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Morgan Shade

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July 1, 2025

What Coaching Style Fits Your Needs

Personal trainers play a vital role in helping people set and achieve goals, navigate challenges, and stay dedicated. There are several different coaching styles that a trainer may use when working with clients, and it is important to find the coach that fits your personality the best.

Directive

The first style is directive coaching, also called authoritative. This style is very structured and the trainer is in control giving specific instructions and structure. It is best suited for individuals who are seeking clear direction and instruction throughout their workout, while being able to turn off their mind and complete the workout.

Non-Directive

Also known as client-driven, the non-directive approach emphasizes active listening where the trainer acts as a guide who gives support but allows the clients to flow throughout their workout. It works best for those who like to have control in some of their workouts with a support system cheering them on.

Laissez-Faire

Translates to mean “leave alone”, this style puts the control of the workout in the hands of the client. The goal of the coach is to oversee programs to ensure progress is reached and to keep the client focused on the goals.

While coaches generally fit into one of these categories more than others, it is important for coaches to be flexible and able to appease the needs of the client.

Adaptation is one of the strongest skills of a personal trainer. That being said, a bootcamp instructor may not be the trainer for you if you do not like to be pushed out of your comfort zone.

Luckily at Pittsburgh FIT we offer Free Personal Training Assessments so you can test out our coaching and see if we are the best fit for you!

Morgan

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