5 Tips For Keeping Your Athletes & Clients Engaged Over the Holidays
/The holiday season is here…
Whether you’re looking to bounce back after a challenging year or riding high on recent successes, the holidays are a perfect opportunity to reflect and then focus on what’s next. This season reminds us that a fresh start is just around the corner, making it an ideal time to reset and prepare for the year ahead.
For athletes and clients, the holidays often bring a rare chance to take a break from normal routines and set goals for the new year. With lighter school and work schedules and more opportunities for recovery, it’s a great time to focus on building strength, resilience, and healthy habits that will set the tone for success in the year to come.
Despite these advantages, many coaches and trainers find the holiday season tricky when it comes to keeping their athletes or clients on track. Staying motivated and consistent can be tough when routines are disrupted and temptations abound.
Here are some creative strategies to keep engagement high and make the most of holiday training:
1. Meet Them Where They Are
Take the time to understand your athletes’ or clients’ holiday plans and resources. Will they have access to a gym, or will they be training at home? Are there specific goals they’d like to work on during this time? Use surveys or casual check-ins to learn more and ensure their input shapes their plan.
2. Frequent Check-Ins Foster Accountability
Regular communication can make a big difference. Whether it’s a quick text, a virtual group workout, or a challenge to complete a specific metric, consistent touchpoints remind them you’re invested in their progress. These moments help keep the momentum going even when you’re not physically present.
3. Collaborate to Build Buy-In
When athletes or clients feel like they have a say in their plan, they’re more likely to stick to it. Work together to set realistic goals and design a routine that feels achievable. Flexibility and shared decision-making create a stronger sense of ownership and commitment.
4. Celebrate the Little Things
Take time to recognize progress, no matter how small. Whether it’s hitting a personal best, completing a workout streak, or simply showing up consistently, celebrating these wins can boost morale and keep them motivated. A personal message or shoutout goes a long way.
➡️ Need help building engagement strategies that work all year? Download the FREE Volt Athlete Engagement Guide & Tracker HERE for actionable tips, a year-long plan, and a simple tool to track progress for every individual.
5. Create a Sense of Community
Consider creating a private group or email or text thread where your athletes or clients can share their successes, challenges, and tips. Building a sense of camaraderie can make training feel more fun and less isolating.
By embracing these strategies, you can turn the holiday season into a time of growth and preparation for next year’s successes. Use this unique time to strengthen relationships, inspire consistency, and set the stage for a successful new year. With your guidance, your athletes and clients can hit the ground running when January arrives!
About the Author:
Victoria Druehl, MS, CSCS | Victoria is a Strength and Conditioning Consultant at Volt Athletics. A fervent coach and educator, Victoria has devoted her career to youth development and health promotion. Her previous roles include Sport Performance Coach, Head of S&C, and PE Department Chair, at several schools such as Harvard-Westlake School, IMG Academy, and Ransom-Everglades School. Victoria was a member of the Rowing team at UConn, and earned her Masters Degree in Exercise Science at the University of Miami. Follow Victoria on LinkedIn.
