Ask the right questions
As trainers, we can often get very tied up in the mechanics or finer detail of exercises or nutrition and lose sight of the bigger picture.
When looking after coaches, I often see such dedication to helping clients move properly, understand the exercises and know which muscles should be working and it's great to see. All that time spent keeping the eyes open whilst preparing for an anatomy and physiology exam really was worth it. The question is, can it be lost on your clients or could it be put across more effectively.
I'll put my hands up right now in acknowledgement that my passion lies in depth of detail. I can often lose myself let alone a client when talking about the microscopic inner workings of shoulder mechanics through abduction but is this really necessary??
When looking after coaches, I often see such dedication to helping clients move properly, understand the exercises and know which muscles should be working and it's great to see. All that time spent keeping the eyes open whilst preparing for an anatomy and physiology exam really was worth it. The question is, can it be lost on your clients or could it be put across more effectively.
I'll put my hands up right now in acknowledgement that my passion lies in depth of detail. I can often lose myself let alone a client when talking about the microscopic inner workings of shoulder mechanics through abduction but is this really necessary??
The fact that you probably spent time looking like this when revising late into the evening for your exams is proof enough that some theory is intended for exams and you only. Unless your client is a biomechanist or extremely inquisitive, give them simple terms and the benefits of the exercise...that's all they need.
Here's some additional pointers for speaking effectively to your clients:
- Use the simplest descriptions that make sense to your clients. For example, we all know that getting the glutes working properly will support most standing or upright exercises and help reduce synergistic dominance. Explaining synergistic dominance in scientific detail to your client isn't necessary. If your client likes cars or is a mechanic then simply explain 'without the glutes, doing these exercises would be like running a car without 1st or 2nd gear - very inefficient!'
- Don't over-ask your client 'How are you?' This isn't me being inconsiderate but the fact is, you're spending time conditioning your client and this can be physically and mentally demanding. Time and time again I hear trainers ask clients 'How you doing?' mid-session. The intention is great and endearing but the response is limited. What can you expect your client to say when they're working hard?? 'I'm shattered' or ' Can't speak'. Be specific with your questions and help lay down expectations. If you're doing shoulder exercises then explain that you are looking to work the shoulder muscles and that fatigue in those areas is a good thing. Asking where they are feeling particular exercises is a much more specific and useful question to help you coach. Asking your client their state at the beginning of the session is obviously a pleasant greeting although 'Are you well?' is even better as this nudges them towards giving a positive response.
- When coaching through demanding sessions, there may be times where your client is unable to verbalise a response but this doesn't mean you cannot interact. Getting them to nod or make a gesture in response to your statements can be enough to keep a healthy rapport and here is a simple but brilliant way to do it. Add tag questions on the end of your statements and encourage your clients to agree with you. 'Knowing that you're doing the exercise properly makes a big difference, doesn't it?' You don't demand a response other than an acknowledgement and your client will be unconsciously taking steps towards agreeing with you and building that trust and rapport. Knowing how to build the relationship between you and your client is going to help the growth of your business isn't it?
I hope this helps and make sure you add some comments
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