Tracking and keeping organized
I use apps as well. But I also like to go “old school”. I have a paper file on all of my clients and I find that taking it out of the cabinet and looking over my notes, their feedback and goals with the file folder in my hand makes it real for me. Sometimes I like to bring it out and look it over with the client when they are working through a set back or rough patch. I think the concrete quality of what used to be referred to as a “hard copy” is motivating. And there is research to support that retention of information is better when you actually write it out by hand and read your own handwriting over in review.
Like you I do use a couple of apps, but really I am old school.
Although I deal with a lot of different people as clients, many are referred to me from physiotherapists, doctors, RMTs and Chiropractors for rehab progressions back to play or work. I need to keep their files on hand for a set number of years…and while I may have back-ups on the computer, some things come to me in paper form anyway. Besides, like Martin mentioned I find it easier to have files in my hands and make notes on paper.
Donna Hutchinson, owner of On The Edge Fitness Educators has a free download of PT Forms that include many different tracking pieces like Initial Phone Consult, New Client Checklist, Client Sign-In, Personal Training Daily Sheets, etc…This may help you out (I use them and find them very helpful). Here is the link – http://edgefit.ca/fitness-educators/free-stuff/free-personal-training-bu…
Hi Lukas,
I also use apps like Myfitnesspal or Lose It for clients (a great way for them to track–and if they share their food diary with me it’s great for me to review). Other than a few apps, I am also old school and like to keep files of my clients–and I use pen and paper to track. Everything is in one place and easy for me to access.
I had purchased an app called The Training Notebook and used that for a while, but it was lacking a few things (like a notes section/next appt., etc.), so I went back to taking notes by hand. They may have updated it by now, so that may be an option for you. I track my appointments with my iPhone.
Hope this helps.
Christine