A Comprehensive Guide to Help Fitness Coaches Support New Clients
Beginner clients are a common clientele for fitness coaches. Beginners tend to see progress easily in the initial stages of training. However, the key for a personal trainer is not only to assist them in achieving their fitness goals but also to engage them in the training process. It is crucial to ensure that clients find enjoyment in the exercise itself, not just in the results they seek. Otherwise, they may lose interest when faced with a plateau in their progress. As a fitness coach, sustaining long-term benefits for both you and your client is essential. Here are some strategies to guide your clients towards their fitness goals and build a successful business based on satisfied and committed clients.
Help Them Overcome Fear of Gyms
For beginners, especially those who are older, new to exercise, or have larger body types, going to the gym can be intimidating. Put yourself in their shoes – imagine walking into a gym feeling as exposed and self-conscious as if you were naked. To help them feel at ease, consider the following:
- Provide a quick tour of the gym
- Explain gym rules and basic etiquette
- Teach them essential gym terminology
- Simplify their workout program
- Choose quieter gym spots to avoid feeling scrutinized
Explain the “Why”
Beginners may question the necessity of certain exercises or prefer easier options. It is crucial to connect every aspect of their training, especially challenging tasks, to their fitness goals. Whether coaching in-person or online, clear communication is key to help them understand the purpose behind each exercise.
Empower Your Client Intellectually
When introducing new exercises or concepts, avoid overwhelming clients with technical jargon. Simplify explanations to ensure comprehension and encourage them to ask for further clarification when needed. Engage them by allowing them to explain topics they are knowledgeable about.
Filter Information Wisely
Guide clients in discerning credible fitness information from dubious sources online. Help them identify reputable resources and avoid misleading or inappropriate advice that may not align with their goals or current fitness level.
Prioritize Progressive Training
Effective training aims at progression and adaptation, not just fatigue. Tailor workouts to challenge the body adequately while allowing sufficient recovery time. For beginners, simple routines can yield significant results without excessive strain. Incrementally increase the complexity and intensity of exercises to ensure ongoing progress.
Address Fundamental Needs First
Most beginners lack foundational strength, lifting skills, and movement proficiency. Focus on enhancing these essential aspects before advancing to more advanced training. Emphasize correct form and technique with manageable weights to build a strong foundation for future progress.
Balance Needs with Desires
While addressing fundamental fitness needs, consider aligning client expectations with their preferences. Ensure that workouts cater to their goals while prioritizing foundational training for long-term success. Encourage quality repetitions over quantity to enhance learning and prevent burnout.Starting with minimal skill and strength, the initial workout won’t be overly difficult for beginners. To prevent them from feeling discouraged, consider ending each session with activities that the client enjoys. This could involve incorporating a quick cardio session, even if they believe they need it more than strength training. Collaborate with them to design a session that they find enjoyable yet effective.
As clients progress to a more advanced level, it’s crucial to introduce new challenges and vary the training sessions. Just as you experiment with innovative techniques in your own workouts, you may be eager to test these methods with your clients.
However, it’s important to note that these advanced strategies often have a short shelf life. They may produce results for a few weeks before becoming less effective. Therefore, it’s advisable to delay implementing these techniques. Give precedence to mastering fundamental progressions for as long as possible. Ensure that your client has truly transitioned to an intermediate level before moving on from beginner exercises and programs.
Save the advanced training methods for when your client hits a plateau and can no longer progress without them, then introduce these techniques strategically.
