With so many lifestyle coaches and personal trainers offering their services online, how do you choose the right one? The trick is to come up with some criteria before you start searching. Here are some qualities to look for:
A compatible personality
You’ll be spending quite a bit of time with your online coach and sharing personal information, so make sure your personalities are compatible. Are you looking for someone who’s nurturing and gently encouraging or loud and upfront? Do warmth and friendliness matter? What about a good sense of humour? Whatever the case, your online trainer should have qualities that motivate you to take action.
A similar philosophy, core beliefs and values
If you and your lifestyle coach have similar core beliefs, then you’re likely to respect one another. Which values are most important to you? Honesty? Sticking to your word? Working hard? Generosity? Before signing up to an online coach, ask anyone you’re considering to talk about values and decide whether or not yours match up.
A long-term view
There are many online trainers out there who promise big results, fast. But, the question is, are such results sustainable? Anyone who’s tried fad dieting knows that it often creates a yo-yo effect. Sure, you might lose a few kilos within a few weeks, but once the diet’s over, the weight makes a speedy return. For sustainable results, a long-term view is crucial. Look for an online coach whose goal is to help you work on fundamental principles, so that the changes you make are lasting.
Big on small steps
True changes take place via small steps. It’s through making little alterations in our lives that we gain the strength, fortitude and courage to make big ones. For example, if you’ve been eating a diet packed with sugar and fat, then rather than changing it in one, fell swoop, which feels like an impossible task, you might begin by substituting one unhealthy meal per day for one loaded with vegetables. Effective online coaches, who genuinely want to help you achieve your goals, understand the importance of the small step principle.
If you think online nutrition and fitness coaching may be for you, check out my 12 month coaching program here!
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