Today on the “Strength Coach Collective,” host Kenny Markwardt sits down with Pamela Gagnon, former Division 1 gymnast, longtime CrossFit coach and the co-creator of Performance Plus Programming.
Pamela explains her “playground approach” to coaching—breaking complex skills into their fun components and strength elements—and shares practical mobility strategies that take just minutes a day.
She gives new coaches tips for working with clients, such as using simple language (“make a turtle shell” instead of “retract your scapula”) and focusing on 1% daily improvements rather than end goals that create frustration.
Kenny and Pamela also discuss coaching older populations and how gymnastics fundamentals such as balance and getting up from the floor become critical life skills as we age.
Whether you're working with nervous beginners, competitive athletes or older adults, Pamela's approach can help you teach movement skills safely without overcomplicating coaching.
Links
Strength Coach Collective
1:19 - Pamela’s journey into gymnastics
8:10 - Injury prevention and recovery
23:46 - Coaching skill progression
34:25 - Gymnastics for older athletes
48:07 - What is Performance Plus?