"Trust Your Coach"

Michelle Carter achieved a lifelong ambition in the women's shot put at the 2016 Rio Olympics, unleashing a throw of 20.63m in the final round to take gold. Seven months on from that historic night, the American shares her top tips for life in and out of the throwing circle. 

Championship tip

The people may change, the venue may change but the ring, shot and track stay the same. It was my dad (Michael Carter, the 1984 Olympic men’s shot put silver medallist) who first told me this. I would put pressure on myself because it was a championship. But the facts are facts. The shot is the same and the ring is the same. At championship time, I should treat it no differently.

Tactical tip

Set your end goals, then set small goals as your plan to attack your main goal. Over the years I noticed when I set small goals it felt like I accomplished more than when I was purely focusing on the big goal and not making it. I would feel defeated. But having multiple check points and checking them off the list helps motivate me to keep going, because that way I’m making progress. 

Psychological tip

Positive self-talk – you have to build yourself up by speaking positively about you to yourself. The Bible says: the words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing. (Proverbs 12.18) I believe it’s true, so why would I pierce myself? The definition of insanity is to do the same thing and expect different results. I decided that I am not insane and I needed to change my words to bring healing to myself and build myself up. 

Coaching tip

You have to trust your coach [Carter is coached by her father, Michael]. There were times I didn’t trust my dad because I couldn’t see the big picture. As I started to understand what was going on and seeing the results I learned to trust him. He is in charge of the big picture while I attack what’s right in front me. 

Technical tip

Remember the basics. The power comes from the legs – my dad always told me that. In fact, I always remember one to three basic terms that are my go-to when I’m frustrated. 

Top tip for surviving the circuit

Always be on time for your flights and bring snacks – beef and turkey jerky, peanut butter and chips and some of my favourites – because you will get hungry. I have missed two flights and I had to pay for them. I don’t ever want to do that again; it’s expensive!

Cooking tip

A little butter never hurt anyone!

Top parental tip

They actually know stuff. Listen to what they have to say. One day it will come in handy. I’ve had friends that my parents may have said I should be careful of. I didn’t listen and they ended up hurting me. I didn’t think my parents knew what they talking about, but they did. I should have listened or moved with caution.

Fashion tip

Spend money on timeless classic pieces. Be selective about the trendy pieces. Timeless and classic never goes out of style.

Driving tip

Remember to get home ALIVE! Drive for yourself and everyone on the road.

Vacation tip

When you take a vacation make sure you put your phone down. I have learned to put my phone down because it is hard to engage when you are looking down at your phone. I want the people or person I am with to have my full attention and I want their full attention. 

Social media tip

Do not post when you are emotional. Write it down on paper first then you can collect your thoughts before you post.

Dating tip

Date someone that you can be friends with first. If you have a strong friendship you will have a strong foundation for a relationship.