Online Trainers Helping Fit Fitness Into Your Lifestyle

Many of us looking to take our workouts to the next level have explored the idea of hiring a personal trainer at some point. For some, the appeal is the absolute knowledge base of a trained professional, for others it is the increased accountability of holding an appointment, and still others want the one-on-one interaction and customized workouts to meet their own personal goals. Regardless of the reason, however, there are two main factors that keep many of us from hiring – time and money. We need a solution that can cater to our budgets and daily schedules.

A new internet trend is doing just that. The “online personal trainer” is coming to the rescue of an increasing number of budget-conscious, over-scheduled Americans, presenting the latest solution to help us master our fitness goals. While some may argue that the online plans can never exactly duplicate the experience of having a trainer at your side during your workout, the designers of these programs have gone to great lengths to match and, in some cases, improve the overall benefits that you receive.

As you would when hiring a personal trainer face-to-face, you need to ask questions and research the various plans and services to find the program that works best for you.

Meeting Your Personal Needs

As our personalities differ so do our personal training needs.

There are a variety of solutions currently being offered online from auto-generated weekly workouts to personalized workouts created by trainers who interact with their clients on a regular basis via email or live instant messaging.

If it is just the basic information that you need, subscribing to a service that simply provides you with a weekly workout may be the right fit for you. Most of the service providers have some means of assessment to provide you with a starting workout based on your fitness level, so it is important to answer these questions honestly in order to receive the workout that most closely fits your needs. You are sent exercise plans on a regular basis and expected to follow them on your own. These programs are designed to meet the needs of those people who are motivated to work out and simply need a plan to keep them on target from week to week.

For those who truly want to keep the “personal” in personal trainer, some service providers offer the additional option of having direct interaction with a trainer via email or instant messaging. How much interaction you receive often depends on the level of service plan that you choose, however, almost all provide a cheaper option to the traditional approach to personal training.

More Bang for Your Buck

If you’ve ever asked a personal trainer for their rates and gone into immediate sticker shock, you’re not alone. The current, average rate for a certified personal trainer is $60-$90 per hour. Multiply that by two to three hours per week you’re quickly looking at hundreds of dollars per month. In short, that kind of expense just isn’t an option for many of us.

Online personal training services, like many internet service offerings, are discounted because businesses are able to service a much larger customer base with less overhead. The automated programs are obviously the cheapest option because they require no actual human interaction.

If you want the customization and one-on-one guidance of a personal trainer so that you have someone on your side as you work toward your goals, many sites have an extended service that gives you access to a live person. Again, service levels and costs vary depending on the provider. For example, some sites allow you to email your personal trainer, providing a means for asking questions. A new site, Road2fitness.net, is taking the interaction one step farther to provide its personal training clients with daily access to their trainer via Instant Messaging. Clients will have the ability to open a chat window with their trainer in which they can carry on a real time conversation.

“Our mission is to provide our clients with the support they need to become fit for life,” says Becky Watson, CEO of Road2fitness.com. “In effect, we’re providing them with even more access than they would have if they hired a personal trainer at a gym for a small fraction of the price. They have daily access to their trainers for asking questions, getting a little extra support on the bad days or encouragement on the good ones.”

Making Fitness Fit Your Day

As the American lifestyle continues to get more hectic, online trainers are helping people fit fitness into their lives. Traditionally, hiring a trainer has meant coordinating your schedule with theirs. The problem is that more often than not, the hours that you are available – generally before work or after – are the same hours as those of every other client a trainer has.

The online personal trainer solves this issue by making your training programs available for download at any time. Since your workout is not dependent on someone else’s schedule, you are free to fit your workout in whenever you have the time. Additionally, since contact with your trainer takes place electronically, the trainers can work with several clients at the same time making them more accessible than the in-gym trainers that only work via appointment.

Surrounded by Support

For those of us who have used a personal trainer before, we know that there are several more hours in the week than the two or three that we are actually able to spend with our trainers. It is easy to remain motivated in the presence of our trainers, but what happens when we leave the gym and try to fit our goals into our daily lives? This is one area where one online training site in particular truly excels.

A newcomer to the online community, Raod2Fitness.net, offers areas that allow you to talk to other people who are working towards fitness goals similar to yours. The message boards provide a forum for sharing tips and encouragement while you progress. It’s a fantastic medium for swapping recipes and gaining a little extra motivation on those days that you just don’t feel like working out, and it is the perfect place to share your successes with people progressing toward the same goals as you are.

According to Rod Watson, CEO of Road2fitness.net, the community aspect is just as important to the overall success of many clients as a good eating plan and working out.

“In my 8 years of helping people reach their fitness goals, I’ve found that the plan is often only as good as that person’s system of support, which is truly outside of the reach of a personal trainer,” says Watson.

