Fitness Tip: Creating Workouts – Be Realistic

When I am asked to create a workout regimen for someone looking to break into the world of fitness, I always begin the discussion with the potential client by asking a few base questions. I do this to get an idea of what their current fitness levels are, where their motivation lies and if they have any injuries that I should be aware of. When engaged in this discussion I always ask the client to be REALISTIC when discussing what they are willing to do.

Why is this a problem? When someone gets a burst of motivation to become fit they are often full steam ahead. In their minds nothing will hold them back and they will be able to conquer all tasks ahead. This is an excellent attitude, but often is nipped in the butt after the first workout. It is my job to create a program that is realistic and manageable for the client to ensure that they continue through the program.

Below are some of the questions I will ask a client in that first meeting. The main thing that we need to remember is that you as the client need to be honest with yourself, know what you are capable of and remember that results take time. There is no healthy way to get results over night.

exercise.scheduleHow often can you Realistically exercise?
  • Notice I said realistically. Often new clients will say they can work out six days per week. If I were to create a regimen that difficult for them, they will often quit after week one. Start slow, 3-4 days per week and gradually increase.
How long do you have to workout during each workout session?
  • Easy question here. Don’t tell me that you have an hour a day to exercise when in reality you only have 20 minutes. Good trainers can give you a kick ass workout in any time block that you have. Be honest and you will get a program that best fits your time schedule.
How active are you on a daily basis?
  • A simple 1-10 here. 1 being you sit on the couch or at work all day long and a 10 being you are on your feet being active all day.
What equipment do you have to work with?
  • Let your trainer know if you have a gym membership that you will utilize or if you will be training from home. Good workouts can be completed anywhere with any equipment. Shoot, I can give you a good workout with a rock in the back yard. Tell your trainer what you have to work with so they can put together a program that will offer you the most.
What is your long / short term goal?
  • Short term goal: What do you want to get out of the workout program in the first month?
  • Long term goal: What do you want to get out of the workout program after six months?

 

It is that simple. The workouts will be difficult no matter what. If they aren’t, you are probably not getting optimal benefit from the routines. What did you learn today? Be honest with yourself, be honest with your trainer and most importantly, be realistic.

Check out some of our other fitness tips to get you gamers to a healthier lifestyle.

Have a look at some of our custom Weekly Workout plans.

Game Hard * Train Harder

the author

With a vision of combining his two favorite pastimes Eric created GameNTrain in 2010, a website with a focus on familiarizing gamers of the importance of fitness. While having a passion for gaming, he never forgets the importance of maintaining a healthy, balanced lifestyle. With over 15 years of fitness knowledge, a gaming history of 25 years, and a degree in Physical Education, Health and Personal Training, his goal is to share his knowledge and help alleviate the growing concern of less active adults and children that make video games their hobby. To make contact click here .

  • Mike

    Great article. Totally been there with the “gung ho” and then “oh no” with the motivation. First step in anything is having a plan for what you’re doing.

    • http://www.GameNTrain.com/ Eric Hoff

      I like that “Gung Ho” “Oh No”. Totally true though. It happens to more than half of the people who attempt to get themselves into a fitness routine.