A client recently mentioned to me that she wanted to incorporate her friend’s physical therapy exercises in her program. Every session this particular client tries to change the exercises that I have designed for her monthly program. The monthly program is written out and she recieves a hard copy. I consistently have to remind her that if we change the exercises we will not have a focus. We will not be able to track and measure progress and get specific results.
Before responding, I listened carefully, so that I could learn more about her reasoning and motivation. I learned that she wants more variety and core exercises. Of course, her program is varied and consists of core exercises. I told her that I appreciated her request. However, physical therapy programs are specific to the issue and needs of the person being treated. I advised her that I would not incorporate her friend’s exercise in her program for that reason. I also said that her personal training programs are specific to her and could not be used by someone other than her.
There is danger inherent in wanting to or following someone else’s program, be it a workout in a magazine, a Celebrity trainer’s DVD, a popular televsion show or a group fitness class at your gym, etc. Don’t risk your health and safety by the allure or promise of a better/varied program – in my client’s case: someone else’s program.