“We wanted to provide a forum for our clients where there would be nothing but positive encouragement from peers experiencing the same challenges and working toward similar goals.By providing our clients with a support system, that they might not otherwise have, as part of our plan, they’ll always have a source of encouragement to help them stay on track.”

Wichita Physical Fitness Trainer – Rod Watson

How to Choose the Right Fitness Trainer for You

Many people today are now getting more and more concerned about their physical health. Besides, who wouldn’t be? With the increasing cases of heart related diseases, diabetes and obesity, you would want to pay more attention to your body. You have to remember that no one else is responsible for your body except you. You have to take care of your body in order to live a more satisfying and happier life.

It is a fact that technology is beneficial but you have to consider that it also has its disadvantages. Because of automation where computers and machines do all the work, it makes life easier. In fact, too easy that people tends to get too lazy to take care of their body. Because of this laid back lifestyle, people are getting fat. Your idea of working hard in an air conditioned office in front of a computer is never considered as a good exercise. It may be a good exercise for your fingers because of typing and writing documents all day but you have to consider that a good exercise means that you have to include every part of your body.

Today, there are thousands of gyms and fitness centers available. However, doing the same boring exercise routines can be very straining and frustrating most of the time. Aside from doing everything repeatedly everyday and becomes boring, you also have to realize the fact that exercising does not show immediate results even after a few weeks of working out. This can be frustrating and a lot of people will simply give up the exercise program they enrolled in.

For this reason, you have to consider hiring fitness trainers. Not only that they will advice you and guide you in every exercise machines, but they will also keep you motivated enough to not give up exercising. They will guide you to your goals and a good and professional fitness trainer will sometimes guide you to exceed your goals for your body.

However, you also need to consider choosing the right fitness trainer for you in order to achieve your goals and keep you motivated to do your exercises. Here are some things that you should look for in a fitness trainer:

•    The first thing you should look for in a fitness trainer is a certification regarding their being a professional fitness trainer. Most fitness organizations today certify their fitness trainers in order to assure people that they will be able to get the job done and they know how to take care of your body. You have to consider that anyone can call themselves fitness trainer.

•    The next thing you have to look for in fitness trainer is if they are qualified to do first aid. You have to realize the fact that injuries resulting from exercising are very probable. You have to get a fitness trainer who will be able to deal with injuries related to exercising.

•    Experience is also a key factor in choosing a fitness trainer. If they worked with numerous people with positive feedback, then this is the fitness trainer for you.

These are some of the things you should choose from in a fitness trainer. By having the right one, you will be able to get a high quality workout and keep you on your toes and motivated.

Fitness Trainer – Rod Watson The Fitness Goal Setter

Fitness Trainer – The Fitness Goal Setter

Keeping healthy and is always important and getting motivation is the key factor which determines whether or not you will fail or succeed in you endeavors. If you want it bad enough and are willing to put in the time and effort to get it then it will not be a problem at all. The best thing that most women like about going to the gym is the great looking fitness trainer and the best part is when he is giving you one to one tuition.

Most gyms help you by giving you a program that will work for you and with the amount of time that you can give to it. The fitness trainer is there to help you achieve your goals and sometimes that means that they have to act like a parent towards you but they only want to help you push yourself to your ultimate limit.

That is the key role of a passionate fitness trainer. Most often people get irritated and sometimes abusive toward the fitness trainer because they are pushing them when they don’t want to, however this is sometimes the frustration that comes out.

Fitness Trainers Need Respect

The important of being healthy cannot be underestimated as the healthier and fit your body the less prone you will be to getting ill. Furthermore you always end up being more positive with all the “happy: hormones flowing thorough your blood stream. In this you will need to give your fitness trainer a chance.

Let them take you on as their project but don’t make it any more difficult for them to help you along. Being good to others is important and perhaps having that form of personal fitness trainer from your fitness trainer can give you the motivation you need.

In all cases fitness trainer do want to see people succeed in their fitness goals and that is important to remember and if you are parent you will understand how hard it is to want to see someone give their all and that does require you to push them a bit.

However this is also been the case for fitness, people need to be pushed. If they have weak mental ability to push themselves they do need someone else to take the reins and lead them through the right direction. In all respect fitness trainers need all the respect that they can get from you as they only want the best for you all things considered.

Online Fitness Training – Here’s How It Works

• Participants obtain access to an online training website.

• From there, the participant selects the plan they prefer most.

• Once a program is selected, a simple questionnaire is required to be filled out to determine you current health status, preferences and future goals.

• You are then set up with you own login screen name and password that gives you access to your programs online.

• The trainer will send you your workout plan periodically through email and post it on your login access online.

• Participants can print out their workouts, which consist of a picture of each exercise, written directions on how to perform each exercise and the correct order to perform each one are all provided. The numbers of sets and reps to perform are included as well.

