TAKING on one or multiple clients as a personal trainer is doable, but training an entire group or team could be a challenge.
However, with the help of other trainers and coaches, it can be done.
“It is important that all trainers and coaches are prepared to meet the needs of group fitness training,” said Jerry Diaz, a National Academy of Sports Medicine certified personal trainer.
“Team members can grow, learn, and develop to meet their fitness goals based on their instructors’ knowledge,” he added.
For their part, he said, trainers must have specific goals for the team.
“Having goals in mind will allow the individuals on the team to motivate themselves in mastering the skills they need,” Diaz added.
Team members should also be allowed to grow and learn from the training challenges they face, he said.
“When a trainer or coach prepares a team for competition or fitness class, it is important to create an environment that is filled with fun and enjoyable energy,” he added.
Diaz suggests setting space size to match movements safely, and focusing on the type of fitness training that can help team members.
He said participants should feel comfortable in attempting movements safely and enjoyably without worrying about making mistakes.
According to Diaz, coaches and fitness trainers should also focus on providing cues and prompts that allow room for improvement.
In addition, training schedules must allow for adjustments around the team members’ daily life schedules, he said.
As for coaches and fitness trainers, they must track areas of improvement through data and video journals, Diaz added.
“Coaches and fitness trainers have the opportunity to build a community of individuals with similar goals focused on specific fitness goals,” he said. “This will allow for steady growth as participants become more comfortable with their skills and training environment.”
Dandan Middle School basketball players pose with head coach Ed Pitbull, team manager Freddy Salavaria, assistant coaches Jerry Diaz and Dimitri Sablan at the MHS gym.
