Personal trainers attract a variety of different clients, and they must be well educated on how to coach clients on a variety of exercise movements. This is especially true over the past several years with the induction of new forms of exercise equipment. A recent press release by Power Systems, one of the nation’s leading suppliers of fitness equipment and an official NSCA sponsor, highlighted some of the most popular equipment purchased over the last year. The top 5 sellers included resistance bands, medicine balls, kettlebells, fitness mats, and dumbbells.

These statistics point out the obvious popularity among consumers, but it should also call attention to personal trainers working with this equipment. Clients are surely going to want to use this equipment because it is “new-age” and “popular.” Personal trainers must understand when, and when not to implement these training devices with clients. It is crucial that personal trainers maintain their exercise authority and not let clients dictate their own exercise program design. Don’t be afraid to say ‘no’ to the use of certain exercise equipment if it is not appropriate for your client(s).

Furthermore, if you are not familiar with a particular training device, make sure to educate yourself on its proper use and safety before integrating it into your programs. Exercise technique is of paramount importance for any movement pattern, and the implementation of certain exercise devices might not be warranted until after the client makes the proper progressions.

Take kettlebells (KB) for example; a “KB swing” would not be advised if the client is not able to perform a squat or if his/her body mechanics are altered by pain in the lower back and/or shoulders. Instead, work on fixing the components of a “swing” exercise before implementing the exercise altogether.    

References:  

Rhyne, S. Press Release—Power Systems Report of Top Selling Fitness Training Equipment Points to Industry Changes. Business Wire. Accessed April 2, 2012 from http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20120402005802/en/Power-Systems-Report-Top-Selling-Fitness-Training). 

About the Author

Derek Grabert, MS, CSCS,*D is an Education Content Coordinator for the NSCA. He holds a master's degree in nutrition and has experience as a university instructor for human nutrition, anatomy, and physiology classes. He has coached high school athletes, special populations clients, and general fitness enthusiasts on the health benefits of strength training, aerobic training, and the integration of proper nutrition.