Personal Training's topics - tribe.net

Which Certification is best?

2008-06-23T04:11:05Z

I am looking to become a certified personal trainer, what does everyone think the best certification is to go for? Which looks best to potential employers or clients? Any opinions?

posted in Personal Training - 2 replies

Nasm certification

2008-04-26T23:00:33Z

I am interested in Nasm certification and am told that boot camp training is required. I am a former competition athlete but was in a near fatal auto accident. 5 yrs of pain management, 10 knee surgeries, a cervical fusion and a few other pins and such later, I am in the best physical condition I've been in since prior to the accident. I strength and condition train, cycle and speed walk but distance running is not condusive to the meniscal transplant I have. What is entailed in the boot camp for certification? I would hope that my inability to distance run wouldn't eliminate my options for certification. I believe that I have the ability to accomplish anything at this point. :)

posted in Personal Training - 8 replies

New Here

2008-03-20T21:02:27Z

I just joined this group, and I am excited to see what workout advice I can get.

My primary source of exercise has been swimming, and I do quite well at that. The problem is, I need to add variety to my regimen. What do people suggest? I do plan on adding some weight training.

posted in Personal Training - 4 replies

Most holistic, natural, wellness-based certification

2008-03-14T19:14:54Z

Hi fellow personal trainers,

Does anyone have suggestions on which certification has the most holistic and natural approach? Perhaps one that includes yoga, outdoor training, or other modalities in addition to weight training. I had NASM, and liked it a lot, but would like to get re-certified with one that best works with my training style and philosophies.

Thanks for your guidance.
Have a beautiful day!

NORA

posted in Personal Training - 0 replies

sports hernia

2008-02-16T16:16:14Z

Anyone have any experience with a sports hernia a.k.a. gillmores groin (not a regular hernia) and treatment?

posted in Personal Training - 1 reply

Oatmeal

2008-02-16T16:14:12Z

On the subject of oatmeal for breakfast, a couple of questions.

1. Instant or Regular and does it matter?

2. What do you flavor your oatmeal with? I grew up on butter, sugar,
and milk, but somehow that just doesn't seem like a good plan
these days!!! (lol)

Thanks for your answers.

posted in Personal Training - 7 replies

Ankles

2008-01-11T00:49:01Z

Hey, can anyone suggest an ankle strengthening exercise? I fell down the stairs aobut 2 months ago. Since then my ankes are feeling weak and when I awake in the mornings they hurt. I work out and my legs are pretty strong, but was wondering if there is an "ankle specific" exercise for them? Thanks!

posted in Personal Training - 3 replies

Newbie...

2008-01-11T00:46:14Z

Just thought I'd introduce myself. I'm Bo - hello!

I'm a student/graphic designer (figure those ergonomics). I've also been studying bellydance for the past three years, which has led into yoga as well. Middle of last year I began experiencing ongoing back pain - I've always had back pain, but this was constant, and it became really unbearable. Got myself to the doctor, and got diagnosed with scoliosis. I've been in physical therapy since October (mostly on the balance ball, but also using some yoga), and I just got the pass to do some weightlifting. Yay!

I live one block away from a -very- compact gym. Our neighborhood isn't the best, so this is a low-tech, community oriented sort of place. I got a membership there, and met some of the people, and tomorrow morning I'm going in for my first session. I'm mainly interested in getting in better shape - not really losing weight, just building my stamina and strength. I used to do a lot of backpacking in high school, and I'm dismayed at how much stamina I've lost, even with all the dancing that I do.

So that's me, and hello! I hope I can get and offer advice here (probably get more than I offer).

posted in Personal Training - 0 replies

Is this a good program?

2007-12-23T23:11:22Z

Hello. I'm brand new here.

I have recently decided I'd like to take a personal trainer certification course through my local community college. They are offering personal trainer certification through "World Instructor Training Schools" - http://witseducation.com/

This course is a 30 hour course over 5 weeks, plus 20 hours of internship at a health club that is require before you take the exam. While I know this is a good amount of training, I've never seen this certification as "accepted" by gyms and health clubs that have job postings. It seems like the course is more comprehensive than, say, the ACE certification program, which is only a home study program and/or a 2 day seminar to prepare you for the exam.

Could I expect to be able to get a job in a gym as an entry level personal trainer with this certification? I know I will need to get continuing ed. credits and I plan to continue my education indefinitely. But I'm just concerned if I'll be able to work in a health club right away or if I'll need more certifications before I can do that.

