We talk alot about training systems here but rarely if ever touch on why we do it. I am interested to hear why people like ya’ll are doing all this crazy stuff. I can’t think of any other reason besides it simply being fun for me. I enjoy the process of training (usually) and competition is just like icing on the cake.
Are you training for something?
Another topic i would like discussed is how do you motivate your clients? Do you try to convince them that what you are doing is right? Do you yell, or quietly push? What’s your style? I don’t think either is right or wrong, but i think you have to know your style and embrace it.
I started on this journey in search of a more effective conditioning program for preparation for my job (firefighting) and my sport (mx) at the time. As an old guy both were starting to take more than I had in the tank.
Now a couple of years later I’m better conditioned than ever before but still have that birthday thing that makes things challenging.
Having an affiliate was never a planned thing, it grew out of sharing my passion for this thing with everyone who would listen. Then I needed a place to follow up the enthusiasm that was generated.
I believe motivation is internal, it just needs to be kindled from time to time. I also believe that people respond to different styles and the challenge is to figure out what style works for them and deliver. Some need gentle persuasion and some need a kick in the ass. The bottom line is they vote with their feet, if its not working for them they leave as quickly as they came.
Why do I do this crazy stuff? Greatly relates to the Dutch’s previous post “Potential”. While I was a college athlete I was a distance runner. Certainly a distance runner who could pump out some pull-ups but horribly uncoordinated and hesitant to jump over logs on a trail. I ended up as a distance runner b/c my athletic potential was considered limited in my youth.
After CrossFitting for two years I am still EXTREMELY far from reaching my athletic potential, but those that meet me often ask if I used to be a gymnast. I clearly respect distance runner, but c’mon I have no qualms with being mistaken for an ex-gymnast!
Presently I have a wide range of goals with two of the main being a CF Games qualification and exceeding my old running PRs with CF training & some CFE as well. Looking to enter some indoor track meets this winter so we’ll find out where I am then!
Regarding my clients it seems that they largely motivate each other. The community atmosphere is incredible. Individuals who have been CFing for a number of months encouraging newer clients and sometimes even giving the “that was x faster than my time x months ago”. These types of comments give newer clients a true sense of hope and excitement, as they often are in awe of what that member is able to do now.
As far as encouraging during a WOD it totally depends on the individual and what they respond best to. Some of my ladies are sometimes so focused and determined that they can be borderline emotional. In this case I keep them focused with a quieter but confident tone. Essentially saying, “Take it one rep at a time.” Helps with the overwhelming feeling in the middle of a tough WOD.
Then there are others who just want me to yell at them and I won’t hold back. “Get back on that bar!!!” “Don’t you put that weight down.” 95% of the time this is the approach I need during a WOD.
Can’t wait for your cert in Atlanta!
I guess for me it’s because I’ve always been involved in sports and fitness in one way or another. From track and field to high level rugby as a youth on to the Royal Marines Commandos and then semi-pro Muay Thai to pro boxing. At 27 years old I have heaps of energy and if i’m honest I think i’m just happier when doing these things to my body. I think my girlfriend would vouch for me there!!
I’m currently training for both a boxing and Muay thai fight, I won’t alter my training much other than some round specific metcons but that’s about it. I’m fit enough for the sports I play already.
On the subject of motivating clients I guess it all becomes relative to the individual. I’d have to find out what motivates them specifically and then incentivise them based off of their motivational inspiration.
For the most part the type of people that we get coming through our doors they don’t need to be motivated to dig deep and let it all hang out in a WoD. It seems that the hardest thing to motivate some people for is proper nutrition. We’re currently running a paleo/zone challenge and the top 2 guys will win both money and a free membership.
I think that leading by example is the key. Some people I may yell at, if that’s what the respond to others I’ll give them the gentle push that they need or a reminder that they do have the strength of mind and body to finish the workout.
When I’m training the fighers at our box I simply say 3,2,1 go! If they cannot motivate themselves to train hard they shouldn’t be fighting.
Leon.
As a CrossFit athlete, many things motivate me…the competition within the group class dynamic, self-pride, meeting the expectations from others/coaches, & preparing myself for that next event are but just a few.
As a recently certified CrossFit Trainer, I’m still learning how to effectively motivate our clients. As both Shanna and Ron mentioned, I’m learning that each client responds more effectively to one coaching style over another and need to address each client with that in mind.
In defining my own style, it may still be too early to label, but looking back at the past month, I see myself more as a “technique-freak”/cheerleader then the yell and scream/high energy motivator that many of our athletes may need.
I’ve now bookmarked this site and look forward to hearing more from other experienced trainers!
Tired of spending 2 hours in a gym and feeling like nothing was accomplished.
Plus there is something about running/lunging/jumping/etc in the rain/heat/cold that makes me feel like rocky and we all know he was a badass.
And yes, in the end I do it because it’s fun.
Thats cute Elia…
Rocky is Badass!!
To look good naked.
Dutch, I’m an avid reader of your blog, a believer in your training methods, and a big fan of your badassness. First time posting, so I’ll do my best to keep it brief…
Why I do CrossFit (and everything that comes with it)? Shanna was spot-on regarding potential. In discovering CrossFit, I find myself doing things I would have never thought possible, especially with my old BS training regimen (typical bodybuilding, while avoiding leg workouts at all costs). While CrossFit definitely helps one look naked (which is always a plus), I find the greatest benefit is how it teaches you to push yourself. Not just to work hard, but to work harder than you ever have before. Everything seems easier after “Fran.” Nothing matters except accomplishing the goals you’ve set for yourself, be it a 400# deadlift or a sub-5 minute mile. CrossFit gives you a confidence that transfers over into everday life more than pilates, yoga, step aerobics, or Richard Simmons ever could. A self-assuredness that no matter what life throws at you, it’s damn likely you can suck it up and handle it.
Overall goal is to maybe someday compete in the Games. If not that, at least compete in a Qualifier. And definitely get in an Oly comp eventually – when I suck less at the snatch.
As far as training clients goes, I like to think my style varies with each person, even if only slightly. With the male clients I’m more familiar with, I will yell, belittle (in a nice way), and use a healthy dose of sarcasm. With female clients, I usually take a somewhat gentler approach, especially if they’re new to CrossFit. While I was training Christy for the Games, I tried to be strict without being over-demanding. I wanted to make sure she took her diet and recovery seriously, but also encouraged the crap out of her. Like any competitive athlete, she would get very frustrated at any less-than-stellar workout or failed PR attempt. And I think it’s very important that whether it’s an average client or a firebreather like Christy, you always encourage them, cheer them on, and remind them not to get upset when they don’t perform as well as they’d like. If we could set PR’s everyday, I’d quit my job. Maybe I’ll just quit my job anyways.
like most, ex-collegiate soccer and football player who still has a competitive streak in me. plus as mentioned by others, human potential intrigues me. i want to be as “fit” as i can be. plus it helps having like minded individuals around me who have the same goals
for fun, mostly. also my fascination with human movement and performance. at the end of the day, i really train because it leaves me smiling. after i peel myself off the floor.
I do this to push as hard as possible against the end of my life.
I like that one Phil.
Thank you all for your input!