Relationship Between Online Coaching Characteristics, Lifter Satisfaction, and Performance in Powerlifters

Clarke, JV, Spence, A-J, Helms, ER, and Cross, MR. The relationship between online coaching characteristics, lifter satisfaction, and performance in powerlifters. J Strength Cond Res 39(6): 666-671, 2025-This study aimed to understand the length, mode, and frequency of online powerlifting (PL) coaching delivery and their relationship with lifter satisfaction (LS) and PL performance. Powerlifters ( n = 113) completed a self-reported online survey on their online PL coaching experience. Participants reported a mean PL total of 621 ± 111 kg for men ( n = 59) and 382 ± 77 kg for women ( n = 54). Coaching relationships, on average, were 21.75 ± 14.5 months long, and mean increases in PL total were 14.6 ± 15.5% (14.01 ± 12.43% and 15.32 ± 18.52% for men and women, respectively). When asked how satisfied lifters were with their coaching experience on a scale of 1-5 (1 = extremely dissatisfied, 5 = extremely satisfied), most lifters reported either 4 ( n = 63) or 5 ( n = 42). Using regression analysis, no significant relationship between mode or frequency of communication and LS or change in PL total was observed. There was a positive relationship between longer coach-lifter relationships and greater increases in PL total ( p < 0.001). Higher coach education was associated with increases in PL total ( p = 0.024), although its relationship with satisfaction was inconsistent (positive for lower values and negative for higher, p < 0.005). Together, these results suggest a temporal component to the effectiveness of powerlifting coaching and a potentially positive association between a degree of formal education and key outcomes. Alongside these analyses, these data help create an understanding of current online PL coaching practices.