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Triathlon · Level 10: Professional · Sub-level 10.5

Professional Coaching Practice

10 tests · 100 facts · updated 12 October 2026 · markdown

Coaching as a profession: coach education, evidence-based practice, multidisciplinary teams, running a coaching business, session safety, race-day coaching, inclusive practice, parents, sponsors and media, coach wellbeing, and building a coaching career.

Each test below is ten questions on Insporta. The list under a test is what the questions check: one fact per question, with the source it was written from. Read it before the test, or come back from a wrong answer.

Test 1Coach Education and LearningTake a test

  1. Coaches learn through structured courses, short workshops and everyday experience.

    Source: Nelson, Cushion & Potrac, Int J Sports Sci Coach 2006 · recall

  2. Formal learning is structured, assessed and leads to a qualification.

    Source: Nelson, Cushion & Potrac, Int J Sports Sci Coach 2006 · recall

  3. Non-formal learning is organised but outside the formal qualification system.

    Source: Nelson, Cushion & Potrac, Int J Sports Sci Coach 2006 · recall

  4. Research suggests informal learning plays a large role in coach development.

    Source: Nelson, Cushion & Potrac, Int J Sports Sci Coach 2006 · recall

  5. Published by ICCE in 2013, it describes coaching roles, competences and qualifications.

    Source: ICCE, International Sport Coaching Framework (2013) · recall

  6. CPD covers ongoing learning after initial qualification.

    Source: ICCE, International Sport Coaching Framework (2013) · recall

  7. Renewal often requires CPD, safeguarding and first aid updates.

    Source: ICCE, International Sport Coaching Framework (2013) · recall

  8. World Triathlon and national federations offer tiered coaching levels.

    Source: ICCE, International Sport Coaching Framework (2013) · recall

  9. Applying knowledge with real athletes and reflecting on it builds expertise.

    Source: Nelson, Cushion & Potrac, Int J Sports Sci Coach 2006 · recall

  10. Blending formal study, guided experience and reflection accelerates development.

    Source: Nelson, Cushion & Potrac, Int J Sports Sci Coach 2006 · applied

Test 2Evidence-Based PracticeTake a test

  1. Evidence-based medicine combines research, professional expertise and the person's preferences.

    Source: Sackett et al., BMJ 1996 · recall

  2. Pooled, high-quality trials give the most reliable evidence for interventions.

    Source: Sackett et al., BMJ 1996 · recall

  3. Sample, protocol and context determine whether findings transfer to one's athletes.

    Source: Sackett et al., BMJ 1996 · recall

  4. Controlled settings and specific participants may not match field situations.

    Source: Sackett et al., BMJ 1996 · recall

  5. Dramatic claims backed only by testimonials deserve scepticism.

    Source: Sackett et al., BMJ 1996 · recall

  6. With few participants, random variation can create or hide effects.

    Source: Sackett et al., BMJ 1996 · recall

  7. Reviews and consensus statements condense large bodies of evidence.

    Source: Sackett et al., BMJ 1996 · recall

  8. An evidence-based plan that an athlete will not follow is of little use.

    Source: Sackett et al., BMJ 1996 · recall

  9. Trying cautiously and tracking outcomes is sensible when evidence is thin.

    Source: Sackett et al., BMJ 1996 · recall

  10. One positive study, especially if small or industry-funded, is not enough.

    Source: Sackett et al., BMJ 1996 · applied

Test 3Working in Multidisciplinary TeamsTake a test

  1. Performance teams combine several specialists around the athlete.

    Source: Lyle, Sports Coaching Concepts (2002) · recall

  2. The coach often links specialists' advice into one coherent programme.

    Source: Lyle, Sports Coaching Concepts (2002) · recall

  3. Clear responsibilities help the athlete receive consistent advice.

    Source: Lyle, Sports Coaching Concepts (2002) · recall

  4. S&C coaches design strength, mobility and injury-risk programmes.

    Source: Lyle, Sports Coaching Concepts (2002) · recall

  5. Psychologists work on mental skills, performance and wellbeing.

    Source: Lyle, Sports Coaching Concepts (2002) · recall

  6. A shared plan prevents conflicting advice and overload.

    Source: Lyle, Sports Coaching Concepts (2002) · recall

  7. Unclear authority and communication gaps lead to conflict.

    Source: Lyle, Sports Coaching Concepts (2002) · recall

  8. Performance directors oversee staff, funding and programme direction.

    Source: Lyle, Sports Coaching Concepts (2002) · recall

  9. Referral links with local physios or dietitians bring expertise when needed.

    Source: Lyle, Sports Coaching Concepts (2002) · applied

  10. Resolving disagreements together keeps the athlete's interests central.

    Source: Lyle, Sports Coaching Concepts (2002) · applied

Test 4Running a Coaching BusinessTake a test

