Does a fitness professional's fitness level important when it comes to professionalism?

I believe that as a "Trainer" or a "Coach" you do not need to have any athletic abilities. If Stephen Hawking had decided to pursue a career as a fitness professional, I believe a brilliant mind could be extremely effective at providing a high level of training for another. The catch comes in to play with motivation. Athletes are usually highly motivated and attentive to their training programs but "the average Joe/Jane" may not immediately trust someone if it doesn't appear that they "walk the walk." I have met many great professionals that used to have a high level of fitness but do to age or injury, no longer do. Knowledge is power. If its proof a client NEEDS then the trainer's fitness level will be helpful in obtaining and motivating that person. I would never predict someones ability to train another at a high level based on that someones personal fitness, but then again, I know better. Unfortunately not everyone looks at the resume first, they look at the physique. So, if you are new to the profession, it can be extremely valuable to your credibility to be fit and set the example. Later in your career, a great track record will say much of your capabilities.

You are asking a few different questions here...

For a fitness professional, the fitness level is certainly a judgement criteria for clients. While it certainly will enhance credibility and reassure clientele and possibly boosting PT sales - it certainly does not fully encompass a true professional.

Professionalism is your knowledge, skills, and abilities and you ability to effectively communicate these principles. It also relates to your presence in the position (dress, appearance, etc). While appearance is certainly a component in professionalism - I would not go so far to extend it ones fitness level.

Fuel the Movement,
JM

Hello Mac,
I would say that everyone has a different fitness level and can perform exercises and movements better or less than another individual. That said, I think as fitness professionals we should look the part, practice what we preach and our behavior can have an effect on our profession.

Sincerely,
Michael

I think we should walk the walk, I 'm not saying to show it off but it is important to "practice what we preach"

Ultimately we are professional trainers, our professionalism is the most important component in my opinion.

Absolutely!

I will be self-disclosing though. I really don't enjoy anything long distance. I prefer intense short duration activities. Would I say I am "fit" in that aspect of "fitness." I would say I am not. However, I am far from deconditioned.

The question at hand is how are we defining "fitness?"

These are two different questions. One can be fit to do anything, but not professional enough to be a trainer and vice versa. I believe you have to be both, or you have failed as a trainer and your time in this profession will be short. You don't have to be as fit as the most fit client you have, but you have to be professional enough to perform your duty as a motivator and an expert in this field. Do you have to be a perfect specimen? No. But If you can't set an example for your clients by leading a healthy lifestyle, what example will they follow? I prefer to lead from the front with motivation and show my clients that with knowledge and discipline comes a healthier, happier life.

It's huge but not a substitute for ability and people skills.

I think that, as trainers, we are in a position of leadership and, as such, should strive to set the example.

I'm not saying that you should be 6% body fat, or run a 2:20 marathon, or have a 400lb bench press, but I am saying that you should at least show evidence that you practice what you preach. If you are going to be advocating health habits for you clients, you should be following them yourself.

In my opinion, maintaining a certain level of fitness as a fitness professional is ABSOLUTELY necessary. This doesn't mean that I need to outrun, out-lift or out ANYTHING my client - after all, we are not competing against one another. But what it does mean is that I show my clients through my dedication to my own fitness, that I "practice what I preach." It lends credibility and honesty to our words and advice as trainers.

LaRue, CSCS
www.lecfitness.com
larue.cook@lecfitness.com

I strive to be "fit" in as many disciplines as possible....weights/cardio/balance/speed/agility/NUTRITION,ect.
I feel I "need to set an example of this profession".... and that means being the best I can in weights/aerobics/nutrtion.

Hello Mac,

Yes, I believe so; it is part of our job description to set a good example. I am no Olympic athlete, nor do I strive for it; but, this is an area where professionalism and being fit are intertwined.

Take care.

/Agree with above posts.

It's best to be able to show that you follow what you sell. People don't want a broke banker or skinny chef. Same thing with a personal trainer. You don't have to be better than all the rest, but definitely in good health standings.

I believe we are our own "billboard" when it comes to attracting clients. This doesn't mean I have to be the biggest, fastest and strongest, but I have to show my clients that I practice what I preach. By doing this, your setting good examples and motivating your clients through your actions. Why would I go through something that is physically and mentally demanding because someone is telling me to when they are not doing it or haven't even done it?

As far as professionalism, I feel that it extends far past fitness levels. You don't have to be superman in the gym to be a professional and knowledgeable person. I would say professionalism as a trainer is how you conduct yourself as a person in and out of the gym while providing safe and effective training methods for your clients. Not being physically fit may delay your time in acquiring your name as a trainer though.

Looking the part definitely lends to credibility. In my opinion, it's helpful to make every exercise you teach look easy. When training beginner clients, a high level of fitness may not be absolutely necessary. If you plan on training athletes however, their program will probably include a few advanced exercises. At the bare minimum, you should be fit enough to demonstrate the movements without having to exert yourself to an extreme. Hope it helps!
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