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Fear Is A Useful Tool

By Dave Mugavero

Fear is not a word you might hear very often when talking about a workout program or getting in shape, but it is a word many healthcare professionals deal with on a day-to-day basis. In fact, it can be one of the biggest deterrents for the average person wanting to change their health.

Fear if used the wrong way can prevent us from doing the things we know are best for us. Conversely, fear can be a springboard to motivate us to take positive actions that will bring us to incredibly wonderful outcomes in our life.

Where does fear come from? It could be past experiences. It could be things we have read or heard. It could even be from beliefs we have. Fear can be either real or imagined, intense or mild. The most important thing we need to understand about fear, whether we are the trainer or the client, is that perception is reality.

The No. 1 challenge that I have had to address, especially with my older clients over the years, is their fear of getting hurt. Let’s face it, no one wants to get hurt. That’s completely understandable. The facts are, however, that most people who work out with a knowledgeable Personal Trainer do not get hurt. This is because it’s the trainer’s job to use his or her years of training to recognize limitations and to use form and function to make working out safe, fun and effective.

The real question is how do we overcome our fears? In my experience, most people will do things even though they may have initial apprehensions. The trick is to make fear your friend, not something that prevents you from getting what you want in life. Fear is a wonderful tool if it mobilizes you to take action. The best way to counteract fear is through knowledge. If you want to start a workout program, begin by becoming informed. Know what your options are and only work with top professionals who can prove to you, upfront, that they have the experience necessary for your particular needs.

Referrals are always a great place to start. Do you know someone who has had great success working with a Personal Trainer or a Weight Loss Coach? You can also contact the Better Business Bureau in your area to check on a particular business you may be interested in working with.

Once you’ve narrowed down your choices to one or two facilities in your area, set up an interview to find out who you would feel most comfortable working with. After you’ve interviewed them on the phone, make an appointment to visit their facility. While there, you will be able to get an idea about whether you will fit in and feel comfortable putting your trust in their hands.

Always remember, fear should never be a deterrent to getting healthier. It’s a natural reaction to almost anything new we do in life. Knowledge will help you overcome your fear and the right trainer and facility will help you be successful every time. If you’re afraid of something, that’s okay. Feel the fear and do it anyway.

About the Author:

Dave Mugavero along with his wife Paula, are the co-founders of Custom Bodies Fitness in Irvine, California. They are extremely proud of their success as the top rated health club in Orange County. Dave has been in the fitness industry for over 24 years and is widely considered by many of his peers to be a “Weight Loss Guru”. His extensive knowledge of nutrition and human physiology, combined with his caring commitment are what makes him an expert in his field. He has been a top ranked Natural Body Builder and highly sought after personal trainer and lecturer. His website and contact information is www.WeightLossIrvine.com