“Although many people start exercise programs to improve their health and lose weight, it is rare for people to continue these programs unless they find the experience enjoyable.” (Weinberg and Gould, pg. 417) People are motivated for different reasons to exercise as a trainers, I need to “emphasize the diverse benefits of exercise.” (President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sport, 1996) The specific points I would like to point out to my clients is that following a fitness program reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease, it reduces stress and depression, helps with weight control and it can be enjoyable.

In order to find out why my patrons are not adhering to their exercise programs, I would poll them to determine the reasons why. After determining why they are not sticking with their program I would come up with a plan of action and meet individually with my clients to determine why they are not following the plan. I think talking to my clients will help me change some ways of designing their programs.

According to the text book, here are some reasons why people don’t adhere to their exercise programs (Weinberg and Gould, pg. 420)

Programs are based soled on fitness data, ignoring people’s psychological readiness to exercise.

Most programs are overly restrictive and are not optimal for enhancing motivation for regular exercise.

Rigid exercise programs are based on principles of intensity, duration and frequency are too much for most people.

Traditional exercise does not promote self responsibility or empower people to make long term behavior changes.

If I can focus on these things, hopefully my clients will stick to their workout plans.
I will also have my patrons set individual goals, keep workout journals and help provide time management techniques to meet their goals.