So, Like This?

This is a classic sight I’ve seen in almost every gym I’ve worked or trained at. Usually and understandably, it’s a guy that’s either a beginner himself or a couple years into his training. He’s able to get his girlfriend or wife into the gym, but on the condition that he helps her.

Before I keep going I want to make sure I’m very clear about my intentions here. I believe this is a good thing. I am obviously pro people exercising; especially when you can do it with someone in some capacity.

Anyway, what really brought me to the idea of writing about this topic is the other day as I was working, I looked over, and I see a couple training. Unfortunately, it seemed either the woman was frustrated because she couldn’t lift the weight or couldn’t figure out the form. Which wasn’t being helped by the man that was with her, as the more he spoke, the more it seemed she was getting upset.

Now, this isn’t me blaming either of them. However, I wasn’t a part of the conversation, so if it was just him belittling her, I retract my statement (it does happen from time to time).

So I want to give a few tips for training someone when you’re not a coach, trainer, or instructor… But even some that hold titles may need a refresher:

1) Motivation and Pushing Are Not the Same Thing.
It’s okay to try and motivate with a pep talk or encouraging words. It’s not okay to push them to do a weight or movement they’re not comfortable with. If they try it, and cannot or do not want to do it, move on… they tried, that’s what matters. Most of the time, you can use that weight or movement as a goal. Utilizing other exercises that will strengthen them to be able to confront that obstacle. Or, using what we call a “regression” option (it sounds bad, but it’s not. It’s just a way of making exercises easier or more appealing). For example, if they cannot figure out a pull up, even with you or band assisting, you can regress to a inverted or reverse row (https://www.instagram.com/p/DRXl5LiEgjw/). This way their feet can remain on the ground and they can work up into the same movement pattern.

2) They May Not Enjoy It As Much As You…
They probably don’t want to be there as much as you do, if at all. Cut them some slack. They showed up and that’s about 85% of the battle… Remain upbeat and optimistic. Remind them that it takes a bit of time to get used to it and over the hump of soreness and lack of energy (roughly 2-3 weeks for the “painful” part of getting started). And I cannot stress this enough: There are hundreds of ways to exercise. They may not like your style or type of training. That is also OKAY! The point is to get them active and preferably in a way that they enjoy. So show them different styles… and do it with them for a bit. It’s worth it in the long run.
I train fighters, old folks, middle-aged, and teens. Each one has different needs, wants, and goals.

3) Proper Form Does Not Come Naturally.
One client I will never forget. It took us over a month to lock down side lateral raises. I pulled every cue I had and even made up some new ones just to help this guy figure out the correct form. Even simple movements can be someone’s kryptonite. Mechanical recruitment is different for everyone. Just like some of us are right-dominate and others left. Also, people learn from many styles. Explain and show them how to do it, let them try it, mention the muscle group/area they “should” be feeling, fix significant/general parts, let them try to figure it out again, make small adjustments. I’m telling you right now, it won’t be perfect for a bit… as long as it seems to be moving in the right direction. They won’t die if form is a little off while learning the proper technique. Oh, and their technique for their body will possibly be different than yours. Again, only make general corrections and small adjustments. They’ll figure it out as they get more comfortable and a bit stronger.

There is definitely more I could add to this list, but these general guidelines will help. The biggest takeaway here is just be patient. And I mean patient. Remember how awkward it was for you at the beginning. It took you a bit to get to a point you could walk into a gym and do some clean-ass tricep pushdowns. So give your trainee the same grace as you had to give yourself.

MINDSET

Be patient.
Teach what you know, but no more than that.

Train smart, but never forget to train hard.