Last week, we released a new video on our YouTube channel. If you want, rather than reading this quick article, you can watch that video HERE. In the video, we talk about what trainers (and gyms) shouldn’t be showing on social media. Why?
There are a countless number of exercises that exist. You can modify nearly any exercise to target specific muscles. By changing an angle slightly, you can use make a completely different muscle the primary cause of movement. In order to do so, you need a great understanding of the science behind movement. You need to be aware of anatomy, but you also need to know a lot about your client’s body.
If you’re making a video showing an exercise to target the glutes, but you’re using a piece of equipment such as the assisted chin/dip machine, you need to provide a disclaimer or explanation. With proper supervision and coaching, it can be an effective way of targeting certain muscles. Without supervision, it can be an effective way of damaging equipment, injuring yourself, or hurting others.
It is irresponsible for a trainer or a gym to show such an exercise, in a marketing video on social media, without providing that information. Ideally, it should be in the video and written in an accompanying caption as well. One is better than none at all, but both are preferred. This isn’t only for the benefit of the individuals that might perform this exercise; it is also a smart move for the trainer and/or gym.
A lot of fitness enthusiasts turned fitness professionals are so excited about spreading their knowledge that they don’t think about liability. Seasoned fitness professionals think it is a complete waste when people fail to learn from the mistakes of others. You don’t need to deal with a lawsuit to learn that lesson because others have in the past and they’re willing to share their experience to help you.
Be mindful, be safe, be responsible… that will help you stay hungry and fit!
(The featured image of this post is example of what we see everyday on social media: marketing, clickbait, abs, etc. Don’t just like the picture, read the caption and understand the message behind it.)
