Training clients who don't speak English.

[Borschtbeet]

I was just recently given a group at my gym and I figured out that they don't speak any English. I certainly don't begrudge them for that but I can't imagine how I am going to instruct them on proper form and explain programming to them if I can't even speak their language. Especially since they are both in poor shape.

Has anyone else ever been in a similar situation? What would you suggest?

[DTRAINER87]

I have dos hispanic clients whom I have trouble with sometimes one speaks better than the other and thankfully can translate, but if you dont have that, you can translate workout facts and tips on a word document or some online site and hand it to them and address it to them personally. This should help!

[TrainBetter]

I had a client who was deaf. I was initially nervous but it actually went really well. I also had a girl from Saudi Arabia who didn't speak much English. She wanted me to restate the medical history form in clearer terms though it is difficult to break down certain medical terminology..

Apply a more visual/kinesthetic approach. Be hands on; use touch points. Smile a lot. Thumbs up. Clap. Etc. For praise

Getting information from them on the other hand is hard. Food they are eating. Experiences working out. Goals. It will only take more time. Be patient.

[italianplaya30]

Definately be more visual and demonstrate a lot of stuff

[Lasharm]

I have an entire group that barely speaks any English... It takes a lot of visual demonstration, hand signals, and Google Translate.

Over the last few months, learning some of the language didn't hurt either.

[Quistfitness]

Now some people on this site would just say "refer them to a more educated trainer" but i am actualy all on bored for this. It will be a great learning experiance; and you will be much more confidant once you get comfertable. This may also bring in a lot of word of mouth referals from your group, as not many trainers are as brave.

[BC02]

Id drop them and tell them they have more important things to worry about right now and until they learn english, Id refuse to train them. Tell them this is the US, and we speak english here and their money would be better spent taking an English class.

[Borschtbeet]

Id drop them and tell them they have more important things to worry about right now and until they learn english, Id refuse to train them. Tell them this is the US, and we speak english here and their money would be better spent taking an English class.

Lol, are you serious? I would get so fired if I told them that...but then again they wouldn't understand me. Ha!