I've been seeing more and more local fitness studios pop up. There are a million options for people to get "in shape".
Whether it's online coaching, big chain gyms or small studios, or the at-home dvd workout programs.. there's plenty to choose from.
But what is best for you?
Every trainer/coach will say they have the best system.
Of course, they will say that. Why wouldn't they?
I feel the same way about strength training.
Yesterday I decided to share a message on my social media pages. I am going to copy it here. It's all about what I do and what I believe in.
There are many people who do not know what I do.
Some do, but many do not.
With all the fitness options available, and more popping up all the time, I thought it would be good to explain simply and clearly what it is I do.
So you know, and then by extension, your friends/family/colleagues know also.
I will only share what my training IS about, not what others do...
The most important thing I do is help people get stronger.
Why is it important?
Strength is the most general and useful fitness adaptation, the one adaptation that most affects all others.
My focus is on strength training.
This involves the use of only a few strength training exercises- squats,presses,deadlifts,chin-ups,rows...
My training is done with free-weights. Yes, it's harder. Yes, it's more effective. The reasons for which would require a whole article.
That being said, people I help want to lose weight, burn fat, gain muscle, gain strength, improve performance, feel better, have more energy.
All of these goals can be accomplished with strength training and appropriate diet, sleep, recovery. (Also another article)
The fitness industry is notorious for quick fixes, infomercials selling a dream, diet pills, false promises and it can be confusing to know where to start or what to do.
Strength training is available for everyone. No matter your age.
There's no quick fix. The training program is simple but it requires work, commitment and persistence.
Not everyone wants to lift weights. That's fine.
Just know that if you avoid lifting weights you are choosing to miss out on a TON of benefits that you can't get from any other activity in the world of fitness.
If you are interested in strength training for men, check out my men's fitness page.
For women I have a unique strength training club just for women.
Also if you want some guidance on programming on your own check out my online coaching page here.