I’ve been in the fitness industry for 7 years. I can honestly tell you that I’m more motivated and inspired than I’ve ever been. I’m extremely fortunate to have a kickass network of amazing coaches to guide and push me to become my best self. As people get vaccinated and gyms are reopening, I wanted to share with you the 3 qualities of a great personal trainer (in my humble opinion).
- Suspension of ego. The best coaches in the world aren’t afraid to say the words “I don’t know.” In fact, the best of the best are quick to say this. Like most industries, the best specialize. As a result, there’s a lot they don’t know about. You know what? As long as they provide a service that will solve YOUR problem and serve YOU, then the limitations of their knowledge are irrelevant. The best coaches will be quick to admit their weakness (and understand their limited scope of practice), and refer-out when applicable.
- Leading with empathy. This is an awesome nugget of advice I got from Zack Henderson, an amazing strength coach. It’s very easy to enter the personal training industry. All you need is a certification and you’re ready to start training people. As a result, many people enter the industry for the wrong reasons. The ones who are truly here to serve will still be around while the money chasers have moved-on ages ago! If the coach isn’t here to serve you and help you reach your goals safely and effectively, keep looking.
- Relationship-focused. Look, I get it. We live on an economic planet. Good vibes and Kumbaya doesn’t keep the lights on. However, I will tell you this. If you look at your client as a paycheck, it will show. If you are truly there to build a long, healthy relationship and serve the person in front of you, the world is your oyster.
There’s no shortage of egotistical trainers online. Scroll the feed and you’ll find no shortage of bathroom selfies, advertisements for useless supplements and trainers in the game for the wrong reasons. If you’re looking for a coach, I have some great people to recommend. They may not have millions of followers or sell their own “fat-burning supplements,” but they’re in it for the right reasons and will serve you through strength.
Train your body. Feed your mind.
-Demarco
