3 Ways to Capitalize on Desk Jockeys as a Personal Trainer

Staff November 18, 2015

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Over 80% of our population works at a desk, but what many of us don’t realize is how desperately desk jockeys want to move and need to train. Think about it. How eager are you to work out the kinks after you’ve been cooped up for a while?

The first thing to know about desk jockeys is that most of them are afraid to hurt themselves. Either they have never had any functional strength and endurance training, or their bodies are so tight and cranky that they’re afraid to pull their back or have a knee collapse.

Another thing to know about desk jockeys is that by the end of the day their brain is probably done. That’s where YOU step in. As a trainer it’s your job to undo the damage done by sitting all day and guide your client back to a healthy, relaxed connection with their body.

Finally, most of my long-term clients have been desk jockeys. They have solid careers and frequently view their time with you as an investment in their future.

Step 1:Baseline Metrics are Vital

Base lines statistics allow you to set specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and timely (SMART) goals to achieve with your client.

Desk jockeys either prepare or look at spreadsheets or reports all day. They’re accountable for hitting their numbers. So give them their numbers, it gives someone the opportunity to know how much work needs to be done and what to expect.

Tools like TrainerMetrics.com provide forms and a place to store and automatically graph all of your client statistics.

Step 2: You Can’t Navigate Effectively Without a Map

Showcase the value of PERSONAL Training by providing clear direction.

The Trainer / Client relationship is begins with communication. One of the most important jobs of the trainer is to provide a safe environment for the client. If the trainer takes the time to understand what is going on with the client’s body, he or she will trust the trainer and be willing to push harder.

For example, NASM’s Overhead Squat Assessment will identify 90% of the biomechanical deviations you’re going to find on a typical client. Sites like SquatTest.com provide you with a way to automatically calculate checkpoints and produce reports for myofascial release, stretching, and activation exercises that you can quickly teach your client.

Step 3: Remember to Teach

Educate clients to build the trust needed to influence behavior changes.

You can’t go from a NO to a YES without a MAYBE in between. You can talk to your clients about what it takes to achieve weight loss until you’re blue in the face. But you’ll have more luck if you keep them accountable with comprehensive statistics and charts that they understand. They know you care. Now show them that you’re keeping score and approaching them methodically.