A few weeks ago, I discussed exceeding a client’s expectations regarding their experience in training. This week, I wanted to discuss two of the key factors that influence why members hire trainers – adherence and motivation.
Adherence
Adherence has to do with a trainer not only giving a great workout all the time, but also following up with clients to make sure that they are doing the necessary tasks outside of the gym. They include additional calorie burning activities, proper rest, sticking to an eating plan and injury prevention.
Even though this may seem like a lot to some trainers, the good ones do this without thinking! In the first five minutes of any session, trainers should review these tasks with clients. Trainers should also use social media tools like Pinterest, Instagram and Facebook to see what clients are doing outside the gym. This may seem like a lot of work, but when your clients boast great results and become walking testimonials for you, it will not be wasted.
Motivation
Motivation is the other key component. Getting someone to do something they do not like takes one part motivational speaker, and one part Jedi mind trick. You must get your clients to make activity not only a habit, but a necessity in their life. This may include sometimes going on run/walks with clients, taking their first few aerobic classes with them, or going on evening bike rides with them. Whatever it takes to get that client to overcome their fear of failing or getting past the laziness of inactivity – that is what a great trainer does.
Look for more in Part Three!
Vic Spatola is the director of personal training for Greenwood Athletic and Tennis Club in Greenwood Village, Colorado, a suburb of Denver. Spatola offers consulting on personal training business development. For more information, contact him at vics@greenwoodatc.com.