• For more detailed explanation of an exercise, clients can even access their program online and watch an animation demonstrating each exercise start to finish properly.

Advantages of Online Personal Training

• Flexible and cost effective. Receive a program that is just right for you & any goals you may have.

• Customized Workout Programs. Programs can be constructed so that they can be done at your home, fitness center or even on vacation or on a business trip.  Just tell the trainer and a program will be constructed to meet your needs.

• Less Expensive and More Convenient. You will have access to a knowledgeable and motivated Certified Fitness Trainer without the high cost or time consumption of scheduled meeting.

What you can get…

• Emailed Online Fitness Programs. You can have the workouts emailed to you.  Just print it out and go to the gym.   You will also have access to a website with the ability to see demonstrations of how the exercises should be conducted.

• Workout Updates .   Your program will be adjusted throughout the month to continue to challenge you and help you improve.

• Login Site Access. You will receive your own private screen name and password login ID, so that you may have access to your program details and correspond with your trainer.

• Unlimited Trainer Email Access.   Email your trainer any time of the day.   Receive a response to any questions, thoughts and more within 24hrs.

• Tips and Recipes Access. Gain access to free healthy recipes along with health & fitness tips courtesy of your trainer on topics related to your health and progress.

• Food Journal.   Enter in your food consumption for the day/week, so that your trainer can view it later and assist you on your eating habits.  (Phase 2 and Special Package Plans only)

• 7 Day meal plan.   Receive a 7 day meal plan, based on your goals, current weight and health background.  (Phase 2 and Special Package Plans only)

Rod Watson Gives Personal Training Advice

One of the fastest growing trends in health and fitness today is the use of personal trainers. According to the American Council on Exercise (ACE), for the first time, the number of students studying for ACE’s Personal Trainer Certification Exam has surpassed that of those studying to be aerobics instructors. Even icons of American culture like Oprah have joined the trend with tremendous results. In 2005 she was selected by CBI (Club Business International) as January’s fitness role model of the month.  Bob Greene, Oprah’s personal trainer, was credited with helping her lose 90 pounds and, best of all, with keeping it off.

What is a Personal Trainer
A personal trainer acts as a partner who can help you set up a fitness program that meets your personal wellness goals. He or she informs you on the best exercises for your needs, keeps you motivated and tracks your progress. Many people fail to see results from their workouts because, without guidance, they are staying in their comfort level, using the same equipment and exercises over and over. A personal trainer will push you to try new things and tailor your work out to fit your personal goals. Exercise A good personal trainer will assess your physical abilities and discuss your goals before creating an exercise program. Once created, he or she will train you on each exercise and piece of equipment, ensuring that you are using proper form and technique, thus ensuring faster and better results from your efforts.

Motivation
Sticking with an exercise program can be difficult. There are always excuses not to go to the gym, so having someone else vested in your success is a great source of motivation. You know that your time will be well spent because you will be correctly performing your exercises. You may be financially motivated not to miss appointments and thereby lose the cost of a session. Accountability to your trainer will also inspire you to succeed, as a good trainer will monitor your progress and share in your setbacks and your triumphs.

What to Look for in a Personal Trainer Finding a personal trainer in Wichita can seem like a daunting task. In such a large area it might seem impossible to locate the right person for you; but it does not need to be. Start locally by asking your friends, coworkers or doctor for referrals. Call area gyms and health clubs and set up interviews. You can also use online services such as Personal Trainer Finder or American Council on Exercise.   When you have a list of possible choices, sit down with them and ask a few important questions.

Certification and Education
It is very important that your trainer be certified by a reputable fitness organization such as ACE, ACSM or NASM.  Check the website or ask for information about the certifying organization. According to American Sports Data, (ASD), 5 million Americans used personal trainer services in 2001. At that time there were only 66,000 personal trainers practicing in the country. With such a gap between supply and demand a number of less than reputable web sites have sprung up offering quick certification.Your trainer should also be certified in CPR, first aid and possibly even Automated External Defibrillation if you have any issues with heart disease.

Experience
In addition to education it is wise to choose someone with experience, particularly if you have specific goals or health issues you wish to address. Find someone who has dealt often with your particular needs. Be it Pre-Natal exercise, heart problems or even just the particular type of exercise you prefer, you want someone knowledgeable in that area.

Personality
Personality is a very subjective factor in who you will select; but it is one of the most important. You are looking for someone who will inspire you and motivate you to continue with your fitness program. It is vital that this person is not someone who is intimidating or even irritating. If you do not like your trainer you will not develop the give and take needed to form a productive team. Your trainer should be a good listener and give you their full attention while during your sessions. He or she should be focused on you, not answering phone calls or chatting with others. Your trainer should be aware of your personal style, some people respond to a drill sergeant approach, but many others prefer firm but patient guidance.

