Relationship Between Online Coaching Characteristics, Lifter Satisfaction, and Performance in Powerlifters

This study aimed to understand the length, mode, and frequency of online powerlifting (PL) coaching delivery and their relationship with lifter satisfaction (LS) and PL performance. Powerlifters (n = 113) completed a self-reported online survey on their online PL coaching experience. Participants reported a mean PL total of 621 ± 111 kg for men (n = 59) and 382 ± 77 kg for women (n = 54). Coaching relationships, on average, were 21.75 ± 14.5 months long, and mean increases in PL total were 14.6 ± 15.5% (14.01 ± 12.43% and 15.32 ± 18.52% for men and women, respectively). When asked how satisfied lifters were with their coaching experience on a scale of 1–5 (1 = extremely dissatisfied, 5 = extremely satisfied), most lifters reported either 4 (n = 63) or 5 (n = 42). Using regression analysis, no significant relationship between mode or frequency of communication and LS or change in PL total was observed. There was a positive relationship between longer coach-lifter relationships and greater increases in PL total (p < 0.001). Higher coach education was associated with increases in PL total (p = 0.024), although its relationship with satisfaction was inconsistent (positive for lower values and negative for higher, p < 0.005). Together, these results suggest a temporal component to the effectiveness of powerlifting coaching and a potentially positive association between a degree of formal education and key outcomes. Alongside these analyses, these data help create an understanding of current online PL coaching practices.