BTW, I've been studying bellydance for 15 years and have been teaching group fitness-oriented bellydance classes for about 5 years already. So, I just figured becoming a personal trainer would be a natural progression for me.

posted in Personal Training - 2 replies

NSCA

2007-12-13T05:00:47Z

I took my NSCA -CPT exam this past saturday! I think I did really well I hope I passed! I'm dieing to see the results!

posted in Personal Training - 3 replies

Injury recovery

2007-11-24T20:45:02Z

Hi there does anyone specialise or have a strong interest in injury recovery, particularly from the lower back?

posted in Personal Training - 7 replies

link for exercises to do w/rehab ball~ NICE REAR.END ;)*

2007-09-21T00:56:47Z

http://www.qfac.com/gear/balls2.html

posted in Personal Training - 0 replies

Hoop Dance Therapy Teacher Training

2007-08-10T03:30:27Z

Betty Hoops Dance Therapy Teacher Training Levels I & II
Sunday, September 16, 2007 - Saturday, September 22, 2007 - Alexandria, VA

* Feel like a kid again with Betty Hoops Dance Therapy!
* Learn to inspire others to live joyously in their bodies!
* Facilitate fun and functional Hoop Dance classes and one - on - one sessions!
* Learn how to infuse your current skill set - pilates, yoga, dance, reiki, counseling - into the fabulous new fitness therapy of Hoop Dance!

Betty Hoops Dance Therapy incorporates Yoga, Pilates, Strength training & Dance techniques to give you a fun workout for your body, mind & soul. Certified instructors will understand:

* The Anatomy of a Spin - How to become the hoop
* How to set class pace through voice, music & intention
* The 4 Elements - Earth, Water, Fire and Air - in exercise, emotion and rhythm
* How to blend principals from Kundalini & Iyengar yoga, Tai Chi, and Pilates
* And so much more!

Visit this link for a visual: http://bettyhoops.com/video/quicktimesmall.htm

Questions? Send them to Jocelyn at info@lovemovementhealingarts.com

More details / Ready to register? Visit www.bettyhoops.com/workshop...gn_up.php

posted in Personal Training - 0 replies

Women and NO2

2007-07-07T06:23:34Z

Does anyone have any opinion on women taking NO2? Or any opinions on it overall? I would appreciate any insights. Thanks!

posted in Personal Training - 3 replies

starting from scratch - clueless and patiently excited

2007-06-13T04:24:10Z

I'm 27. I've spent my entire life exercising without much break or thought. I got my a minor in dance and have taught yoga. After a bout with severe anxiety, however, I'm in a place where I've never been - out of shape, unmotivated or at least doubtful of all I thought I knew about the body. I want to get back to a place where I can walk my dog everyday, do yoga, ride my bike around town and dance regularly. This is a crazy mix of aerobic and anaerobic.

I know nothing about crosstraining (how to be fit both aerobically and anaerobically?), am fearful a bit of overdoing (since I learned the hard way to rest and relax) so I don't know what means I should rest and what means I should push on, I'm not sure how to best give my body a break except by taking a bath, I don't know how to mix full-body workouts (like walking, running or ski machines in particular) with focused area of work (like yoga for abs or upper body). My training tells me how to breathe properly, execute movements and have good alignment.... but that's not enough for this kind of combo training!

I was walking my dog every morning for awhile which was nice and subtle, but I live in freezing climates where it's not good for either one of us to do much outside (so we play indoors and I let him run around on his own on our acerage), I've now switched to a skimachine every other day (10 minutes on right now with 10-15 prior and after for warmup and cooldown) and continue to do yoga every day but intensity every other. But this machine makes me tired and sore - so I feel like it's too much too soon, but also feel that may be normal.

Could someone quide me somewhere please? I don't know any personal trainers, and am fearful to ask just anyone because I want to ensure it's quality, natural, and safe.

Thanks - it's kind of exciting! It will also help me in teaching my movement and yoga classes! I'm learning anatomy right now (all I missed from getting my BA in dance) and its all juicy, but such more complicated than I initially thought!

Lynn

posted in Personal Training - 2 replies

Looking for a Coach or Mentor in Los Angeles Calf.

2007-03-10T18:18:20Z

Hi,
i am a 42 year old Gay Black Male who is looking for a Coach or Mentor.
i work out 5 days a week at 24 Hour Fitness.
You can contact me at
bigblackboy@sbcglobal.net

bigblackBOY AKA Charles

posted in Personal Training - 1 reply

Sea Otter Classic

2007-01-10T02:52:16Z

Just a quick note to let you know that the Sea Otter Classic is coming up.
This year's race will be April 12-15, 2006. For more information go to http://www.seaotterclassic.com

I am planning on racing it again this year, and will need some riding partners to do some training rides with. In addition to these training rides I might do a race or two in the Sacramento area -check it out here: http://www.tbfracing.com

Drop me a line if you are interested in riding or racing or if you have any suggested rides / races I should consider here near the San Francisco Bay Area.

The best way to contact me is to email me directly: isidro.lends@gmail.com

cheers & happy new year!

posted in Personal Training - 1 reply

Hula hoop your way to fitness with my new instructional dvd!

2006-11-18T19:43:27Z

Hello fitness friends! I just wanted to put it out there that my new instructional DVD is now available which teaches how to use hula hoops for fun dancing and fitness...

Hope you enjoy it!

hugs
christabel

p.s. you can learn more about hoopdancing at my website www.hoopgirl.com (there are some demos that you can watch)
__________

HoopGirl™ HoopDance for Beginners instructional DVD is available for purchase!! This is a labor of love and I'm so excited to share it with you!

