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2020-08-21
How to train and be trained: what’s the best approach?

How to train and be trained: what’s the best approach?

Plot twist: there is none!

As I’ve spent more time in the industry, I’ve spent less time trying to figure out the “best approach” and more time reading the client/situation and applying what I know to that specific situation.

These are three factors I always consider:

1.) Autonomy. Some people want to be an active contributor in their training process. If so, create a dialogue in which their feedback is both welcomed and applied to programming. Other people want me to tell them what to do, do it, and move on with their days. Some like a mix of both. Others change depending on the day. Read, then apply. 

2.) Motivation. This is less about intrinsic versus extrinsic motivation and more about the type of extrinsic motivation that you deliver. Does he/she like to be pushed? If so, how far? Does he/she respond better to negative or positive feedback? Is the client competitive? What other outside factors will help a client achieve his/her goals? Read, then apply.

3.) Outside stressors. As someone who plans things out weeks in advanced, this was difficult for me. Rather than adjusting on the fly, I would do my best to stick with the original plan because, on paper, that was the best way to do it. Humanity, however, cannot be planned. If someone walks in overtired, stressed, and not feeling 100% themselves, that’s a pretty good indication that you should make a few adjustments. If they need to take 10 minutes to decompress, give them that. If they need to drop in reps or load, allow it. The last thing we want to do as trainers is give off the idea that if you’re not at your very best, you cant train. There are always ways around. The important thing is that we show up.

Read, then apply.

Stephanie Spoto, CSCS

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