KINESIOLOGISTS.CA Studio – Cloverdale

Here is a recent study (May 2011) on grip strength in men and longevity – another reason to maintain strength as we age.

The main results of a study following men for 44 years until their death were that having:

• good muscle strength (high grip strength measurement),
• being physically active,
• not smoking,
• and absence of chronic conditions at the age of 62 years,
• as well as having a long-lived mother

each contributed 1 to 3 years for the length of remaining life.

The same variables also correlated with the likelihood of becoming a centenarian.

These findings expand earlier analyses showing low midlife grip strength predicts an increased risk of disability and death (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3337929/#!po=86.1111). 

Your schedule should actively support your business goals, not distract you from them. When slower periods turn into time spent scrolling or gaming, you lose opportunities to strengthen and grow your PT practice. A structured system—whether a day planner, a task‑management app, a digital calendar, or an assistant—keeps your priorities visible and your time intentional.

Using your schedule as a business tool

A daily plan works well for most trainers, especially those aiming to expand their business. Time becomes critical as you grow. Client flow is rarely consistent: one month you’re fully booked, and the next you’re dealing with cancellations due to vacations, injuries, or unexpected life events. Without a plan, those gaps can quickly reduce your monthly income.

Scheduling your time ensures you stay focused on tasks that move your business forward, even if they only require an hour each week. For example, if you’ve wanted to introduce youth training but keep telling yourself you’re “too busy,” block time to research the idea—insurance requirements, feasibility, equipment, location, marketing, and competition.

Turning slow hours into growth opportunities

Mid‑day often slows down for trainers, especially between 2–4 p.m. Once your research is complete, use that window to test a four‑week “Get Fit Kid” program in your community. Keep sessions to 45 minutes and charge a modest fee. Kids will enjoy the experience, and their parents—many of whom may be inactive themselves—represent strong potential leads. Youth fitness remains an underdeveloped market, and a fun, energetic “kiddie bootcamp” can set you apart.

Staying visible and financially consistent

Running programs during slower hours keeps your revenue steadier and maintains your presence in the community. Consistent visibility builds trust, recognition, and long‑term client flow.

The next time you reach for your phone to play a quick game, remember that another trainer is using that same moment to strengthen their business because they planned their time with intention.

How do you actually get clients now that you are certified? This is the million dollar question! Well here are a few sure-fire ways to get new clients…

Make your presence known in the community by volunteering your time. Help others and they’ll help you back. Some simple ways to do his is maybe offer a free workout in the park, or a free workshop about correct form at the local Rec Centre. Even some free small group classes for elderly or teens if you are certified to do it! Just make sure your marketing to your desired niche.

Listen to your clients and they will trust you. A client will commit to training if they feel you have listened to them – use your active listening skills. Clients are much more likely to make a commitment because of establishing trust with you. Learn to get your client to explain the ‘why’ behind their goal – e.g. why they feel they need to lose weight. As a trainer, don’t try to control or steer the conversation or offer them a goal. Sometimes there may be awkward silence as they think about how to phase their goal to you, and that is ok. Be patient, but focused and be sure you, the trainer, understand where they are coming from and where they want to get to.

Real life proof.  People need results to stay motivated. Programs must be results oriented. Clients also like to compare their progress on your program with others doing the same. They will more likely to believe your program the best because you can provide success stories! The use of “before and after pictures” can be invaluable. But use with caution as some are not comfortable initially to have their picture taken. One successful trainer in Victoria, BC, initially offered a discounted 8 week program when the client agreed to before and after pictures and provide a testimonial. 

Be a Rock Star.  People tend to want to hang out with confident, successful people. As a trainer, believe you are a successful Rock Star! Don’t be shy when you market yourself – use sayings like: “Call Now” and “Register Now,” “Best training in town,” and “Why wait any longer.”

Be Approachable.  People are easily persuaded by people they like. People connect with someone who smiles, has open body language and can easily strike up a conversation. This is your passion, so exude it in every interaction. The more approachable you are, the more likeable you will appear to everyone. One major gym chain in the lower mainland makes new trainers to get 30 signatures from members in 60 minutes on their first day on the job! This forces new trainers learn these techniques very quickly!

Exclusivity.  Exclusivity gets everyone wanting more. People want what they can’t have or if they think they may miss out. When you market yourself, describe offers that are about to close or go up in price. Make the urgency of the sale or promo exclusive to them – with a time limit. This is how the majority of sales are made.

I am often asked the following question: “What advice do you have for becoming a great trainer?”

Simply, imagine you are being evaluated or shadowed by someone you respect every time you train your client(s).

Imagine your mentor will provide feedback on your ability to:

• • Choose appropriate exercises for client skill, injury or primary health concern
  • Keep your client on task throughout session
  • Convey directions clearly and concisely
  • Inherently know when an exercise is too difficult / easy
  • Keep your client motivated and encouraged with their progress to date
  • Listen to your client

Be ready to defend all the choices you make while training.  When students or new trainers shadow my sessions, I often find myself answering the question ‘why.’

I suppose there is one last item – put your phone away!  A great trainer gives 100% at all times and is never caught checking their phone during a session (this may simply be a personal pet peeve of mine, but am interested in your feedback on this one).

I am frequently asked this question, especially around university graduation – “What are the typical qualifications I’ll need to find work as a kinesiologist?”

Here is a list of required qualifications you’ll see when applying for a job:

• BSc. Degree in Kinesiology or Human Kinetics
• Member of the BCAK
• Possess Professional Liability Insurance as well as Commercial Liability Insurance
• Possess valid CPR & First Aid Certificates
• Minimum 2 years’ experience providing active rehabilitation & rehabilitative assistance
• Additional certifications such as FMS or Personal Training

Now, you can become a member of BCAK as a student and it is highly recommended! You can begin the registration prior to graduation.  The  CPR & First Aid is required to be eligible for insurance through BCAK as well as most other certifications. 

Becoming a personal trainer will significantly increase your hire-ability due to experience dealing with clients and understanding the basics of the industry.  It may not be directly related to active rehabilitation, but as you will quickly see, most clients have some health issue you’ll have to work with.

Don’t wait until graduation to start preparing for the first job!  Feel free to call us at KINESIOLOGISTS.CA if you have any questions.

A “quick read” article which outlines the benefits of strength training as well as how a person could get started with a strength training / conditioning program: Strength training and multiple sclerosis – Updated Aug 11

The fact sheet was prepared by Multiple Sclerosis Limited and intended to provide useful and accurate information of a general nature, but not intended as a substitute for medical advice.

At the KINESIOLOGISTS.CA Studio, we are dedicated to providing unforgettable service to our customers. We are passionate about improving all levels of service by holding true to our values. Whether on the training floor, through client relations, or in our financial accounting, our integrity transmits throughout all aspects of our company. Within the  KINESIOLOGISTS.CA Studio, our professional and remarkable work on the floor is a demonstration of our loyalty and respect to our clientele. We, as a company, understand that our vision will only be achieved if, and only if, all supporting aspects of our business model are as equally thorough and efficient.

Fitness | Active Rehabilitation | Education