In this DVD you will learn 35 mesmerizing hoop moves and 4 dance combinations. Learn each move in the studio with close-ups and slow motion replays to accelerate your learning. Then watch performances filmed on the beautiful island of Maui. Be inspired by costumed dances in lagoons, waterfalls, rivers, cliffs and on beaches. Bonus material includes a looping dance segment which can be used as visuals for any occasion. Guest appearances by FireGroove! World beat electronic music soundtrack and chapter looping options. Approx 80 minutes in length. All orders will be shipped on November 24 (when DVDs arrive from press). 80 minutes. Letterbox format.

Note that mastery of the skills on this DVD enables you to enroll in the HoopGirl™ Teacher Training program.

Purchase your copy today at www.HoopGirl.com and click on "store"

Inquires for wholesale purchased by bellydance teachers or other merchants welcome! Contact Annie in the office for more details at admin@hoopgirl.com.

posted in Personal Training - 0 replies

Looking for a "Coach" or "Mentor" in the LA area

2006-09-30T11:02:22Z

Is there anyone in the LA area who wants to train a 6 foot 5, 220 lbs newbie in body building?
Any advice or tips that i recive will be gladly accepted. Turn this bigblackBOY into a bigblackMAN

bigblackBOY
bigblackboy@sbcglobal.net
http://profiles.yahoo.com/bigblackboy90301

posted in Personal Training - 0 replies

Gaspari Thyrotabs

2006-07-07T16:11:32Z

Hey! Is anyone taking Gaspari's new Thyrotabs or know anyone who is? Any info on them so far??

posted in Personal Training - 0 replies

Q to CPTs about IART

2006-06-20T17:17:32Z

I have been looking to get certified as a personal trainer in addition to my dietetics degree and was curious if anyone knew about IART certification. I have been told that it's better or a step up from NASM. I am looking for the best of what's out there and also to then get certified in super-slow training, so I need a good knowledge base in biomechanics. I already have a science degree and a minor in exercise physiology, so the basics are covered. If anyone is certified through IART or knows anything about it or super-slow please let me know. Thanks!

posted in Personal Training - 0 replies

What would your advice be?

2006-06-13T22:13:53Z

My last job I work 8-9 hrs a day Monday thru Friday. I worked hard running around filling orders. I would even get a little persperation on my back. I would go home and work out then eat.

My new job is about 10-13hrs a day, Monday thru Friday, half a day Saturday. I sit, but I use the brain a hell of a lot more and I have to deal with customers and truck drivers all day. When I get home, I am dead tired. Sometimes I have to be at work at 3am and get off work at 5pm. I do not want to work out when I get home. I just want to wind down. My day is fustrating, disouraging, and stressful. I'm starting to gain back the weight I lost.

Any advice?

Modivation?(sp)

Anything, I lost 30pds last year and I need to lose these last 30 lbs!

HELP!!!!!!!!

posted in Personal Training - 3 replies

question about flexibility

2006-06-13T13:31:38Z

hey everyone!
first off i'd like to state that i'm not exactly sure if this topic is "up anyone's alley", but here goes. during stretching, cool downs etc. there's one position i can't quite acheive: there is no way, no how i can ever keep my rear end on my heels when i'm stretching out my back (known in yoga as the child pose or bala-asana)!!! to what can i attribute this shortcoming? i've always been quite flexible (despite my extra weight). i'm 31 and a female. i've been doing pilates for almost one year now, before that i did aerobics for 4 years. when i was a teenager i did yoga for a while and was able to bend enough to rest my head on my knees.
i suspect that it may have something to do with one of knees: i usually say that my right knee is crooked. i realize that's ambiguous, but it's hard to explain without a picture so i'll just add the following info: when i stand up straight, my knees press against each other quite firmly and my ankles don't touch. if i try to press my inner thighs together, my knees bump together even harder, but my thighs don't move...also, when i stretch out my quadriceps, they always feel stiff no matter how warmed up i am.
there it is tribe. if anyone can give me a clue or point me in the right direction, i would definately appreciate it.
thanks all!

posted in Personal Training - 3 replies

Personal Training...where to start???

2006-06-13T01:28:57Z

Well, I'm interested in becoming a personal trainer, but where do I start? I go to the gym regularly but I wouldn't consider myself a pro at all of the equipment. Anyway, OU has a sports/exercise sciences degree program that I am aiming for, but is that necessary? When should I shot for getting certified? How should I train?
Please help....

saahirah

posted in Personal Training - 4 replies

Training with Children

2006-05-25T14:24:26Z

I have recently been asked to train a 10 year old girl who is obese. I know the exercises and such that I can do with her, but does anyone have any ideas for games or fun activities to do? I have trained groups of children before, but never an individual so its hard to play tag with one person. Any ideas would be greatly appreciated. Thanks, Tara

posted in Personal Training - 0 replies

Holy crap, the prison training video.

2006-05-08T00:42:07Z

God help us all.

They are loose on the streets.

Convict trainers. Check it out, or else.

Look at it here as well, for the sake of variety.

blog.myspace.com/daemonelement

E-mail: robert@anabolic-systems.com

posted in Personal Training - 0 replies

Nutrtitional Information you need to know...

