Mapping the coaching experiences entwined with spirituality: an Interpretative phenomenological analysis

Research into the lived experiences of how coaches apply spirituality in their coaching and how it can benefit them and their athletes is sparse, particularly in an Indian context. It is therefore important to develop understanding of factors that influence the mind-body connection through spirituality in sports. To address this issue, the present study investigated how Indian sport coaches experience and apply spirituality in coaching practices. Six Indian track and field coaches were interviewed twice using semi-structured guides. Interpretative phenomenological analysis was employed to explore coaches’ lived experiences and four superordinate themes were identified: Faith in God, detachment, self-transcendence and application in sport psychology. Collectively, the findings highlight the important role that spirituality plays for Indian coaches. The use of spiritual practices such as meditation, mindfulness, prayer, and spiritual rituals are encouraged for coaches, so that coaches can bring positive transformation in the life of athletes.