How many workouts did you get in last week? How intense were they? Were you able to do cardio and resistance training? Did you stretch? These might be questions that we ask our clients but we need to address these items ourselves. In order to be an effectual trainer or instructor we must make time for our own fitness. Our clients will look to us as role models and it’s essential that we demonstrate a fit lifestyle. This doesn’t mean that we have to do everything perfectly but we do need to “practice what we preach”. Behavior change is an essential skill to develop.
I know personally that the pressures of our daily lives can get us off our workout schedule but we have to make it a priority. I’ve always felt very fortunate that exercise has always been a part of my job. Early in my career I owned a dance studio so I got in hours of exercise almost every day. Then I became a college professor and originally taught face-to-face health and wellness lecture courses along with movement classes like Modern Dance and Aerobic Fitness. As I transitioned to teaching totally online it became more challenging to get my own workouts in. So, I came up with a few ideas that helped me and I hope they will help you too.
1 Put your workouts on your calendar and make it as important as any other appointment you have.
The best thing you can do for your family and your clients is to take good care of yourself so it must be a priority. Scheduling it and keeping the “appointment” will help keep you on track.
2 Work on time management.
It’s important to take 30 minutes in the morning to plan out your day. Also, put a limit on social media while you’re working. There are many ideas that will help you manage your time like a pro. Here’s some more!
3 Have your own accountability partner.
You are an accountability partner for your clients and it works very well. So, why wouldn’t you have one for yourself? Also, this gives you perspective from the “other side”. You’ll know more of what your clients experience with you. It’s always good to understand what they go through and I know this will make you a better trainer.
4 Reward yourself.
Everyone likes rewards! It gives you something tangible to work toward. I give my clients a little “tip” jar. Every time they workout they are to “tip” themselves one dollar. When they have accumulated $50 they are to buy themselves something. Try this with you clients but also include yourself.
These are just a few ideas to get you thinking. I’m sure you can think of some more. Feel free to post your ideas below and comment on what works to keep yourself on track.