  1. Insurance covers claims for negligent advice and injury to others.

    Source: Lyle, Sports Coaching Concepts (2002) · recall

  2. Tiered monthly plans reflect different levels of contact and customisation.

    Source: Lyle, Sports Coaching Concepts (2002) · recall

  3. Too many athletes reduces the quality of individual attention.

    Source: Lyle, Sports Coaching Concepts (2002) · recall

  4. Exaggerated promises can mislead clients and breach advertising rules.

    Source: Lyle, Sports Coaching Concepts (2002) · recall

  5. Coaches naturally share their best outcomes, not typical ones.

    Source: Lyle, Sports Coaching Concepts (2002) · recall

  6. Clear terms avoid disputes when athletes pause or leave.

    Source: Lyle, Sports Coaching Concepts (2002) · recall

  7. Records support continuity and professional accountability.

    Source: Lyle, Sports Coaching Concepts (2002) · recall

  8. Working outside competence can harm athletes and expose coaches to claims.

    Source: Lyle, Sports Coaching Concepts (2002) · recall

  9. Stated response times keep service sustainable and expectations clear.

    Source: Lyle, Sports Coaching Concepts (2002) · recall

  10. Honest coaches explain what they can offer without promising results they cannot control.

    Source: Lyle, Sports Coaching Concepts (2002) · applied

Test 5Session Safety and Risk ManagementTake a test

  1. Coaches identify likely hazards and put controls in place before sessions.

    Source: Lyle, Sports Coaching Concepts (2002) · recall

  2. It sets out who does what, where equipment is, and how to call help.

    Source: Lyle, Sports Coaching Concepts (2002) · recall

  3. Safety craft, visible caps and headcounts are standard for open-water sessions.

    Source: Lyle, Sports Coaching Concepts (2002) · recall

  4. Counting in and out confirms nobody is missing in the water.

    Source: Lyle, Sports Coaching Concepts (2002) · recall

  5. The rule prompts sheltering when a storm is near and waiting after the last thunder.

    Source: Lyle, Sports Coaching Concepts (2002) · recall

  6. Incident reports support follow-up, learning and any later inquiry.

    Source: Lyle, Sports Coaching Concepts (2002) · recall

  7. Pre-ride briefings reduce crashes and confusion.

    Source: Lyle, Sports Coaching Concepts (2002) · recall

  8. Knowing conditions such as asthma or diabetes helps coaches act quickly and safely.

    Source: Lyle, Sports Coaching Concepts (2002) · recall

  9. Adjusting timing, intensity and hydration reduces heat illness risk.

    Source: Lyle, Sports Coaching Concepts (2002) · recall

  10. Poor visibility makes supervision unsafe; everyone should exit and be counted.

    Source: Lyle, Sports Coaching Concepts (2002) · applied

Test 6Race-Day CoachingTake a test

  1. Simple, agreed priorities reduce overload and nerves on race day.

    Source: Lyle, Sports Coaching Concepts (2002) · recall

  2. Receiving equipment or physical help from outside the race is prohibited.

    Source: World Triathlon Competition Rules (2025) · recall

  3. Choosing spots such as climbs or turnarounds lets coaches give timing or position information.

    Source: Lyle, Sports Coaching Concepts (2002) · recall

  4. Brief, actionable information is easiest to use under fatigue.

    Source: Lyle, Sports Coaching Concepts (2002) · recall

  5. Race day is for executing what has been practised.

    Source: Lyle, Sports Coaching Concepts (2002) · recall

  6. Checklists catch details that nerves and busy schedules make easy to forget.

    Source: Lyle, Sports Coaching Concepts (2002) · recall

  7. Familiar routines and calm presence help regulate nerves.

    Source: Lyle, Sports Coaching Concepts (2002) · recall

  8. Under race stress, too much information reduces focus on key actions.

    Source: Lyle, Sports Coaching Concepts (2002) · recall

  9. A planned debrief lets emotions settle and ensures it happens.

    Source: Lyle, Sports Coaching Concepts (2002) · recall

  10. Coaches cannot give physical aid but can involve medical staff and prioritise safety.

    Source: World Triathlon Competition Rules (2025) · applied

Test 7Inclusive Coaching PracticeTake a test

  1. Inclusive practice adapts environments so more people can take part.

    Source: ICCE, International Sport Coaching Framework (2013) · recall

  2. Women remain under-represented in coaching, especially at elite level.

    Source: ICCE, International Sport Coaching Framework (2013) · recall

  3. Athletes benefit from seeing coaches who reflect a range of backgrounds.

    Source: ICCE, International Sport Coaching Framework (2013) · recall

  4. Guides and precise verbal communication are central to coaching VI athletes.

    Source: ICCE, International Sport Coaching Framework (2013) · recall

  5. Understanding religious fasting, dress or communication styles helps coaches plan well.

    Source: ICCE, International Sport Coaching Framework (2013) · recall