Warning signs
As you begin working with your trainer keep in mind that you are the client. You should be concerned if your trainer ignores or dismisses your questions or neglects any part of a complete program. He or she should not work you too hard. A little muscle soreness is expected but you should not be in real pain or fatigue. A personal trainer should never diagnose injuries or illness, but should refer you to a doctor.

Taking action

Finding a personal trainer in Wichita should not be as daunting as it may seem. Start locally, ask questions, educate yourself on the proper credentials and find a partner who will motivate you and inspire you to your best health and wellness.

Weight Loss Tips

So congratulations! You’ve lost some weight! Now, how do you keep it off?

When you’ve spent weeks or even months striving and sacrificing, you don’t want to have your spirits sink as you see the scale start to go up. For most of us, regardless of our weight loss method, weight regain is a real possibility. But is it inevitable?

Follow these five sure tricks, and your scale will stay put:

If you gain a pound, lose it! People who are successful at maintaining a weight loss weigh themselves at least twice a week. Pick regular times of day, and regular days of the week, to weigh and keep a chart. If you find you’re up a pound or two, follow a healthy and structured food plan until the extra weight comes off again.

Have planned snacks instead of grazing. To combat rampant, spontaneous snacking, plan a couple of balanced snacks every day that you can measure out and enjoy. Be sure to include some protein and complex carbohydrates in your snack. If you feed yourself a bit more frequently, you will be less likely to graze mindlessly.

Balance your treats with healthy choices. You can have an occasional treat, but you can also have an occasional healthy choice. Keep the treat small so that you don’t get a big sugar or unrefined carb rush. And if you must eat sugar or an unrefined carb, eat a little protein with it so that your blood sugar doesn’t crash and cause cravings for more of the same.

Admit your trigger foods and avoid them. All you have to do is look at certain foods and you know you’ll eat them. Don’t keep any snack foods in plain site around your house. Put them away. If you find yourself going to the cupboard or refrigerator to peruse the snack items, you’ll need to keep the trigger foods out of your house altogether.

Experiment and use the tools that work for you. Many dieters hate the act of writing down what they eat. Some dislike exercise. Others abhor weighing and measuring their food. Still others will not give up sugar and unrefined carbs. You need to be honest with yourself, though. These tools are proven to work. So, experiment with all the tools available to you and use the ones that work.

Weight regain is not inevitable, but you need to take action to avoid it. Apply these solutions to your life and you will find weight maintenance to be simple and satisfying.

Rod Watson Personal Training

One of the most honest assessments for most of us is that we’re procrastinators.  We’ll delay and wait for as long as possible especially if what needs done are lifestyle changes.  Take for example the need for more exercise.

We’re a nation of people that sign up at the local health clubs, buy all the expensive equipment then proceed to go round and round the parking lot looking for a close spot so we don’t have to walk so far.  Come on, you know that’s true!  Who hasn’t seen people at all stores traveling the equivalent of several miles looking for that just right close parking spot.

One thing that seems to work however is to obtain the services of a personal fitness trainer.  Fitness trainers typically will be found in almost every gym but can be located by simply calling a cardiologist.  Many highly qualified and skilled lifestyle people are associated with cardiologist.  Cardiology by the way is the heart doctor, which is what we’ll all be needing if the snack foods aren’t replaced with healthier foods.  LOL

A fitness trainer will create a health and exercise plan that will then be monitored for progress.  By having someone holding us accountable, the potential for success is greatly increased.
While we’re on the subject of success, we should also practice what we preach and enforce the same type of healthy choice lifestyle on the rest of the family.  After all, didn’t someone once say that misery lover company.  )

Seriously, here are a few ideas that can help get all of us and our families back into some shape other than “round”

1 Explain the difference between healthy and not so healthy  food choices but DO NOT NAG.  The idea is to make better choices most of the time not be perfect!

2 Prepare healthy meals.  Quit  the burger and taco runs and calling that dinner.  One of the biggest problems with our diets isn’t that we eat to much but that it’s the wrong kind of foods.  And those wrong kind of foods are in most cases sold by corporate conglomerates looking for profits not a healthy customer.

3.  Never use food as a reward.  If food is a big part of some outing, (popcorn at the theater)  start to change that behavior by having other, more healthy snacks available.  Our family would buy candy and oil laden popcorn at the movies and still do but in much smaller quantities.  We lower the amount of the bad foods by bringing in bags of those small baby carrots to munch on.  It’s now preferred by many of the kids and are considered a movie snack!

4.  When you can walk to do something, do it.  Don’t just get into the car to go a couple of blocks.

A personal fitness trainer can go a long way to helping with ideas like these.  Interview trainers and look for one that’s not interested in changing your world overnight.  The best personal trainer is one who sees the progress and works to see those little successes turn into major lifestyles changes.