Build Programs, Not Workouts: Big Picture Programming Tips

Craig Rasmussen, the Director of Coaching and Programming at Results Fitness, brings a fresh perspective to program design. Unlike many trainers who start with exercises and work backward, Rasmussen believes in taking a macro-to-micro approach, beginning with the big picture and working down to individual training sessions. In this blog post, we will explore three key steps from Rasmussen's program design process that result in better outcomes and more satisfied clients.

Note: This post has been adapted from a more detailed article that appears in BridgeAthletic’s new ebook called “Raising the Bar: How World Class Coaches Elevate Their Programming”. You can download the complete PDF for free to get tips and advice from experts at Exos, FMS, Hyperice, Results Fitness, and more. Click here to get your free copy.

Set S.M.A.R.T. Goals

While most trainers ask clients about their goals, they often fail to establish specific, measurable objectives that guide program design. At Results Fitness, they utilize an initial strategy session to dig deeper into the client's priorities and ensure goals meet the S.M.A.R.T. criteria. By making goals specific, measurable, actionable, realistic, and timely, trainers gain clarity on the client's priorities, which informs program design. This approach prevents wasted effort and ensures that clients stay engaged and motivated.

Assess the Starting Point

To design an effective program, it is crucial to understand the client's starting point. Rasmussen emphasizes that relying on appearances alone can be deceptive. At Results Fitness, they employ a well-designed questionnaire and standardized movement evaluation to gather essential information. The questionnaire explores training history, previous injuries, medical conditions, and medications, while the movement evaluation, such as the Functional Movement Screen, assesses the client's ability to move and identifies limitations. This comprehensive assessment helps trainers personalize programs and tailor them to the client's needs.

Find a Winning Frequency and Duration

Time is an often overlooked factor in program design, yet it plays a significant role in determining the client's training frequency and duration. Trainers need to know how many days per week the client can train and how much time they can dedicate to each workout. It is essential to align the program with the client's availability and realistic expectations. Rasmussen highlights the importance of not assuming that clients have a specific amount of time to train. Adjustments may need to be made to ensure that the program is manageable and sustainable for the client.

The Secret Sauce of Results Fitness

By following these steps, trainers at Results Fitness establish a strong connection with their clients and achieve faster and more profound results. The process is straightforward and saves time, effort, and money in the long run. This personalized approach sets Results Fitness apart, helping clients progress and see tangible improvements sooner.

Conclusion

Craig Rasmussen's program design process challenges the traditional approach by starting with the big picture and working down to individual training sessions. By setting S.M.A.R.T. goals, assessing the client's starting point, and finding the right training frequency and duration, trainers can create personalized programs that lead to better outcomes and client satisfaction. The emphasis on clarity, customization, and realistic expectations ensures that clients stay engaged and motivated on their fitness journey. By adopting these strategies, trainers can elevate their program design and deliver exceptional results to their clients.