  6. Equipment costs, pool access and swimming ability are common barriers.

    Source: ICCE, International Sport Coaching Framework (2013) · recall

  7. Practical support lowers barriers to entry.

    Source: ICCE, International Sport Coaching Framework (2013) · recall

  8. Language shapes whether athletes feel they belong.

    Source: ICCE, International Sport Coaching Framework (2013) · recall

  9. Athletes know their needs best, and para specialists can advise.

    Source: ICCE, International Sport Coaching Framework (2013) · applied

  10. Adapting timing and load respects the athlete's faith and protects training quality.

    Source: ICCE, International Sport Coaching Framework (2013) · applied

Test 8Parents, Sponsors and MediaTake a test

  1. Aligning with parents on goals and expectations helps young athletes.

    Source: Lyle, Sports Coaching Concepts (2002) · recall

  2. Excessive pressure can reduce enjoyment and drive dropout.

    Source: Lyle, Sports Coaching Concepts (2002) · recall

  3. Clear expectations early prevent misunderstandings later.

    Source: Lyle, Sports Coaching Concepts (2002) · recall

  4. A few prepared points help athletes speak confidently and avoid missteps.

    Source: Lyle, Sports Coaching Concepts (2002) · recall

  5. Guidelines help athletes avoid reputational, safeguarding and privacy problems.

    Source: Lyle, Sports Coaching Concepts (2002) · recall

  6. A calm conversation about roles usually resolves conflicting instructions.

    Source: Lyle, Sports Coaching Concepts (2002) · applied

  7. Routes starting at home can reveal where athletes live.

    Source: Lyle, Sports Coaching Concepts (2002) · recall

Test 9Coach Wellbeing and BurnoutTake a test

  1. Maslach's model defines burnout by these three components.

    Source: Maslach & Jackson, J Occup Behav 1981 · recall

  2. Burned-out professionals may treat clients coldly or cynically.

    Source: Maslach & Jackson, J Occup Behav 1981 · recall

  3. Coaches reported pressure, conflict, workload and organisational stress.

    Source: Olusoga et al., J Appl Sport Psychol 2009 · recall

  4. Sessions at dawn, evenings and weekends stretch the working week.

    Source: Olusoga et al., J Appl Sport Psychol 2009 · recall

  5. Burnout reduces coaching quality and the coach-athlete relationship.

    Source: Olusoga et al., J Appl Sport Psychol 2009 · recall

  6. Clear working limits and recovery time protect wellbeing.

    Source: Olusoga et al., J Appl Sport Psychol 2009 · recall

  7. Many coaches work alone; networks provide support and perspective.

    Source: Olusoga et al., J Appl Sport Psychol 2009 · recall

  8. Emotional exhaustion and dread are early signs.

    Source: Maslach & Jackson, J Occup Behav 1981 · recall

  9. Coaches who value sleep, rest and balance send a consistent message.

    Source: Lyle, Sports Coaching Concepts (2002) · recall

  10. A manageable caseload and boundaries address the main drivers.

    Source: Olusoga et al., J Appl Sport Psychol 2009 · applied

Test 10Building a Coaching CareerTake a test

  1. Focusing on one group lets coaches develop deep, specific knowledge.

    Source: Lyle, Sports Coaching Concepts (2002) · recall

  2. Networks provide mentoring, collaboration and job opportunities.

    Source: Lyle, Sports Coaching Concepts (2002) · recall

  3. Performance roles usually need advanced qualifications and experience with talented athletes.

    Source: ICCE, International Sport Coaching Framework (2013) · recall

  4. Observation exposes coaches to different methods and styles.

    Source: Nelson, Cushion & Potrac, Int J Sports Sci Coach 2006 · recall

  5. Portfolios document development and are used in higher qualifications.

    Source: ICCE, International Sport Coaching Framework (2013) · recall

  6. Athletes who stay for years usually find the coaching worthwhile.

    Source: Lyle, Sports Coaching Concepts (2002) · recall

  7. Volunteering at clubs and events is a common route into coaching.

    Source: Nelson, Cushion & Potrac, Int J Sports Sci Coach 2006 · recall

  8. Athlete feedback reveals strengths and gaps coaches cannot see themselves.

    Source: Lyle, Sports Coaching Concepts (2002) · recall

  9. A single star can owe success to many factors besides the coach.

    Source: Lyle, Sports Coaching Concepts (2002) · recall

  10. Structured development and experience with talented athletes open performance roles.

    Source: ICCE, International Sport Coaching Framework (2013) · applied

Sources

Coaching science and sport psychology literature, WADA and federation codes, and established coaching texts

  • Lyle, Sports Coaching Concepts (2002)54
  • ICCE, International Sport Coaching Framework (2013)17
  • Sackett et al., BMJ 199610
  • Nelson, Cushion & Potrac, Int J Sports Sci Coach 20068
  • Olusoga et al., J Appl Sport Psychol 20096
  • Maslach & Jackson, J Occup Behav 19813
  • World Triathlon Competition Rules (2025)2