Functional Training
If I hear “functional training” one more time from a trainer as their specialty, I will go Jason Statham on them! News flash…we all do it! ANY trainer who goes outside the conventional methodology of training, i.e. Olympic, Circuit, Barbell/Dumbbell, etc., and combines a series of exercises together that has the client change elevation, alternating through plains of motion, integrates core stabilisation, strength/power/speed/agility/endurance, recruits more than one muscle or group simultaneously while conditioning them for everyday life/work IS FUNCTIONAL TRAINING!
Secondly, there is the sport specific/fitness goal application here as well. However, this chosen training practice bears the question-why are you training them this way?? Hopefully, its purpose is far beyond that of just giving the client a good workout? Please tell me you actually have a plan?! I’m all ears…
There are (3) distinct categories in “functional training” within the confines of personal training. First, allow me to clarify the definition of “functional”:
func·tion·al
[ fúngkshən’l ] – practical: having a practical application, or serving a useful
purpose
1) Functional Category #1: training methodology serves the Trainer;
2) Functional Category #2: training methodology serves the Client;
3) Functional Category #3: training methodology serves the Client AND Trainer as it is goal specific.
I’m going to focus on #3. Designing life-specific workouts for your clients incorporating every aspect of their life OUTSIDE the gym is understanding Functional Training as well as professionalism in your chosen trade! I’m not delving into the science side of things for that is not where I am going with this.
Professional and Effective Goal Setting
Is your client paying you to hang out with them, talk shop, telling them what they want to hear OR are they paying you for your “expertise” and having the mindset of this trainer’s going to get me in the best shape ever? For all those Category #1 trainers & gym owners, deliver on your promise!
If you want to increase your business, have people pursuing you, stay in great shape, enjoy coming to work and be recognised professionally, then here’s my advice. Deliver what you said during the presentation and sale. Create that plan and provide the training you said you would. You were successful in motivating a complete stranger to take action on their goals and invest in them. That’s an amazing achievement! Now…deliver.
So how do you deliver in a professional capacity? This question is two-fold: Firstly, be a “fitness professional” OUTSIDE the gym to lead by example that building your body/health creates the ability to intentionally participate and enjoy fitness-based activities outside the gym.
Secondly, imagine you’re a GPS, and the Client shares their location. In this case, that means age, gender, height, body composition analysis (weight, measurements, body fat, lean mass vs. fat mass), followed by a full exercise, nutritional and health history (seek out limitations). Don’t forget supplements, water intake, caffeine, and energy drinks. Warm up the client (if applicable) with a safe, stable environment like a 5 minute walk on a treadmill or bike.
Once you have this intel, compare the client’s initial goals to their starting point and adjust as needed. Clients may challenge your professional goals, as they might have a different destination in mind. This is why gathering all relevant data is essential. External influences, such as media, social platforms, peers and past experiences, often shape their assumptions about their goals.
Delivering Professional Results
Having the client, or potential client demonstrating an example of what is necessary to achieve their goals on the first encounter will make or break their motivation. If they are auditioning you, they may realise they’re not ready for the discipline required and walk away, as their expectations don’t align with reality. The initial workout can help them visualise the process, commit to the journey, and feel excited to finally have a clear plan for their goals.
In my opinion, the value of a client taking action on their first gym visit and working with a trainer is invaluable. Too often, new members go through the sales process and visit the gym multiple times before ever working out. It’s important to show empathy and awareness. They had a mission when they walked through that door, keep them on that path! Don’t be the reason they give up and leave defeated.
Crushing a new client is outdated and unprofessional. It wasn’t funny in the 80’s and isn’t now. Pushing them past their limits on day one until they’re light headed, nauseous, or worse ensures they won’t return. No accredited source supports this approach, so don’t do it. Period.
In closing, if you’ve made it this far, you’re among the elite, those who strive to learn, deliver more and give their best to clients. Outstanding! A long, successful career awaits you. For my fellow #3’ers, you’re setting the professional standard and breaking the typical trainer stereotype. I applaud you and I’m honoured to stand among you.
In Service,
David London
The Fitness Guy
