How does video analysis help my coaching?
First, let me tell you a short story about me. I became a figure skating coach by a happy accident, 20years ago.
First, as a volunteer, I wanted to give back to my sport what my coaches gave me during my skating career. So, I started to teach recreational and beginner level. In France, the French federation didn't develop any learning program for the volunteer coach.
So, I did my best to ask questions and information of my former coaches. Then I decided to pass along what I learned and became a full-time coach. I learned a lot. This education helped me to develop my teaching vision.
Anyway, as a young coach, I wanted to learn as much as possible. I wanted to feel more confident with the technical problem I was facing. My main idea was --and still is-- to offer the best experience to my student skaters.
How do you teach with more efficiency? Well, my school background is in technology. I'm passionate about all different technology. Back then, I ordered a book named "Learn how to observe." written by Jacques Piasenta who is considered one of the best sprints and hurdles French coaches. He used a lot of videos. That was my first contact with video.
Video produces better observations and observations produce better understanding. Then, I discovered the Dartfish solution during a regional camp organized by the French Figure Skating Federation. And a few months later, I acquired the Dartfish video system.