2006-04-27T23:03:28Z

Hey everyone-

I want to thank you all for the kind responses to some of the nutritonal information I've posted. I'm glad many of you have found it helpful. One of my sources is Dr. Cyde Wilson, who has the most amazing, accurate and useful information available about how to survive dealig with the food industry which is focused on taking your money and killing you (yes I did say that...)

Hey just updated his site with even more great info, consulting with him could be one of the best moves you could make for weight loss, sports training and health!

http://www.drclydewilson.com/

This could be one of the best things you ever do for yourself...

posted in Personal Training - 5 replies

Personal Trainer turned Gym Owner

2006-04-21T19:35:07Z

What up all I own a Small gym out in Calabasas CA just 15 minutes for Malibu. Anyway I am alwalys looking to make the gym more friendly to out side trainer and still keep the money moving for both of use. I still train Full time so getting toys to play with is a must and keeping the gym clean and equipment work has to happen. but always Looking for new ideas trainer and clients so if in the area give me a shout out. Stay Fit Health Club

posted in Personal Training - 0 replies

Personal Training facility looking for Independent Trainers-SOMA

2006-03-22T23:30:33Z

Multi-disciplinary, downtown facility looking for trainers to work as independent contractors.

Do-It-Yourself environment, fair rent with many opportunities to work with other professionals. Perfect location for trainers with downtown, financial district and SOMA clients.

Requirements:

- 2 Years Minimum experience
- Industry Certification
- Liability Insurance
- current CPR

Set and manage own hours. Flexible facility access.

Please email resume if interested.

Morganandmorgan@earthlink.net

posted in Personal Training - 0 replies

OPINION

2006-03-17T23:44:58Z

I am really curious to hear what everyone's opinion is on the hydraulic machines, like Keiser equipment. Does anyone see any advantages in this type of machine for your own use, or any segment of the population?!?!? Please let me know!

posted in Personal Training - 6 replies

birth control= bodyfat?

2006-03-03T01:49:52Z

ok, I know I shouldn't be complaining but....
I have stuborn fatthat acumulates in the belly and upper thighs, and for all my efforts at exercising specificly to burn bodyfat, these places just keep the fat. now I know I'm female and the fat "should" accumulate there. I've been on birth control for many years for regularity and to help with cramping and acne...
from what i've researched if I stop taking the pills it might be easier for me to lower my bodyfat percentage, but have any of you seen or experienced this first/secondhand in the field? with a client? what werethe results?

posted in Personal Training - 6 replies

Anti-Weakness Campaign, functional strength and vital health workshop series San Francisco and Sacramento

2006-02-03T06:51:31Z

http://empoweredtribes.com/Site/Events.html

posted in Personal Training - 0 replies

NSCA Certification?

2006-01-23T23:28:51Z

I was about to go with NASM (National Academy of Sports Medicine) but just yesterday switched over to NSCA (the National Strength and Conditioning Association) because they seem to be one of the top 2 in the country, and they are non-profit.

Has anyone been certified by them or currently studying now?

posted in Personal Training - 18 replies

image

2005-12-13T03:59:43Z

question mostly for the ladies.

as personal trainers, people are going to choose us as for our image and bodies as for our credentials and education, maybe even more so, sadly.
i'm a very small woman, with about 20% bodyfat. I NEVER had breasts any larger than an A. in a workout bra...they get completely flattened out and are smaller than most men's pecs hahah. It's never bothered me too much, they are nicely shaped, and never get in the way.
but, the thing is..
I don't want female clients to think "Omg if I train with her I'll get skinny and loose my breasts in the process!" people want to train with a person that looks the way THEY want to look. they don't know that I never had even averege size breasts to start with.
So, from a carrer standpoint, do you think very small implants would be a good move? just to bring me up to a full B cup? plus it might be nice to be able to wear a strapless dress for the first time ever, or go bra shopping in an adult size store. hahaha. but then, implants are so scary health wise....sigh

posted in Personal Training - 3 replies

education

2005-11-23T03:42:16Z

I currently am a certified Personal Trainer Specialist in Canada, but am looking to further my education. I have been researching diploma programs recently, but was wondering if anyone had any additional information on great programs or what i may want to consider.
My goal is to eventually start my own personal training business in my relatively small hometown (17,000 people). Targeting home training. Thanks for any ideas!

posted in Personal Training - 9 replies

Cambridge, MA here

2005-11-19T22:22:35Z

ISO other friends to work out with. I've gotten to the point where I'm consistent with weight training 3-4 times a week. Now I'd like a workout partner. Anyone interested? I live here at Harvard's Quincy House and have access to a free exercise area.

posted in Personal Training - 0 replies

FiTNESS EQUIPMENT SUPPLIERS?

2005-10-09T00:54:02Z

Can anyone direct me to a good online or in person (NYC) fitness equipment supplier with good products and reasonable prices? I need medicine balls, foam rolls, a stability ball, some light hand weights (preferably in a carrying case) and push up handles-

posted in Personal Training - 0 replies

anyone else love to run?

