Do you train clients of the opposite sex in their homes? Why or Why not?
A vast majority of my clients are women and I train them in whatever environment works for them and me, including their homes. Not quite the same question, but I also work with girls (minors) but when I do, I insist on the presence of a responsible adult for their comfort and the benefit of all concerned.
LaRue, CSCS
www.lecfitness.com
[email protected]
Thank you all for the AWESOME responses everyone! I think that the general consensus is that most (if not all) females are more hesitant to train males in their home versus male trainers/female clients.
I’ve personally only trained males that were former clients and that I’ve known them for a period of time, as you never know what’s behind the door when you get there. This is not to say that training unknown females is a 100% guarantee that everything is great, but I feel that as a female, we are more comfortable in this type of situation.
As Danielle said if the person is a family/friend of a client then it’s a little different.
I do know personally of a male trainer who had a client (female) hit on him and although he declined, it did not have a very happy ending for him personally as his integrity was put in question, which was really unfair for him. After that he no longer trained women in their homes but only in an outdoor/gym setting.
I talked about that with my husband (also a trainer). He would not train a woman at her home by herself for the very reason you are describing. As personal trainers, our reputation is one of our most important assets, and we cannot afford to have it tarnished by unfounded accusations. There will always be a footnote to some according to the adage: “If there is smoke, there must have been a fire.”
Hi Lisa. I tried to send a comment to your last reply but it was from my Blackberry and contained a couple of typos/errors. I’m resending my Comment as an Answer:
Hi Lisa. You’re absolutely right that nothing is 100 percent. Even same-sex training in the home can be a challenge! The bottom-line is that it all comes down to the people involved ( the client and trainer) moreso than it does what sex they are. If you establish a professional relationship, maintain boundaries that you both are comfortable with, and immediately address any issues that may arise, things should go smoothly.
LaRue, CSCS
www.lecfitness.com
[email protected]
The only time I have hesitated was when I had to do a fitness assessment for my bootcamp: my husband drove over to the home with me and it was fine.
As for personal training: my client based is a result of word of mouth,and referrels. I don’t get cold calls.
I think it’s important to take precautions but I also think it’s close minded to say you’d never go to a mans home if you are a female trainer, not all men are perverts!