Organised Training vs Going it Alone
The cynics have always said; ‘why would you pay for something you can do yourself’? This is true not only of the gym or personal training but of anything in life.
It’s a good question; why would we pay for something we can do ourselves? The answer I believe, is we pay because we just don’t do it ourselves! There are very few of us that are motivated enough to stick to a program long term with persistence and dedication in order to achieve a result without consultation, reassurance or feedback.
I believe this is a symptom of basic human nature. We do what we need to do in order to survive and nowadays survival is easy. We don’t compete for food, warmth, shelter or water and if we have no coach or support who is really going to know if we don’t get up in the morning for our planned run.
Also the society we live in is supportive of an unhealthy existence because it has become the norm. Over 60% of Australians are overweight or obese which indicates that healthy eating and regular exercises are not high priorities for the majority of the population.
These facts to me, are reason enough to say that ‘going it alone’ is not an option for most people. Most of us need direction in our day to day health and fitness routine the same way most of us need a mechanic to regularly service our cars.
We need someone to expect us at the gym at 6am. We need someone to ask us why we choose that particular food. We need someone to call us out on the excuses we make to ourselves. We need someone to call us out of the blue and ask us ‘what’s for lunch today’?
This is the role of your trainer and if your trainer is not doing this for you it’s time to upgrade! Training can be purchased anywhere for a range of different prices. What you can’t buy everywhere is a fitness professional that understands that vital process in helping you to achieve your goals.
In addition to holding you accountable a true fitness professional will also understand that positive reinforcement is just as important as accountability.
- Three 6am starts in a row, good for you!
- A full week of eating breakfast, awesome achievement!
- 2% body fat drop in the last two weeks, impressive!
While going it alone is possible, for long term success employing a consultant of some kind is key. In my experience the vast majority of people who go it alone fail to see the results they desire.
Working with a consultant in some capacity whether it’s weekly, fortnightly or even monthly will give you the sticking power to achieve your health and fitness goals. Working with a true exercise professional that understands the keys to fitness success will take you even further!!