The Key to Successful Adult Fitness Programming with Jess Tollman

In episode 413 of the Strength Coach Podcast, we chat with Jess Tollman, head of adult programming at MBSC, to uncover "The Key to Successful Adult Fitness Programming”

Brought to you by PerformBetter.com, this episode is packed with insights for coaches, therapists, and fitness enthusiasts looking to take their skills to the next level.

**Highlights of the Episode**

- We spoke about the fundamental differences between adult and athlete fitness programming, focusing on risk vs. reward calibration.

- Jess shares her “recipe” for successful adult fitness, emphasizing mobility, strength, power, and conditioning while addressing common challenges like previous injuries and chronic pain.

- A deep dive into the progression and regression system: how to tailor exercises for diverse client needs within a group setting.

- Strategies for maintaining variety without sacrificing consistency, ensuring clients stay engaged and make measurable progress.

- The importance of coaching individuals within a group, creating a personalized experience even in a shared environment.

- Practical tips on fostering retention, tracking progress, and meeting adults where they are to build long-term fitness habits.

- Jess’s unique perspective as both a mental health counselor and strength coach, incorporating mindfulness and observation into coaching.

We also discussed:

- Coaching philosophies for adult clients and how MBSC balances elite athletic training with a growing adult population.

- How to keep fitness engaging and sustainable year-round for adult clients.

- The role of continuing education and communication in building a successful fitness business.

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A special thanks to Perform Better, the experts in functional training and rehabilitation, for sponsoring this episode. Check out ⁠Perform Better⁠ (https://www.performbetter.com) for their latest sale, the New Signature Series and all the upcoming education, including this summer's Functional Training Summits.

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Get ready to learn practical, actionable strategies to enhance your approach to adult programming. Whether you’re a coach, trainer, or just someone passionate about fitness, this episode delivers valuable takeaways.

Thanks for listening! Don’t forget to check out more episodes for expert advice and inspiration.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 - Intro

03:42 - Jess Tollman Interview

05:48 - Successful Adult Programming Strategies

08:51 - Risk vs Reward Calibration

13:41 - Coaching Individuals in Group Settings

17:10 - Tracking Progress Effectively

21:20 - Variation in Training Methods

27:10 - Importance of Tracking Progress

33:20 - Mental Health Counseling Impact on Coaching

39:34 - Get Back Into It Workout Tips

40:40 - Consistent Coaching Message

43:38 - Workout Intensity Guidelines

46:10 - Selling Quality of Life Benefits

50:34 - Her Journey to Current Position

53:17 - Entry into the Industry

55:20 - Client-Centered Focus

57:50 - Being Present in Coaching

01:01:44 - Acknowledging Mistakes

01:03:40 - Wrapping Up Discussion

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Next episode will feature the "Business for Unicorns Fitness Business Powerplay," packed with actionable tips for fitness entrepreneurs.

Want to build a fitness business that creates more income, impact, and freedom?

Here are some FREE biz-building resources from our friends at Business for Unicorns (https://businessforunicorns.com):

**Get the Little Book of Gym Marketing Secrets HERE- (https://go.businessforunicorns.com/gym-marketing-book)

**Book a free 10-minute intro call HERE (https://go.businessforunicorns.com/brainstorm)

**Follow BFU on Instagram HERE (https://www.instagram.com/businessforunicorns/)

**Subscribe to Mark's channel on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/c/markfisherhumanbeing)

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