SCW Spotlite: Issue 74
How Box Breathing Can Help You Destress | A Different Way to Accomplishment | Managing Menopause Mayhem | Mastering Social Media for Fitness Professionals: A Step-by-Step Guide to Building Your Brand | Elevate Your Fitness Game: A 5-Minute Full-Body Flow | Maximize Your Plate: How to Feel Full on Fewer Calories During Weight Loss | Looking to Hire? SCW Can Help!
Unlock the Power of Speaking to Expand Your Impact in the Fitness Community
by Todd Durkin
As fitness professionals, we don’t just guide people through workouts—we inspire them to live healthier, more fulfilling lives. Our mission extends beyond the walls of the gym; it’s about changing lives, and one of the most powerful tools we have to do that is public speaking. Whether you’re sharing your message with a group of clients or leading a large workshop, speaking is a skill that can elevate your IMPACT, grow your community, and expand your reach.
Why Speaking Matters in the Fitness Industry
Fitness professionals are natural leaders. We motivate, coach, and help people achieve their best every day. But have you ever thought about how you can take that influence beyond your immediate circle and expand it into your community and beyond?
Public speaking allows you to amplify your message. It’s an opportunity to share your story, your expertise, and your passion on a larger scale. By mastering the art of speaking, you can reach more people, inspire larger groups, and ultimately make a bigger difference in the lives of those who need your guidance.
Using Your Voice to Build Community
When we think about building community in fitness, it’s easy to focus on the day-to-day interactions with clients and members. But speaking gives you the ability to unite a broader group of people around a common mission. A well-delivered message has the power to draw in new clients, connect with fellow fitness pros, and even inspire partnerships that can drive your career forward.
As a speaker, you become a beacon of knowledge and inspiration in your community. You offer people the tools to improve their health and well-being, and in return, you strengthen the ties that hold your fitness community together. Whether you’re giving a keynote at a conference or hosting a local workshop, speaking can solidify your position as a leader and a force for positive change.
Expanding Your Reach to Help More People
The fitness industry is all about helping others, and by becoming an effective speaker, you can multiply your IMPACT. Maybe you’ve always had a vision of helping not just the people who walk through your gym doors, but those who are yet to discover the life-changing benefits of fitness.
Public speaking provides a platform to spread your message far and wide. Every time you step up to speak, whether it’s in front of 10 people or 1,000, you’re planting seeds of inspiration. You’re empowering people with the information and motivation they need to take control of their health. The ripple effect of that influence is immeasurable.
As fitness pros, we have the opportunity to expand beyond coaching sessions and fitness classes. Speaking enables you to extend your reach, attract new clients, and even create new opportunities to collaborate with others who share your passion for wellness.
Supporting Your Mission to Help Others
At its core, fitness is about service. We are here to help others improve their lives. Speaking offers a direct route to fulfilling that mission on a larger scale. It gives you the platform to communicate what matters most to you—whether it’s teaching the importance of wellness, sharing the latest research on fitness trends, or motivating people to break through their personal limitations.
The more people you can reach with your message, the more lives you can impact. When you invest in your speaking skills, you’re not just adding another tool to your toolbox—you’re strengthening your ability to fulfill your mission as a fitness professional.
How to Improve Your Speaking Skills
So how can you become a more effective speaker and start expanding your impact? Here are a few key strategies to help you get started:
- Know Your Audience
Whether you’re speaking to fellow fitness pros, clients, or the general public, always tailor your message to meet their needs. Understand their challenges, interests, and what they hope to gain from your talk. When you connect with your audience on a personal level, your message will resonate more deeply. - Share Your Personal Story
Authenticity is key in public speaking. Your personal journey—how you got into fitness, the obstacles you’ve overcome, and the lessons you’ve learned—can inspire others. People connect with stories, so don’t be afraid to let your personality and experiences shine through. - Focus on Actionable Takeaways
People attend talks because they want to learn something they can apply to their lives. Make sure your message provides practical, actionable advice that your audience can immediately implement. Whether it’s a new workout tip, a nutrition strategy, or a mindset shift, give them tools they can use right away. - Practice, Practice, Practice
Like any skill, public speaking requires practice. Start small, whether it’s hosting a workshop at your gym or delivering a presentation to your staff. The more you speak, the more comfortable and confident you’ll become in front of an audience. - Engage with Your Audience
Speaking is not just about delivering a message—it’s about creating a connection. Encourage interaction, ask questions, and get your audience involved in the conversation. This makes your talk more dynamic and ensures that your audience feels engaged and valued.
