and very approachable. I learned participants’ names. I paid attention to the moves they focused on performing well, and those they would grumble at completing. I also examined the difference between grumbles; for example, “This move is tough!” versus “This move is stupid and we really don’t like it!” I truly listened to their feedback. I also discovered that what one class really enjoys, the next one may not. Long story short, I got to know my participants! They may not love you at first sight, but possibly all that is needed is a little time to get acquainted. Below are three tips that have helped me to move forward with broad shoulders and a positive attitude. Confidence vs Ignore-ance You might have heard, “That’s not how (so and so) teaches!” Or, when trying something new, you get, “(So and so) doesn’t have us do that.” This is where you need to have confidence in your education to lead a great class, even if it is not exactly how (so and so) taught it. However, remem- ber that nobody wants to feel ignored. Pay attention to what your class is telling you. Remember that ‘grumble’ I men- tioned earlier? Are they grumbling because you are doing level III cross country skis and they are really having to work hard; or are they grumbling because you’re having them do propulsion every other move and most of them have bad knees, hips or backs? Are they grumbling because you are having them use resistance equipment and it is challenging; or are they grumbling because they are getting cold from not moving enough during upper body strength moves? Listen to their comments and address the issues. Let’s be honest, you probably won’t be able to make every- one happy. For instance, one person would complain about my music being too loud; another wanted the music up louder. One person did not like Tabata training; another would request this format. One person wanted to use more resistance equipment; everyone else wanted more cardio. That is normal, but what I have found is that everyone wants to be heard. I do not – I repeat, I DO NOT – ever ignore what a participant is trying to tell me. I might wait until after class to broach the subject, as not to interrupt class, but I always make sure they know they are heard. It may not change the workout, because majority rules in most cases. But I con- sider what they are saying; maybe we can work together to modify the workout to fit their needs. Follow Your Class Description If your class description promotes high intensity cardio, you better have some good cardio! They are going to expect it. If the class description says it is a shallow-water class, you should keep it in the shallow end. Some participants might attend because they can’t swim and feel more comfortable in the shallow water. Likewise, someone might attend your deep-water class because they truly are looking for non-im- pact because of bad knees. If you want to blend shallow and deep training, describe your class as a shallow and deep combo. Put Some Responsibility on Them Whether on land or in the pool, whether I am a sub or teach- ing my own class, I give the same speech before each class: • I introduce myself and the class with a brief ‘what to expect’. • I tell participants, “Listen to your body. Do not do any- thing that is not appropriate for you. If something hurts, don’t do it!” Put some of the responsibility on the par- ticipant. • Lastly, I tell participants, “Remember, this is YOUR work- out. You’ll only get out of it what you put in to it. If you need modifications, please let me know.” This also puts a little of the responsibility on them. You need broad shoulders to do this, but it can be rewarding. Believe it or not, today I mentor and offer in-service programs for other aquatic instructors at the same facility where I strug- gled so many years ago….and I love every minute of it! n Author Teri Greer has been involved in water fitness, on and off, since 1988 with a combined experience of about 15 years teaching at 5 different locations. Teri is con- tinually looking to challenge herself and expand her learning and has a passion for sharing knowledge with clients and networking with other instructors/trainers. In addition to being cer- tified with AEA, she is an AFAA Certified Personal Trainer, Certified Cancer Exercise Specialist, CDC Certified Diabetes Prevention Life- style Coach, and a Certified Red Cross Lifeguard. Contact her at [email protected] BUNDLES $20 OFF ALL Get $20 OFF a bundle of your choice using discount code "BUNDLEDEAL" OR PURCHASE 15% OFF ANY SAVE 15% on any purchases using discount code "AEAMEMBER" SHIPPING SHIPPING across IN THE USA FREE Get FREE the US on all orders over $99 $20 bundle discount not valid with any other offer. 15% discount for AEA members only. Free shipping applies to domestic orders only and excludes the Aquastrength barbell. Offers end 31st January 2018. December 2017 / January 2018 | Akwa | 37
