Why do I do customize training for each individual I work with? Simple. Every person is different. Training, like nutrition, should be specifically designed for each client. Not everyone moves the same, has the same strength, has the same experience, or has the same athleticism. So why would you give each client the same cookie-cutter program? Individualized training programs assist clients in meeting his or her needs/goals, keep them safe, allow them to better movement, and allow them to progress.
Movement Patterns
Yes, all my programs focus on the fundamental movement patterns; squat, hinge, push, pull, and single leg. But because everyone is different the method of performing each movement will be different. After an initial assessment and movement assessment, I have a better idea of how to program each movement pattern for each client. For example, a client might be a complete beginner, never having lifted before. So why put them under a barbell for squat? In this situation, I would start them off with a regression of the squat pattern like a bodyweight, goblet, or bodyweight to box squat variation.
If I find any weak areas or movements, during the assessment, then I can determine the best regression or progression of each movement. This allows me to program safer variations where the client can learn the movement pattern before progressing and adding weight. These exercises can be adjusted and changed as the program goes and the clients progress.
Training Time
Not every person can or wants to train the same amount of days per week. By customizing training to the number of days each client wants or need will help them achieve his or her goals and keep them engaged better. If you are forcing clients to work out the same number of days they are less likely to be enthusiastic about the training. Not everyone’s goals are the same so they do not need to train the same number of days. Also, people have different schedules and availability so you need to design a program that fits his or her schedule and that can be adhered to.
Goals
Not every client has the same goals. Someone might want to be as strong as possible, while the next person might just want to come to the gym to feel better. There are a myriad of goals people train for so figure out what each client wants and design a program that will help them progress toward his or her goals. By controlling the reps, sets, rest periods, number of days, types of exercises you can help clients achieve his or her goals.
If you are just giving out a cookie-cutter program to your clients you are doing them a disservice. Take the time to learn about your clients and what they want to get out of the training. Then design an individualized training program that can help them achieve his or her goals. If you are looking for a coach who can help you achieve your goals click here to apply!