it’s a weight goal, strength goal, or both, the goal should be obtainable in around two to
four months. Nothing should be longer than 4 months as the client can get bored. They
could say, “I want to run a marathon next year.” So, you could create 2 to 4 month goals
of increasing their mileage, speed and doing smaller 5K, 10K and half marathons to
keep them engaged until their big event happens. Every time a goal is reached, adjust
the program.
Each time you work out with your client, you should have an appropriate warm-up that
correctly prepares the body for the activities involved in the upcoming workout. This
could be anything from a light warm-up on a cardio machine such as a treadmill,
elliptical, rowing machine or bike. You could also do a dynamic warm-up that involves
jumping jacks, knee hugs, kick butts and other similar exercises.
It is extremely important that you do not skip the warm-up. It is a crucial part of the
workout. Help your clients understand why it is so important. The body needs time to
prepare for the higher intensity work involved in the program ahead. If your workout will
take the entire hour or half hour (depending the length of your session) you could have
your clients come early and warm-up on their own. This holds them accountable to their
own health and helps them begin to take initiative in their workouts. If you begin working
out with a client and notice they are not able to do the exercises yet, you should stop
and warm up further. Just because you give your client the option to warm-up, does not
mean they will do it as thoroughly as necessary. Do not assume. Make the correct
adjustments until they are able to comfortably do the workout.
The actual workout should be a balanced mix of cardiovascular training, strength
training and flexibility exercises that help your client achieve their desired goals. All of
the workouts you choose should correctly fit in the time allotted and give your client a
challenging workout that is just right for them. Be sure to offer light breathers and water
breaks during the workout. When you first start working out with the client, do not have
your client go all out. There is nothing more discouraging than not being able to do the
first workout with a trainer. They should leave feeling sore, but energized and ready to
come back for more. The more enjoyable you can make the workout, while still offering
a tough challenge, the more your client will stick with the program and purchase more
training packages. Part of the fun of being a professional Personal Trainer is creating
exciting and challenging workouts for your various clients.
Before a client does an exercise in your program, you will need to demonstrate it.
Showing your client how it is done will allow them to feel comfortable with what is
ahead. If the client is doing an exercise for the first time, observe their natural
movements and make any necessary adjustments. In all of your programs include notes
and record any changes in free weights or machines. Be sure you are recording all of
the improvements as they get stronger.