Posted by SweatPea

Fitness has become big business and continues to enjoy steady if not explosive growth. With any form of growth comes growing pains and the fitness industry is no different. The big problem for anyone wanting to get a lean muscular physique is that one of the key problem areas for the fitness industry is a chronic shortage qualified and competent practitioners let alone a highly trained professional to provide a level of advice that matches your aspirations. It’s an unfortunate reality for the masses wanting to improve their bodies that many people in this industry who are entrusted with their results simply do not make the grade. It’s a case of the blind leading the blind. If you don’t take the time to understand your own body, you too can become a victim of this futile situation.

Being around gyms for over 15 years I have witnessed enough incompetence and mediocrity to last a lifetime. The sad reality of the situation is that the average gym instructor knows very little about what it takes to get real results. The level of service at many establishments can offer you is no more than a useless fitness assessment where you are poked and prodded and given a cookie cutter program printed off a computer.

The problem stems from the perception that the idea of fitness instruction and personal training is a seemingly ‘easy job’ that is extraordinarily lucrative. Many people look at the fitness industry like Hollywood - with stars in their eyes but not a clue in their brain. For the talented, passionate, truly dedicated and hard working, being a fitness professional is a fantastic life choice. Anything less and it is an exercise in irresponsible mediocrity. The reality though is that the industry is in such dire shortage of talent that it attracts and accepts those who lack the above characteristics by the truckload. In all likelihood, the only person you can trust with your results is yourself.

By learning the real truth about basic physiology and having a simple functional understanding of what really works you will know far more than the average person who works in the industry. The good news is that once you start on this path you will inevitably meet others like you or a little further ahead of you along the way. By treading your own path, seeking the truth and taking control of all aspects of your nutrition, training and lifestyle you will join the ranks of the fitness elite - the few who actually achieve the physical results they desire. If you are to have any chance at all, this is the path you must take.

By Ben Kong