Do you really need an assessment?
- Michael Brownfield
- Apr 18, 2017
- 2 min read

We have spoken with some new clients recently and their eagerness to begin training was evident during our initial consultation. One individual sent the consultation request and asked if she could start training the next day. Although we can appreciate the great attitude to training, we have to crawl before we walk! This is a great opportunity to set the expectation of what we do and why we do it. Every individual is unique that we work with in our gym. Some are in the baby boomer demographic, others belong in Generation X, Y, or Z. The generation that you belong to has a big impact on the primary focus of the individual as well as the values that the person possesses. When we made the transition from group-based classes to individual program design, a big component of the service that we reconstructed is the upfront consultation and assessment. No two individuals are alike when they start with us. The assessment eliminates guessing on the program design for the individual. Key factors identified:
Training age (experience)
Biological age (baby boomer vs generation Z)
Previous injuries (overuse or imbalances)
Resources available (which days are available for training and which days are off limits)
This is a very small set of items that we identify, but they all have a big impact on the future training for the client. As the client evolves with their fitness, the complexity of the future assessments can be adapted to continue the analysis of their progress on their fitness journey.
Here are some examples of assessments and the results our clients have seen recently: Structural Integrity/Endurance Absolute Strength Neuromuscular Efficiency Central Nervous System Aerobic Capacity Nicole H: -Works part-time in addition to being the mom to 2 children under 2 years old -Wants to prioritize fitness again after becoming a mom


Bret H: -CEO of a second generation car business -Extremely long and stressful hours at work and father of 4 -Wants to be an active dad and have energy to enjoy family time


Christian M: -Sales Executive for software company -Husband and father that is active with his family and coaching kids' activities



Tim S: -Partner in successful insurance agency -Husband, father, former college athlete -Wants to prioritize health and regain fitness

The assessment is tailored to the individual to inform the coach what they need to know about the current state of the client. As the client evolves and we gather new data and information, we can ensure our program is moving them closer to their end goals! If you are interested in learning more about what YOUR assessment would be at Elkhorn Valley Fitness, we would love to visit with you! We can schedule a consultation or if you would prefer to visit over coffee, let us know! Measuring your fitness and progression on a workout with banded pullups or scaled movements is not a good test! We are here to deliver a higher quality testing and training environment for you! Michael Brownfield Owner/Director of Operations Elkhorn Valley Fitness
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