Final Thoughts
As fitness professionals, we are uniquely positioned to inspire change in the lives of others. Public speaking allows us to expand that influence, grow our communities, and make a larger impact on the world around us. Whether you’re looking to host workshops, lead seminars, or speak at conferences, developing your speaking skills can help you take your mission to new heights.
So take the next step. Get out there, share your message, and watch your community grow as you inspire others to live healthier, more fulfilling lives.
About the Author: Todd Durkin
Todd Durkin is a world-renowned fitness coach, motivational speaker, author, and cofounder of the new fitness franchise IMPACT-X Performance. He has dedicated his career to helping others unlock their potential, whether it’s on the gym floor, the stage, or in his Todd Durkin Mastermind.
Go to todddurkin.com/crafting-your-legendary-keynote to register for the FREE masterclass.
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A Different Way to Accomplishment
by Kylie Ross, MSM, MBA
The health industry comes with many different facets. You can choose to work with Seniors, children, and those in between. Or maybe you’d like to partner with a medical clinic, hospital, nursing home, or gym.
Certified Personal Trainers, Nutritionists, or Registered Dietitians, can partner with an insurance network to help individuals financially. This is based on your state. Some states do not recognize Nutritionists, or Personal Trainers as medical partners, so do your
due diligence. A National Provider Identifier number is required to get the ball rolling. Keep in mind that having this number does not validate that the individual is licensed or credentialed. Get more information from www.npiregistry.cms.hhs.gov.
If you choose to go the private route and independently run your own fitness/nutrition business, follow these 6 steps.
1. Decide which kind of fitness business you want to operate – privately teach and train or run a facility; you can also own a franchise, like Planet Fitness, or Crunch Fitness
2. Get trained – SCW Fitness is a great place to get certified in various fitness formats; Nutrition programs and Personal Training – www.scwfit.com
3. Write it out! Create your business plan and select an entity; consider SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Timeline)
4. Get required permits and insurance – check your state requirements via state and .gov sites and your county requirements. Liability insurance can be purchased separately. Check www.AlternativeBalance.com or other insurance companies.
5. Get an EIN – IT’S FREE!!! Go to www.irs.gov under business, fill out your EIN application, and start your business
6. Start building your business credit – have your plan written down. It’s no different than when you begin building your personal credit
One morestep to consider; protect your intellectual property. To get trademarked go to www.uspto.gov for the application. Trademarking your brand will add an extra layer of protection to your logo, business name, business services, hashtags used, and website.
Want more information? Please reach out for a consultation at www.vkprofessional.net. Remember, the goal is to protect yourself and your brand! Be knowledgeable! You can do this!
About the Author: Kylie Ross, MSM, MBA
Want more information? Please reach out for a consultation at
www.vkprofessional.net. Remember, the goal is to protect yourself and your
brand! Be knowledgeable! You can do this!
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Managing Menopause Mayhem
by Raina Childers-Richmond
Ah menopause, a natural biological process marking the end of a woman’s menstrual cycle. This process can be a challenging transition due to its array of unpleasant symptoms. Suddenly, hot flashes, mood swings, sleep disturbances, and weight gain become your new not-so-best friends. But fear not! By optimizing nutrition and making thoughtful lifestyle changes, women can significantly reduce many of these symptoms and maintain higher quality days during the choppy waters of this “phase of life.”
For example, Phytoestrogens are plant compounds that can mimic estrogen’s effects in the body, potentially alleviating hot flashes and night sweats. Food sources include soybean-containing foods, tofu, edamame, flaxseed, chickpeas, garlic, dried fruit, cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts), and berries. Adding these foods to meals and snacks multiple times a week can provide some relief for many women. An easy “tea” in the evening before bed can include warm soy milk, a splash of vanilla extract, a pinch of cinnamon, a pinch of ginger, and ¼ teaspoon of turmeric.
