Who to train? Spotting muscles in the rough.

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  Jul 30, 2009 4:10 PM GMT

  I get requests at times from newbies who ask if I can help them get started. I really like helping when schedules fit and teaching helps me learn new things.
  
  I've had both good and bad students and I still can't tell whether they'll make it when I first meet them. Some will start passionate and flake out. Another seemed super timid and a bit flakey, but turned out to be super committed.
  
  So, has anyone else learned which newbs will go the distance and which will only make it a few yards past the starting block?
  
  (btw. I am sensitive to the trainers that make their living from training. I'm friends with the trainers at my gym and make sure I'm not stepping on their toes when giving free instruction. The guys I've helped have been low-income young people that wouldn't be able to pay for a trainer consistently.)

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• TexanMan82
  
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  Jul 30, 2009 5:43 PM GMT

  I'm often asked what kind of diet they should have, or advice on workouts. I have a lot to say on the subjects, so I usually ask them first, "OK, but am I going to be wasting my breath breaking it down for you? Will you actually follow my advice?" I can tell when they aren't serious and I usually will just give a brief synopsis of what they should be doing.

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  Jul 31, 2009 1:29 AM GMT

  train the single angry looking ones. those are like bulldogs. once they get their teeth into something they don't stop till they get to the throat. although once they get a bf or a wife, it's all downhill

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  Jul 31, 2009 1:43 AM GMT

  Train the ones which show dedication to other aspects of their life, the goal orientated and proactive guys, they ones with an outlook for long term benefits rather than quick fixes.
  
  
  and if you don't believe that they will stick to their training don't beat around the bush, tell them you don't believe they will prevail, if they do, you still accomplished what you set out and they will thank you for it, if they don't you will have vindication in your initial feelings

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  Jul 31, 2009 2:03 AM GMT

  learn about motivational tools..

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  Jul 31, 2009 2:20 AM GMT

  Well, if there was a guy like MeetHead at my gym and offered to train me to get in the shape he is in, I would be immensely grateful and would follow his instructions. Sadly, there is not a trainer where I go that will help a newb out w/o wanting money upfront. I have not had success with trainers before, spent hundreds a month on them only to be told that I don't have the body frame for it. So to those who see someone like me out there trying to figure out how to use the weights and takes the time to help others learn, I commend you.

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  Jul 31, 2009 2:44 AM GMT

  Do what Mr. Miyagi did: give the potential students a "wax on, wax off" test. If they pass, take them on.

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