I just received an email from a client telling me that he's again changed his mind about the objective of his training.
He's been reading more from the MMA (mixed martial art) community about the qualities required to be an effective competitor. A week ago he wanted to gain more muscle mass. Three weeks ago he had read an article about cardiovascular health and aerobic exercise and wanted to improve those qualities.
It's great that individuals have access to so many opportunities to educate themselves on virtually any subject imaginable. But at what point does more information just get in the way?
In terms of physical fitness, being properly informed is essential. However, in order to make any significant changes in one's physiology it's also necessary to stick with a consistent program for some period of time.
The unfortunate part of all the information available is that it's difficult to know what's actually true and what will be of productive use to the reader. Honestly when it comes to fitness research and information, it's very likely that you can find supporting information for almost any theory you're looking to prove.
As coaches, this presents us with the challenge of personally deciphering the information to advise a client in the most appropriate manner.
As a client, you have hired a coach and asked for professional advice to achieve your fitness objectives. Realize that your coach knows you personally and has taken into account your individual circumstances prior to suggesting anything. No magazine article or research study can say the same.
If you need help understanding why your coach has you doing something, ask her to provide you with supporting sources or explanations.
Trusting your coach and following the training prescription is your most direct path to the results you really want.
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