In a recent podcast episode (episode 705 here, or listen in the player under this paragraph), I discussed a friend’s experience at a CrossFit gym, which prompted a lengthy and thoughtful email from a listener. I want to take a moment to acknowledge the respectful tone of the email; it’s crucial because debates often make us feel challenged. However, these discussions are vital for growth, allowing claims and counterclaims until a compelling case is made.

Why group training can sometimes be a red flag

Coach Kevin takes a a critical look at group fitness training! He unpacks the challenges of group training environments, from repetitive programming to technical missteps that lead to injuries. Listen in the podcast player below: 

The limits of group training

The listener rightly pointed out that the gym referenced in the episode had issues. But arguing that group training isn’t a problem requires evidence. My claim is not that all group training is ineffective but that it may not meet individual goals effectively. Individuality and group work are mutually exclusive by definition, as achieving personal goals in a group setting often involves an element of chance.

This leads me to touch briefly on epistemology. Understanding Hume’s Fork helps illustrate that group goals and individual goals are fundamentally different, much like trying to imagine a one-person group or a triangle with four sides.

The role of personal trainers

The comparison between group training and personal training took us slightly off-topic. The discussion wasn’t about personal training but group settings, emphasizing that personal training and group training have different dynamics, similar to comparing apples and oranges.

Commitment to the gym

It’s commendable to hear about your long-term commitment to your gym. It’s rare to find such dedication. While having a general plan that gets tweaked is beneficial, it doesn’t match the optimization level of a personalized plan. A suit off the peg with some adjustments isn’t the same as a bespoke suit, illustrating that a tailored approach better fits individual needs.

Pain vs. soreness

On the topic of responsibility for health and recognizing the difference between pain and soreness, I maintain that expecting non-experts to have expert-level discernment is a moral misstep. Coaches should bear this responsibility to manage and differentiate these nuances.

The coaching responsibility

Coaches have an ethical duty in such settings. Social pressures in group environments can sometimes lead individuals to overextend themselves, underlining coaches’ role in maintaining client safety.

The value of camaraderie

Group workouts foster camaraderie, which can motivate individuals to push harder. But it’s essential to understand the balance; not all individuals handle social pressure well, which puts the onus on the coach to ensure safety and maintain the training’s integrity.

Conclusion

This conversation underscores the complexities of fitness training. Group settings offer communal benefits, yet meeting personal fitness goals might necessitate a more individualized approach. Coaches play a pivotal role in this balance, ensuring both the safety and satisfaction of their participants.

Listen to all Coach Kevin had to say about this on episode 706, Group training vs. personal fitness plans: A follow-up, or listen in the player below.