Hiring a coach to help you prepare for a competition online
has become the new norm. There are tons of coaches who extend their services online.
But how can you find the best one for you?
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| Meeting my online client and now friend, Dawn for a workout. |
Here are a few questions to ask yourself while searching
the web for an online coach:
What is their story?
Many online coaches will have an “About” page on their site. This normally
includes their personal story and why they’ve made fitness such a big part of
their life. Does their story inspire you? Can you relate to their story?
Are they qualified?
Always look for their credentials. If they are not listed…run. Being a PRO is
not a valid credential to coach others. They may have proven that they can
train themselves or follow another coaches program but this by no means
qualifies them to train others. Make sure that they have accredited
certifications, degrees, and a couple of years’ experience.
Likewise, make sure that they actually have experience with
bodybuilding. I would not hire a coach who specializes in long distance running
or TRX suspension training if your goal is to step on stage at a bodybuilding
competition. You need a coach who understands the process of building/cutting
or gaining/losing and how to avoid a nasty rebound post competition.
What is their style?
Some coaches will provide a meal plan that is very restrictive with little to no flexibility. Although a set meal plan may sound ideal to those who just want to be "told" what to eat, this strict way of eating can
put a damper on your sanity and overall experience. Look for coaches who offer
a variety of foods, flexible eating, and do not give you a plan with only 1400
calories 6 months out from your competition. Ask them what their approach is on
nutrition. I always recommend working with someone who will happily answer your
“why” questions. Or any questions for that matter. A coach should educate you about healthy eating and sustainable food habits.
What is your budget?
Online coaches can charge anywhere from $99-$500 per month. Make sure you
understand what is included (ex: nutrition and training program, phone/Skype
consults, email support, etc). It’s worthwhile to spend the extra money on a coach
who will provide personalized programs and have an open line of communication. Coaches
who are more expensive tend to work with fewer clients at a time and can
therefore give more quality time with each one. These coaches will not likely
have a big team. Big teams will be less expensive but be prepared to get lost
in the mix of potentially hundreds of other online clients. Their programming
will be less personalized and it might be more difficult to communicate with
them.
Is online coaching for you? In my opinion and experience online coaching is best suited
for the moderate to advanced trainee who is already very self-motivated.
Beginners will have a difficult time in the gym because they will lack the
knowledge of proper form. If you are a beginner I recommend hiring a local
coach who is well qualified to teach you how to properly progress in the gym
and build a strong foundation.
If it is your first time competing look for a coach who is
going to spend the right amount of time that is necessary for you to
successfully compete. Some coaches will push a short prep like 8-12 weeks and over train you while underfeed you for a specific competition.
A good coach will be
able to assess your starting point by gathering information from you to help
determine how much time you will need. They will not hesitate to tell you that
you will need more time than you had originally anticipated. This is a good coach. He/she
has your best interest at heart and has your health as their number one
priority. If they have a reputation of getting their clients rapid results for
the sake of placings or team awards then they will not put your health first which puts you in great risk of destroying your body, wasting your time, and your
money.
Take your time finding the coach who is the best fit for you! I have been fortunate enough to have clients I've worked with in the past become lifelong friends. This isn't about winning or losing a competition, its about bettering your life and having someone whom you respect in your corner. This isn't just preparing for a competition, its a lifestyle and the beginning of a healthier, more confident you.
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| My client Michelle and I in Arizona at Miraval. We spent an amazing weekend together hiking, yoga, working out, and enjoying some much needed pampering time at the spa. |
XOXO,
Abby
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