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I recently rediscovered a fantastic little book published by Pesda Press called Tip Tips for Coaches.

It is a simple, no-nonsense collection of 319 fantastic ideas and teaching tips for coaches assembled by the fine staff at Plas Y Brenin which is also The National Mountain Centre for Wales.

Fantastic for both new and old instructors, this book covers a wide range of topics including leadership, risk management, customer service, dealing with fear, canoeing, sea kayaking, whitewater kayaking and how to handle your mother-in-law. Well not the last one; you will need to learn that on your own...

A sample of random teaching tips include:

• 44 - If you can get your students to paddle with their eyes shut the environment is about right.
• 87 - Leadership - If one person in your group is feeling cold, scared or nervous, then the whole group are!
• 140 - Anyone who is scared of kayaking had a bad teacher.
• 153 - There is no such things as a ‘correct' paddle stroke, simply a variation that is the most appropriate version for the unique environment the paddler is in.
• 158 - Contrary to popular belief, most people learn to paddle from their mates, your relationship with your student is very, very important.

Purchase Top Tips for Coaches
More info: Pesda Press

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