Help with first client
I recently obtained my ACSM CPT certification in an effort to gain experience while I’m still in school. I had just been hired at a local gym, and because other trainers there will be coaching sports I will be picking up some of their clients in their absence. As an aspiring strength and conditioning coach, I currently intern with a strength coach in my area who has been guiding and helping me prepare to sit for the CSCS exam. I decided to pursue personal training to become a better communicator, build relationships with those in my field, and pick up some verbal cues to help training of athletes and general population alike. Having said that, I was asked to train a client who I was told I can “do anything at all with”. With endless possibilities of workout structure and movement selection I’m having trouble deciding what direction I should go in. I have been leaning toward a total body circuit style workout with a cardiorespiratory fitness emphasis. Because the experience I have is with program design and instruction for athletic performance, I unsure as to what does and does not translate to the general population. Any advice for a beginner?
Hi Michael,
I agree with what Karin has already mentioned. Even if you are not the one who does the initial assessment, I would contact the client prior to your first session and find out the goals of the client. Also, personally, even if the client is very conditioned, I always take a more conservative approach on the first session. You are getting to know the client and need to build rapport, see how his body moves, and assess his pace through the exercises. Have a set plan in place, but be prepared to have a back-up plan depending on how the client feels that day.
I think you are wise to think about the goals of the client and proceed with a proper plan–as opposed to the the approach to “do anything you want with”….
Good luck to you…
Christine