However, in observing the trainers and their clients, I have also noticed one trainer who appears to want to drum up business. When he doesn't have a client, he usually positions himself somewhere in the weight area where he can observe the entire area. From his vantage point, he looks for people, as far as I can tell only women, he can give unsolicited advice to about their workout. I have now overheard several of his conversations, and they all go something like this:
Trainer: What part of your body are you trying to target right now?
Potential Client: [Says body part she is trying to target.]
Trainer: Well, let me tell you how to work this body part better.
Potential Client: Thank you.
Trainer: Well, if you hire me as your personal trainer, I'll show you many more exercises and you'll get into really good shape. I charge $____ per hour, and we should schedule at least three sessions (the number of sessions he suggests varies).
I am always stunned when I overhear and/or observe this conversation. To me, the trainer's approach is so wrong for so many reasons:
- No one asked him for advice!
- He is trying to "sell" his personal training sessions, which I am pretty sure is against the policies and rules of our gym.
- He makes me (and I am almost certain others) uncomfortable because I feel constantly "watched" when he is around.
- I always try to mentally "brace" myself for his advice. However, I am still not sure how I'd respond... I am quite meek at times...
- Some of his advice, especially the nutrition advice, sounds a bit questionable to me...
- And back to No. 1: No one asked him for advice!
Be well,
Andrea
