I was reminded this past week of the benefit of having a coach. It’s easy to think we can do things on our own, and you can indeed find a lot online! But there is nothing quite like someone who can get to know you, push you, and hold you accountable. We all need someone in our lives, even if only periodically.
I recently signed up for online personal training with Bret Contreras. Known as the “glute guy.” Having read all his books and followed his Booty by Bret program, I was curious to know how his custom training would differ. It’s also instructive to see how other online trainers approach their business. Bret has been doing it for a long time, and I respect him as a leader in the personal training industry, so, of course, I want to learn from the best!
In my first month of training, he programmed weighted chin-ups. I have literally never done a weighted chin-up. I don’t own a weight belt and can barely do more than 5 or 6 chin-ups with just my body weight. Approaching it dubiously, thinking there was no way I could do this with weights, I creatively added ankle weights and took a deep breath. And, you know what? I did it! In all, I lifted 102 pounds (my body weight plus 6 pounds on my ankles). I was supposed to do three sets of 3, and I did it! I never would have tried that on my own. It took a coach even to put the idea in my head that I could.
Coaches not only see our potential, but they also encourage us to see it in ourselves, and that’s motivating. What’s more, they hold us accountable, and let’s face it, we can all use a little accountability! Personal trainers and nutrition coaches are a great investment in your health. It may seem like an extra expense you don’t need, but I encourage everyone to hire a coach at least once in their lives. It’s so worth it. I leave you with my record-setting chin-up…