So, let’s lay it all out there and talk about the big “M.” Menopause typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55. A woman is considered menopausal when she has been completely without a menstrual cycle for one full year. However, the steady decline in estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone levels during this period can lead to a variety of symptoms that begin years before officially hitting that milestone. Each woman has to navigate personal challenges but most of us will experience some degree of:
Hot Flashes | Weight Gain |
Night Sweats | Thinning Hair |
Mood Swings | Decreased Libido |
Sleep Disturbances | Brain Fog |
Vaginal Dryness | Decreased Bone Density |
Reduced Lean Muscle | Eye Dryness |
Research suggests that diet and lifestyle can play
crucial roles in managing these symptoms. Even small, consistent changes in what we eat and how we spend our days can help. Fortunately, there is a growing body of science-based information that provides a guide from which to start.
Foundationally, a well-rounded diet rich in whole foods provides the necessary nutrients for hormonal balance and overall health. Fruits and vegetables are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, combating oxidative stress and inflammation. Whole grains include brown rice, quinoa, whole-wheat, and whole oat products provide fiber, aiding in digestion, maintaining a balanced gut microbiome, and blood glucose control. Of course, we cannot forget our vital friend protein. Sources such as fish, chicken, lean red meat, eggs, and legumes support muscle mass and metabolic health. These dietary recommendations are great for everyone to try and regularly implement but there are a few additional rock-star nutrients that shine for improving the symptoms of menopause.
The risk of osteoporosis increases post-menopause due to decreasing estrogen levels. Ensuring adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D supports bone health. Dairy products, fortified non-dairy substitutes (almond, soy, and coconut), leafy greens, and other fortified foods are excellent sources.
Unfortunately, it sometimes feels like a variety of body parts are “drying out” during this time (joints, vagina, eyes, skin, and hair). Omega-3 fatty acids and other monounsaturated fats, found in fatty fish, flaxseeds, chia seeds, avocados, olive oil, and nuts, have anti-inflammatory properties and can improve these issues when combined with other healthy routines. Healthy fat’s buddy in combating dryness is optimized hydration. Drinking plenty of fluid daily, ideally water, but teas and other low-calorie liquids should be a priority to help meet the body’s needs. This nutrient duo also benefits mood and brain function.
While it’s best to get nutrients from food, supplements can help fill gaps if necessary. Explore the addition of a few key products below and discuss any additional supplements with your healthcare team to meet your specific needs.
- Omega-3 Supplements: Support brain health and reduce inflammation.
- Calcium and Vitamin D: Essential for bone health.
- Magnesium: Can help reduce mood swings and improve sleep.
- B Vitamins: Support energy levels and cognitive function.
Regular physical activity is a KEY part of health maintenance and symptom management during perimenopause and menopause. A combination of weekly strength training, aerobic movement, and flexibility activities can reduce a multitude of symptoms. Exercise can reduce hot flashes, improve mood, strengthen bones, boost energy, support blood glucose control, reduce bloating, maintain cognitive function, enhance sleep, and promote weight management. Whew! Those are a lot of good reasons for us all to get moving!
Changing sleep patterns is often an early sign that hormone levels are declining. With or without the bothersome hot flashes, our ability to fall asleep and stay asleep becomes altered. Sleep is crucial to the body’s ability to reduce inflammation, protect our brains and hearts, and much more. Establishing a regular sleep routine and creating a restful environment can alleviate insomnia and other sleep disturbances. Avoiding alcohol before bed, keeping the room cool and dark, and shutting off our blue light sources really do support sleep. (An extra menopause sleep hack includes investing in bamboo sheets to stay cool and wick away any nighttime perspiration.)
Every woman’s menopausal experience is unique, so it’s important to personalize dietary and lifestyle strategies. Working with a healthcare team that includes a medical provider, a registered dietitian, a fitness professional, and a mental health practitioner, if needed, can help tailor a plan that addresses specific needs and preferences.
Though menopause can present significant challenges, women can take proactive steps through nutrition and lifestyle changes to manage symptoms effectively. Emphasizing a balanced diet, regular exercise, sleep and stress management, personalized approaches, and professional support can transform this phase into an empowering journey of self-care and wellness.
Our changing bodies can feel out of control during this period. Navigating menopause mindfully helps not just in symptom management but can restore a sense of control and well-being. By making informed choices and embracing these changes, women can thrive through menopause and beyond, leading healthier, happier lives. Let’s encourage all women to advocate for themselves and their health.
