Tag Archives: Health Care Debate

The Future is You!

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Last week I had the opportunity to attend the 2010 IHRSA convention in San Diego. Let me tell you San Diego is a little piece of paradise, and now I know why everyone wants to live in Southern California. Well, maybe not everyone! Anyway, that being said, I am not really here tonight to talk about how much I loved San Diego but to talk to you about the theme of the convention, “The Future is You.” As of this writing we are waiting to see if the government is going to step in and change the health care system as we no it. Most of you know where I stand on that issue but I want to get back to the light bulb that went off in my head when I thought about the theme of the IHRSA convention. Regardless of where you stand on the health care debate, my view is, if change is going to happen it is going to come from you. Yes, you the fitness professional! So, if you want to be part of the revolution and change here is what you need to do.

1.) Invest in yourself – I know with the internet it is easier to get information and knowledge but I recommend that you should go to a convention at least once a year and learn from the experts. Another reason I think going to a convention is a great investment is you tend to come away recharged and regenerated. Being around motivated and optimistic fitness professionals helps you get back your motivation and reminds you of why you chose this career.

2.) Quit going after everyone – Pick a niche and become an expert in that area. Too many times I see personal trainers trying to be everything to everyone. If athletics gets your blood boiling become a strength coach. If weight loss is your thing become an expert on nutrition and psychology. I made the early mistake as a young personal trainer and wanted to be a personal trainer for everyone. It was through a natural course of time and soul searching that I have finally settled into being on the business side of fitness.

3.) Be passionate – If you do not have a burning desire to help people then this profession is not for you. Also, if you do not have passion your actions will show and you will continuously struggle to retain clients. Search long and hard and understand that this profession is challenging and will take a lot of energy to succeed, so if you lack passion get out now.

As I left San Diego I realized one thing and if this country is going to see real health reform is is up to me and you!

It does not matter what Health Care Bill gets passed because they are forgetting an important component!

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I have one word that hardly ever gets mentioned when politicians talk about “Health Care Reform” and that is prevention. Now, I do not agree at all with President Barack Obama’s proposal and the democrats push for a public plan, but I will say that when they mention prevention being a  big part of the reform they get my attention. You see, I strongly believe that if we are ever going to change the “Health Care” in America then we need to change what our primary mission and message should be. Instead of each political party worrying about their special interest groups we need to make the message and mission to be all about prevention. 

 Our leaders talk about the fact that the issue of health reform has been being talked about for years and nothing has been done. Well, I am sorry to inform them but there has been good legislation (WHIP Act and PHIT Act) that has been introduced by IHRSA (International Health Racquet and Sport Association) and has had members of both parties sign on to the bill but the frustrating part is every time it is introduced it gets stripped out. You have to be kidding me. These pieces of legislation will help start us on a path to making exercise a key component in the changing of our health in America, so don’t me that nothing has been done because if these two bills would have been passed we would be a lot further along in putting prevention as a key reform element.

Also, let me make this clear, prevention is not a Democrat or Republican issue, prevention is something that every American can get on board with and if Americans are concerned about their health then they need to change their mindset and think of prevention as the key in this whole Health Care debate.

Finally, my take home point for you as a  fitness professional is that you need to learn more about the two legislative bills I mentioned earlier and write your congressmen and tell them to support it. Also, if you are looking to get more personal training clients you need to create relationships with physicians. I have started to see a shift in the medical industry and have noticed doctors prescribing exercise as a way to treat some of these preventable diseases. Start figuring out how you can make whatever Health Care Bill comes out of Congress, profitable for your business. Remember, I do not care what Health Care Bill they pass, real change is going to come from fitness professionals providing lifestyle changes for Americans.

Stay the path!

Coach Dave