Having worked in performance training centers for nearly 15 years and currently being the owner and head strength coach of The Way Human Performance Institute, the line that never fails to both crack me up and infuriate me to no end is: “Oh, I have to get in shape before I work out with you.”

This line staggers me.  Do we have high end clientele?  Yes.  We train professional athletes, special forces members, SWAT teams, nationally competing high school and collegiate athletes, and we’re very proud of our association with all of them.  But do we have the Average Joe doing all the same things they are?  NO.

Well, yes and no.  What they do are exercises that fit their level and ability, but comply with the philosophy all our coaches have.  While every workout doesn’t work for every individual, every individual can be trained to be stronger and healthier, no matter what age or background.  Any trainer worth their salt understands that people need to be treated on an individual level.  If they don’t, find one that does.

A line I always say to incoming clients is: “We’re all born perfect and screw ourselves up along the way.”  What this means is that we all have a unique training history, sports history, injury history, and genetic potential.  All of these factor into what we can and can’t do athletically.  What that also means is that everyone starts somewhere.  Training is about time and dedication.  ”Time under tension” is a term trainers often use to describe muscular growth.  There are no shortcuts or quick fixes (at least not lasting ones).  But the process can begin with anyone, at anytime.  All it takes is a decision to make a commitment.  Like the title says, get off your ass and get started!

Jaime Gamache M.Ed., CSCS, is Owner and Head Strength Coach at The Way Human Performance Institute.  Follow us also on Facebook and Twitter.   Any questions or requests for future topics, please email jgamache@thewayhpi.com