Why Start So Basic?

Today I started with a new group of trainees and got into why I like starting most of my clients off with fairly basic and moderate workouts. I figured after going into detail with my clients today it would be nice to share the physiological and psychological benefits of building a strong fitness foundation.

1. Programming the Body - Nearly every single one of my clients starts the first couple sessions doing what I call my "Base Movements" which include: lunges, rotations, push ups, rows, pull ups or lat pull downs and shoulder presses. These are core exercises everyone should not only incorporate into their program, but learn to master in regards to technique. Of course there are hundreds of exercises out there, but the truth is most of the good, functional movements revolve around a similar movement pattern to the one's I've mentioned. Therefore, it is of great importance to 'program' the body how to properly execute these moves. Just like building a house, if your foundational technique is shaky, you're bound to have a collapse once you start building up.

2. Base Conditioning - Believe it or not, I prefer working with clients who are coming into my program with little to no experience. This is because I know exactly where they are going to be in regards to their base fitness level: ZERO. Clients with prior workout experience often become a tad argumentative when I start them off with stuff that seems "easy". Some listen when I tell them to not worry, others learn the hard way and argue themselves into a trip to the trash can. With newbies, I ALWAYS know where they are at and can safely progress them without destroying them. Why is that so important?

3. Building Client Confidence - When clients feel challenged, but not completely annihilated and feel like they can perform the exercises I give them they cultivate an essential ingredient to sticking with a program and seeing results: they build CONFIDENCE. I have found when people feel accomplished and totally capable of working out, they feel GOOD! The truth is, most people in the gym are trying to make themselves feel better, which means they come in with some sense of inadequacy. When a client comes in, sweats, moans and groans through a workout, but comes out on top, it builds their confidence. Having my clients feel good about themselves and what they are doing is number one in helping them achieve their goals.