The fitness industry is at its zenith right now. Fitness is a holistic combination of nutrition and different types of workouts that suit a body best. A lot rides on the kind of workout a person prefers.
While some fancy their trusty gyms, others find their fitness choice in Zumba or yoga. While there is no right or wrong choice of a workout, the transparency between a trainer and a client must remain constant.
The trainer should be aware of the client’s physical ability, goals, habits, and other attributes as they are crucial in determining the fitness journey or curriculum. These questions also help clients to know whether their trainer is well informed to manage their (the client’s) training schedule.
Here are some questions that a trainer should ask the client before stepping into the gym.
A personal trainer’s most important question should be, “Are you on any medication? If yes, are there any side effects and a personal health history attached to it?“
The Trainer should be asking questions for the following reasons:
Having said that, personal trainers are not trained medical professionals, and therefore, clients should disclose their ailments, if any, which might be affected by the workout regime.
“Can stand on your toes for 10 seconds? How deep can you squat?“
These questions and many more are relevant to a person’s mobility and stability, which are very important if embarking on a rigorous workout session.
Movement and stability are the foundations of any workout routine, and if the client is unable to pass the test, the trainers will chart out a workout plan that will help improve these parameters first and then jump on to the next level.
“Do you have cardiac issues? Have you been diagnosed with heart disease or high blood pressure?“
This is a fundamental question that trainers should ask their clients, as even a slight amount of strain can trigger serious health issues, in some cases.
Personal trainers should be aware of the client’s cardiac history. They can assess cardiac health by understanding if the client smokes, tires easily, has a family history of cardiac unrest, and has a sedentary lifestyle.
“What is your sleep schedule? How many hours of sleep do you get every night?“
Sleep is vital for maintaining a healthy body. A good night’s sleep has healing properties, which rejuvenates the body, preparing it for the everyday functions and tasks. A well-rested body is critical for a fitness routine, and if the client is not getting enough shut-eye, they need a consultation first, in order to achieve a more profound slumber.
“What do you do for a living?“
Some occupations allow a person to run around, thereby contributing to the physical activity required by the body. However, if the occupation revolves around a computer, then chances are that there is hardly any scope for physical engagement of the body.
Knowing the client’s profession can help personal trainers at fitness centres understand the level of exertion and strength that they need and also helps them analyse the energy levels they might be functioning at. Armed with this infomation, trainers can chart out a very specific and concrete workout plan for their clients.
Food habits, sleeping habits, and workout regimen are tied together when it comes to good health. Before charting out a plan, therefore, trainers should pose the question, “What does your daily diet comprise of?“
Certain food choices are good for reducing weight but hardly work when building muscles. Therefore, trainers should keep an eye on the client’s diet to make the workout plan more effective. An honest food diary can help chart out realistic workout plans.
“Why are you looking for a personal trainer? What are your short-term and long-term goals?“
A client’s goal helps the trainer understand what they are dealing with. Whether they are working out to become more active or are they looking to improve their stamina for a strenuous trek or an adventure sport? Goals help trainers analyse the type of workout suitable for their clients and plan the regimen according to their needs.
These are some important questions that should mandatorily be asked by trainers. Clients must answer these questions honestly, as it allows the trainer to provide a workout routine that is safe, realistic, and functional.
Fitness is not a sprint but a marathon.