These resources have been curated to support the content in the second online session of the Level 1 Coaching Course.
Assessment paperwork
Screening your students – how will you decide if participants are within your scope of practice?
These risk stratification models can assist you (NB these are also in your course manuals but can be downloaded as separate documents here).
The Stretch Reflex is explained in more detail in this video. This reflex is the one which detects stretch or length in a muscle and provides automatic protection against injury. It’s a bit mind blowing how incredibly complex we are! and how much goes on in the body without us even knowing.
https://youtu.be/q-ImnmP-0Cg?t=171
This is one reason why ballistic uncontrolled stretching is to be avoided.
This is another great video that explains how muscles monitor stretch (length) and tension (force).
https://youtu.be/7T4NI_2qDEM?si=854qYtuzMVU0_PQF
(yes he does yawn in the middle of the video!)
Aikido during and after pregnancy
This printed version of guidance from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists covers key information about participation. You will note that contact sports are listed as activities to avoid.
Abdominal separation – most easily seen after pregnancy ≈. Obviously you will not be checking for this – but you can ask with regard to the 6 or 12 week post birth check results. The twisting movements of aikido along with the use of the core in dynamic movements means that aikido could be contra-indicated for anyone with a diastasis.
This lady has a significant abdominal separation which is clear to see in this video (at around 37secs if you want to skip the intro):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l_I6JnO3aHw
Supine work in pregnancy is to be avoided especially after the first trimester. This would also include being in supine for cool down stretches.
Cool Down Stretches
This handout contains some basic stretch positions and associated teaching points.
The above document details lots of fun parachute games that can be adapted for use with all ages.
Guidance on the practical teaching assessment grid
Video guidance – practical assessment