Today on the “Strength Coach Collective” podcast, host Chris Guerrero is joined by Dave Durante, a multiple-time USA Gymnastics national champion, alternate in the 2008 Summer Olympics and co-founder of Power Monkey Fitness.
In this episode, Dave explains how Power Monkey brings together experts in gymnastics, weightlifting, endurance and mobility to help coaches sharpen their craft, regardless of their method or the level of their athletes.
According to Dave, every advanced skill is based on an understanding of body shapes and static positions, and he believes spotting is one of the fastest ways to build trust and confidence in athletes.
You’ll also hear his take on what really makes a great coach: how traits such as curiosity, empathy and patience separate the good from the great and matter just as much as technical knowledge.
If you’re looking to grow as a coach and build a system that prioritizes long‑term success over short‑term gains, tune in to hear the full conversation.
Links
Strength Coach Collective
2:05 - Scaling Power Monkey
8:51 - Integrating gymnastics principles
20:27 - Multidisciplinary training
34:52 - Going from athlete to coach
37:18 - Gymnastics and longevity
47:24 - 2 traits of great coaches