What advice are you giving clients that can’t seem to stay self motivated?
The only thing I can think of that you give them exercise recommendations that they really enjoy and are more likely to do even when on a tight schedule. Or giving them mini-exercise assignments of no more than 10 minutes in length.
Else you have done all you can. It is ultimately their choice whether or not they follow your advice.
I have some clients that will only exercise with me. Do I like it? No. But without me, they probably would not exercise at all.
Kim,
This is definitely related to a question of mine that was recently posted.
Karin has given some good insight into the issue. I hate to say this, but it’s true nonetheless… A personal trainer/lifestyle coach can only help a client as much as a client is willing to help him/herself. Echoing Karin, it IS up to the client how much effort to put into the relationship that you have established, together.
As a lifestyle and weight management coach, I’m sure you’ll find something that will appeal to your client. I’m currently taking the LWMC course. I’ve been impressed so far. My mom is a respected psychologist in my area so I would like to think that I’m being objective about the issue.
Consider the stages of change. Maybe the case is that your client isn’t in the stage that he/she is ready to begin relying more one his/her own self-worth. Consider the fact that everyone needs different amounts of time to improve self-efficacy. Hopefully that helps a little?
I have faith in you, as a professional, and I’m sure you won’t disappoint your client!
Interesting question and one that we all will or have faced. I really don’t have any kind of answer for you because every situation is unique. Have you looked at the IDEA article on Self Determination Theory (SDT) it is really good and might add some insight.
http://www.ideafit.com/fitness-library/self-determination-theory-a-key-t…
I agree with Karin in that if they are working with you, in spite of being over-scheduled & high-stressed, at least they are getting some time in for exercise.
Is it the sort of thing where they are just going through a busy time at work and home? If this is the case, then maybe the can fit in time when things quiet down. If not, would it be possible encourage them to think about some sort of long-term plan to cultivate time for themselves? This may be something you could work on together. Starting out, this may be just a few minutes outside of the sessions you have together. For example, your client may take a break from work to go for a short walk.
