1-2-1 Training – The Optimum Format
While there is no doubting that group training has its own dynamic, and indeed this format is essential for some aspects of team sport, it is our belief that most progress is achieved by one-to-one personal training. Even in team sport the need is there for individual development and this cannot be accomplished solely in group sessions. The concept of ‘one-size fits all’ training results in one-size not fitting anybody!
We are individuals and even the most honed athlete will have particular needs, quirks, strengths and weaknesses that need to be addressed, and this is where the personal approach pays off.
Of course there is the benefit of convenience. One-to-one training can often be wrapped around the trainee’s schedule. But more important is the identification of individual goals through sharp focused coaching, the totally tailor made programme that embraces the needs of that one person - YOU.
And then there is the motivational aspect. For some, the testosterone driven competition that exists in group situations can be off-putting. That doesn’t mean that the one-to-one session is a cakewalk. On the contrary, the good coach takes the trainee out of their comfort zone and drives them into new and improved levels of effort. This can only be done safely on an individual basis. This comes with knowledge of the individual, what they can and can’t cope with, how they learn and train and most of all a mutual trust.
First there’s the discussion of needs, wants and ambitions. That may be simply to lose weight and tone-up. For others it might be the need to be stronger, faster or have more endurance. Or a combination of all three. At the elite level be the difference between playing for the first team rather than being on the bench or in the second eleven.
Then there is the exercise prescription – a bespoke programme made for one person, you. There needs to be a subset of objectives and goals with a concomittent timetable. The schedule will be real and achievable and tailored to your time available. Then there is the execution, the review, the progression and the re-setting of new more challenging targets. It is up close and personal and it works!
For best One-to-one results the minimum number of sessions would be six, and that presupposes that the trainee will carry out some training un-supervised. There might be phone call or e-mail feedback and consultations, but if there is adherence to the programme (as mutually agreed) there will be progress.
The training package can also be individualised according to client needs. One of our national squad members will book up to 10 weeks of sessions between tours. We’ll work on bringing him back up to speed, perhaps do some body re-balancing and buttress some of the weaknesses. Alternatively, for one of our weight reduction and toning clients there was an initial 10-week programme of weekly sessions; a 3-month review followed by a couple of weeks of development sessions; then another 3-month gap. For some athletes we work regularly in the off-season – two or three times per week - but see very little of them in-season. And for some of our clients the process is ongoing.
Like the training programmes themselves the packages are tailored to suit your needs and resource both in terms of time and cost. But whatever the package we know that personal training, carried out with integrity, drive and expertise, really works!
