Guidelines for Practical

  1. Talk, talk, talk - The more you talk and explain the exercise the better you will do (unless you are completely wrong). That being said don't spout off nonsense, keep it related to the exercise and explaining what you know.
  2. Eye on client - During the practical make sure to stay engaged with the client. Make eye contact with them and speak to them, forget the instructor is there.
  3. Describe the exercise - First part of any training session is explaining to the client exactly what they will be doing. During the practical, explain the exercise and how it is done.
  4. Explain why you’re doing it and muscle groups used - After explaining the exercise, discuss with the "client" what the purpose of the exercise is and the muscle groups worked.
  5. Demonstrate the exercises - This is the point in the practical where you demonstrate to the client how to perform the exercise, tell them exactly what you are doing. Describe every detail.
  6. Have client perform exercise - Have the client do it building from the floor up (next tip)
  7. Build from the floor up - When demonstrating the exercise and when having the client do it, it's important to remember to build from the floor up. This means start with the feet: tell them they need their feet flat on the floor, knees bent at a 90 degree angle, body straight up, head looking forward….etc. explaining exactly how the body should be positioned for that specific exercise. Once again: talk, talk, talk.
  8. Count out repetitions - As the client is performing the exercise, count of the repetitions they are on.
  9. Be encouraging and upbeat - During the practical be sure to encourage and support the client.
  10. Ask if there is any discomfort - Make sure during any training session when the client is performing the exercise ask if they are having any discomfort. If so tell them to stop the exercise immediately.
  11. Use the clients name - When encouraging the client, it is always good to use their name. This creates a bond with them, tells them you are there for them, encourages them, and lets them know you care.
  12. Ask to touch - Sometimes it's helpful to touch a clients specific muscle group to help them understand which ones they should feel during the exercises. If you need to touch them, ask beforehand.
  13. Wrap it up - Have the client do a certain number of repetitions (count them out) and then wrap up the exercise.
  14. Take your time - During the practical take your time and remember everything you want to say.