The ongoing pandemic has created some unique challenges for strength and conditioning (S&C) coaches to deliver their usual on-site training sessions. One of the hurdles that immediately stands out is the wearing of a face mask to coach indoors. Though cumbersome for a variety of reasons to be highlighted later in this article, it is highly recommended that all S&C coaches adhere to this health advisory. The Centre`s for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that people wear face masks in public settings, especially when in close contact with one another [ within about 2 meters (6 Feet)] (CDC, 2020). Face masks are recommended as a simple barrier to help prevent respiratory droplets from travelling into the air and onto other people as talking, coughing, sneezing and raising your voice can all increase the chances of respiratory droplets from travelling. This simple action may help slow the spread of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). Athletes who are engaged in high-intensity training (e.g. weightlifting), may be excused from wearing a face mask if it causes difficulty breathing. The aims of this article were to share lessons learned in cueing, coaching and programming considerations while wearing a face mask.
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