Want more? Join me at Midwest MANIA®, Oct. 4-6, at the Hilton Rosemont/O’Hare Chicago. Throughout the 3-day conference, I’ll be providing education about Anti-Obesity Medications, Menopause, and much more. Choose from over 200 cutting-edge sessions and learn from more than 70 world-renowned industry leaders. Get registered today.
About the Author: Raina Childers-Richmond, MS, RDN, CHC
Raina is a Registered Dietitian and Certified Health Coach. She developed, facilitated, and managed outpatient adult, pre-surgical, adolescent nutrition, and weight loss service lines in medical fitness centers south of St. Louis, MO for 15 years where she trained, mentored, and managed a team of Registered Dietitians, and Health Coaches. Raina has also helped health organizations around the country establish or expand nutrition and weight management offerings. Raina holds a Master’s degree in Nutrition and a Bachelor of Science degree in Dietetics.
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Elevate Your Fitness Game: A 5-Minute Full-Body Flow
Stick Mobility Team
FIND YOUR 5 MINUTES
In today’s bustling world, prioritizing fitness amidst packed schedules and endless tasks can feel daunting. However, integrating movement into your daily regimen is vital for sustaining overall health and well-being. Moreover, it doesn’t have to take an hour. Enter Stick Mobility – a groundbreaking training system leveraging a simple tool: the Training Stick. In just five minutes, you can ignite your entire body, elongate your fascial lines, and amplify athletic prowess. Whether time-strapped or equipment-limited, fear not. Here’s a seamless solution to keep your body invigorated and operating at its peak.
This routine seamlessly integrates into your warm-up, workout, or stands strong as a standalone for daily mobility maintenance. Perfect for combating the sedentary effects of prolonged desk-bound sessions, treat yourself to a break and return refreshed for your next Zoom call.
WHAT IS STICK MOBILITY?
Stick Mobility is a training system that improves mobility, stability, and strength. It combines joint mobilization, strength training, and deep fascial stretching to increase athletic performance, reduce risk of injury, and accelerate recovery.
THE BENEFITS
Delve into the “why” behind Stick Mobility and unlock its profound benefits:
Enhanced Mobility: Stick Mobility drills target myriad joints and muscle groups, fostering heightened range of motion and flexibility. This amplified mobility not only bolsters athletic performance but also mitigates injury risk in everyday endeavors.
Augmented Stability: The exercises utilizing Training Sticks demand activation of stabilizing muscles, fostering improved balance and coordination. This fortified stability fosters superior movement patterns, curbing the likelihood of falls or imbalances.
Strength Amplification: Beyond flexibility, Stick Mobility serves as a conduit for strength cultivation. Harnessing the resistance of the Training Stick alongside isometric contractions, you fortify muscles while executing dynamic movements. This functional strength underpins seamless execution of daily tasks with finesse and efficacy.
Accelerated Recovery: Post-exercise, expedited recovery is paramount for injury prevention and optimal performance. Stick Mobility expedites this process by bolstering blood flow to muscles, alleviating stiffness, and inducing relaxation.
A 5-MINUTE FULL-BODY FLOW
Embark on a transformative journey with a 5-minute full-body mobility flow, meticulously crafted to invigorate major muscle groups and fascial lines. This sequence leaves you revitalized and rejuvenated in mere minutes.
THE ROUTINE
Navigate through various body positions including Half Kneeling, Half Kneeling with lifted knee, Standing, and Horse Stance, engaging in Kayaking and Thoracic Rotations. These movements unravel your thoracic spine, fortify your core, and elicit deep muscular engagement. It’s great for shoulder health and scapular mobility and will involve the scientific principles of coordination, leverage & stability, isometrics, irradiation, and feedback. You’ll experience an extra dose of coordination with this flow routine.
Leverage: The mechanical advantage or power gained by using a lever.
Stability: The quality of being stable; the ability to hold position and resist internal or external forces.
Feedback: The stick helps give us visual and kinesthetic feedback to enhance learning and body awareness.
Irradiation: A muscle working hard recruits the neighboring muscles, and if they are already part of the action, it amplifies their strength.
Isometrics: There are actually three types of isometric contractions. If you apply all three you can obtain significant increases in neural drive, muscle fiber recruitment, and therefore rate of force production. Stick Mobility uses all three to help with creating better active mobility, strength and movement.
Coordination: The harmonious functioning of the motor apparatus of the brain and particular groups of muscles for the execution of movements.
MODIFICATIONS AND PROGRESSIONS
The beauty of Stick Mobility lies in its adaptability. Tailor the intensity of each exercise to suit your needs by manipulating range of motion, body positions, and exertion levels. For example, if you lift your knee during the half kneeling Kayak and/or Thoracic Rotation, you’ll add more strength work to the hip complex. For beginners, prioritize mastering fundamental movements before delving into advanced variations.
See Video HERE
GENERAL KAYAK INSTRUCTIONS
The shoulder blades should be able to freely glide along the rib cage. Many people today are stuck in a computer posture and have lost some of their ability to move their scapula effectively, which can cause stresses and issues elsewhere in the body, often the closest joint, the shoulder.
Set Up: In good posture, tall spine, the Training Stick should be against the sternum and parallel with the floor. Grab the ends of the stick, both arms should remain straight throughout the motion.
- Draw small circles with the ends of the stick and slowly start to expand them. Remember that less can be more, especially when it comes to understanding your actual joint ROM. Kayaking is done with forward and backward motions.
- Perform the movements with both pressing in and pulling apart of the stick.
- Perform 10 reps in each direction. Avoid lateral flexion/extension of the torso so we can target the scapula.
CONCLUSION
Incorporating Stick Mobility into your fitness repertoire heralds a paradigm shift in health and vitality. Armed with just five minutes and a Training Stick, you can ignite your entire physique, optimize mobility and stability, and cultivate strength from head to toe. Whether pressed for time or seeking a swift means to stay active, Stick Mobility paves the way. Why delay? Embrace a fitness break today and experience the transformative power firsthand!
For more information on other Stick Mobility exercises & routines, click HERE. For more information on Stick Mobility Professional Education offerings for trainers & coaches, click HERE.
Want to try Stick Mobility first-hand? Join the creators at SCW Midwest MANIA®, Oct. 4-6, at the Hilton Rosemont/Chicago O’Hare Hotel. Registration options include 1, 2, or 3 days including the Business Summit. Over 200 cutting-edge sessions led by 70+ world-renowned educators. Register today!
https://stickmobility.com/blogs/stick-mobility/elevate-your-fitness-game-a-5-minute-full-body-flow
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Maximize Your Plate: How to Feel Full on Fewer Calories During Weight Loss
By Amber Toole
If you’re looking to shed body fat, one of the crucial pieces of the fat loss puzzle is eating in a slight calorie deficit. This means consuming fewer calories than your body burns, forcing it to tap into stored fat for energy. While this is an effective approach for fat loss, it’s not always easy to implement.
A common challenge is dealing with hunger pangs, which can become more intense during a calorie deficit. When you reduce your caloric intake, the hormone ghrelin—often called the hunger hormone—rises, making you feel hungrier as you lose weight. This natural response can make it difficult to stick to your plan.
However, just because you’re cutting calories doesn’t mean you should be starving yourself. Overly restrictive diets, especially those that severely limit food intake, rarely work in the long run. They often lead to a cycle of binge eating and overeating, which can derail your progress. According to research published in Obesity Reviews, these behaviors can increase the risk of disordered eating patterns and make long-term weight maintenance more difficult. Starving yourself is not sustainable and can negatively affect both your physical and mental health.
To ensure success and avoid the pitfalls of extreme dieting, it’s crucial to fuel your body with whole, nutrient-dense foods. This involves creating balanced meals that include a variety of macronutrients to keep your body nourished and your hunger in check. A well-balanced plate should consist of:
- A palm-sized portion of lean protein (e.g., chicken breast, fish, or tofu) to support muscle maintenance and metabolism.
- A cupped hand serving of fiber-rich carbohydrates (e.g., oats, quinoa, or legumes) for energy and to stabilize blood sugar.
- One to two fist-sized servings of vegetables to increase fiber intake and add volume without too many calories.
- A thumb-sized serving of heart-healthy fats (e.g., olive oil, avocado, or nuts) to aid in satiety and support brain and hormone function.
Balancing your plate in this way helps ensure you’re getting all the essential nutrients your body needs, while also increasing feelings of fullness, or satiety, which is key for sticking to a reduced-calorie diet.
One of the most effective strategies for managing hunger during a calorie deficit is incorporating high-volume, low-calorie foods into your meals. High-volume foods are typically low in calories but high in water and fiber, allowing you to eat more food while still keeping your calorie intake in check. These foods take up more space in your stomach, which can help reduce feelings of deprivation and make it easier to stick to your diet.
A study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that individuals who consumed more high-volume foods, like fruits and vegetables, experienced greater weight loss and felt more satisfied with their meals. Fiber, in particular, slows the digestion process and promotes the release of satiety hormones like peptide YY and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), which signal to your brain that you’re full.
Here’s a look at some high-volume foods that can help you feel fuller on fewer calories:
- Leafy greens (e.g., spinach, kale)
- Berries (e.g., strawberries, blueberries)
- Zucchini and broccoli
- Bell peppers and cauliflower
- Mushrooms, tomatoes, and cucumbers
- Cabbage, asparagus, and radishes
- Watermelon and oranges
As you can see, many of these foods are fruits and vegetables, which are vital components of a healthy diet. Not only do they help you feel full, but they are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support overall health. In fact, research published in the British Journal of Nutrition shows that diets rich in fruits and vegetables are associated with a lower risk of chronic diseases, including heart disease and type 2 diabetes.
While fruits and vegetables are essential, they’re not the only high-volume foods you should be eating. Adding lean proteins and fiber-rich foods will round out your meals, helping you stay satisfied longer.
Here are some other high-volume foods to consider:
- Fish (e.g., salmon, cod): A great source of lean protein and healthy fats like omega-3s, which promote heart health and reduce inflammation.
- Cottage cheese and Greek yogurt: High in protein and calcium, they provide creaminess and satiety.
- Eggs: Packed with protein and essential nutrients like choline, eggs are an excellent option for keeping hunger at bay.
- Chia seeds: A powerhouse of fiber, chia seeds absorb water and expand in your stomach, helping you feel full longer.
- Legumes (e.g., lentils, chickpeas): Rich in both protein and fiber, legumes are filling and versatile.
- Oats: A slow-digesting carbohydrate that provides sustained energy while keeping you satisfied.
- Popcorn: Surprisingly low in calories and high in fiber when air-popped, popcorn can be a great snack option.
Protein, in particular, is critical for fat loss. It helps preserve lean muscle mass, which can otherwise be lost during a calorie deficit. Research in the Journal of Nutrition shows that higher-protein diets not only help with fat loss but also improve body composition by supporting muscle maintenance.
When building your plate, consider incorporating a mix of your favorite high-volume foods. For example, a meal might include a palm-sized portion of chicken breast cooked in a crockpot with salsa and black beans, topped with a spoonful of Greek yogurt. Pair that with a side of roasted zucchini, squash, and mushrooms drizzled with a small amount of olive oil. This meal is high in volume, packed with nutrients, and low in calories—an ideal combination for fat loss.
The key is to get creative and find ways to make your meals not only nutritious but enjoyable. You don’t have to eat bland, boring food to lose weight. There are endless possibilities for flavorful, satisfying meals that will help you stay on track with your goals.
While staying in a calorie deficit is necessary for fat loss, it’s important to recognize that fat loss is a long game. Prolonged periods of calorie restriction can have negative effects on your metabolism, hormones, and mental well-being. This is why it’s crucial to take breaks from dieting and allow your body to return to a maintenance caloric intake from time to time.
Research in the International Journal of Obesity suggests that intermittent breaks from a calorie deficit, often called diet breaks, can improve adherence to a fat loss plan and may even enhance long-term results by preventing metabolic adaptation. By periodically increasing your calories to maintenance levels, you give your body a chance to recover, replenish glycogen stores, and normalize hunger hormones.
Maximizing your plate with high-volume, nutrient-dense foods is a sustainable and effective way to manage hunger while losing fat. By focusing on balance and variety, you can create meals that keep you satisfied, provide the nutrients your body needs, and support long-term fat loss. Remember, fat loss is a journey, not a race. Take the time to fuel your body properly, enjoy your food, and incorporate breaks from dieting to maintain both your results and your health.
About the Author: Amber Toole
Amber Toole is an ACE Certified Personal Trainer with a Bachelor of Science in Physical Education and Health from Georgia Southern University. She has 30 years of experience in the Fitness Industry and loves to share her expertise with other Fitness Professionals. It is her life’s mission to spread the truth about fitness and nutrition through education. She is the owner of The Training Toole – a Fitness and Nutrition Studio in Ocala, Florida, and an SCW Educator and Fit Pro Mentor.
