Vestibular kids are the ones who benefit greatly from the expertise of an effective certified trainer. They are the kids who are initially and probably not the most coordinated but with coaching can become an energetic part of a team. These are the youngsters who are in constant motion because they must be moving at all…
As trainers, we are more than the persons who work with our clients one to three times a week, but we are also a resource for parents, teachers, and those who work with our clients. Many children and teens benefit from exercise because it is heavy work. Many activities we demonstrate in the gym can…
Gastroesophageal reflux disease, also known as GERD, causes symptoms such as persistent heartburn and acid reflux. The chronic condition, which is caused by inflammation and dysfunctions in the stomach, affects nearly one in five American adults. GERD’s causes and risk factors include obesity, untreated food allergies, smoking, leaky gut syndrome, high-stress levels, indigestion,…
Trainers and coaches have found a new opportunity when they work with the developmentally disabled, mentally challenged, and behavior challenged. These youth and adults need fitness even more so than the average child or adult. And we trainers can work with a population that will show and benefit greatly from our expertise. But the challenge…
Trainers and coaches have a fantastic opportunity to train a population that is passionate and ready for improving their daily life. This population consists of youths, individuals, ADHD, and autistic participants. ADHD Children, teens, and adults with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, often suffer from the inability to sit still. They squirm in their seats and are easily bored or distracted.
As a running coach who has successfully coached many people to their first marathon, I am often asked what should an athlete eat when they are running, before and after. First of all, the biggest mistake people make is not eating before a long run to burn more calories. Or maybe you are not hungry, especially for an early morning workout.
Self-regulation refers to our ability to control our own thoughts, emotions, and behaviors in relation to our environment. Examples of self-regulation are resisting emotional outbursts when something upsets us, controlling impulses, calming down when someone feels worried or anxious, and transitioning from one task to another. Teachers and trainers can help children with special needs or emotional challenges. They can use the method of the zones of regulation to recognize and help their clients navigate their emotions in the gym classroom.
As trainers work with children and teens on the autism spectrum, it is very important that they work hand in hand with other caregivers. Many of the effective tools they use can also be employed successfully in the fitness environment.
The tools show what behavior is to be expected in certain situations, visual aids to remind them of acceptable behavior and options shown to independently monitor their own behavior.
There are many tools in the gym but do you know the history of them? Here is an article about the tools we use in the gym.
I have always had a special heart for kids with special needs, especially those with Down syndrome. Never in my thirty years working with special needs has there been a Down’s child, teen, or adult who has not woven their way into my heart in a unique way. And it also seems like I am more tolerant of their smiles, hugs, flirting with others, and strong will. But this child was very different. He was morbidly obese, and I even noticed the year before when I observed his class that he was going to be one of those handfuls. For the first time in my special education career, I was going to have a child I would have to daily make the choice to love.
Fitness Professional Online (FPO) is the online hub for fitness professionals, personal trainers, group fitness instructors, and others working in the fitness industry.
We provide information on continuing education, how to be a trainer, training a trainer, and getting a personal training certification.
Fitness Professional Online
529 E. Gutteriez
Santa Barbara, CA 93103
(805) 500-6893
