Is the question I received the other day from a very worried lady.
Now I can’t mention any names of the people she was ranting about in case I get myself into trouble and have any repercussions.
But I will say this: sometimes the fitness industry STINKS.
Yes I said it.
At times I’m embarrassed to be classed in the same category as some of these (cough) fitness professionals.
If you ask me, it’s just TOO EASY to become qualified.
It takes as little as 4-6 weeks.
That “easy” way in, attracts lazy people with no VALUES, and dare I say, who have sometimes failed at their chosen profession.
Don’t get me wrong, they have good intentions and genuinely want to help people get fit and lose weight.
But lots of personal trainers end up SELF obsessed, narcissists.
This is the reality folks.
THE QUESTION:
“Hi Rich, I have been going to a class and the instructor is telling people its suitable for all. One of my friends who has had a stroke and is on medication for high blood pressure has been attending but last week she had a funny turn.
She didn’t say anything until we were in the car but she felt sick and is not sure if she is pushing herself too hard.
Is she (the personal trainer) even allowed to do this and accept people with medical problems etc?
Any advice would be appreciated?”
THE ANSWER:
They both have a responsibility.
Your friend, shouldn’t attend general group exercise sessions if she has had a stroke. She should attend hospital based rehab, do it via her GP or see a specialist instructor.
But that’s said, the ultimate responsibility lies with the person delivering the exercise. If you have a medical condition your personal trainer needs to have the appropriate qualifications to help you, otherwise it’s negligent,
AND . . .IF anything happens, they are not suitably qualified, and they are not covered by their insurance.
I see this happening all the time.
To be honest it’s a common problem in the industry.
People unknowingly working outside their professional qualifications.
I understand.
The reality is if someone turns up to your group exercise class, they don’t even have to do a RISK assessment form (called a PARQ), which is ridiculous, and it’s the same with swimming, ANYONE can pay a few quid and go for a swim, without a single question regarding their health.
So my advice today, if you have any serious medical stuff going on, you need to be sensible and speak to your GP before you join a high intensity bootcamp or similar class like kettlebells or circuits.
EVEN IF they say it’s suitable for everyone.
Richard Clarke
PS – To follow a programme which is NOT suitable for everyone, check out my 90 day online programme, which will get your gluteus maximus in shape by the summer.
https://www.richard-clarke.co.uk/90dayprog/
Or check out my new slimming club in Llansamlet, Swansea, every Wednesday.
To get a free class, come along during April and you will need to fill out this form here: