By Cinder Ernst–
I remember hearing in a marketing class one time that you should write down the ten things you say to most of your clients, repeatedly, and make it a handout. Here we go.
1. How do you feel today?
We need this information to create the best workout. I always guarantee that my folks will feel better when they leave the gym than when they arrived. We need a starting point. Pre-determined plans are not always appropriate. We start from where you are and take it from there. Be current. If you felt bad yesterday, but are doing okay today, keep the forward momentum.
2. Tired or sleepy?
It is amazing how many people answer with the word “tired.” To me, tired and sleepy are two different conditions and point to two different feel-better pathways. Notice this difference for yourself.
3. Is that easy, medium or hard?
I ask this question so that we can determine what’s next. Stretches should always feel small/easy to medium. A tired person does not need to work harder than medium. This question also keeps my client tuned into their body’s signals. This is a good skill to foster: listen to your body.
4. How many do you want to do?
I often work with beginners or exercise non-enthusiasts, and yet most of my clients will pick a number that is perfectly challenging and do it. It just feels different for you to make the decision and go for it than for me to be pushing.
5. Be easy about that.
I always look to soothe the people with whom I’m interacting. So many people beat themselves up for so many reasons. Beating yourself up is the best way to slow down what you are wanting. Whatever it is, be easy about it and take it from there.
6. Stop it!
You will hear me saying that when you are being self-critical. Negative energy will slow you down. Stay positive and remain focused on your goals.
7. Oh, I don’t watch the news.
Watching the national news these days can be such a downer. Talk about beating yourself up! I stopped engaging with the news 25 years ago. I haven’t missed anything yet. What good is being fit if your well-being is screwed up by watching current events or reliving history that feels bad? Tune yourself to know when you are feeling satisfied. You are of no use to anyone if you are feeling bad.
8. I don’t believe in germs.
That is what I say when people worry about giving me something. I don’t believe that you can give me a cold. I only get sick when I’m in the vicinity of getting sick; it has nothing to do with you.
9. I must really believe in arthritis, though, as I’m heading for a hip replacement.
If you’ve been reading this column for a while, then you know that I am going to have a hip replacement soon. Better health days are coming!
10. Relax and be in the moment.
I know that we are more than our physical bodies. I know that we came here to experience life in all of its glorious ups and downs. I know that every cloud has a silver lining and I look for, and find, silver linings continuously.
Cinder Ernst, Medical Exercise Specialist and Life Coach Extraordinaire, helps reluctant exercisers get moving with safe, effective and fun programs. Her book, “Easy Fitness for the Reluctant Exerciser” ( http://cinderernst.com/easy-fitness-book/ ), is available in paperback and E-book. She specializes in fitness and rehab for plus-size clients, but her stress-free approach is suitable for all. Find out more at http://cinderernst.com
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