Do you classify yourself as a trainer or a coach? Or, are you both? Does it matter?
Although there are different definitions of a “coach” and a “trainer” we have simplified it here for demonstration purposes.
A coach is someone who supports their client’s efforts and goals through questioning, motivational interviewing, resources, and compassion. There are many variables of these strategies based on the client and the type of coaching being provided.
A trainer is someone who helps their clients reach their goals by providing scientifically-based principles and techniques to achieve a very specific outcome. Although there is also inquiry and “support” as there is in coaching, the main focus is on the application of specific principles and methodologies to achieve the life, health, business or sports goal.
Why will you want to master both skills?
In short, one is just not enough.
We have seen many health and wellness coaches have great success with their clients, and they want to help them further by designing a fitness program for them. However, they don’t yet have the skills to do so effectively. They would need to become a Certified Personal Fitness Trainer to gain the skills needed to match their expertise in health and wellness coaching.
If you are a health and wellness coach, imagine a personal trainer trying to do your job without your skills. It just doesn’t work well.
Now just think about how complementary and helpful it would be to have both types of skills and credentials.
If you offer Speed, Agility and Quickness Training, you know that mental toughness and focus is critical to your athlete’s success. But, what are you doing to help them? Do you really understand the various motivational strategies? Do you know how to reduce distraction? Do you have a grasp of the mind’s role in injury recovery? You would understand all this, and much more, as a Certified Sports Psychology Coach. And, you would also be far more appealing to new clients as well.
If you are a yoga instructor, you know how it integrates perfectly with stress management and mind-body fitness. Yet, do you know how to integrate a well-designed mind-body approach to health and fitness with aspects of stress management? There is much more to it than you may first think. When integrating your skills, knowledge, and certifications properly, your whole career takes a huge step forward.
As you go through all the courses we offer you, you will see more and more logical connections between the coaching and training options.
This is what makes NESTA and the Spencer Institute so different than other associations who have limited offerings (with a much higher price point).
We thank you for trusting us with your education and career needs.
Thanks for reading.
The NESTA/Spencer Institute Team
