Problem
To build on the last couple of weeks and given that there are many clients and athletes that have medical and/or orthopedic issues, one has to wonder why so many Personal Trainers advertise that they have an "expertise" in more than one area. I have seen advertisements that say that they are experts in all of this -at the same time:
1. Those with chronic (lifestyle) diseases
2. Youth athletes
3. Older athletes & Anti-aging
4. Pregnancy, pre-natal, & post-partum
5. Sports Specific Training
6. Weight loss
Much like the "self-proclaimed-experts" there are fitness professionals that offer nutrition information to their clients. There is basic information that we can offer. However, most Personal Trainers or Strength & Conditioning coaches are not Registered Dietitians (R.D.). RDs are legally allowed to evaluate patients/clients and prescribe nutritional programming. This is the law, though there are many Fitness Professionals who profess to have nutrition expertise and offer nutrition programs, sell supplements, and/or ascribe to one specific type of "diet".
1. Discuss the inherent legal challenges to these behaviors, which can essentially amount to practicing without a license.
2. Then, pick a health issue and discuss the types of education that would be appropriate for that client, along with behavior that would not be appropriate. Please justify both with appropriate supporting material.
Of course, these two items can be combined in your discussion.
Choose a client with a specific issue (such as the ones described above -or others) and craft an appropriate discussion that addresses this issue and how they would advise someone to find an appropriately qualified fitness professional for their needs.