Walking into a personal training session, especially if it’s your first time, can feel a little daunting. Whether you’re stepping onto the gym floor with me at Dual Strength and Fitness in Horsham, West Sussex, or you’re revisiting after a hiatus, personal training offers a unique, one-to-one experience tailored to your needs. Here’s a glimpse of what awaits you.
Getting to Know You
Our first interaction is essentially a “get to know you” session. Here, we discuss your current habits, aspirations, and what you seek from personal training. A recent client expressed their goal as “fat loss,” a topic that stirs debates in the fitness arena. Regardless of the debates, I respect every individual’s goals and work towards making them a reality. This consultation is also always free of charge.
Beyond the Scale
During our initial conversations, the topic of weight invariably comes up. A client once shared that they had shifted from daily weigh-ins to weekly, marking a move away from diet culture’s influence. While this is commendable, I encourage clients to view progress beyond the scales. How? By considering other metrics:
- Body Measurements: By noting changes in your body’s size and shape without being fixated on weight. This could be by recognising that clothes fit more comfortably than previously.
- Fitness Milestones: Recognising the subtle advances in your workouts, whether it’s lifting heavier weights, refining your form, or exploring a broader array of exercises.
- Body Functions: Consider your resting heart rate, sleep quality, and heart rate recovery as signs of improved fitness.
Tailored Workouts
No two bodies are the same, and neither are their responses to exercise. With years of training and experience, I’ve learned to tune into the unique intricacies of each individual. Every session I craft for you is not just bespoke—it’s a harmonious blend of my expertise and a strong understanding of your body’s distinct needs. Based on our initial conversation, workouts are designed emphasising technique and performance, but they also evolve. As we journey together, we’ll refine and perfect your sessions, ensuring that each workout is optimally tailored for your progress. Remember, it’s not just about fitness; it’s about creating a symphony that resonates with your body.
To Weigh or Not to Weigh?
Though I don’t adhere strictly to any diet or the Health At Every Size (HAES) approach, my coaching style is flexible and compassionate. If you desire fat loss and it aligns with your well-being, we can discuss if and how you want to monitor your weight. I support your decisions, emphasising that they can be modified at any point. Throughout my fitness journey, I seldom weighed myself. While I always fitted comfortably within “standard-sized” clothing, I found scales restrictive. I believe in measuring progress holistically, not just by a number. Therefore, don’t expect mandatory weigh-ins.
An Empathetic Environment
Remember, my role isn’t just to instruct but to understand. Personal training is as much about mental strength as it is physical. So, expect a listening ear, a dose of motivation, and a space that celebrates every milestone, no matter how small.
In the fitness world, it’s tempting to set lofty goals inspired by transformation photos or the achievements of others. However, the key to sustainable fitness progress is setting goals that are both challenging and achievable for you. Here’s where a personal trainer becomes invaluable.
Realistic Goals: Together, we’ll set milestones that align with your current fitness level and desired outcomes. Whether it’s running a certain distance, starting a new activity, or mastering a new exercise, having tailored goals makes the journey more attainable and enjoyable.
Consistent Motivation: There will be days when motivation dwindles. During these moments, having a personal trainer ensures you have a constant source of encouragement. I’ll be there to remind you of your progress, rekindle your passion, and help you push through plateaus.
Accountability: Perhaps one of the most significant benefits of personal training is accountability. Knowing someone is monitoring your progress, expecting you at the gym, and celebrating your achievements can make all the difference. This external accountability often translates to a stronger internal commitment to your fitness journey.
Wrapping Up
Personal training is more than just sweat and sore muscles; it’s a journey of understanding and compassion. Having been through the transformation myself, from a time of dreading PE lessons at school to nurturing a deep passion for fitness, I know the challenges that come with change. Sharing this journey with someone who has experienced those very struggles and triumphs can offer a fresh perspective, helping you view your fitness path in a completely new light. Together, we’ll navigate the intricacies of fitness, ensuring that every session is a step closer to your aspirations. Looking forward to our shared journey in Horsham!