Proper verbal queuing is the most important tool that a trainer has in his fitness tool kit. This is especially true when training small groups with varied levels of fitness skills. Proper countdown timing of exercise sets is also of utmost importance when executing an isometric posture or a high intensity interval.
Over the years of training clients in small groups I have found that there is a phrase that empowers people no matter what level of conditioning or skill that they might have. That phrase is, “go at your own best pace”!
With a workout method like HOTWORX that involves a small, semi-private group of three clients, that phrase is magic. It gives the client permission to modify a posture or to slow down their heart rate, or whatever is necessary for them to find their own best workout pace. This approach allows them to methodically progress to the next level of performance at the right time and with less likelihood of injury.
I have noticed inside of the HOTWORX infrared workout saunas that groups might consist of a fitness beginner, an ex athlete and a yoga instructor. That group has a wide range of skill level, but with proper queuing, they all manage to get a great workout together by training at their own best level of form and velocity. When the virtual trainer says, “go at your own best pace” they take that advice to heart and proceed to have a great workout.
Knowing how much time is left in the set and then being able to push to the right level of performance is also a part of proper queuing during the set. HOTWORX incorporates a visual 20 second countdown and then an audible 5 second countdown to the end of the set. This works very well to keep clients motivated to finish strong!
The virtual instruction approach that is used by HOTWORX allows for precise workout set queuing. There is no room for error in a live setting, but with the opportunity to edit the workout video, precision can be accomplished in a virtual setting. Pre-recorded virtual instruction provides a 100% reliable workout experience for the client.
Power phrases that motivate, and proper timing, should always be imbedded within the choreography of the workouts. Of course, HOTWORX infrared workout videos do incorporate these properly timed queues from the virtual instructors along with effective countdown timing.
So, in your next workout with a trainer, listen for the queue and remember to “go at your own best pace”!
Steve
