Anyone becoming a personal trainer ought to learn a thing or two about training clients to become cyclists. This type of exercise is extremely popular among new athletes who are looking for an engaging exercise that really gets results. If your client displays an interest in cycling, it is important that you know what kind of decisions you need to make and how to best create a cycling regimen that your client will want to stick to. These considerations range from buying custom cycling orthotics to writing up a varied cross-training plan. Before you launch a cycling program, be sure to think about:
The right bike. You want to ensure that your client buys the right kind of bicycle. The 'right bike' can depend on a number of factors, including what kind of roads and trails your client plans to ride on as well as how much they plan on riding. Size is also important, and your client needs to be on a bike that is the right size. Anything too large or too small with result in the client not sitting properly in the saddle, possibly leading to injury.
How to get going. No matter what your client's level of strength and stamina, it is important not to overestimate his or her abilities when they get started cycling. The muscle groups used for cycling may not be used as often for other exercises, and may be weaker than expected. Your best bet is to design a routine that eases your client into cycling slowly and steadily. Make sure you client listens to his or her body and stops when it starts to hurt.
Footwear. Don't let your client just buy them off the internet without trying them on! Well-fitting cycle shoes are important in avoiding injury. Cycle shoes are typically rigid, heavy and can be attached to the bicycle pedal. Custom cycling orthotics can also help prevent injury and improve performance by improving the alignment of your body while you cycle.
Overworking. Don't let your client work him or herself too hard. It's important to take a rest day once a week to allow muscles to repair and rebuild, and also to take a mental break from all that cycling. These rest days are critical for the body, which can succumb to injury if the muscle groups are not given time to recover. It also keeps your client from the psychological fatigue that comes from doing the same thing every day.
Training the whole body. Cross training means you work out the entire body, not just the parts used while cycling. This involves introducing other exercises to the regimen, such as jogging or swimming. Have your clients find another aerobic exercise they enjoy and alternate workouts. You should also incorporate weight training to work the muscle groups that don't get used while cycling.
Setting objectives. Before you start any client on a new course of fitness, you always talk to them about setting goals, right? Having set goals, and specific timelines for achieving them, is a great motivational tool. It's no different for cycling! Talk to your client about setting goals for their speed, stamina and distance.
The right bike. You want to ensure that your client buys the right kind of bicycle. The 'right bike' can depend on a number of factors, including what kind of roads and trails your client plans to ride on as well as how much they plan on riding. Size is also important, and your client needs to be on a bike that is the right size. Anything too large or too small with result in the client not sitting properly in the saddle, possibly leading to injury.
How to get going. No matter what your client's level of strength and stamina, it is important not to overestimate his or her abilities when they get started cycling. The muscle groups used for cycling may not be used as often for other exercises, and may be weaker than expected. Your best bet is to design a routine that eases your client into cycling slowly and steadily. Make sure you client listens to his or her body and stops when it starts to hurt.
Footwear. Don't let your client just buy them off the internet without trying them on! Well-fitting cycle shoes are important in avoiding injury. Cycle shoes are typically rigid, heavy and can be attached to the bicycle pedal. Custom cycling orthotics can also help prevent injury and improve performance by improving the alignment of your body while you cycle.
Overworking. Don't let your client work him or herself too hard. It's important to take a rest day once a week to allow muscles to repair and rebuild, and also to take a mental break from all that cycling. These rest days are critical for the body, which can succumb to injury if the muscle groups are not given time to recover. It also keeps your client from the psychological fatigue that comes from doing the same thing every day.
Training the whole body. Cross training means you work out the entire body, not just the parts used while cycling. This involves introducing other exercises to the regimen, such as jogging or swimming. Have your clients find another aerobic exercise they enjoy and alternate workouts. You should also incorporate weight training to work the muscle groups that don't get used while cycling.
Setting objectives. Before you start any client on a new course of fitness, you always talk to them about setting goals, right? Having set goals, and specific timelines for achieving them, is a great motivational tool. It's no different for cycling! Talk to your client about setting goals for their speed, stamina and distance.
About the Author:
Training cyclists is a great way to expand your personal training business. For an extra 'wow' factor, study up on cycling insoles and other quality products that can have a major effect in your client's performance. Your clients will appreciate the extra effort you put in to making sure their regimen is fun and effective.
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