The fitness industry in Australia has exploded over the past five years. With 24-hour gyms in almost every suburb, monster hardcore gyms gaining popularity, and functional or CrossFit studios sprouting up everywhere, more people are now exercising for better lifestyles than ever before. Despite this, many still find themselves struggling to achieve long-term goals, while the athletic and attractive sports models seem to have all the secrets to unbelievable results. This is where the debate of “Personal Training vs. Coaching” comes into play.
However, there is a growing distinction between the major population who are still struggling to achieve any real quality or long-term goals and the increasing amount of incredibly athletic and attractive sports models who seem to have all the secrets to unbelievable results and bodies. As the Australian obesity epidemic continues to grow even with this increased opportunity for gyms as well as personal trainers there is a discrepancy between the quality of information and knowledge shared in the industry.
Now this is a big, actually huge topic to cover and there are many aspects of the industry that I could cover that need some work, however. In this article, I want to focus on the crucial difference between your average personal trainer and a seasoned coach.
Think about it: Not every lawyer is of the same calibre. Would you trust Dodgy Jonny, who hasn’t won a case in years and drives a rusty old bomb, to defend you? Or would you prefer Big Ben, the big-time lawyer who’s never lost a case and cruises in a Mercedes? The same logic applies to the fitness industry. As I said there is a massive differentiation in quality of service in any industry and yes that includes if not more so than others the “Fitness” industry.
One major issue in the fitness industry is the varying levels of personal trainers. Unfortunately, it’s all too common to find trainers with minimal experience and knowledge calling themselves personal trainer or even coach. It’s frightening how little experience and knowledge someone can have and still call themselves a personal trainer. It’s often a case of the blind leading the blind, with some trainers—and entire gyms—preaching outdated methods that leave clients in a never-ending cycle of frustration.
But then, you find those rare gyms, studios, and trainers who turn everything they touch into gold. They have the secret sauce to transform anyone into a lean, mean, fitness machine. So, what’s the magic ingredient? What should you look for in a trainer?
First, let’s clarify the difference between a general PT and a coach. Getting a personal trainer qualification can be as easy as pulling a prize out of a cereal box. On the other hand, a seasoned coach with 10-15 years of experience brings a treasure trove of knowledge and expertise.
A personal trainer will put you through a tough workout that makes you sweat and gets your heart rate up. That’s great for beginners, but it often doesn’t go far enough. Unfortunately, that’s where 80% of the industry stops. A coach, however, is what you imagine for elite athletes like Tiger Woods or Serena Williams. They’re mentors who’ve been through it all, learned from their mistakes, and now apply that wisdom to help you.
Here is a great list of the differences between a PT and a Coach:
- A Trainer affects the hours they are with someone. A Coach affects the hours they are not with someone.
- A Trainer lights a fire under someone. A Coach lights a fire inside of someone.
- A Trainer hopes to get through the session. A Coach hopes to get through to someone.
- A Trainer forgets that the job is not to remind people about problems. A Coach remembers that the job is to solve them.
- A Trainer stretches your legs. A Coach stretches your limits.
- A Trainer counts your reps. A Coach discounts your excuses.
- A Trainer works for a paycheque. A Coach works for a passion.
A good coach understands the strengths and weaknesses of their client and knows how to build upon both to achieve effective results. They set clear expectations at the beginning of each session and guide you throughout your journey. Being called a coach carries a tremendous amount of responsibility beyond providing a good workout. It is their duty to be there with and for you as well as keep you accountable.
This distinction is not meant to undermine the importance of personal trainers. They play a crucial role in getting people moving and exercising, and every good coach starts somewhere. However, understanding the depth of coaching and knowledge available can help you make the right decision for what’s best for you.
In a world where many people seek guidance, motivation, and support, the need for great coaches is more significant than ever. Choose wisely and invest in a coach who will not only improve your physical fitness but also inspire and motivate you to achieve your best self.
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Ready to take the next step? Contact IronWill Performance today for personal training, nutrition coaching, and mindset coaching. Book your free 15-minute discovery call with Richard Laszlo and start your journey to better health and fitness.
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