Our story

As a former Olympic coach, I had the privilege of guiding elite athletes to exceptional performances. It has been a journey filled with dedication, curiosity, and a deep-rooted passion for bringing out the best in individuals and teams.

 

During my years in the world of elite sports, I discovered what truly drives me: optimizing performance. Not only within sports but also beyond. I want to make an impact. On people. On processes. On performances.

 

After concluding my journey with the Dutch Judo Federation, I decided to chart my own course. No longer dependent on an organization, but taking control of projects that energize me. From that desire, Katalyst Performance Coaching was born.

 

My vision of high performance has been shaped by years of experience and reflection. What struck me increasingly is that coaching often starts from a problem-focused mindset. This wastes time and energy and rarely brings out the best. I consciously choose a different approach—solution-focused, practical, and with an eye for opportunities. Every individual is unique. Every situation requires customization.

 

An example of this is my work with an athlete who faced physical challenges that affected her performance. Rather than viewing this situation as a limitation, we explored together how to maximize her potential within the given circumstances. By focusing on possibilities and what was within our control, she made exceptional strides in her development and performance in a short time. By focusing on what was possible, she achieved her first World Championship medal, and a year later, she even secured the first world title for a Dutch woman in 15 years. It confirmed what a targeted, positive, and solution-oriented approach can yield.

 

The same approach applied within the team. Through intensive collaboration among coaches, medical staff, nutritionists, and mental experts, a culture of high standards and collective ownership emerged. A positive atmosphere, where the shared goal was paramount: to maximize both individual and team performance.

 

With Katalyst Performance Coaching, I—Garmt Zijlstra—aim to leverage my experience, knowledge, and network to guide athletes, coaches, and organizations toward their own peak levels. Whether in sports or business, the principles remain the same: insight, structure, collaboration, and commitment.

 

My mission? To optimize performance by truly understanding what drives people and then helping them maximize their potential. In their way. At their pace. But always with results.