2005-10-08T06:10:40Z

I bought a pair of nike free's yesterday...and I ran for an hour tonight to celebrate...i LOVE these shoes! see, I have bad heel spurs so I have to be really careful about the fit of my workout shoes..the nike frees are really nice and they do not rub at all, and I love the flexability of the sole..reminds me of the split sole jazz shoes..the only complaint I have, and it's not really a valid complaint is that they could have a higher arch support, but they are probably fine for most other people seeing as how I have a high arch.
anyone else try them yet?

posted in Personal Training - 4 replies

Good Living

2005-10-04T04:21:20Z

Good Living was created for healthy diners who are willing to go the extra yard to make a meal better eco/nomical and healthier.

Positive Nutrition..Healthy Foods and Longevity Tactics
Food ideas and recipies for the health conscious and motivated. Nutritional ideas and supplements..eating for the long haul..longevity and preservation tactics

please help us grow!
much love..blessings and blisses!
-ton-ton-
http://tribes.tribe.net/goodliving

posted in Personal Training - 0 replies

Hip Raise

2005-08-22T19:21:37Z

What is it? I have a new work out that includes them, but when I look it up on the net I see all kinds of things. Anybody have a clue? Thanks.

posted in Personal Training - 2 replies

Flabby arms..is there hope?

2005-08-12T17:35:27Z

Help, I'm not overweight (could lose 5 lbs or so) however my arms are flabby and I have been using weights for tricep exercises. It been 3-4 weeks and I dont see a difference. Is this one area that takes much longer, more reps ???
Any suggestions...Thanks

posted in Personal Training - 6 replies

How...?

2005-08-09T15:31:09Z

Advice..opinions?

I was a trainer for 3 years, I have worked with every type of person in the world. I even had one woman said that I could not get her to sweat! Of course I did and she was happy.....

To my point:
How can I get my husband who is 250 - 260 lbs motivated to work-out! He should be weighing in at 175. He says he hates to work-out and every time he had gone to the gym he would leave mad. Feeling that that was a major waste of time.
I told him that he could work-out at home, I could buy him some great tapes and equipment or I can train him and work-out with him...nope! not going to do it. (He is the stay home parent due to mental illness Agoriphobia (sp?) and SITS here at the computer chatting on tribe or myspace.com and works on his ebay site)
Yes, my husband is an a** h***, but he is my a** h*** and I do not want to lose him. I not only love him after 17 yrs. but I am still IN love with him as if we first met.
Please give me some ideas to throw at him so I can get him to care and work out. (Tears did not work....)

much love,
Jess

posted in Personal Training - 1 reply

Write-Up Of Last Thursday Night's Big Fitness Event

2005-08-05T04:38:41Z

Hello everyone:

I just found out that there is a nice write-up about last Thursday's party on the Chelo publishing website. It also has some nice pics from the event. If you want to check it out go to www.exercisegroup.com and click on the link in the upper-right hand corner. I've also added more pics from the party to our group's page. There are now 40 or so.

Enjoy!
Andy

posted in Personal Training - 1 reply

New to all this

2005-07-25T18:57:23Z

I just joined a gym and was looking for some advice on weight training routines and diet/supplements. Pretty new to all this, so any tips would be much appreciated. Thanks. Gene :)

posted in Personal Training - 4 replies

LA area?

2005-07-18T20:06:56Z

I'm moving to west hollywood next month. is there anyone who would be willing to help me get established?

posted in Personal Training - 5 replies

Looking for opinions from Professional fitness trainers (career people)

2005-07-12T15:44:55Z

Hello,

I researching possible new career fields and would like to hear opinions from people who currently work the industry. I’m looking for the good, bad & the ugly truth

Do you like it?
What problems do you encounter the most
What limitations are there?
What most annoys you
What was it like when you first started?

Also I have a tattoos that show when I wear tank tops, will this limit my job options?

posted in Personal Training - 3 replies

Cerification

2005-07-12T02:50:52Z

What do you think the best certifications are? Can anyone give me some background on the preference and roughly what it takes to acheive certification?

posted in Personal Training - 5 replies

need a trainer who can help

2005-07-01T03:03:38Z

Hey im in san jose and am desperatly trying to learn as much as possible about getting a better bod. Anyone in San JOse that can help. Maybe we can work out together?

posted in Personal Training - 0 replies

How high is too high?

2005-06-14T03:33:11Z

Hi there,

I just joined this tribe a few weeks ago, as I have recently traded in my cigarettes for a gym membership (would you believe it's cheaper?). Consequently, I've been working out a lot of frustration on the cardio equipment, and I've noticed that my heart rate tends to stay in the "above zone", an ominous looking red area on the elliptical (sp?) machine's heart rate chart. What does this mean? Am I no longer burning calories? Will I set off a self destruct sequence in the machine?

Feeble humor aside, I want to make sure I am actually getting healthy, rather than continuing to abuse my body. I have this crazy idea that I want to teach my grandkids to play soccer someday, and I know that I have to get along with my body to get there. I'm 29, 35 lbs overweight, and MVP runs in my family. Any advice would be much appreciated.

posted in Personal Training - 3 replies

YO!!..

2005-06-11T07:10:54Z

does anyone use this joint or what???

...any trainers out there?

posted in Personal Training - 0 replies

Body Pump

2005-05-18T06:17:04Z

Who would my gym contact for info/requirements/training to hold this class?

