this video offers a concise and practical overview of Self-Determination Theory (SDT) in a sports context

Autonomy: the need to feel in control of one’s actions and choices

Competence: the need to feel effective, capable, and progressing in one’s goals

Relatedness: the need to feel connected, supported, and valued by others

clients stay more consistent when they feel like they’re choosing the workouts

seeing progress in strength or appearance

when they feel supported by me.

-->directly maps to SDT’s three needs

client struggling with motivation became more engaged after we introduced a step goal challenge she created herself

her autonomy increased

a clear explanation of Achievement Goal Theory, highlighting the difference between task-oriented goals (focused on personal improvement and effort) and ego-oriented goals (focused on outperforming others)

it explains how these orientations impact motivation, persistence, and overall experience in sport and exercise settings

directly relevant for coaches, athletes, and trainers

some of my clients are driven by looking better than they did last month (task)

others are chasing performance metrics like outlifting their friends (ego)

knowing this lets me tailor my communication to keep them focused and confident

client who burned out from constantly comparing herself to Instagram influencers

--> shifting her focus to personal progress photos helped rebuild her motivation

blending both theories helps me tailor check-ins and goal-setting based on where a client is mentally and emotionally

it’s made me a more intentional and effective coach