With all the different types of fitness programs out there, it can be confusing to know which program is best for you. We're here to clear some things up for you and hopefully open your perspective on you, your body, and your programming. Here are 3 things for you to consider when designing your program.
Goals: Before you design your program, we encourage you to know and truly understand your goals. What is it you really want to accomplish? Where is it you really want to be? When you've asked yourself questions like these, then you will be able to pave the path to get there. We get it. EVERYONE wants to lose weight and EVERYONE wants to build muscle. But, when you've defined these thoughts even more by saying things like, "I want to lose weight so I can play with my kids without getting winded" or "I want to be stronger so I can go on a hike" will allow you to understand what type of training will work best for you.
Time: Have you ever seen a photo posted on social media and thought to yourself, "I wish I looked more like that?" Well, STOP THAT! As a trainer, we have dedicated our lives into helping others achieve their fitness goals. One of the things that the fitness industry does a great job at is having people feel inadequate about themselves. When you see someone who has a certain look that you want, understand that often times there is more than meets the eye. The good ones spend a lot of time in and out of the gym investing in themselves. They've worked hard to get where they are at. For the not so good ones, you don't know what types of enhancements they've taken to get there. And for both of them, you may not know about all the supplements they may be taking or how many hours a day they are working towards their goals. When you design your program, build it towards the amount of time you are willing and committed to spend a day on your goals. Some of you, it's a quick 30 min workout. While others may have hours to spend. Consider your time and make the most of it.
Movement: This part is probably one of the most important things to consider when designing your program. Movement is essentially everything. The better you move, the more effective you will be and will be less prone to injuries. If a client wanted to better their squats, the first thing I would NOT do is put a bar on their back and lift heavy. Rather, I would make sure that their form and movement is strong and effective enough for them to carry the desired load properly. With movement comes flexibility and mobility. A client may want to do X,Y, and Z, but their body says they should start at B...and that's OKAY! Be humble, be patient, and better your movement. When your body moves better, you'll be able to increase the load more rapidly. Move according to your goals. The last thing you want to do is strengthen dysfunction!