It’s a really weird feeling…

 

It’s that same feeling when I really want to slam down that piece of triple chocolate-chip cheesecake…

 

BUT,  I also know that it will just totally “whack” my nutrition plan — and probably throw me into a sugar-coma!

 

You know the feeling..?  

 

You really want it even though you know it isn’t the right thing to do..?

 

Well… here it is with technology.

 

If you’ve ever spoken with me on the phone, you know I love technology.  I personally code our own website.  I designed and help develop our MAP System and Onboard 101 websites. 

 

I love this stuff… just like cheesecake!

 

It’s About Helping Your Business

 

If you are a Fit Pro, Health Coach or Medical Professional, all of our technology systems were developed with YOU in mind. 

 

To offer you applications — with your brand — to resell as value-added tools to your clients as a way to assist them on their journey toward better fitness and healthier lifestyles.

 

And, even now, due to many requests,  I’m in the middle of developing a responsive application that will help enhance our Transformation Journal.

 

But this is where the “rub” comes in.

 

I have a real love/hate relationship with apps and technology. 

 

 

Especially Personal Trainer Apps or Workout and/or Nutrition Apps.

 

Here’s the Dilemma

 

Just like cheesecake… apps are really appealing.  And, let’s face it – fitness technology is here to stay.  

 

Apps are cheap.  They’re convenient. 

 

And, for the money they are very robust. 

 

They connect with all the social networks, video hosts,  incorporate GPS and literally have virtual tentacles throughout the entire internet.  

 

Hard to resist.

 

But, maybe all that convenience and connectivity is more of a problem… than being helpful. 

 

Let me explain…

 

Mobile apps frustrate me in two distinctly different ways:

 

1.) CHEAP COMMODITIES: 

Because they label themselves as “PERSONAL TRAINER” apps — that are either free or perhaps $2.99… they DEVALUE real human-being Personal Trainers. It de-values the entire profession. 

 

2.) DISTRACTIONS: 

The inter-connectivty with all sorts of other apps, videos, social networks etc., as well as the normal text, email and phone functions create enormous potential for distractions and loss of focus.

I’ll Bet This Has Happened to You..

 

 

I’ve had hundred of conversations with fitness directors, trainers, physical therapists, instructors and other health professionals who all have a similar story.

 

It’s about the client, who in the middle of a session, receives a text or phone call or email — and says, “Oh… just a minute… I really need to answer this!”

 

Now, 10-minutes later, the client’s body has cooled down.  

 

The focus is gone. 

 

And, the client is no longer making any kind of mind-body connection with the activities at hand.

 

 

And, of course, the “polite” fitness professional doesn’t want to upset a “paying client” by insisting that he or she ditch the mobile device for just a 30-minute session.

 

This obsession with being connected 24/7 is a bit crazy!

 

Do You See Where I’m Going With This..?

 

So… I feel caught in the middle.   Yes, I am always developing some sort of new technology for trainers, clubs, studios, coaches, instructors, etc. — many of whom have simply thrown their hands up in the air with that: “If you can’t beat ’em — join ’em” mentality.

 

But, in my heart of hearts… I still struggle with what types of technology are actually appropriate for working with a fitness professional… especially during a session.

 

The Journal Advantage

 

So here’s my take.

 

I don’t want to bash apps.  They are here to stay.  I totally understand that fact.

 

However, I also think fitness professionals who are held accountable for helping their clients achieve RESULTS —  should stand up to their clients and say something like this:

 

“Yes… I think fitness apps on mobile devices are great… but you hired me to reach a goal.   Therefore, at least when you’re in session with me, I want to make sure you are using the absolute best and proven tools to help make you successful.”

 

The inference is that clients can use fitness apps on their own time… but while with you.. should be using the Transformation Journal or whatever manual, non-distracting method you use.

 

To that end, I’ve created a free handout with 5 reasons to use a Daily Journal. You can download the .pdf file right now.

(Click on the image to download)

I think it’s really important to reinforce the Daily Journal and how it differs from an app in design, how it is used and how it is more beneficial in several different ways  — as outlined in the handout.

It’s a free (.pdf) download.  CLICK HERE…

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