How responsible should I be for what my clients due in the time they are not training with me?
My clients are all over the map with what they are able to accomplish in fitness during the week between our sessions… with both injury prevention in mind and the clients’ desire for change and growth, it is paramount to keep the sessions challenging and yet safe. Are most trainers providing “home programs” for their clients? And if so, is this customarily a separate charge?
Good question! What I do is try to help them set goals and then work with them to reach those goals. For example, have them sign up for a race or an event (5k, half or full marathon, obstacle course event, triathlon, bike race, etc.). This will give them a reason to train on their own outside of their scheduled sessions. Of course, I provide them with training tips and programs to follow when they’re not with me. It keeps them motivated and they have something to look forward too.
Apart from that, you are not responsible for any of their actions. You can give them all the tools and motivation to exercise on their own, but if they decide for whatever reason not to, then it’s on them and not you. If you’re with a client only a few hours per week, they’re responsible for what they eat and their level of exercise for the majority of the time. Clients need to understand that ultimately their success is in their hands and their success depends on their level of commitment to making a lifestyle change. Yes, you can provide a path and motivation, but your clients have to do the work.
I hope this helps.