The PT Roadmap

A weekly newsletter that'll guide you in your career as a PT to become a better coach and build a better business.

Hello friend,

Thanks for being here! Let's get into this week's PT Roadmap. 

One Social Media Post Worth Your Time

This is an excellent post from Adam Meakins on a commonly misunderstood topic.

Glute strengthening and knee pain.

TLDR: If you've got a client with knee pain, get them exercising. The type matters less than the act!

One Coaching Cue

"Imagine you have corkscrews in your heels."

Credit to Claire Shanley for this one.

When to use it?

Got a client whose heels lift during the squat? This one is well worth trying.

I can see it being helpful for split squats or really any split-stance exercise.

Got a coaching cue you love using or learnt recently? Reply back, and I'll feature it in a future issue!

One Business Tip

In last week's issue, I mentioned ChatGPT.

The new AI tool that's taken over the internet.

I think it's got a lot of great uses for PTs. Especially for content ideas.

But I loved this perspective from Chris Burgess, our CEO at Lift the Bar on why it's a tool and not a perfect solution:

"ChatGPT can’t show people that your product works

ChatGPT can’t show that your clients love your service and love being in the room with you

ChatGPT can’t show that your clients are living better lives outside of the gym because of what you do together

ChatGPT can’t show your personal experience with the topics you’re asking it for

And that’s what people buy on almost all of the time

If you’re posting content because you like posting content, then you do you - I’m sure ChatGPT will be an awesome resource

If you’re going on there asking it to effectively give you ideas for videos or ideas you can put your own personal experience, then I think that’s pretty smart too

But if you’re going there to copy and paste text into posts, I’d argue it probably won’t do what you’re hoping it will - which in most cases for trainers is getting people further down the purchase intent route."

Use tools like ChatGPT like a car mechanic uses a screwdriver, wrench or ratchet: when needed and for the appropriate job.

ChatGPT can be incredibly helpful for inspiration, but it's always worth remembering why most people buy PT.

It's rarely because you can write or create a video about protein or how to do a deadlift, and much more to do with building relationships, doing great work, getting results, and proof that what you do works.

One Coaching Tip

When I first learned about self-determination theory and becoming a more client-centered coach, I started to think the best way to coach people was to give them choice and let them lead.

I still think this, but I've now come to a place where I know a more directive approach to coaching might be needed.

Some clients want you to say "do this."

You can still give this person choices by weighing out the pros and cons of an approach, but you might still be asked to make the decision for them.

And this is ok!

If you're anything like me, knowing this might be reassuring.

I've often wondered if I'm doing things wrong by telling my clients what to do, but it's precisely what some of them need & want.

Thanks so much for reading.

Until next week,

Stuart Aitken.

Whenever you're ready, here are three ways I can help you: