CB

How would you define or describe the term “Functional Training”

OD

I really don’t like the term functional training as I think it is often misused and misunderstood.

Functional training is about creating more efficient movement and timing in the body.The goal of functional is to help the body recapture its optimal function and efficiency.  Often the ability to perform certain movements and functions is lost and functional training is about restoring that movement and function.

CB

The Effective Movement Program (visit PTAGLOBAL.COM.AU for more information on EMT) you have developed with the PTA global team is such a comprehensive training program and online resource can you give me an overview of this collaboration?

OD

What we know is that health and wellness is combination of both body and brain. EMT puts movement into programs it is looking at things differently than the traditional approach to training. It is lateral thinking around getting you clients to move and function better. It is a collaboration between many leaders in the industry, essential we wanted to investigate how we can do things better. We put this together in the format of EMT, which is a complete exercise video library, online presentations, slides and audio

CB

Games are a big part of your strategy to get people moving better and a great active, interactive warm up technique you use?

OD

I love games, straight away when a client walks into my studio and if we start with a game it does two things

1. Creates an emotional release, games a fun. You can’t help but change your mental state when you start playing a fun game.
2. Games challenge the body in a fun aspect; clients get into positions and move in directions without even thinking about it. Clients start moving in all directions decelerating and accelerating.

I challenge you next time you have a client who come into train with you who has had a bad day and is not in the best head space, start playing a fun warm up game with them and you will have them more relaxed and you will create an emotional release.

CB

I am always interested in what successful people regard as the keys to business success, what do you think are the most important aspects for business success in the health and wellness industry?

OD

In my mind there are Three Keys for Business Success in the Health and Wellness Industry.

1. The Product – The product has to work.
2. Offering – Results you can deliver
3. Service – You need to be able to provide constant world class service

CB

What is your most important piece of advice for any trainer who wishes to be successful long-term in the Fitness Industry?

OD-

The ability to communicate is the single most important aspect for success in the health and wellness industry. You can have all the information in the world and  it won’t mean a thing if you can not communicate effectively. We as trainers and as individuals need to be able to communicate on all levels to all age groups if we want to be successful.  Listen to your clients wants and be committed in helping others.

I can’t stress that enough to new trainers the ability to communicate is so important and will help you rapidly grow your business and be successful in this industry.

CB

Ian thanks so much for your time, I know your super busy.

OD

My pleasure, great talking as always mate.