Forgive me if this isnt the right place to post this question. =/

posted in Personal Training - 1 reply

Eat when?

2005-05-08T21:11:59Z

I was taught in my fitness class to have an intake of some type of protien w/in 2 hours after your work out. But, I work out late at night. I try to stop eating by 7:30pm ( I was told, I should not eat late at night). I get home from the gym about mid-night. How should I approach this?

Any thoughts? Any rules? Anything from ACSM, NSCA, or ACE about this? Also, I only have time to work out at night, so please to not give the suggestion of going in the morning or earlier. I leave the house about 8:30 after I put everyone to bed and get my house straight.

thanks jess

posted in Personal Training - 6 replies

Personal Training: 3 Powerful Ways to Position Yourself as an Expert

2005-04-03T13:32:05Z

Here is an article that I wrote on positioning. It's a powerful tool, so use it well!

Aaron M. Potts
Complete Personal Training Business
http://www.completepersonaltrainingbusiness.com
info@completepersonaltrainingbusiness.com
Fitness Journal: subscribe@fitnessdestinations.com

**********************************************
Personal Training: 3 Powerful Ways to Position Yourself as an Expert

Regardless of what profession you are in, it is critical that people believe that you know what you are talking about! You won't find very many successful lawyers whose clients never win in court, or popular doctors whose patients are continually misdiagnosed. This concept obviously applies to personal trainers as well, and making sure you are viewed as an expert in your field is as important as having the knowledge to begin with.

It is helpful to be aware of the simple fact that a person's perception is their reality, even if that perception is incorrect. Let's use the example of the doctor in the above paragraph. If you heard through personal references that Dr. John Smith wasn't a very good doctor, the chances that you would ever go see Dr. Smith are pretty slim. However, do you actually know for a fact that Dr. Smith is a bad doctor? No - you just have the perception that he is a bad doctor because that is what you heard. Do you see how your perception is your reality, and how Dr. Smith is unlikely to be getting any of your business?

Your mission is to make sure that you are always viewed as an expert in your field! Otherwise you will end up like poor Dr. Smith, and your list of clients will be short indeed, as will the life of your business. However, if you have done your job and created the impression that you are an expert in your field, then the opposite will hold true. People will have "heard" that you know what you are talking about, and your reputation and your business will grow as a result. In order to get to this desired end result, three effective ways for you to build your reputation include media exposure, writing books, articles, or success tips for your field, and approaching any given situation from a "position of power".

Media Exposure

The most common ways to get viewed as an expert using media exposure include news programming on television, magazine and newspaper stories, and radio time. Each of these methods has one thing in common: mass exposure via a publicly accepted system of obtaining information.

Consider this point from your own perspective. If you see an interview on the news, read an article about a company in the newspaper, or hear about a professional organization on the radio, your natural instinct is to believe that the company or organization has a firm grip on the ins and outs of their product or service.

Why do you think that? Is it because the radio program included a long list of professional references for the company? Is it because the magazine article listed a passing grade by a professional review board or other certifying agency qualified to judge the advertised organization?

The answer to those questions is most likely "no". Why then do you believe in the company's ability to provide the product or service that is discussed? The answer is simple: because you were exposed to the company via a publicly accepted system of obtaining information. Whether that system was the six o'clock news, your local daily paper, or your favorite magazine, chances are that you believed what you read or heard simply because of WHERE you read or heard it!

Ideally, all consumers - including professionals such as yourself - would use other additional methods to determine the qualifications of a company before purchasing their product or service, but in reality, does that happen very often? No, not really. Most people believe what they read and what they hear, and as a Fitness Professional, you can take advantage of that fact. Granted, you should not profess to be an expert if you aren't, but assuming that you really do know what you are talking about, use the media to let others know, too!

Writing Books, Articles, and Success Tips

Comparable to the "expert" status that is afforded a company based on their mass media exposure, a similar assumed professional status can be taken on by any company or individual that publishes written works in their field.

Refer back to the power of the mass media that is referenced above, and you will see a very similar effect generated by published works. If someone writes a book, publishes articles, or generates a regular flow of "success tips" in any given field, it is automatically assumed by the reader that the author of the book, article, or success tip knows what they are talking about.

Is it true that the author is an expert in their field just because they know how to write or type? Of course not! However, the mass media phenomenon applies to published written works just as much as it applies to interviews done on the news, in magazines, or on the radio. The author is assumed to be proficient in the field that the book, article, or tip discusses, even though there is rarely indisputable evidence of the writer's expertise included with the written works.

Again, it is not being suggested that you write books, articles, or success tips unless you really do hold expert status in your field. However, since the "assumptions of excellence" apply as much to the written word as to audio and visual exposure, take advantage of that fact and write as much and as often as you can!

As a side note, writing is also an excellent way for you to enhance your own knowledge in your field. Frequently during the process of writing a book or article, you are called upon to reference the sources of your information, and gathering that type of information expands your own knowledge, as well as your understanding of how to find information for similar projects in the future.

