Redefining Fitness
In this age of cut-past solutions, the core values of fitness may appear fuzzy! It can get confusing!
At the local level, the concept of fitness morph between the extreme of bodybuilding and health.
Fitness is very much defined by extremes. There is however a middle ground. Fitness clubs have over time developed a client base who have redefined fitness as part of their lifestyle. Such clients are intrinsically motivated. They achieve their fitness goals. It is therefore important that that newcomers to fitness are educated on realistic and achievable goals.
Myths, Trends and Fads.
There is a perception that the weight room is a place exclusively for Bodybuilding. This is not true at all. This is a myth. The Weight Room is where gym goers start their fitness journey. This is where they build the strength, stamina, technique and the confidence to try out new fitness options. While Exercise to Music Group fitness is popular, new options are also emerging. E.g., Outdoor Boot-camps, Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) is a fitness activity that is gaining popularity in Male’. Natural Bodybuilding is making a comeback.
Most people prefer a holistic approach. Such an approach tends to be a broader, well informed and science backed and qualitative. There is no one size fits all in the fitness business. There is a gap between the one size fits all of standard group studio offerings and the broader customised approach of the classic health clubs.
While the group approach is a part of the commercial fitness equation, it has limitations on allowing for individual differences. Such limitations are however overshadowed by the social features that bind and motivate the group for success.
Fitness is for Every Body.
It is not uncommon for clients to change their fitness goals as they progress. With the correct application of the FITT Principle, Frequency (average 3 days or daily gym visits weekly), Intensity (60-80% of capacity), Time (60 minutes is adequate) and Type (cardio, resistance, functional, group fitness, sport etc..), many clients are able to calibrate their workout to their level of fitness.
With new found motivation, a number of clients move up the fitness continuum. A number of such clients move onto hypertrophy and strength and (group fitness options), ultimately in search of that ripped look we all secretly wish for. A BMI between 18 and 25 is a good start!. Sensible eating is part of the equation.
This is all possible! The client who brings intrinsic motivation and self discipline to the gym stands a better chance. The certified instructor is then able to advise and help the client reach new heights. Instructor interest and professional knowledge have led many a body to be transformed.
The point is you can do it if you stick to it. The fitness club is for every body! Fitness is for young and old.
Certification Redefine Fitness
Certification will be a game changer in redefining fitness. Certified Instructors are able to make sense of fitness for new members. In fact, most of the Instructor’s time is spent on introducing new clients to exercise.
Our experience of certifying Fitness Instructors have given us insights into what drive clients to fitness clubs and students to exercise science.
The overwhelming reason is knowledge. That is, knowledge backed by science and practice (experience). For example, many assume that exercise must be done at maximal intensity. Such clients unfortunately drop out faster. Clients familiar with the concepts of sub-maximal exercise tend to succeed. Some therefore drop out for reasons related to myths and unrealistic expectations of what the gym can do for them.
Strong gym habit is another issue that redefine fitness. The holistic nature of fitness ultimately escape those who fail to “automate” their gym habit. Fitness is long term. Fitness is lifestyle. It is a part of ones wellness.
For example it is important for gym goers to know the names of the exercises they do. The client wants to know how much they must exercise and how frequently they must exercise. They also want to know what types of exercises suites them best.
There are many preconceived opinions that are understood by the new certified instructor. Such instructors are therefore better placed to assist new clients to make sense of the fitness spectrum. Certified instructors are the agents who will redefine fitness for their clients.
