By José Gómez López
Master of Science in Physical Activity | Founder and CEO of ILUS Fitness and Motion
Being a coach isn't just about teaching people how to perform exercises correctly. It's also about inspiring, motivating, and guiding your clients toward their health and wellness goals. But how can you achieve this if you don't project what you promote? Below, I share some key principles that I consider essential for practicing as a coach who truly makes a positive impact.
1. A coach must train and look healthy
It's not a cliché: a trainer who looks healthy and fit automatically generates greater attention, credibility, and respect. It's not about following an extreme diet or exaggerated workouts to impress, but rather being a realistic and achievable reflection of the lifestyle you promote. Consistency between what you teach and what you practice is essential.
2. Live the process to be able to transmit it
A good trainer must have experienced the fitness process to deeply understand their challenges and convey that learning with empathy. Having experienced barriers similar to those of your clients allows you to truly connect and accurately explain each step. This also involves responding with applied knowledge , not just theory, adjusting expectations and adapting each routine to individual realities.
3. Transmit peace and balance
Every body and every process is different. Even if two people follow the same training and nutrition program, their results will never be identical. As a coach, your role is to calm anxieties , encourage patience, and provide reassurances with support: progress comes, but at its own pace. The emotional security you convey can be as powerful as physical encouragement.
4. Stay away from rigid methods and generic advice
In a world saturated with fitness content on social media, it's key to remain critical of extreme methods or miracle promises . Every client deserves a personalized plan, with sustainable goals and consistent follow-up. Proper assessment, grounded education, and separating trends from evidence are a professional obligation. Shortcuts sell, but quality transforms.
In summary:
Being a fitness trainer will give you visibility. But being a humane, empathetic, and consistent professional is what will allow you to build a successful gym and a long-term community.
Adapt your approach to each person. Support their journey with respect. And never stop training yourself: for health, for example, and for passion .
About the author:
José Gómez López holds a Master's degree in Physical Activity Sciences from the European University of Madrid, and is certified by the International Society of Sports Nutrition (CISSN) and the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) . He is the founder and CEO of ILUS Fitness and Motion Center .