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Looking for a New Job? SCW Can Help!
Facilities need you! Whether it’s Teachers, Trainers, Directors, or Managers, SCW’s new FREE JOB BOARD is supporting the industry’s need for qualified fitness pros.
We post openings in all three of our monthly e-newsletters: Spotlite, Health & Fitness Business News, and Tidal Waves which are emailed out to tens of thousands of fitness professionals teaching and training in all formats along with managers and directors at all fitness facilities: big box, gyms, boutique, studios, not for profits and independent centers.
Partnership Development Associate
SCW Fitness Education
Position Summary:
Help acquire sponsors, partners, and exhibitors for SCW in-person MANIA® Conferences and virtual Specialized Summits.
Send emails, make phone calls, and send texts (using personal phone). Keep sponsor master lead list organized and updated.
Possible travel to SCW MANIA® conventions to support sponsors and exhibitors.
Required Qualifications:
Must be extremely knowledgeable in Google Docs including Sheets and Microsoft Excel & Word. Have organizational skills and respond accordingly to requests and questions. Enjoy sending emails, making cold calls, following up with a text, and researching for new leads. Strong communication skills are necessary. Fitness industry expertise and previous attendance at an SCW MANIA Conventions are necessary.
Benefits Offered:
• Work from Home
• Health Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Paid Holidays
• Paid Vacation Days
• Paid Sick Days
• Travel Opportunities
• Work-Life Balance
Convention Setup and A/V Technician
SCW Fitness Education
Position Summary:
We are seeking a detail-oriented and proactive individual to join our SCW MANIA® Fitness Professional Convention team as an A/V Technician.
The primary responsibility of this role is to efficiently unload and load equipment for all seven (7) MANIA® fitness conventions and ensure the smooth setup of audiovisual (A/V) equipment for our eight (8) sessions, along with troubleshooting during events. A/V equipment includes sound systems for music, microphones, speakers, LCD PowerPoint projectors, screens, and computer connections. The ideal candidate will be organized, capable of lifting heavy equipment, and possess basic A/V technical skills. If you are passionate about event production and have a knack for A/V setup, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity to be a part of our dynamic team. Join us in creating unforgettable experiences for fitness enthusiasts at our conventions!
Responsibilities:
- Safely and efficiently unload and load trucks with A/V equipment and all other convention equipment. Including but not limited to, A/V Setup:
- Set up audio, visual, and lighting equipment according to provided schedule.
- Ensure all A/V equipment is in proper working condition before and during events.
- Troubleshoot minor technical issues as they arise during conventions.
- Report any equipment issues or malfunctions to the appropriate personnel for repair/replacement.
Required Qualifications:
- Previous experience in event setup, A/V production, or related field preferred.
- Ability to lift and move heavy equipment safely and efficiently.
- Basic knowledge of audiovisual systems and troubleshooting techniques.
- Strong organizational skills with attention to detail.
- Communication and interpersonal abilities.
- Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends and evenings, based on event schedules.
- Physical stamina and endurance to work in a fast-paced environment.
Group Exercise Instructor
Dundee Township Park District
Are you enthusiastic, warm, welcoming, and available to lead like-minded participants in Group Exercise classes? If so, Dundee Township Park District has several opportunities for you!! We are expanding the Class Schedules for our two locations to include early morning, mid-morning and evening time slots.Aqua Instructor
Central YMCA – Arlington, TX
We are looking for passionate certified aqua instructors for our summer outdoor pool classes. The class schedule begins the end of May and runs through early September and the class times are 7:15a and 8:15a.
Wellness Specialist
Orange County Sheriff’s Office – Orlando, FL
Functions as a trained subject matter expert in the area of fitness and wellness by developing programming and providing instruction, education, coaching and encouraging individuals to adopt personal healthy lifestyle habits and behaviors by performing the following duties.
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Mastering Social Media for Fitness Professionals: A Step-by-Step Guide to Building Your Brand
by Brandi Clark
Are you an Instagram superstar with 50k followers or more? Yeah..me neither LOL.
But you know what, that doesn’t stop me from earning over $200k a year directly from my social media accounts. The only thing I’ve done that you haven’t done YET… is learned how to leverage my small following (at the time of this article is less than 1000 on IG) into a powerful lead-generating machine.