Assuming a "Position of Power"

Utilizing a "position of power" is one of the most effective methods of positioning yourself as an expert in your field. Approaching a situation from a position of power is simply the art of assuming that whoever you are talking to already perceives you to be an expert. Remember that a person's perception is their reality, so as long as the other person believes that you are an expert, then in their eyes, you are!

For example, let's use the story of a talented personal trainer who is applying for the position of Director of Fitness Programming at a small but successful local gym. We will call our imaginary professional Joe Trainer, and we will say for the record that Joe does indeed hold an effective track record in the personal training industry. His clients have benefited from his knowledge and guidance, and he has successfully changed many people's lives in a positive manner. However, Joe Trainer has never been a "Director of Fitness Programming" before. Is he qualified for the job?

Let's review Joe's history. He has worked or worked out in dozens of gyms over the years. Joe has utilized all manner of fitness equipment, from paint cans in his garage when he was a teenager, all the way up through the most modern computerized workout machines available in some of today's fitness facilities. Joe has put together hundreds of different workout programs for hundreds of different people over the years, and we have already determined that his client track record is excellent. Joe has also been called upon many times over the years to recommend fitness equipment purchases to his many clients, including a cost to benefit ratio analysis (in other words, if the equipment is worth the money). Joe has also been exposed to many different lines of nutritional supplements, dietary guidelines, and he has even taken aerobics classes and yoga from time to time.

Has Joe Trainer ever been a "Director of Fitness Programming" before? No. However, is Joe Trainer qualified for that position? Most likely yes! However, now Joe has a dilemma. He has scheduled an interview with the local gym, he really wants the job, but he is nervous about the fact that he has never really been a "Director of Fitness Programming" or a director of anything at all, for that matter. Joe now has 2 choices.

Choice number one is for Joe to go to the interview, ramble on uncontrollably about the hundreds of clients that he has successfully trained, babble about how many different gyms he has been in, and go into mindless detail about why he thinks Supplement A is better than Supplement B.

Do you think Joe will get the job? Let's try a different approach.

Joe mentally prepares for the interview by reviewing the many different ways that his experience will benefit the facility. He puts together a few examples of how he successfully recommended or used one type of fitness equipment more effectively than a different type. Joe puts together mental notes about how aerobics and group exercise classes have added success to his training programs over the years, and how incorporating a cross training approach has kept his clients motivated and continually seeing results from their training programs.

By this point, Joe's confidence in his ability to be a "Director of Fitness Programming" has increased, and he honestly believes that it is not him who is being interviewed, but it is he who is interviewing the facility. Joe doesn't need this job - he has proven his ability to make a living as a personal trainer dozens of times over the years. He is applying for this position because he believes that he can be a great asset to the facility, and he wants to expand his experience in the field. In fact, the facility would be lucky to have him! For that matter, he may already be considering countering the posted pay scale with an increase if they want to hire him. After all, he is Joe Trainer, and his success record speaks for itself!

Now, do you think Joe will get the job? Pretty safe bet.

Is the Joe Trainer in the first example any different than the Joe Trainer using the second approach? No - we're talking about the same person. What is different then? Joe's belief in himself - and more importantly - Joe's ability to show the facility how they would be missing a great opportunity if they didn't hire him. It is Joe who is interviewing the facility, not the other way around. Joe assumed a "Position of Power" before he even got to his interview. He walked out with a new title and a nice salary, an increased confidence in his own abilities, and the opportunity to mold an entire staff of personal trainer into successful, results-oriented Fitness Professionals!

This same concept can also be applied when negotiating with potential new clients. Remember that you are the fitness professional. You are the one with the knowledge and the experience that the client needs. You are not asking them to be your clients, but rather you are giving them the opportunity to become your clients.

Conclusion

As you can see, as Fitness Professionals in the ever-growing field of health and physical fitness, we have many tools at our disposal when it comes to positioning ourselves as experts. However, we have an equal amount of responsibility to not utilize these tools unless we are 100% confident in our status as experts in our chosen disciplines. Use your knowledge and your tools wisely and appropriately, and you will see your professional and personal success grow beyond your wildest dreams!

Aaron Potts is the author and creator of The Ultimate Complete Personal Training Business Kit, a quick-start kit and business guide for new as well as seasoned fitness professionals. Aaron's experience as a Fitness Professional has included management positions with local and nationally known fitness facilities, as well as in-home and outdoor training with clients from all walks of life. Find out more about Aaron's programs at http://www.completepersonaltrainingbusiness.com or his personal training site at http://www.aaronspersonaltraining.com

posted in Personal Training - 0 replies

Occupational Humor

2005-02-26T14:40:41Z

*Received via PM*

Dear Diary

For my fiftieth birthday this year, my wife (the dear) purchased a week of personal training at the local health club for me. Although I am still in great shape since playing on my college football team 30 yrs ago, I decided it would be a good idea to go ahead and give it a try.

Called the club and made my reservation with a personal trainer named Belinda, who identified herself as a 26 yr old aerobics instructor and model for athletic clothing and swim wear. My wife seemed pleased with my enthusiasm to get started! The club encouraged me to keep a diary to chart my progress.

