Where I think the traditional health and fitness industry falls down: it outsources your body and your autonomy to the so called 'expert'.
I'm not down with that.
And yes, it can feel uncomfortable and weird - because often someone else choosing for us is what part of us wants, and feels far easier.
But the underlying message is harmful if we perpetuate that cycle. It's not our assumptions or expectations that matter. It's not about what we think you 'should' be doing. Instead, we can start to build the knowledge, options, guidance, trust and safety that allows you to choose (and that often looks like different people doing very different things together in a session).
Here are some example of how you'll hear us coach:
Not: let's have 10 reps of back squat
Us: this is what a back squat is, and these are the other options you also have [provide all the context/demos]. Which of them would you like to try first?
Not: go on, just add more/do two more, more more! Us: that looked strong to me, but how did it feel for you?
Client needs to cry/is crying (not because we’ve made them cry!! Because of something else going on in their day/life)
Us: there’s no need to keep going or rush through tears, it’s ok to stop what we're doing. We can just be with them together. I'm here with you.
Client: I hate seeing myself in the mirror!
Us: the mirror is giving you information about how your body is moving. In your next set, do you want to repeat in the same position, or change your position?
Client picks up stick for Bulgarian split squats Us: I know you’ve been using the stick for a while now for these, and they’re looking really strong to me. How do you feel about giving it a go without the stick this time? I can still hold the stick nearby for you.
Compassion-first change:
context,
choice,
consent.
Always.
So that when we grow together we're fostering within and between ourselves:
mindsets that are intentional and purposeful
a connection to our body and its messages
a connection to the flow of the universe (take from this what you will, call it what you like...)
human-to-human relationships that are honest, generosity and genuinely care
That's the future I see for the health and fitness industry.
Try a trial session or trial week with us here.
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