Fitness Lesson: To Be Helped, Be Helpful
Last modified 1 week, 6 days ago.
A primary motivation for getting fitness coaching is that we want to solve a problem. We have a challenge that we want to overcome.
I myself have bought plenty of sport and fitness coaching over the past 15 years or so.
But know this . . .
To be helped, you must be helpful . . .
In a coaching relationship, there should be a balance between what you do for yourself and what is done for you. This an art. There is no “coaching meter” to measure these things. It just takes being honest with yourself. If you are not doing enough for yourself, your results will suffer, especially in terms of sustainability. If you are doing too much on your own, your results will also suffer, because there is no need to make all the mistakes yourself. As the saying goes, ‘No one has time for that!’
Getting ready for coaching . . .
Before starting or committing to work with a new coach, ask them what resources they recommend you read or understand before your first sessions. No, you don’t have to “get it” completely at the beginning. Just start priming your brain with information that you’ll be trying to master later throughout coaching (and beyond). Ask what your “homework” will be. Make sure you find the time to do it. Much of the work that leads to success in fitness happens outside of the gym, like resting, eating, and managing your total stress burden.
No matter how caring and passionate your coach is, you should still be the person that cares the most about your health & fitness.
Be an active participant in your own success.
If you and your coach decide that you’ll just show up, workout, and not activate your mind too much with what you’re doing, that’s OK. That's fine. . .
I wouldn’t pay too much for that, though.
That’s an inferior product.
Great coaching involves training with a great effort–absolutely, but it must also include an educational component and helping the client develop sufficient autonomy. Otherwise, it’s more like physical activity and entertainment, rather than proper exercise training and education.
When it comes to fitness coaching . . .
If you want to be helped, be helpful.
Wishing you much success, health, and happiness.