Social media is often seen as a form of entertainment. Most people open their phones to scroll through Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok, absorbing content for leisure. But as fitness professionals looking to increase their impact and enroll more clients, you need to shift your perspective.
If you’re ready to stop chasing the follower count and learn how to actually find clients, change lives, oh, and make some money from the followers you already have, then keep reading.
And if you’d like our shortcut to conte
nt creation, grab this 90 Days of Social Media Content Ideas Especially For The Fitness Professional.
And one more thing, want the video replay of a recent training I did called How to Find and Enroll Clients Using Social Media? Simply text FINDCLIENTS to 208-974-4919 and I’ll shoot it right on over to you.
The Shift: From Entertainment to Income
Think of social media as a source of income rather than entertainment. By doing so, you’ll be able to consistently attract leads and enroll clients into your programs and services. To achieve this, you must reframe how you think about yourself—not just as a fitness expert but also as a marketer.
Embracing the Marketing Mindset
To grow your business using social media, you need to view yourself not just as a fitness professional but as a marketer. This means putting on a new hat and seeing social media as your modern-day billboard and website—a tool to reach millions for free.
Here’s how you can make that mindset shift:
Building Your Social Media Funnel
Let’s break down the exact social media strategy I teach in my 12-month program, the Six-Figure Framework. This simple yet effective approach will help you create content that resonates with your ideal clients and moves them through a process from awareness to enrollment, or as we like to say, from “Hello” to Enrolled.
1. Crafting Content That Resonates
Creating posts that resonate with your audience is the first step. Avoid generic posts like workout reminders or motivational quotes. Instead, aim to create content that speaks directly to your audience’s needs and emotions.
Example: Instead of posting a generic workout video, share a story of how a specific exercise has helped one of your clients overcome a personal challenge. Speak to their struggles and aspirations.
2. The Power of Engagement
Engagement is crucial for visibility. Here are the stages of engagement and how to nurture them:
3. Encouraging Conversations
The goal is to transition from visible engagement to meaningful conversations. Ask questions in your posts, invite comments, and be proactive in responding. This interaction is key to building a community around your brand.
Example: “What’s the biggest challenge you face when sticking to your workout routine? Let’s chat in the comments!”
4. Moving to Direct Messages (DMs)
Once you’ve established engagement, take the conversation to Direct Messages (DMs). Here’s how to do it authentically:
Example: “Thanks for your comment on my post about meal prepping! What’s your favorite recipe to prepare for the week?”
5. Inviting to Enrollment Calls
Once the conversation in DMs is flowing, it’s time to invite them to an enrollment or discovery call. This call is where you’ll discuss how you can help them achieve their goals and enroll them into your programs.
Why Enrollment Calls Matter
Enrollment calls are not just about selling; they’re an invaluable opportunity to learn about your ideal clients. These conversations provide insights into their needs, struggles, and motivations, which will help you create even more resonant content in the future.
Putting It All Together
Let’s recap the journey from post to enrollment:
Conclusion
Turning social media into a revenue source doesn’t have to be complicated. By embracing a marketer’s mindset and focusing on authentic engagement, you can effectively grow your fitness business and make a meaningful impact on your clients’ lives.
If this resonates with you, join our Facebook group, Successful Online Fit Pros, where we support each other in mastering these strategies. Don’t forget to grab our “90 Days of Social Media Content Ideas for Fitness Professionals” to keep your content fresh and engaging.
You can also listen to me every week on my podcast, Beyond the Sets and Reps, where I dive into the business and marketing side of fitness! By implementing this social media strategy, you can become a true master of online engagement, turning potential leads into loyal clients and building a successful fitness business.
I’d love to meet you and teach you more about the benefits of social media. Join me at SCW Midwest MANIA®, Oct. 4-6 at the at the Hilton Rosemont/Chicago O’Hare Hotel. Registration options include 1, 2, or 3 days including the Business Summit. Over 200 cutting-edge sessions led by 70+ world-renowned educators. Register today!
About the Author: Brandi Clark
Brandi Clark is a marketing and sales coach and mentor for fit pros helping them build the financially successful businesses of their dreams. With over 25 years in the fitness industry, she understands how quickly things change and evolve so she spends her time helping fitness professionals adapt so they don’t get left behind. Her specialty is training others how to create content that connects with their audience so they can build a six-figure training business, making more money to help more people.
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