For many people, a new year also means taking stock of one’s physique, health and well-being. Everyone has a different way of achieving a personal goal. Some prefer working alone or one-on-one with a professional while losing weight or toning up. Others need to work as part of a group, enjoying the camaraderie of socializing with other people. I contacted two very successful personal trainers in our community – Matt Kuhlman, owner of The Sweatshop, and Gary Dworski.
While each trainer has a different approach to working with people, both have an impressive number of loyal followers.
First, I spoke with Kuhlman. If you are not familiar with The Sweatshop, I recommend that you check it out. Kuhlman and his staff of “entertrainers” are some of the most creative people around. They are not afraid to dress up in costumes when they work out with their group, and they know how to make exercise fun. Kuhlman told me about his new year training program, and what he’s found as typical challenges his clients have had to face when beginning a new diet & exercise regimen.
“Here at The Sweatshop, we are so excited to unleash our brand new, 6 week, Sweatshop and Total Wellness new year’s transformation challenge called “Rock Your Body Into 2016 Challenge.” This challenge is all about getting into incredible shape, regardless if you have 100 lbs. to lose, or no weight to lose…together, we will help you change your habits, mindset, motivation and nutrition. If you’re looking for a motivational jump-start, or a spark to kick off 2016 on the right foot, this is it! If you want a chance to win awesome cash, prizes and get your name carved into the Sweaty Cup Trophy, this challenge is for you!”
As a trainer, what have you found to be the biggest challenges your clients have had to overcome in order to achieve their goals? What advice can you give to those who are unsure about where to start?
“The biggest challenge that my clients face by far, is motivation. Regardless if you’ve worked out consistently for years, or are just trying to get up off the couch, everyone hits that motivational roadblock at some point. Especially during these long winter months, it becomes so much easier to just stay at home and hibernate. My advice is to TAKE ACTION. If you haven’t worked out in a long time, start slow and simply get moving. Turn on your favorite music and dance, walk up and down the stairs, stand and watch TV instead of sit. No matter what it is, you’ve got to start somewhere! If you’re just losing your workout mojo, it’s time to change up your routine. Get creative, try different things, and have some fun! The most important thing to remember is – if you don’t enjoy what you’re doing, you’ll never keep it up long term. So find things that you like to do, and it will be much easier to keep your motivation!” Kuhlman can be contacted through his website youregoingtosweat.com.
What is the average age of your client and what is your philosophy in counseling and training them? Also, in your opinion, what is the best way for someone to achieve and maintain their fitness success?
“I see a strong push integrating children and the older adult, especially with the aging of baby boomers. I don’t believe I have a specific philosophy in counseling my clients, but I try not to be selfish as a trainer – it’s not my way is the only way. My concern is that I make them comfortable with me, and trust me with the expertise I bring to the table. I want my client to know that I am interested in them as a person, and their overall health and well-being. There are a variety of reasons clients give on what their goals are. They want these results overnight, and get very disappointed. Many individuals have an unfavorable opinion of exercise because it may cause discomfort or perceived as painful. It’s my job to create a positive relationship with their physical activity and exercise. Now that it’s a new year, everyone prior to training should have a new state of mind to exercise. 1. Train with a purpose. 2. Focus on the immediate ways exercise can enhance their daily lives. 3. Be consistent. 4. Find a trainer that uses a lot of different implements and variety.”
Dworski can be contacted by Email at [email protected] or by phone at 708-502-0247.
That’s all for now; please keep in touch and send neighborhood news to Aileen Simons at [email protected].
Aileen Simons is a freelance columnist for Pioneer Press