What It Truly Means to Be a Fitness Coach: Beyond the Gym
In the world of fitness, the terms trainer and coach are often used interchangeably. However, the distinction between the two is significant. A trainer typically focuses on the transactional aspects of fitness: guiding clients through exercises and ensuring they complete their sessions. A coach, on the other hand, embodies a holistic approach—serving as a mentor, motivator, and problem-solver both inside and outside the gym. Here’s a breakdown of what it means to be a coach and how this philosophy shapes better results.
Coaching vs. Training: A Fundamental Difference
Trainers: Focus on the physical aspect, providing guidance for individual sessions. Their role often ends when the session concludes.
Coaches: Act as consistent supporters, tailoring their approach to their clients' evolving goals and obstacles. They provide accountability, motivation, and education that extend beyond the gym walls.
A coach doesn’t just help you "work out"; they help you build a sustainable lifestyle, aligning fitness goals with personal growth.
Core Values of a Great Coach
At LamLab, coaching isn’t just a profession—it’s a philosophy. You may also know that the word coach refers to a seat on a bus but it originally comes from a way to describe horse carriages. Just like how a bus or a horse carriage is designed to take you to a destination, that’s exactly what a fitness coach does with a goal.
A coach is someone who gets you somewhere you want to go but can’t go on your own. What makes an extra special coach is one who believes in you more than you believe in yourself, doesn’t provide obstacles and can make you the best version of yourself.
We have to remember, especially in fitness, anyone can make you sweat but not anyone can make you the best! It’s important to distinguish that a good coach isn’t always the one who makes you sweat the most, constantly pushes you to a breaking point and yells. It’s the one who cares the most, the one who pats you on the back when you’re down and also kicks you in the pants when needed.
Three Golden Rules of Coaching
Celebrate Small Wins
Clients need someone to cheer them on. A coach sees the bigger picture in every small victory, helping clients understand how minor achievements lead to major transformations.Balance Empathy with Accountability
Coaching is about knowing when to offer encouragement and when to challenge clients to push past their comfort zones. It’s a delicate balance between celebrating effort and addressing areas for improvement.Take Responsibility for the Journey
While clients must put in the effort, it’s a coach’s responsibility to create systems that guide them to success. If a client struggles, it’s an opportunity for the coach to refine their approach, taking accountability for the process and ensuring alignment with the client’s goals.
The Holy Grail of Coaching
The ultimate goal is creating an environment where every session leaves both the client and coach fulfilled. This means:
Delivering tailored exercises, strategies, and feedback.
Setting the tone for an engaging, supportive, and professional experience.
Leaving clients with not just physical progress but a deeper sense of empowerment.
Why This Matters
Fitness coaching isn’t about following a one-size-fits-all script. It’s about meeting people where they are and guiding them where they want to go—whether that means losing 20 pounds, building muscle, or simply feeling stronger and more confident in their daily lives. The best coaches invest in their clients emotionally, mentally, and physically, understanding that success is a shared journey.
At LamLab, we believe in creating transformative experiences, not just workouts. Together, we achieve what feels impossible and make it a new standard. Whether you’re striving for personal fitness goals or building a healthier mindset, a coach will always be in your corner.
Looking to take your fitness journey to the next level? Let’s talk about how we can get you where you want to go.