Shame and embarrassment are the quiet enemies in our fitness profession. This can present itself in many ways, and when it does, the trainer may not even notice. But the client most definitely will. And often, that moment can permanently affect the relationship.
On this post, I’m referring to weight loss. When a client brings up weight loss, it usually isn’t because they feel amazing about their weight or maybe even their own appearance. More often than not, they are sharing something private and vulnerable.
So what is one of the worst things we can do in that moment?
Answer:
\*\*Ask them to stand on a scale\*\*
Of course, as trainers, we want metrics. We want a baseline. We want to track progress.
But we have to ask ourselves:
Is that metric worth embarrassing the client or potential client?
If the client asks to be weighed, that is a different story. But the assumption that the client wants to be weighed can be devastating to their self-esteem, fitness momentum, and our ability to help them.
A great personal trainer knows how to protect a client’s dignity. That is where trust is built. Trust is how fruitful relationships are established. Fruitful relationships are the building blocks of our careers.