MONDAY: Started my day at 6:00am. Tough to get out of bed, but it was well worth it when I arrived at the health club to find Belinda waiting for me. She was something of a Greek goddess -- with blonde hair, dancing eyes and a dazzling white smile.

Woo Hoo!!!!!

Belinda gave me a tour and showed me the machines. She took my pulse after 5 minutes on the treadmill. She was alarmed that my pulse was so fast, but I attributed it to standing next to her in her Lycra aerobics outfit. I enjoyed watching the skillful way in which she conducted her aerobics class after my workout today.

Very inspiring, Belinda was encouraging as I did my sit-ups, although my gut was already aching from holding it in the whole time she was around. This is going to be a FANTASTIC week!!

TUESDAY: I drank a whole pot of coffee, but I finally made it out the door. Belinda made me lie on my back and push a heavy iron bar into the air, and then she put weights on it! My legs were a little wobbly on the treadmill, but I made the full mile. Belinda's rewarding smile made it all worthwhile. I feel GREAT!! It's a whole new life for me.

WEDNESDAY: The only way I can brush my teeth is by laying the toothbrush on the counter and moving my mouth back and forth over it. I believe I have a hernia in both pectorals. Driving was OK as long as I didn't try to steer or stop. I parked on top of a GEO in the club parking lot. Belinda was impatient with me, insisting that my screams bothered other club members. Her voice is a little too perky for early in the morning and when she scolds, she gets this nasally whines that is VERY annoying. My chest hurt when I got on the treadmill, so Belinda put me on the stair monster –er, master. Why the hell would anyone invent a machine to simulate an activity rendered obsolete by elevators? Belinda told me it would help me get in shape and enjoy life. She said some other shit, too.

THURSDAY: Belinda was waiting for me with her vampire-like teeth exposed as her thin, cruel lips were pulled back in a full snarl. I couldn't help being a half an hour late; it took me that long to tie my shoes. Belinda took me to work out with dumbbells. When she was not looking, I ran and hid in the men's room. She sent Lars to find me, then, as punishment, put me on the rowing machine -- which I sank.

FRIDAY: I hate that bitch Belinda more than any human being has ever hated any other human being in the history of the entire world. Stupid, skinny, anemic little cheerleader; if there were a part of my body I could move without unbearable pain, I would beat her with it! Belinda wanted me to work on my triceps. I don't have any triceps. And if you don't want dents in the floor, don't hand me the *& %#( #&**!!@*@ barbells or anything that weighs more than a sandwich. The treadmill flung me off and I landed on a health and nutrition teacher. Why couldn't it have been someone softer, like the drama coach or the choir director?

SATURDAY: Belinda left a message on my answering machine in her grating, shrilly voice wondering why I did not show up today. Just hearing her voice made me want to smash the machine with my planner. However, I lacked the strength to even use the TV remote and ended up catching eleven straight hours of the Weather Channel.

SUNDAY: I'm having the Church van pick me up for services today so I can go and thank G*D that this week is over. I will also pray that next year, my wife (the bitch), will choose a gift for me that is fun like a root canal, or a vasectomy without the anesthetic.

posted in Personal Training - 2 replies

need some training advice

2004-12-18T02:12:47Z

Hi,

I'm trying to lose some weight and I am not getting any results. Here is what is going on:

I'm doing an hour and a half to two hours of exercise about 5 days a week. I'm doing a combination of cardio and strength training and yoga for stretching.

I weighed myself and took some measurements a month ago and did the same again a month later and haven't had any changes.

I don't believe in 'diet's', but I try too eat healthy. Does anyone have any tips on what my problem is? Do I need to drink more water? Do I need to have my thyroid checked? Do I need to start counting calories?

Thanks for any advice you may have!

-Laura

posted in Personal Training - 10 replies

Personal Training

2004-12-12T16:00:17Z

Hey guys and gals, I'll be moving to Las Vegas in a couple of months and definately want to continue with personal training. Currently I live in a fairly small town. I first became a trainer at 24 hour fitness to build a solid reputation then after a few months I ventured off as an independent personal trainer. I did pretty well in such a small town. I was thinking about going that same route. I figure in Vegas there is a larger playing field so the amount of success will be greater. So for all you veteran trainers out there, what are the pros and cons? Thanks for the replies. God Bless.

posted in Personal Training - 1 reply

ACE manual

2004-02-17T15:02:17Z

Hello-
I am taking a personal training class that will prepare me for the ACE certification. I need the manual but don't want to pay $55.00 for it. I checked half.com and ebay but no luck. Does any one have an idea where I might be able to get it discounted?
Thanks!

posted in Personal Training - 1 reply

Come on in and spill it!

2004-02-14T18:00:35Z

Hey everyone!

I created this Tribe for anyone at all who is interested in any of the many aspects of health and fitness. If you are a personal trainer, completely new at fitness, or a many year veteran - all are welcome.

I would like to discuss anything related to the health industry - from specific exercises and foods to eat, all the way up to ways to develop your business in the health field.

It's all good, and I'm looking forward to the discussions. Hop in!

Aaron M. Potts
Aaron's Personal Training
http://www.aaronspersonaltraining.com
Jacksonville, FL

posted in Personal Training - 14 replies