Building a successful coaching business isn't just about knowing the "X’s and O’s" of a workout; it’s about the architecture behind the results. In our latest podcast episode, Tyson shares his 10-year evolution from multi-sport athlete to business owner and elite coach.
If you’re looking to scale your impact or transition into full-time coaching, here is the blueprint for a sustainable, high-level career.
1. Build a Foundation of Versatility
Tyson’s coaching isn’t rooted in one discipline. From water polo and rugby to competitive combat sports, his broad athletic background developed a deep understanding of movement patterns.
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The Lesson: Don’t specialize too early. Exposure to various sports develops an "eye" for movement that helps you coach clients of all skill levels.
2. Systems Over Talent
"I wasn't naturally gifted," Tyson admits. His success came from a love of the process.
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The Protocol: Focus on "Principles over Methods." Use spreadsheets to build repeatable, structured systems for programming and tracking. This allows you to scale your business without burning out.
3. The Power of "Diversified Skills"
Tyson didn't just coach; he ran a supplement store and a cafe. These ventures taught him marketing, e-commerce, and client psychology.
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The Edge: A great coach is also a great communicator and marketer. Learning how to run a business makes you a more stable, professional resource for your athletes.
4. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
Even successful coaches feel like "imposters." Tyson’s advice? Shift the focus.
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The Reframe: You don't need to be the best athlete in the room; you need to be the best system-builder. Your job is to improve a client’s relative goals—reducing pain, moving better, and hitting personal benchmarks.
5. The "Wabi Sabi" of Coaching: Stay Moldable
The sport of CrossFit and the fitness industry change rapidly. Tyson emphasizes that the best coaches are the ones who realize how much they don't know.
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Continuous Growth: Seek out mentorship and high-level certifications (like OPEX). Stay humble, keep reading, and be ready to adapt your methods as the sport evolves.
Tyson’s Quick-Start Checklist for New Coaches:
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Get Certified: Pursue accredited courses that align with your niche.
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Master the "Mud Map": Visualize your client's week to find where habits actually fit.
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Build Your Library: Read the classics (e.g., The Art of a Supple Leopard or Periodization by Bompa).
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Stay High-Touch: Systems provide the structure, but empathy and relationships provide the results.
"Coaching is about creating systems that are personalized yet efficient. If you can help someone improve relative to where they started, you’ve succeeded." — Tyson
