own knowledge was always a little dicey as I could
always justify changing the plan. With a coach in place I know that if I follow his
plan I will get results, and if I don’t I will only have myself to blame.
No matter what area of your life you are working on there is always someone
out there who can provide the knowledge and accountability to get you there faster.