To be a successful trainer requires a variety of skills. Just like a good mechanic who ensures that every job has tools, the trainer must also have a variety of toolboxes. Once such a tool, every personal trainer should have a goniometer.

The goniometry is a practice that evaluates the range of motion of various sports performed by the customer. The motion is evaluated or more appropriately measured by a device called a goniometer. You can then get results and use them when you customize a specific workout plan for that customer.

The goniometer can be used for a variety of purposes. One of them can help you improve the professional look of all other trainers in your area and help you outdo others. The main reason is the saleability. Angular measurement is a skill set that is not widely used in the current fitness industry. This helps to divide you into your own niche and bring customers to your factory. The goniometric measurement itself does not last for 5 to 10 minutes. However, keep in mind that angle measurement is not a widely used term or well-known fitness practice, and this simple assessment process can be a powerful marketing tool.

Another purpose for the goniometer is as an incentive tool. The goniometer should be used during the initial customer evaluation process. The results should be recorded and used as a target setting device. For example, suppose you have a client that performs hip extensions. For this particular technology, customers should lie on their stomachs and their legs stretch completely. From here, the customer should lift one leg [toward the back, stiff legs] until a slight resistance is encountered. The best flexibility for this movement is approximately 30 degrees [measured with a goniometer]. However, customers can only move to 10 degrees. This will give you a hint of flexibility in their quads. Therefore, you can set goals for them and increase the flexibility of their quads to 20 degrees in the next 4 weeks. This can be achieved by customizing their exercise program to include quadriceps stretching.

The practice of the angle measurement itself is not difficult to learn. This is actually a very simple process. However, the benefits you can get from not only better personalizing the exercise program, but also the ability of the goniometer to bring new customers, which is perfect for simple delivery. To learn more about angle measurement, get a copy of the second edition of the American College of Sports Medicine Personal Trainer Resources.

Personal Trainer Tools – Goniometer was originally published on Spring