Panel Discussion: Do you use a template to keep notes?
How many trainers utilize a template, or chart to keep notes? Did you design the template or do you use the template of a particular organization? What is the importance of utilizing a template, and keeping notes?
Moderated by Brent Brookbush DPT, PT, MS, PES, CES, CSCS, ACSM H/FS
This Panel Discussion was originally posted on my facebook page - https://www.facebook.com/brent.brookbush - on October 10, 2010
Rich Fahmy-nasm, October 10, 2010 at 3:26pm: No matter how good of a trainer you are, you cannot manage a client base by memory. Whenever I hear a trainer say "Have we done this before?", I cringe. Keeping track of progress, measurements, aches and pains, etc. is huge. If you don't know where you are and where you've come from, you're going to be guessing as to where you're going. I'm sure you can guess what template I use :).
Brent Brookbush, October 10, 2010 at 3:29pm: True dat… The more intricate your training, the less likely you are to recall all the parameters of your previous routine. Definitely an important reason to take notes… Thanks Rich
Shawn Fears, October 10, 2010 at 3:41pm: I use the OPT CPT sheet as a guideline for most of my clients. I have also modified NASM's progression format that is in the CPT manual. I plan everything and make notes on the bottom of the workout page. When it comes to real strength training though I use a completely different format. Let me clarify, I still do soft tissue mobility prep and core first just like the OPT so that really doesn't change, but the workout format itself is inadequate for strength training so I do my own thing. Still love the templates from NASM though, they are super helpful with my beginners.
Shawn Fears, October 10, 2010 at 3:44pm: Just like to add you can't "train" for anything without keeping a log. Hmm, I don't like the way that sounded. Let me rephrase, in order to keep progressing you need to plan progression. Just saying keep a log is a afterthought, a real program requires forward thinking…PLANING. Without it even the most genetically gifted athlete will stall and get frustrated.
Melissa Reynolds Hatton, October 10, 2010 at 4:02pm: I have always kept my clients programs on paper. It makes me accountable for what they're doing, and it gives them a program to follow when they're working out on their own. I usually utilize my own format that is easy for the client to read.
Brent Brookbush, October 10, 2010 at 4:18pm: Another great point… Having something for your clients to follow when your not there… Can you give us a little taste of what's on your template?
Melissa Reynolds Hatton, October 10, 2010 at 4:38pm: I use the NASM template with my younger clients, but the older ones function better with one that is simpler. They get confused if they have to look all over the page to find something.
Brent Brookbush, October 10, 2010 at 4:43pm: I have found that just the CES template alone, with a couple of core exercises added between activation and integration to be great for older clients
Kyle Stull, October 10, 2010 at 5:02pm: Yes, any type of template can prove beneficial. I prefer not to use (or see other trainers using) just a blank sheet of paper, but whatever works for you. To stay true to the principle of overload and principle of progression detailed notes are a must!!
Blake Robinson, October 10, 2010 at 7:27pm: How's the saying go…You can't manage what you don't measure…something like that. I use a couple of templates, workout tracking, body measurement tracking, nutritional compliance tracking that are based on originals but adapted to my specific needs/wants.
Rolando Garcia, October 10, 2010 at 10:28pm: I keep them all on a template from Equinox. It's just as much for me as it is for the client. Equinox members are mostly investment bankers, lawyers, or doctors. They're USED to seeing charts and projections. When they see their trainer using a projection (which is what periodization is, in essence), they don't feel like they're training with "hired help" - they're training with a fellow expert.
Scott Pullen, October 11, 2010 at 1:54pm: Always kept notes. If I should have perished, then the trainer that took my place should know as much about my client and our workouts as I did.
Brent Brookbush, October 11, 2010 at 2:04pm: Great Point Scott, more team training should happen at our facilities, increasing availability and ideas for each clients goals… And if you do leave your facility, there is someone the client is comfortable with to continue their program. Lot of great ideas coming from this panel.
Gabriel Martinez, October 11, 2010 at 5:37pm: I don't normally use a template or keep notes unless im training someone who needs to perform better, like the firefighter i'm training, i track his workouts and record weights lifted and fatigue points in the workout as they change over time.
Mikal Payne, October 12, 2010 at 9:52am: I designed my own temple for my clients but I also use what is provided to us at RCC. I tend to keep copious for both my own client and the people I work with at RCC for personal reference, also if they prefer another which has happened, the client preferred to have a male trainer as opposed to female, I couldn't give him a manly workout, Yeah right! right. But I also know that getting the same trainer at RCC on any given day is slim to none, unless they hire us, so the notes may help the other trainers.
Brent Brookbush, October 13, 2010 at 2:07pm: Hey Mikal, what is RCC?
Mikal Payne, October 13, 2010 at 2:55pm Sorry, RCC-is where I work Racquet Club of Concord.