Managing how your trainers design training programs for clients can be a full-time job by itself. Your goal should be to have each client receive a directed, focused and effective training program based on their goals, from each trainer. This can be difficult especially when running staff over fifteen people. So how do you begin to get a handle on how your trainers train your clients, and client experience?
Consistency of education is the first starting point. If everyone has a similar educational background, then you can at least have the same starting point from which everyone can begin. This also allows trainers to speak with each other and use the same language when referring to clients.
Educational workshops covering universal exercises are extremely constructive. Regardless of education, there are many exercises that are very beneficial for each client. Workshops cover each exercise’s execution, cueing, spotting and explanation, some of which may need to be reviewed and refreshed (i.e. squats, push ups, lunges, pull ups, etc.) This will standardize how your trainers present these exercises to members.
Reviewing client programs is a must as well. On a regular basis every manager should review what is expected. If you expect that your trainers are creating goal-based and functional programs for your clients, then you had better inspect those programs. Depending on your facility, you may review member’s workout cards or ask trainers for clients programs.
Check to see if clients renew their training packages. Before a client’s package is up, if the client is meeting and exceeding the expectations, there should be no question to them continuing. However, to be assured this happens, the manager should check to see if members are enjoying their training sessions. A quick phone call or e-mail to the member can assure you if the trainers are providing your level of service or not.
In the end, it is up to the fitness manager to assure that the trainers are meeting club expectations, member expectations and are giving the client what they need.
Vic Spatola is the Director of Personal Training for Greenwood Athletic and Tennis Club in Greenwood Village, Colorado, a suburb of Denver. Contact him at vics@greenwoodatc.com.
