I'm so over the moon to be able to say I've recently passed my Level 4 Strength and Conditioning Coach Qualification (with S and C Education) - lockdown pretty well spent in the end - I have learnt so many new things to start adding in to my clients sessions each week. I started this week with a movement assessment for each of my clients in their sessions which we'll then review in 4 weeks time to see if there have been any improvements.
This movement assessment (MA) that we completed included 14 exercises with each client being scored 1-5 for each of the exercises; 1 being very poor movement or lack of mobility/flexibility/balance and 5 being the absolute ideal movement pattern. For most clients starting out they would score around 1-3, with the odd score being slightly higher as some of my clients have been training with me for a few years, therefore already having a better understanding of certain movements!
I've attached some photos below of the sort of thing I'm looking at with movement assessments - these are only two examples out of a possible 14, but hopefully it helps to show what would be considered a higher score (green lines and tick), or what may be considered a lower score (shown by red lines and a cross!). Photos to the left; good and bad versions of a squat. Photos to the right; good and bad versions of a plank/press up position.
The exercises completed in the MA provide me with a variety of chances to look at different muscle groups from head to toe, that are included generally within most exercises that clients can complete to improve their health and fitness levels. For example, squat patterns in PT sessions that replicate sitting up and down off a chair, or shoulder stretches and rotations that can help to relive tension in the back from sitting regularly at a desk all day.
The reason for MA's is that it then allows me to write my clients plans and exercise sessions even more specifically to their needs and goals. We'll work on their weaknesses or imbalances that they may have, with stretches or moves that will help to improve those areas, any strengths can be challenged further to keep their training exciting and progressive, and we'll work to improve general flexibility and mobility with the view to reducing any chances of injuries; something we all want to avoid to be able to move more efficiently!
With this is mind I look forward to being able to continue working with my clients to make their sessions even more efficient... slow steady progress to help them achieve their goals, and to create sustainable lifestyles that are still enjoyable. If you have any questions please don't hesitate to get in touch! PT sessions available at 30-45-60 minutes, with offers for block bookings or PAYG. Billericay based trainer, and option for online training via Zoom.